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General Discussion => Throw Down the Gauntlet => Topic started by: limeandpepper on May 13, 2013, 09:28:25 PM

Title: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 13, 2013, 09:28:25 PM
So I think this would be a good thread for me. I don't actually have that much stuff as I live in a small apartment, but I still have more than I need. I am also a bit of a hoarder. I have clothes that are getting seriously worn out which I still wear and can't bring myself to throw away. I also always seem to have snail mail that seems vaguely important so I don't throw it away and eventually it builds up. And forgotten pantry items that I should use up. And a bunch of other things.

If you're anything like me please join me in getting rid of your stuff. Whether this means throwing them out, donating them, giving them to friends/family, eating them, or selling them.

If you have any tips on how to deal with the my-clothes-have-holes-but-are-so-comfy or I-may-need-this-someday syndrome, please share. And also let me know when there are cases where I-may-need-this syndrome actually makes sense, so I can identify what things I should actually keep and what I should throw.

My progress so far:

I recently managed to find some clothes that I donated to a charity bin.

And today I put up an ad on an online board to sell off a kitchen appliance that I don't use. Hopefully I'll get a buyer.

I'm going to try to find more things I can get rid of. I may actually be moving out of my place within a year or so, which provides extra incentive.

Feel free to join me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kkbmustang on May 13, 2013, 10:36:24 PM
We are in major purge mode so I'm right there with you. The best thing I did was to read The Joy of Less by Francine Jay.  Also check out theproject333.com by Courtney Carver. Lots if other great resources if you need them.

This week I sold a dresser and have listed a kid table/chairs, an extra sofa and two net books. The charity comes to pick up our next set of donations next week.

This week I am targeting towels and office supplies.

If there is something of sentimental value I take a picture of it and throw the object away. Also have a stack of clothes to take to the consignment shop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 14, 2013, 06:26:07 AM
Thanks for the recommendations, kkbmustang! And it's impressive the things you are purging already. The Joy of Less looks like a good read. I was hopping around on Amazon and found another book, It's All Too Much by Peter Walsh, which also looks great.

Just then I found another couple of items of clothing that I don't think I'll miss, so I'll be slipping those into the donation bin, too.

And there are other items of clothing that I think I might have a decent chance of selling, so I'll put them on eBay or something - a tedious process but probably worth doing.

Will also tackle some long-neglected items in the pantry. Hopefully that will make for some delicious adventures. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FlorenceMcGillicutty on May 14, 2013, 06:56:59 AM
This is good timing for me. I just started purging a couple of weeks ago. We still have a long way to go so I'm planning on doing a little bit each week. On Sunday, we took a huge load of clothes and stuff to Goodwill but we've got a lot left. Many of the items are kids clothes and toys that people gave us. My goal is to get to a place where we have no more than we can appreciate and take care of. We have WAY more than that right now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FlorenceMcGillicutty on May 14, 2013, 07:30:15 AM
I'm by no means a hoarder. Minimalist would be more accurate.

I have, however, held on to a couple of items for aesthetic and practical reasons that I'm parting with.

One is a 1918 General Electric tabletop fan.

(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTAwMFg2NjU=/$T2eC16F,!zUE9s38-QPVBRQf,NcthQ~~48_35.JPG)

I was using it for, well, "cooling" but I hooked up a Kill-a-Watt a realized it was actually kind of energy inefficient so it's on the auction block.
Another item is a 1940's Westinghouse fan that has similar power draw. Beautiful and probably irreplaceable but just more "stuff."

I LOVE that fan. Tough call.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 14, 2013, 07:34:01 AM
It IS a nice fan. Hopefully you get good money for them cjottawa.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on May 15, 2013, 10:36:43 AM
I have been purging too. I found this article really helpful for finding ways to make a little money doing it: http://makinglemonadeblog.com/turn-your-spring-cleaning-into-cash/

I'm also juuuuust about ready to trade in my old macbook for about $72 to Gazelle.com. I have a referral code that will get you $10 if you use it and I'll get $10. If anyone's interested, send me a PM, I'll send you the code.

I also saw a great website for selling high quality used clothing but I can't find it right now.

This summer, I hope to:
1) Sell the Macbook ($72)
2) Sell clothes ($??)
3) Sell our extra cloth diapers that don't fit my toddler ($25)
4) Sell a few used books ($10)
5) Sell our charcoal grill at my parents' yard sale, and a few other items ($50)

It's not much, but it's something! And I hate having stuff I don't need / use clutter up our home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: martynthewolf on May 15, 2013, 01:38:15 PM
I have a similar issue on the clothes front. I have a fair few t-shirts that are very worn, what tends to happen with these t-shirts is they slowly get demoted from, "I'll wear it out and about" -> "i'll wear it to do dirty jobs in" -> "i'll wear it for bed". Some t-shirts i've got i've had for the past 10 years or so and even though they have some small holes in they are good for slouching about it. :)

Other items of clothing I donate to charity and anything else is either donated/recycled or straight up binned.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on May 15, 2013, 04:01:59 PM
I second "The Joy of Less" and Project 333.  Project 333 is a great way to take another look at clothing, its role in our lives, and the quality of our garments.  I've been doing a variation of it for about two years now. 

**If you don't have The Joy of Less from your library, Francine published a collection of her blog articles for 99 cents a while ago.  The essence of the book for a fraction of the price.

The 100 item challenge (book) was also an interesting read.  I'm a minimalist by nature but the plethora of storage (relative term) has me needing to cull again.  Something I've come across was to do an item a day, no matter how small, to build up the momentum and make the task more manageable.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on May 16, 2013, 02:37:51 PM
This is great timing for me too! I am tackling the Closet of Doom today. It may actually take a few days. I dragged out everything we had stuffed into a large walk-in closet and am sorting through it to keep, donate, sell, and inherited stuff that needs to be dealt with. Now the downstairs looks like a scene from the tv show Hoarders.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 16, 2013, 05:27:02 PM
Great responses so far! Looking forward to hearing updates of everyone's progress.

I had another look at Project 333. The concept is growing on me a bit. I don't have that many clothes, but because my cupboard is small, it can be difficult to rummage through stuff and I tend to forget about anything that's somewhat hidden at the back, especially when I have clothes of all seasons there.

I have a similar issue on the clothes front. I have a fair few t-shirts that are very worn, what tends to happen with these t-shirts is they slowly get demoted from, "I'll wear it out and about" -> "i'll wear it to do dirty jobs in" -> "i'll wear it for bed". Some t-shirts i've got i've had for the past 10 years or so and even though they have some small holes in they are good for slouching about it. :)

I guess in a way we are kind of Mustachian! :D  It still makes me feel a bit like a hoarder though. And it takes me away from actually wearing my "nice" clothes.

My kitchen appliance I'm trying to sell, compact grill, has no takers so far. It's already cheap but I might have to put the price down further.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on May 16, 2013, 06:21:53 PM
I'm constantly trying to clear the clutter.  I come from somewhat pack-ratty parents (not hoarder level, but they definitely have enough room that they don't have to go through and get rid of stuff, so they store it) and the Mr. hates to get rid of things.  I'm trying to be a little more like my sister, who doesn't have a sentimental bone in her body, and doesn't collect anything really.

Recent wins:
-got the Mr. to go through ALL his clothes, donated 2 trashbags, threw out a third and have a laudry basket of possible consignment clothes (a bit disgusting to think about, but I've been trying to pare back his holdings for a couple of years now)
-have been doing the 1 item a day thing, it helps me feel more in control
-was able to get the Mr. to willingly relinquish several towels and blankets for victims of a local disaster.

Things that help me:
-One (or more) thing a day - I always have a box or bag going to put donation in
-Revisit - sometimes there are thing I know I should get rid of, but I'm just too tired, or currently attached to let go.  However, I frequently find that after a few months of mulling it over I'm able to let it go
-Go through storage regularly, I regularly (at least yearly) go through the things I have in containers/closets because often I've forgotten what's in them and find new things to give away
-Watching Hoarders/Clean House (old TLC show) - I just find it motivating to see how bad things can be, and I'm always motivated, because I don't want my house to end up like that. YMMV

Currently I'm working on posting some things to our department-wide FYI list to sell.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Osprey on May 17, 2013, 05:32:56 AM
Great thread. Does anyone have tips for helping someone else get rid of their stuff? Mr Osprey is a hoarder and I am a minimalist. This causes is a great deal of marital strife! We recently moved apartments and I am itching to sell or donate the following:

- Kilograms and kilograms of clothes that are in good condition but far too big and completely against his current aesthetic
- A cupboard filled with electronic equipment and outdated "boys' toys" that he never uses, or that we have duplicates of (e.g. binoculars, old consoles). This cupboard has an imaginary "KEEP OUT NO GIRLS ALLOWED" sign on it.
- Piles of trading cards that keep on multiplying (Magic, The Gathering) - I play just as much as he does but I want to sell what we don't use
- Old textbooks that nobody has read in years... going all the way back to primary school!

Will report back on successes/failures.



BTW That fan is FANtastic. *cue facepalms and groans*
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on May 17, 2013, 05:35:40 AM
Great thread. Does anyone have tips for helping someone else get rid of their stuff? Mr Osprey is a hoarder and I am a minimalist. This causes is a great deal of marital strife! We recently moved apartments and I am itching to sell or donate the following:

- Kilograms and kilograms of clothes that are in good condition but far too big and completely against his current aesthetic
- A cupboard filled with electronic equipment and outdated "boys' toys" that he never uses, or that we have duplicates of (e.g. binoculars, old consoles). This cupboard has an imaginary "KEEP OUT NO GIRLS ALLOWED" sign on it.
- Piles of trading cards that keep on multiplying (Magic, The Gathering) - I play just as much as he does but I want to sell what we don't use
- Old textbooks that nobody has read in years... going all the way back to primary school!

Will report back on successes/failures.

People hold onto things for a variety of reasons:

http://minimalistpackrat.com/2010/10/31/10-clutter-personality-types/

What helps depends on WHY he is holding onto items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CanuckStache on May 17, 2013, 06:46:43 PM
Just managed to sell 4 things on Ebay - the larger of which was roof rack crossbars which I don't use on my truck anymore, since I built a custom roof rack. Was proud of my packaging job - took four very large paper bags we saved from shopping, and used those 'air bags' around the cross bars, which we kept from amazon shipping packages. Wrapped up with a fair bit of tape, and they're very well protected for shipping.

Also decided to pull out and sell / give away all our DVDs / bluray's / etc. I built a small PC for about $300 which we use hooked up to the tv and watch all our videos, listen to all our music, etc through that - It's phenomenal how much room CD / DVD boxes take up! I must have had two gigantic boxes worth last time I moved. Ripping everything to a hard drive is the way to go, especially since my iphone plugs into my car stereo too.

Went through our clothes on the weekend too and managed to stuff a few large bags full of give-aways - and tear up a few things for me to use as rags around the house.

On one hand I always feel good doing a purge like this, but on the other it makes me realize how much useless stuff we accumulate!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 17, 2013, 10:15:26 PM
Well done CanuckStache!

Some of my clothes are also well past the donation stage, so I may go the rag route with them too.

I'm at my boyfriend's house today and if I feel motivated enough I shall try to consolidate my stuff here too, which is kind of scattered and unorganized.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Osprey on May 18, 2013, 12:37:23 AM

People hold onto things for a variety of reasons:

http://minimalistpackrat.com/2010/10/31/10-clutter-personality-types/

What helps depends on WHY he is holding onto items.

Thanks for that link, it is very enlightening.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on May 20, 2013, 09:35:06 AM
Still working on the Closet of Doom. The downstairs still looks like an episode of Hoarders. My 3 year old is having a great time digging through stuff. Today's goal is to buy the hardware so I can finish putting together the Ikea shelving we already owned and put it in the closet. Then stuff can only go back in the closet if it fits in the shelves - nothing on the floors.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: footenote on May 20, 2013, 09:51:13 AM
We have been executing The Big Purge for the last several months, consistently saying yes to the various charities that call frequently (Lupus, Vietnam Vets, etc.).

My biggest challenge is figuring out the best way to sell inherited items that have a fair amount of value (a Limoges tea set, silverplate cutlery set, several Waterford pieces). I don't want to go the eBay route, but fear that will be what I end up doing.  : /

It's been worth the effort and hoarder-tendencies DH has been a dreamboat about it. (Way harder for him than for unsentimental me.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on May 20, 2013, 12:48:07 PM
Glad I saw this thread - just listed an item on eBay! I did a big clean-out a few months ago and donated a lot to charity. I'm going to try and make a bit of money off of some items, though. Hopefully, it works!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Stachio on May 20, 2013, 08:45:29 PM
I'm working on this too after moving.  Purged stuff before the move and now I'm in a much smaller place and it's clear that more stuff has to get purged too.  Just sold some things on Craigslist and put some things out with a "Free" sign.  Still working on getting clothes and the hundreds of random 'little things' under control.

The FlyLady approach of decluttering a few things every day (http://www.flylady.net/d/br/2012/02/14/one-bite-at-a-time-declutter-15-minutes-a-day/ (http://www.flylady.net/d/br/2012/02/14/one-bite-at-a-time-declutter-15-minutes-a-day/)) was working well for me for a while but that was when I was poor and didn't have much to begin with.  Ahh, the slow creep of accumulation...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 21, 2013, 08:16:19 AM
I think 15 minutes a day could still work for me at this stage. I just need to stop being lazy.

Okay, I just opted out of snail mail from my bank, which I should've done earlier, but for some reason never got around to it. So that will help reduce snail mail clutter. Hurrah!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ace1224 on May 21, 2013, 08:21:26 AM
i'm in! i'm going to do my bookcase.  i have over 200 books in my display bookcase and tons of boxes in the garage.  its going to be hard though, i seriously love all of them.  and before anyone suggests an e-reader i have one, actually 2, but nothing is quite the same as opening up a new book, especially one that you have been waiting and waiting for!
my personal goal is to get my collection to fit in the bookcase, with none leftover.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Stachio on May 21, 2013, 03:38:53 PM
nothing is quite the same as opening up a new book, especially one that you have been waiting and waiting for!

Slimming down the books is definitely a worthy goal.  It's hard to give up books but after moving a few times, the number of books sitting around just cuz I love them has decreased dramatically.

It feels pretty good opening a new-to-you book from the library too.  It's rare that the library doesn't have a book I want through the vast library network.  When they don't, I write them a note stating the case for why they should purchase the book and they generally will.  Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on May 21, 2013, 07:56:29 PM
My biggest challenge is figuring out the best way to sell inherited items that have a fair amount of value (a Limoges tea set, silverplate cutlery set, several Waterford pieces). I don't want to go the eBay route, but fear that will be what I end up doing.  : /

I'm having a similar situation with inherited items. It's quite a bit of work to figure out the value and what/where to sell something. Also I have a huge file box of my dad's genealogy research I need to go through and scan. I am not into genealogy but I don't want to lose all the work he did.
 
Also I have several stamp albums from my dad. Anyone have any suggestions on how to sell stamp albums? Stamp collecting was a big hobby of his but I have no interest in it. I've looked online for advice and it seems it's very common to be scammed if you don't know what you're doing, and I don't know anything about stamps.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: michaelrecycles on May 21, 2013, 08:01:54 PM
nothing is quite the same as opening up a new book, especially one that you have been waiting and waiting for!

Slimming down the books is definitely a worthy goal.  It's hard to give up books but after moving a few times, the number of books sitting around just cuz I love them has decreased dramatically.

+1. If anyone is still hanging onto college textbooks, bigwords.com (http://bigwords.com) is a good resource to compare the prices you can fetch for them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kkbmustang on May 21, 2013, 09:26:09 PM
Anyone have any suggestions for selling/repurposing the following:

Wedding dress
Tools (Craigslist?)
Baseball cards (went through a bizarre phase in 1990-1991)

Thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on May 22, 2013, 05:32:52 AM
I'm enjoying www.becomingminimalist.com/‎ (http://www.becomingminimalist.com/‎) at the moment.

I did quite a purge at the beginning of last year, and have tried to make a habit of using up stuff (eg those little soaps and shampoos from the business trip hotel rooms) , throwing useless stuff out when I come across it and if any new item comes into the house, something has to go out.

I'm just inspired to start another round of cleaning out. I started just a few days ago in my bedroom. To my surprise, when I toss a bit out, and put various clutter items away, my bedside drawers are just about empty.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mgbrin on May 22, 2013, 07:52:01 AM
Glad I discovered this. Have been working on decluttering since I started my journey toward mustachdom a few weeks ago.  Have been selling a few items and have more stuff to go to charity thrift store.

While I've had pretty good luck with Craigslist in the past, I have had better luck recently with a couple of local "pages" that have been set up on Facebook for exchanging things.  You post the item, a picture, price, what part of town you are in, and have been moving stuff.  Granted, it's $5-$10-$15-$25 items mostly, but that adds up. Plus if I don't have to pay to store them, and really don't need them anymore, it's a great deal.

We decluttered a lot last fall as we moved from a 4 BR 2-story home with 3 car garage into a 2 BR duplex with a single garage.  However, I still have a lot of stuff stored at my parents' farm, and that's what I'm working through now.  Hard to part with the tools, though, as our future life will probably be to move into my parents' place when they don't want to live there any more and I will be "insourcing" a lot of projects, and it's better to store the tools now, in my mind, than it is to sell them for $5 now and have to buy back at $25 or $50 later.  Don't know, though.  Anybody else have experience having to "buy back" things they've already gotten rid of? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 23, 2013, 06:40:57 AM
I donated another small bag of clothes into the charity bin today. Every time I do this I feel the load is lightened, both literally and figuratively, and it's great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Stachio on May 23, 2013, 08:21:40 PM
I donated another small bag of clothes into the charity bin today. Every time I do this I feel the load is lightened, both literally and figuratively, and it's great.

Testify!  My goal is to have a small closet of clothes that I love and wear regularly like the "one suitcase" series or the 333 challenge.  The only problem is that in the hot humid summer, it means doing a lot of laundry.  I've been dunking my white shirts in soapy water when I get home followed by a quick rinse but it's still pretty time consuming.  Boo work clothes.  Although the excess clothes I have now don't mitigate the frequent laundry washings since I don't wear them much anyways.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kikichewie on May 24, 2013, 05:37:18 AM
I love the 333 challenge!  I just started a blog on minimalism, gratitude, (financial) freedom and spirituality, inspired in part by MMM.  Right now I am living with way less than 33 pieces bc I am 21 weeks pregnant and no longer working in an office.  I just donated about 50 pieces of clothes and 10 accessories yesterday, some with the tags on or worn once.  (Tagged stuff was purchased insanely cheap at an employee discount store, which really encouraged impulse buys of impractical stuff.)

I still have a LOT to purge, and I look forward to introducing a minimalist wardrobe after the baby.

Current wardrobe:
Borrowed shorts from DH and a holey t shirt to paint, etc. in
Maternity shorts (1 pair)
One dry fit t shirt that still fits for now
Two maternity shirts
Two professional looking maternity dresses for hospice volunteer work
One maternity maxi dress
Black flats
Flip flops
Sandals
Bikini
Two sets of PJs
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on May 24, 2013, 05:49:21 AM
Quote
Anybody else have experience having to "buy back" things they've already gotten rid of?

Maybe I haven't decluttered brutally enough in the past, but this has almost never happened to me....at least not that I can remember.

Much much more common  for me is buying duplicates of the same item because I can't find it or have forgotten I have one of whatever already.  Also when I de-clutter I find good stuff I've forgotten about and can start using again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: footenote on May 24, 2013, 06:14:40 AM
Had lunch yesterday with Jane, whose business empties, cleans and preps  and sells houses  for the elderly (or estates) when the adult children are out of town or don't have time to do it themselves.

Jane told the story of one elder who had lots of "really valuable collectibles." Said elder was horrified when the estate sale of her entire household contents (not just the collectibles) netted "only" $3,500.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MorningCoffee on May 24, 2013, 12:20:15 PM
I've been decluttering all morning. I can't believe how much stuff we have. I have been listing some for sale online and my trunk is full for a trip to the thrift store.

Most of it is baby/kids stuff. It feels like I'm constantly going through the kids' dressers and finding clothes that's too small...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on May 24, 2013, 01:50:57 PM
Anyone have any suggestions for selling/repurposing the following:

Wedding dress
Tools (Craigslist?)
Baseball cards (went through a bizarre phase in 1990-1991)

Thanks.

Do you have a sister / cousin / BFF who would want to wear it? I wore my sister's wedding dress, and it was so special to have a family heirloom. It was still in style, because she wore it only a few years before, and all I did was add a little jacket to it. It was fun to design my little touch to her dress.

Otherwise, I know moms who have used their wedding gown as material for their child's baptism or first communion. Might not save you $$, but it's nice to repurpose and have an heirloom.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mozactly on May 25, 2013, 01:31:15 PM
Anyone have any suggestions for selling/repurposing the following:

Wedding dress
Tools (Craigslist?)
Baseball cards (went through a bizarre phase in 1990-1991)

Thanks.

I just sold my wedding dress about six months after our wedding.

We only asked for $250 when I had paid $700 because our goal was to unload, not make back all the money. It sold in two days on EBay.

That's part pricing, part timing (dress still in season), part dress (a popular style from David's that potential buyers could easily try on at a local retail store) and part seriously good photography of the dress by my husband.

I tried to buy my dress online before getting it at David's. my general impression was that most people are asking for almost full retail for their used dress. My opinion was I'd rather pay an extra $100 knowing there were no problems and no cleaning needed, which likely would cost that extra $100 to fix. Hence my low price on EBay.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kkbmustang on May 25, 2013, 01:51:54 PM
Anyone have any suggestions for selling/repurposing the following:

Wedding dress
Tools (Craigslist?)
Baseball cards (went through a bizarre phase in 1990-1991)

Thanks.

I just sold my wedding dress about six months after our wedding.

We only asked for $250 when I had paid $700 because our goal was to unload, not make back all the money. It sold in two days on EBay.

That's part pricing, part timing (dress still in season), part dress (a popular style from David's that potential buyers could easily try on at a local retail store) and part seriously good photography of the dress by my husband.

I tried to buy my dress online before getting it at David's. my general impression was that most people are asking for almost full retail for their used dress. My opinion was I'd rather pay an extra $100 knowing there were no problems and no cleaning needed, which likely would cost that extra $100 to fix. Hence my low price on EBay.

Good luck!

Yeah, I'm thinking repurposing is going to be the way to go. I doubt selling is in the cards for me, after giving it some thought. It's from the early 1990s. Although, even back then it was *wait for it* $4,000. It's a beautiful dress, very intricately beaded, etc., but not super in style now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: StarswirlTheMustached on May 26, 2013, 01:18:07 PM
I'm by no means a hoarder. Minimalist would be more accurate.

I have, however, held on to a couple of items for aesthetic and practical reasons that I'm parting with.

One is a 1918 General Electric tabletop fan.

(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTAwMFg2NjU=/$T2eC16F,!zUE9s38-QPVBRQf,NcthQ~~48_35.JPG)

I was using it for, well, "cooling" but I hooked up a Kill-a-Watt a realized it was actually kind of energy inefficient so it's on the auction block.
Another item is a 1940's Westinghouse fan that has similar power draw. Beautiful and probably irreplaceable but just more "stuff."

I LOVE that fan. Tough call.
How inefficient? I mean, compared to modern fans. Just talking out my butt here, but maybe you could put in a modern, efficient motor as part of your restoration and hold onto it? (I'm not sure how much of the low efficiency is due to the aerodynamics of the blades vs the older motor, though =/ )

I'm in a similar boat: I picked up a 1939 RCA Victor tube radio at a yard sale. It's lovely, but it needs restored. If I do, it'll pull 80W! Eighty! I'm thinking of just flipping it as-is on e-bay, since it looks like I can quadruple my money (5$ to 20$, woo.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on May 26, 2013, 01:56:37 PM
We've been going through the Closet of Doom contents and have sorted out stuff to give away and stuff to sell on ebay/craigslist. Pricing stuff is a pain! It may be worth it because I have enough odd bits of silverware, table linens, and other things I will never use that it could be worth the effort in $$$
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 26, 2013, 07:17:13 PM
I'm so happy there are so many people doing this with me!

Testify!  My goal is to have a small closet of clothes that I love and wear regularly like the "one suitcase" series or the 333 challenge.

I am hoping to get to this eventually. I also really want to organize my clothing into "cold weather" and "hot weather" sections.

But I'm already seeing the benefit of this exercise! I have a tendency to want to wear things until they are absolutely at the end of their life, which is good for a frugal lifestyle. However, sometimes I feel like I have a mindset that I don't "deserve" to wear my nicer/newer clothes or that I should "save them up" for some future time, and so, instead, I continue to wear clothes that have long lost their appeal, even when there are more attractive clothes sitting right beside them (already bought or given to me at some prior time, so I don't even have to spend more to instantly look better, yet I reject them). But now that there are less distractions, I think I can slowly start overcoming that psychological block. Just yesterday, for the first time, I started wearing a pair of really nice new pants that my sister gave me (ages ago) as a gift. They look great and are so comfy, too. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: reginna on May 27, 2013, 11:47:33 AM
Great idea. Using this long weekend to clear out WAY TOO many gardening pots and well seasoned firewood. Placed them on the free section of our neighborhood website. Heading back out to find more to bale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on May 27, 2013, 01:35:05 PM
--Recycled many plastic gardening pots
--Gave away child's swimsuit (child took photo to remember it by)
--Went through all sheets and towels and purged
--Starting on another round of Shred the Old Financial Papers
--Considering selling two IKEA POANG footstools and my antique side table

As I explained to my husband, we save time when we have less stuff.

Shredded papers will be added to the compost heap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kkbmustang on May 27, 2013, 01:39:36 PM
Listed 18 items on ebay and/or Craig'sList.

Edited to fix typo.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on May 27, 2013, 01:47:35 PM
PS: I am selling my guitar and amp.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mensa on May 29, 2013, 06:55:08 AM
Snap!

I've been sorting through storage this week as well.

Most of the stuff I have no issue getting rid of. That said, I'm "keeper of the family history" and am having trouble with sentimental things - a few items of ruby glass from my grandparent's 40th anniversary, my mother's elementary and high school report cards (from the 40s and 50s). Sidebar - she failed geometry! I knew I got this inability from somewhere...

My great grandmother's piano is also a toughy - though I found a great site http://dishfunctionaldesigns.blogspot.ca/2012/08/the-salvaged-repurposed-piano.html (http://dishfunctionaldesigns.blogspot.ca/2012/08/the-salvaged-repurposed-piano.html) for re-purposing, and am considering contacting them...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on May 29, 2013, 11:25:55 AM
I need to clean out the spare room to make room for a short term roommate (6m while he finishes his thesis - woohoo rent monies) and the Mr. doesn't want to drop the guest bed, so instead has agreed we should get rid of the desk (only used to feed cats these days), desk chair and filing cabinet from the office to make room for the bed.  I'm excited to have the blessing to clear out more stuff.  The timeline is also forcing me to get on with it too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Self-employed-swami on May 29, 2013, 11:47:39 AM
I friend of mine is trying to start a business as a professional organizer, so she came over and helped me go through a few of my trouble spots in the house. 

In addition to a much more organized living space, I also sold $430 worth of useful to other people items.  I've also got sales pending for another $350 worth of things!

It feels so so good~
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: michaelrecycles on May 29, 2013, 02:55:25 PM
I friend of mine is trying to start a business as a professional organizer, so she came over and helped me go through a few of my trouble spots in the house. 

In addition to a much more organized living space, I also sold $430 worth of useful to other people items.  I've also got sales pending for another $350 worth of things!

Sounds like an interesting business. How does it work? Is she coaching and face-punching you through the process? Does she help evaluate and sell off your stuff? I was actually wondering whether such an endeavor would be successful, after much sorting and moving this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ScottEric on May 30, 2013, 06:56:59 AM
We have been executing The Big Purge for the last several months, consistently saying yes to the various charities that call frequently (Lupus, Vietnam Vets, etc.).

My biggest challenge is figuring out the best way to sell inherited items that have a fair amount of value (a Limoges tea set, silverplate cutlery set, several Waterford pieces). I don't want to go the eBay route, but fear that will be what I end up doing.  : /

It's been worth the effort and hoarder-tendencies DH has been a dreamboat about it. (Way harder for him than for unsentimental me.)

You might have good luck with a local antique/estate auction type outfit.  We used one to sell off the good bits from my grandfathers estate, they came, picked it up and sent us a check.  Worked great!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: footenote on May 30, 2013, 07:26:55 AM
ScottEric - Thanks for the suggestion - my friend who runs the "we'll empty your elder's house and prep house for sale" company is connecting me to just such folks!     
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ace1224 on May 30, 2013, 08:28:00 AM
i got rid of 3 boxes of books and sold 2 boxes of old text books from college, bonus is i got credit at 2nd and Charles and will use that credit to buy gifts at christmas
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Self-employed-swami on May 30, 2013, 08:38:37 AM
Sounds like an interesting business. How does it work? Is she coaching and face-punching you through the process? Does she help evaluate and sell off your stuff? I was actually wondering whether such an endeavor would be successful, after much sorting and moving this week.

She comes over, and you go through whatever spot together.  For things you are unsure about keeping/parting with, she asks you questions about the last time you used that item is, and if the space it is occupying might be better utilized with something else.  She also provided some suggestions on moving things around, to make the space more functional (like getting the bottom of the closet at the back door, back for shoes, by moving the cat litter into 'the bar' cupboard, and putting in a kitty door for them). 

She was both motivational, and supportive, not so many face punches, more encouragement really.

She would charge $50/hour (and does to her other clients) but this was free, in exchange for being able to take and use before/after pictures of my space, and a few errands run in my truck.  She has a few clients so far, but not enough to safely replace her husband's income (her desire) so he can stay home with their daughter, while she works.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on May 30, 2013, 01:02:25 PM
Other than E-Bay and Craigslist, any other suggestions for selling electronics?

I have an older DVD Player (two of them actually) and a 300 disc CD changer that when I looked on craigslist they are still sitting there after a month or so..  I'm not sure who would take them as donations (places I've looked at don't take electronics).

Thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on May 30, 2013, 03:46:31 PM
Okay I'm in on this!  Actually I'm really good at decluttering and I no emotional hang ups about getting rid of things.... The things just haven't made it out of the house yet.  I have basically a whole room that could be very functional for me for my etsy business that's just all junked up with stuff.  The motivation to actually move the stuff out of the house rarely strikes because we just keep the door closed and never go in there (current house is really big for our needs... too much space is a CURSE!  Really!).

So I'm committing to dealing with that room as much as I can next week when I get home- I will sell what I can and donate the rest.  At this point, I'm even okay with not getting the maximum amount of money (I'm getting rid of a lot of nice clothes), if it means I can just reclaim that room!!  I could be using that room to make stuff to sell to make me money!!!!

Then the next battle is getting mr. Eva to pare down on the books... I feel bad even asking to honestly (books are literally the only material possession he intentionally accumulates), but there are SO MANY and when we inevitably move to a smaller space, he's going to have to pare down or we will be overrun by the books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: moosestache on May 30, 2013, 04:16:16 PM
This is my first post and this was an inspirational thread for me.  Today I took 20 or so books to work and sent out an email notifying friends and co-workers to come and take them.  So far there are only 6 left.  Whatever doesn't get taken by tomorrow will get donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 30, 2013, 10:56:47 PM
This is my first post and this was an inspirational thread for me.  Today I took 20 or so books to work and sent out an email notifying friends and co-workers to come and take them.  So far there are only 6 left.  Whatever doesn't get taken by tomorrow will get donated.

Well done! And welcome to the forum. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 31, 2013, 01:27:59 AM
Getting rid of some food clutter at the boyfriend's place. This may sound a little iffy to some but I just retrieved some spring onions which have been kept frozen for what I estimate to be at least 2 years (yes, yes, I know). They still looked okay, if a bit dried out and wrinkled from the cold. They're now bubbling away in a big pot of congee. I just tasted a bit and it was still decent! From now on I'm going to work through the freezer and pantry more, at both his place and mine.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on June 01, 2013, 08:09:58 AM
I listed 19 items on Craigslist - futon, filing cabinet, 2 lamps, 2 tables, and several household items. Also I sorted, polished up and priced the silver I inherited, and plan to sell it on ebay, along with some other collectible type items, smaller stuff. Also got rid of a changing table on Craigslist as a free item.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on June 04, 2013, 01:18:19 PM
I really need to go through our winter coats.  We have way too many, but I have sentimental attachments to some & can't bear to let them go (faux fur coat from 6th grade still fits 20 yrs later, my mother's sheep fur trimmed coat from the 70's even though I don't wear leather...).
How do you get over it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on June 04, 2013, 04:13:38 PM
Well I had decided that I didn't need to keep more than one of my Grandfather's coats (that's right I wear the same size coat as my grandfather) and the obvious choice with his dense wool army coat.  It'a a fine piece, and who knows, maybe one day I'll leave Texas again (finger's crossed) and live in a place where it is useful.  So into the give away pile went the faux shearling lined leather coat, I've always found it too stiff anyways.

Except, the Mr. saw it and accused me of giving away my grandfathers 'legacy' whatever TF that means.  And so it stays, alongside my letterman's jacket,  two sets of warm-ups from college, a corduroy jacket (that I actually wear), a lightweight raincoat, an orange windbreaker (that I absolutely don't need, but it fits so well and I love it), the aforementioned wool army jacket and a washable suede coat that I have been unable to sell and unwilling to give away. 

So, um, if you figure out the secret please let me know.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KulshanGirl on June 04, 2013, 04:35:14 PM
I don't remember where I read it, or from what faith it was from, but it went like so ... if you have two coats, one of them is not yours.  (Share with your fellow man who is without a coat sort of thing.)  I looked at my coats and pretty much decided to keep one to stay warm, one to stay dry, one to stay warm and dry both, and one for dressing up.  And a vest.

I still gravitate towards more coats.  But I try to keep to that formula, and give away the others.  I do have one of my dad's old coats in with my halloween costumes.  Speaking of, I have a problem with those.  I could outfit everyone on this blog in costumes and still have leftovers.  I need help.  Hehe.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on June 10, 2013, 06:43:19 AM
Okay I'm in on this!  Actually I'm really good at decluttering and I no emotional hang ups about getting rid of things.... The things just haven't made it out of the house yet.  I have basically a whole room that could be very functional for me for my etsy business that's just all junked up with stuff.  The motivation to actually move the stuff out of the house rarely strikes because we just keep the door closed and never go in there (current house is really big for our needs... too much space is a CURSE!  Really!).

So I'm committing to dealing with that room as much as I can next week when I get home- I will sell what I can and donate the rest.  At this point, I'm even okay with not getting the maximum amount of money (I'm getting rid of a lot of nice clothes), if it means I can just reclaim that room!!  I could be using that room to make stuff to sell to make me money!!!!

Then the next battle is getting mr. Eva to pare down on the books... I feel bad even asking to honestly (books are literally the only material possession he intentionally accumulates), but there are SO MANY and when we inevitably move to a smaller space, he's going to have to pare down or we will be overrun by the books.

We got the room cleared out!  Woo!  We decided to forget trying to sell it and just donated everything.  It felt so good to donate and I feel so much lighter without all that stuff (especially since we might be moving soon-ish).  And now I can use that space to make things for my etsy shop and earn some extra money!! 

I mentioned paring down the book collection to the Mr., and I set an example by donating some of my books.  He makes the very fair point that there's no need to get rid of them right now because he likes them, and we have plenty space to keep them right now (the house has tons of built in shelving).  He agreed that if we move and don't have the space he will consider paring them down.

The kitchen now is the only room that feels cluttered to me (I HATE clutter- the main living areas are always very tidy), but it's just food and laziness about getting dishes into the dishwasher right away.  So I've basically done what I can for now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Self-employed-swami on June 10, 2013, 07:10:00 AM
Good job!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dee18 on June 10, 2013, 07:19:33 AM
For some sentimental items taking a photo of it might provide a way to remember the item without keeping it.  Also I sometimes shame myself into it...as in, I will only use those boots if I visit Vermont again in the winter.  Someone who works outside would use them every day now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on June 10, 2013, 08:46:29 AM
We got the room cleared out!  Woo!  We decided to forget trying to sell it and just donated everything.  It felt so good to donate and I feel so much lighter without all that stuff (especially since we might be moving soon-ish).  And now I can use that space to make things for my etsy shop and earn some extra money!! 

That is awesome!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on June 10, 2013, 01:12:55 PM
I've had pretty good success with Craigslist - gained $405 and I don't know how many square feet of space. Got rid of a full size futon, a table, 2 large floor lamps, flower hanging baskets, and various decorative items. Have a stack of board games and a kitchen island pending pickup today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on June 10, 2013, 04:30:50 PM
We have had pretty good luck lately, got rid of two rain barrels, a printer, a TV, and I am going to give away a scanner.  You all are reminding me that I wanted to eat down the freezer in the basement and unplug it for the summer.  Also my craft room reorganization project is going well, but I should take my butt off the computer and keep working on it.  Keep up the good work, all . . .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: b20015 on June 15, 2013, 02:12:45 PM
This is the internet, you are all good people, and I've already been 7 kinds of honest in my Ask a Mustachian post (https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/ask-a-mustachian/next-step-forward/) so I figure, who not continue?

I grew up in Idaho, my family are farmers. We save everything in case we need it again. My grandfather had 50 year cans of DDT (with the labels torn off so he wouldn't get in trouble) for use on weeds and barrow pits (never on crops or near fields, don't worry). Part of it can be linked to that, I have a STRONG desire to keep things. All things. Spare screws and bolts, wood scraps, old computer parts. Everything. Just useless garbage.

And I even KNOW that I do it. It's a security thing, I don't want to run into a situation where I need something and don't have it. But it's not just that. I also build up just gobs of material things. Books, magazines, clothes, tools. Things I don't REALLY need and if I were to get rid of some of it, it wouldn't really hinder my day to day existence. I probably wouldn't ever notice if I got rid of half of it.

So I am getting in on this one. I'm going to get a garbage bag, fill it with stuff and take it to Goodwill today. I take all of my used books into Powell's or a local paperback place for cash/credit, but I only started decluttering a couple of days ago because: my in-laws are hoarders.

Big time. They have a house that is almost 3,000 square feet (a nice custom house on 65 acres on top of a hill in the coastal range, just flat beautiful) and that house is being crowded with junk. My Father-in-law spends $400-$500 per month at Goodwill buying things. Things that stay in those bags for years, untouched. He just keeps buying. And my Mother-in-law doesn't really help, sometimes she goes along with him. He has a massive shop that he built down below the house and it is door to door filled with junk. He even tripped over some of it and hurt himself 2 weeks ago! They have a mouse colony starting in a spare bedroom, but they couldn't even get into the room because the door couldn't even crack open because of all the stuff.

These are people that make $150,000+ per year... just throwing it away. They drive nice cars, have a beautiful home, property, own businesses and rental houses... it's absolutely insane. And my wife and I are scared shitless about it. We came home from visiting them and started purging our own home. We are trying to simplify, it's just healthier. We could probably do a yardsale, but are worried that it might be more of a hassle than it's worth. But we are debating it!

I think we will try to draw my in-laws into the yard sale as well. They could probably make thousands back on the massive amounts of stuff they have piled up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kikichewie on June 16, 2013, 06:47:37 AM
RE the grandfather's old coats....  Imagine if he were still alive, but in his last days. How would he answer if you asked him what his legacy was?  I volunteer with hospice patients, and I can tell you that most of them would believe their legacies were their families or their life's deeds, not their old clothing. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on June 16, 2013, 06:56:44 AM
...

I think we will try to draw my in-laws into the yard sale as well. They could probably make thousands back on the massive amounts of stuff they have piled up.

Good luck, B20015.  I've got someone in the family who sound just like your in-laws, and despite multiple attempts by various family members to help her out, the situation never improved at all until she had professional psychiatric treatment for the underlying mental disorder. Based on this personal experience, I would just suggest you not be too disappointed if your efforts to help them don't work, and don't let it discourage you from getting your own situation under control!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on June 16, 2013, 08:25:56 AM
...

I think we will try to draw my in-laws into the yard sale as well. They could probably make thousands back on the massive amounts of stuff they have piled up.

Good luck, B20015.  I've got someone in the family who sound just like your in-laws, and despite multiple attempts by various family members to help her out, the situation never improved at all until she had professional psychiatric treatment for the underlying mental disorder. Based on this personal experience, I would just suggest you not be too disappointed if your efforts to help them don't work, and don't let it discourage you from getting your own situation under control!

I'm struggling with getting my wife out of that mode.  I finally got her to cut down her 4 trash bag full of stuffed animals to 1 bag.

If she turns into my in-laws, it will be a challenge.  They keep almost everything.  I'm amazed at how clean their house is considering how much stuff they have.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on June 16, 2013, 08:57:50 AM
...

I think we will try to draw my in-laws into the yard sale as well. They could probably make thousands back on the massive amounts of stuff they have piled up.

Good luck, B20015.  I've got someone in the family who sound just like your in-laws, and despite multiple attempts by various family members to help her out, the situation never improved at all until she had professional psychiatric treatment for the underlying mental disorder. Based on this personal experience, I would just suggest you not be too disappointed if your efforts to help them don't work, and don't let it discourage you from getting your own situation under control!

I'm struggling with getting my wife out of that mode.  I finally got her to cut down her 4 trash bag full of stuffed animals to 1 bag.

If she turns into my in-laws, it will be a challenge.  They keep almost everything.  I'm amazed at how clean their house is considering how much stuff they have.

Good luck to you too!  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CanuckStache on June 16, 2013, 01:05:18 PM
Managed to sell both our old digital camera's on eBay the other day. Woohoo! And all the accessories that go along with them.

We're renting right now and keeping our eyes open for a place to buy and call our own...and we're feeling cramped here. Still are, but de-cluttering makes it a lot easier. Plus, our rent is super cheap so we figure if we can just make the place more comfortable we'll be able to save up more money and not feel like moving to another place has to happen right away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jrhampt on June 16, 2013, 04:53:09 PM
Sold a couple of items on Craigslist today and got $55.  Have a few more things listed.  Filled up a donation bag for Salvation Army and cleaned out the bathroom and hall closets.  Both trash and recycling bins are full now; they were empty this morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dweebyhawkeyes on June 17, 2013, 11:30:13 PM
This thread is inspiring! A little victory I had lately was purging and otherwise organizing my makeup collection into a slick Vaultz box, and now I want everything else to be just as much of a joy to look at and use. I need to do clothing, books, and art supplies next and I think I'll be good to go.

First off is clothing: My personal goal is to own two "packets" (groups? units?) of clothing, one summer and the other winter, and to be able to wash an entire packet in one load of laundry. I donated three bags of clothing to St. Vinny's this morning and I'm feeling good.

Then books: I'll probably try to sell a lot of what I have to a used bookstore and then donate the rest.

And art supplies: This is going to be the hardest part for me, because art stuff tends to be expensive and it basically lasts until I use it up. I have pens and pencils and paint and pastels and brushes and glue and canvases littering my bedroom. I just hoard this stuff and beat myself up for not using it because I don't practice art often enough to justify how much I spend. I need to stop my habit of buying new stuff for each idea I have, and try "shopping" my own collection before visiting the art store. And then there's finished works... Luckily I've made more paintings and drawings than sculptures, so they aren't totally obnoxious. I like making stuff and looking back at it occasionally, but they just take up so much space. Do any of you have suggestions to sell amateur artwork? Does anyone buy art on Craigslist or whatnot? I don't produce consistently enough to have an Etsy shop or anything, but it'd be great to earn some extra cash from this hobby...

Oh! And computer clutter as well, I need to organize my files badly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on June 18, 2013, 05:25:56 AM
First off is clothing: My personal goal is to own two "packets" (groups? units?) of clothing, one summer and the other winter, and to be able to wash an entire packet in one load of laundry. I donated three bags of clothing to St. Vinny's this morning and I'm feeling good.

Food for thought - a packet should be longer than 7 days to account for life's interruptions, or be able to hand wash and dry a couple of items overnight.  I was at that point, even below.  All of my clothes and either the sheets or the towels (single college student) could fit in one load, but I had to do laundry once a week.  I did it for a semester, but it was hard on the - cheap - clothes and when something came up it was really hard to delay laundry day. 

Capsule wardrobes are a fantastic concept though, I'm not knocking you at all!!  I'm trying to steer towards dresses and skirts that I can layer with a jacket and tights.  It helps that I don't like long sleeves in general . .  .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: basd on June 18, 2013, 06:28:57 AM
This thread just motivated me to go and do some serious cleaning as well this coming weekend.. We don't have that much useless stuff but still, I could do with a lot less. There's a couple of closets and drawers that could use some serious cleaning. Plus, I've been meaning to get rid of some books and my old stamp collection as well..

Especially regarding the latter I'm looking for a worthy cause, not going to just give it away. It's not by any means a big or valuable collection, but I'd like to get at least something in return, either in hard cash or in the feeling I've given it away to someone who values it somehow. I'll let you all know how things turned out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on June 18, 2013, 06:53:04 AM
we are getting ready to move, so yesterday i went through my sizable fabric stash and reduced it by half. until a few months ago, i was running a vintage-style dressmaking shop, so i had about 8 bins full of super cute vintage and eco-friendly fabrics. now i have 4 bins full.

going to put the lot i'm getting rid of up on craigslist for $100, i think ... it's about 50 yards of fabric, so someone who likes fabric is going to get an amazing deal!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on June 19, 2013, 10:26:33 AM
Haha, I finally sold off that kitchen appliance I mentioned in my first post. Yay! Got $10 for it, which is pure profit - the thing belonged to an ex-housemate who left it behind for me to do whatever that I saw fit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SellenMachine on June 20, 2013, 01:28:05 PM
There is a great article here: http://www.theminimalists.com/21days/day3/

The premise is 2 guys want to live a minimalist lifestyle, so they pack all of their stuff up; clothes, furniture, everything. Over a 1 week period they unpack things as they NEED to use them. Anything that is left after that week is either sold, donated, or trashed.

They call it a 'Packing Party.' I did it after moving to a new, cheaper, apartment, and unloaded nearly half of my stuff! It was so liberating that I am trying to dwindle my remaining stuff in half again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on June 21, 2013, 12:43:33 PM
There is a great article here: http://www.theminimalists.com/21days/day3/

The premise is 2 guys want to live a minimalist lifestyle, so they pack all of their stuff up; clothes, furniture, everything. Over a 1 week period they unpack things as they NEED to use them. Anything that is left after that week is either sold, donated, or trashed.

They call it a 'Packing Party.' I did it after moving to a new, cheaper, apartment, and unloaded nearly half of my stuff! It was so liberating that I am trying to dwindle my remaining stuff in half again.

Thanks for the link!  Really cool!

Clearing out our "junk room" has really got me itching to pare down more things.  I need to talk to Mr. Eva first, but maybe tonight we can start collecting more items to donate...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on June 21, 2013, 09:26:46 PM
We have the date for a huge consignment sale near us.  August 16-18.  My wife has done two of the last three. This time, though, we can get rid of a lot that we kept while we waited for our second child (over 3.5 years --  I would have rather not kept it, but we did).  We will be able to get rid of up to 75 items of clothes and like 200 items overall.  Anything that doesn't sell, gets donated.

We cleaned out our kitchen and are donating old sets of dishes, serving dishes we don't use, and other things.

We have been getting rid of stuffed animals that were saved for various reasons, clothes, memorabilia, and clothes.

I'm still looking for something to do with my two dvd players, vcr (will probably trash), 300 disc cd changer, and dual cassette deck.  Ugh.  I so don't want to just trash those.  Sometimes I hate electronics :-)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on June 23, 2013, 12:18:25 AM
I'm still looking for something to do with my two dvd players, vcr (will probably trash), 300 disc cd changer, and dual cassette deck.  Ugh.  I so don't want to just trash those.  Sometimes I hate electronics :-)


Price them cheap/free on craigslist, or put them on Freecycle.  There are always people looking for that kind of stuff.  Especially if they still work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on June 23, 2013, 08:46:27 AM
I'm still looking for something to do with my two dvd players, vcr (will probably trash), 300 disc cd changer, and dual cassette deck.  Ugh.  I so don't want to just trash those.  Sometimes I hate electronics :-)


Price them cheap/free on craigslist, or put them on Freecycle.  There are always people looking for that kind of stuff.  Especially if they still work.

Actually found a thrift shop that will actually take them for donations.  a few others wouldn't, but this one said they would.  So I'm going to take them over there.  I'd rather donate things then deal with craiglist/ebay.   I might not get as much back, but I just feel better doing it.  I know it sounds silly.

I actually wish my wife would donate more of our baby stuff/young kids stuff than trying to sell it. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on June 25, 2013, 10:53:10 AM
Sold $85 worth of stuff at our yard sale this past weekend.
Packed up some clothes for consignment, waiting to hear their offer.

Still need to sell: cloth diapers, Rock Band drums and mic (if we had the guitar, we might still be playing it!), DVDs amazon will buy back, and CDs that I won't miss -- does anyone have any ideas for where to sell CDs?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abuzzyisawesome on June 25, 2013, 01:31:32 PM
I took 2 boxes and a bag to donate today! After downsizing to half the house I owned 3 years ago, it has been a constant battle to sell/donate excess items. I also finally acknowledged the fact that I did not have the time and money to devote to my reef aquarium and sold it. Of course, I took a loss on it, but I stopped the huge gaping hole in my finances it created. It was a huge stress reliever too. I have really had an epiphany lately - more items = more stress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bill76 on June 26, 2013, 06:19:58 AM
Sold $85 worth of stuff at our yard sale this past weekend.
Packed up some clothes for consignment, waiting to hear their offer.

Still need to sell: cloth diapers, Rock Band drums and mic (if we had the guitar, we might still be playing it!), DVDs amazon will buy back, and CDs that I won't miss -- does anyone have any ideas for where to sell CDs?

Amazon has a trade-in program for CDs and other media.  I'm not sure how well they pay, and I'm pretty sure you get the money in the form of gift cards.  If you shop on Amazon semi-regularly, it might be worth looking into just because it's an easy one-stop solution.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on June 26, 2013, 07:50:16 AM
Sold $85 worth of stuff at our yard sale this past weekend.
Packed up some clothes for consignment, waiting to hear their offer.

Still need to sell: cloth diapers, Rock Band drums and mic (if we had the guitar, we might still be playing it!), DVDs amazon will buy back, and CDs that I won't miss -- does anyone have any ideas for where to sell CDs?

Amazon has a trade-in program for CDs and other media.  I'm not sure how well they pay, and I'm pretty sure you get the money in the form of gift cards.  If you shop on Amazon semi-regularly, it might be worth looking into just because it's an easy one-stop solution.

Given the value of some of those, I wonder if you do better donating and getting some tax relief as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: StaceStache on June 26, 2013, 02:14:25 PM
This thread has inspired me to do another purge of our household.

So far I have:

6-8 books to donate
3 books to sell (Should be able to get $10+ for them on Amazon)
1 bridesmaids dress to sell (listed on ebay)
3 shirts to donate

Plan on doing a more thorough purge in the next few days! I looove getting decluttered!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mozactly on June 27, 2013, 07:28:45 AM
I just cleared out most of my yarn stash and sold it for $20. It was mostly odds and ends, leftover yarn from projects long finished.

I have more room and a fresh $20 bill in my pocket!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on June 27, 2013, 08:18:03 AM
Sold $85 worth of stuff at our yard sale this past weekend.
Packed up some clothes for consignment, waiting to hear their offer.

Still need to sell: cloth diapers, Rock Band drums and mic (if we had the guitar, we might still be playing it!), DVDs amazon will buy back, and CDs that I won't miss -- does anyone have any ideas for where to sell CDs?

Amazon has a trade-in program for CDs and other media.  I'm not sure how well they pay, and I'm pretty sure you get the money in the form of gift cards.  If you shop on Amazon semi-regularly, it might be worth looking into just because it's an easy one-stop solution.

Given the value of some of those, I wonder if you do better donating and getting some tax relief as well.

Thanks! I will check out Amazon. They have some decent prices for some of the DVDs I want to get rid of. I don't itemize my taxes, so charitable giving doesn't give me any tax benefits :/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on June 27, 2013, 08:43:41 PM
Just listed my first ever item on eBay!  A handbag that I kept because I paid a lot for it 10+ years ago, but only used a few times.  It's been in a storage bin on the tippy top shelf of my closet for at least 3 years.  Hope someone buys it & actually uses it!
Have 2 more bags to list, then it's dress time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dweebyhawkeyes on June 27, 2013, 10:09:53 PM
Actually found a thrift shop that will actually take [the electronics] for donations.  a few others wouldn't, but this one said they would.  So I'm going to take them over there.  I'd rather donate things then deal with craiglist/ebay.   I might not get as much back, but I just feel better doing it.  I know it sounds silly.

I'm so glad you donated those rather than trashing them! One of my favorite possessions is an overhead projector that was donated to me from a school. Someone will always find that outdated stuff awesome and useful.

In clutter-reduction news, I've worked up the courage to sell 50+ of my book stash to a used book store. Books are awesome to have, but if I don't read them at least once a year, it's not worthwhile to own rather than borrow from the library. I found it's really satisfying to write down what you had, so you can check it out later. Still haven't worked out the art supply situation...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on June 28, 2013, 07:05:37 AM

In clutter-reduction news, I've worked up the courage to sell 50+ of my book stash to a used book store. Books are awesome to have, but if I don't read them at least once a year, it's not worthwhile to own rather than borrow from the library. I found it's really satisfying to write down what you had, so you can check it out later. Still haven't worked out the art supply situation...

I completely agree. Once I started letting go of books, I had so much more space, and moving was a LOT easier. I also started to use goodreads, and write little reviews of the book just for myself. It's better than having the physical reminder of having the book b/c it takes up less space! (I don't know about you, but sometimes I forget whether I've read a book or not)  At this point, I have 1 full bookshelf of books, basically divided up evenly between "favorite books," "reference books," and "books to read."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on June 29, 2013, 01:32:06 PM
Woo hoo! My husband and I spent 2 hours going through crap, packing up our winter clothes, etc, and came up with a huge pile of clothes & stuff that we can donate or sell on ebay/craigslist!
the apartment was feeling a little cluttery, and it is SO MUCH BETTER now! 
It's easier for me to think in a more spare environment.
I think we'll be doing another purge sometime this summer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on July 01, 2013, 02:54:32 PM
Woo hoo! My husband and I spent 2 hours going through crap, packing up our winter clothes, etc, and came up with a huge pile of clothes & stuff that we can donate or sell on ebay/craigslist!
the apartment was feeling a little cluttery, and it is SO MUCH BETTER now! 
It's easier for me to think in a more spare environment.
I think we'll be doing another purge sometime this summer.

Sounds wonderful! I am doing theproject333 and whittled my current wardrobe down to 33 items (does not include socks, underthings). While I figured out my 33 items, I purged my closet. SO got inspired and so now we have a pile from both of our closets.

This all means I do not need my dresser, so that will be listed on ebay or Craig's List at some point. The type of dresser I have is going for $400 on ebay right now. Woot!




Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on July 01, 2013, 03:17:03 PM
got rid of a carful of crap over the weekend. it's like peeling an onion -- i keep finding new levels of shit to get rid of.

all of this de-cluttering is making the process of packing for our upcoming move MUCH easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on July 02, 2013, 06:55:06 PM
Just sold my first ever item on eBay :).  A handbag I haven't used in years, sold for $41!  I paid $130 for it new 10+ yrs ago....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on July 03, 2013, 09:03:12 AM
Just sold my first ever item on eBay :).  A handbag I haven't used in years, sold for $41!  I paid $130 for it new 10+ yrs ago....

Awesome! I have yet to sell anything on ebay. I'm a little nervous about it. We have Rock Band drums for PS2 that need to get out of the house. I'm not sure if I should craigslist it or ebay it. I think I'd rather the anonymity of sending it to someone instead of meeting up with random strangers at my house, who may or may not buy it. But I'm nervous that all the ebay / paypal fees are going to make it not worth my time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 03, 2013, 09:12:38 AM
I also should sell some things on eBay. I bought two pairs of skinny jeans a few years ago, one I've worn a few times and the other I've never worn, because as it turned out I'm not really a skinny jeans kind of girl - I just don't find them comfy and don't know how other people wear them all the time. Lesson learnt, now I just have to get rid of them. eBay feels like a bit of a hassle but it's probably the best bet if I want to recoup some of my money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: StaceStache on July 03, 2013, 11:35:25 AM
stan: we just sold my husband's ps3 and rockband set (2 separate transactions). We listed them on craigslist and ebay.

Craigslist note: we always meet at a public place - you seem most concerned about a stranger coming into your home, and I agree - we don't do this. We always meet in the parking lot of a local restaurant or something.

Ended up selling both of these things on ebay. Ebay note: for these, just make sure you add enough shipping to cover since these are pretty large objects. I think we added close to $20 for shipping on the ps3, don't remember for the rockband.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on July 03, 2013, 11:41:41 AM
stan: we just sold my husband's ps3 and rockband set (2 separate transactions). We listed them on craigslist and ebay.

Craigslist note: we always meet at a public place - you seem most concerned about a stranger coming into your home, and I agree - we don't do this. We always meet in the parking lot of a local restaurant or something.

Ended up selling both of these things on ebay. Ebay note: for these, just make sure you add enough shipping to cover since these are pretty large objects. I think we added close to $20 for shipping on the ps3, don't remember for the rockband.

Good luck!

Thanks for the heads-up! Can I pick your brain for some market research? We only have the drums, mic, game disc, and a few track packs -- for PS2. Do you think we should sell them separately or together, and do you have any input on what price to put on them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 03, 2013, 12:46:40 PM
I don't remember where I read it, or from what faith it was from, but it went like so ... if you have two coats, one of them is not yours.  (Share with your fellow man who is without a coat sort of thing.)  I looked at my coats and pretty much decided to keep one to stay warm, one to stay dry, one to stay warm and dry both, and one for dressing up.  And a vest.

I still gravitate towards more coats.  But I try to keep to that formula, and give away the others.  I do have one of my dad's old coats in with my halloween costumes.  Speaking of, I have a problem with those.  I could outfit everyone on this blog in costumes and still have leftovers.  I need help.  Hehe.    
I also have a severe costume problem.  DH and I do medieval reenactment, and we both make our costumes.  They fill an entire closet 7.5 feet long!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on July 03, 2013, 07:08:39 PM
I also should sell some things on eBay. I bought two pairs of skinny jeans a few years ago, one I've worn a few times and the other I've never worn, because as it turned out I'm not really a skinny jeans kind of girl - I just don't find them comfy and don't know how other people wear them all the time. Lesson learnt, now I just have to get rid of them. eBay feels like a bit of a hassle but it's probably the best bet if I want to recoup some of my money.

It was waaaay less of a hassle than I thought it would be!  I made sure my photos were good, and that was really all.  I put a min bid of $9.99 and a buy it now price of $69.99 so any buyer getting it for under that would feel they were getting a good deal.  It's all psychology!
eBay makes the postage stuff uper easy too-I printed a flat rate USPS box label from eBay's site, then walked to the post office with some tape & packed the handbag into a USPS supplied box, taped the label on and sent it on its merry way :).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: StaceStache on July 08, 2013, 09:16:31 AM
stan: for ease, you may want to sell it as a package deal, but since you are missing the guitar I'm not sure. You may be able to make a few extra bucks separating it out, BUT it will be more time consuming and more of a hassle (separate shipping for everything).

For pricing, look at the completed listings on ebay for rock band items/ sets.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on July 08, 2013, 01:53:35 PM
Three boxes of books (including old tech books) and a few DVDs went to the library today.  Extra moving boxes are waiting to go out as they weren't needed for packing up our kitchen.

And my work laptop since I was laid off is now out.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on July 08, 2013, 07:27:16 PM
Just made $28 from sending in shirts that I haven't worn in a year, and some shirts that I've never worn! I'll call that a success -- I sent in 18 items and they accepted 13, so I got about $2 each for items I don't (or shouldn't!) wear. Some of the items accepted were older than the 5-year limit they list on their site, but they're in good condition and a classic style so I decided to take a chance on them. Now that I know they are open to taking those, I'm putting together another bag of items to send in! I sent them in to Twice -- https://www.liketwice.com/FlB4H.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BC_Goldman on July 08, 2013, 09:54:12 PM
I've been working my way through my junk room. I can actually see most of the floor now. Moved some paint stuff out into the utility closet and consolidated stuff. Now I just need to have a yardsale. I've got about 4 large tubs of stuff and a bunch of lose and larger things on the bed. I now have one bedroom cleared out and ready to rent. The junk room will be ready after a yardsale. Then I just need to take another pass at the stuff I moved into my closet to clear out the closet in one of the other rooms.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on July 08, 2013, 11:09:08 PM
I cleared out much of my garage - bike parts, old tools and screws, random crap. Gave a bunch away to goodwill and a local bicycle recyclery and threw away much of the rest.

Sold an old inflatable bed that we kept for our old house guests, but don't need in our new space.

Also finally posted the remainder of my old toys (transformers) from childhood on ebay and they sold for $500!!

So my garage looks great, my wallet is thicker and there is no loss of love whatsoever.

-onemorebike

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on July 16, 2013, 08:10:31 PM
Fire drill! Friend coming to stay this Sunday, and I just found out about it!

Where she'll sleep is where I have a lot of junk. To my credit, I have packed away/given away most of my wardrobe. The closet looks amazing!

I still have more to do in that space though.

Eeek!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on July 16, 2013, 08:28:42 PM
I'm getting back into this. I did well a while ago last year but lapsed. Not that I got more junk, but just got lazy clearing out.

Donated a bag of old clothes. Cleaned out a section of wardrobe, containing boxes sitting there since we moved 3.5 years ago. Going through and getting rid of old papers, magazines.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: basd on July 19, 2013, 03:43:24 AM
Some donations from me and the missus as well this week:


Less clutter for me, and helping good causes as well. Can't beat that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ace1224 on July 19, 2013, 06:02:13 AM
i did so good! a friend moving brought me two boxes of hardcover james patterson books and i took them 2nd and Charles and traded them in for 87 dollars in store credit!
i will use that credit to buy gifts either at xmas or bday parties my son attends.  i really wanted to keep them though, especially the hardcover versions of the paperbacks i already own....they just look prettier on my shelf
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on July 19, 2013, 06:44:56 AM
I'm getting rid of:

--my wedding dress
--a fancy party dress I wore to another wedding
--a box of toys/books
--other odds and ends
--two car seats (which I have to throw into a landfill, unfortunately).

This will be a good chunk of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maryofdoom on July 19, 2013, 09:15:38 AM
For anyone in this thread who wants to sell stuff on eBay - they're doing a promotion for free auction-style listings until July 20. I discovered this when I went to list a bunch of embroidery stuff last Sunday.

I know the listing fees aren't a ton of money, but every little bit helps.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on July 20, 2013, 04:32:23 PM
got rid of a carful of crap over the weekend. it's like peeling an onion -- i keep finding new levels of shit to get rid of.


Your comment above cracked me up. That's exactly how it is!

I got rid of more today. The piles are getting smaller though. I'm getting down to old journals and papers, and those I want to look through a bit more closely.

Just shredded SO's pay stubs from a decade ago. I have no idea why they were kept them so long!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FitStash on July 21, 2013, 05:24:18 PM
I'm by no means a hoarder. Minimalist would be more accurate.

I have, however, held on to a couple of items for aesthetic and practical reasons that I'm parting with.

One is a 1918 General Electric tabletop fan.

(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTAwMFg2NjU=/$T2eC16F,!zUE9s38-QPVBRQf,NcthQ~~48_35.JPG)

I was using it for, well, "cooling" but I hooked up a Kill-a-Watt a realized it was actually kind of energy inefficient so it's on the auction block.
Another item is a 1940's Westinghouse fan that has similar power draw. Beautiful and probably irreplaceable but just more "stuff."

The hold-up is that people aren't willing to pay much for these things. I'm looking at restoring them to bring the value up. They seem to run about $300 on eBay in restored condition.

If you are into this sort of thing, this could be a cool embedded Arduino project to replace the motor with a newer, more efficient one, and keep the old aesthetics.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rocklebock on July 21, 2013, 08:58:39 PM
This morning I helped my boyfriend take 600 pounds of junk from his house to the dump. Which I think is the second heaviest load we've taken out there. I haven't been saving all the receipts to prove it, but I think we're at about a ton and a half since spring. This has been a mix of a) 60+ years' accumulation of junk left behind by previous homeowners; b) junk left behind by a previous girlfriend with a hoarding problem; c) construction waste from various remodeling projects.

The whole experience has me seriously motivated to continue minimizing. I'm moving into his house next month, and have suggested make a pact that neither of us will acquire any more belongings for the rest of our lives. Only sort of joking.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lifejoy on July 21, 2013, 11:15:52 PM
I've been:

-giving away and selling clothing
-trying to get rid of things i'm not using (appliances, etc.)
-threw out some old makeup

Tackling books, next. Wanting to sell stuff on ebay, but kind of nervous about it. Thanks, Katnina, for sharing about your experience!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on July 22, 2013, 12:38:33 PM
No problem & good luck!  I'm planning on listing more stuff on eBay tomorrow :).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on July 22, 2013, 06:50:41 PM
I'm updating to say that my house looks AMAZING, and getting rid of stuff is part of the reason!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on July 23, 2013, 10:41:21 AM
I have a question about selling stuff that is technically yours, but located at someone else's house. In my case, this has to do with what is "mine" at my parents' house. My mom has kept a ton of my old toys from my childhood, and it has occurred to me that some might actually be worth something. Of course, there are a few sentimental items that I'd want to keep myself, but for the most part, I don't want any of them. Do you all think I have the right to sell them since they were mine as a child? My mom doesn't want to part with any of it, and there is a LOT. Some of my old toys are even taking up space in a storage shed that my parents pay for each month.

This might be one of those times where I just have to grin and bear it...but I see the potential to actually make some money off of some of these items and get myself closer to being out of debt. But the "are these things really mine?" question keeps bothering me. What would you guys do/have done in similar situations?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on July 23, 2013, 11:41:12 AM
I have a question about selling stuff that is technically yours, but located at someone else's house. In my case, this has to do with what is "mine" at my parents' house. My mom has kept a ton of my old toys from my childhood, and it has occurred to me that some might actually be worth something. Of course, there are a few sentimental items that I'd want to keep myself, but for the most part, I don't want any of them. Do you all think I have the right to sell them since they were mine as a child? My mom doesn't want to part with any of it, and there is a LOT. Some of my old toys are even taking up space in a storage shed that my parents pay for each month.

This might be one of those times where I just have to grin and bear it...but I see the potential to actually make some money off of some of these items and get myself closer to being out of debt. But the "are these things really mine?" question keeps bothering me. What would you guys do/have done in similar situations?

That is tricky. Your mom might hold onto the items because they remind her of when you're little. Choose your battles, I say. How important is it to you to sell stuff that is not stored at your place or taking up your space?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on July 24, 2013, 09:06:28 AM
I have a question about selling stuff that is technically yours, but located at someone else's house. In my case, this has to do with what is "mine" at my parents' house. My mom has kept a ton of my old toys from my childhood, and it has occurred to me that some might actually be worth something. Of course, there are a few sentimental items that I'd want to keep myself, but for the most part, I don't want any of them. Do you all think I have the right to sell them since they were mine as a child? My mom doesn't want to part with any of it, and there is a LOT. Some of my old toys are even taking up space in a storage shed that my parents pay for each month.

This might be one of those times where I just have to grin and bear it...but I see the potential to actually make some money off of some of these items and get myself closer to being out of debt. But the "are these things really mine?" question keeps bothering me. What would you guys do/have done in similar situations?

That is tricky. Your mom might hold onto the items because they remind her of when you're little. Choose your battles, I say. How important is it to you to sell stuff that is not stored at your place or taking up your space?

This is probably one of those instances where I need to choose my battles. My mom isn't going to give these things up willingly, so I should just let it go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on July 24, 2013, 12:08:29 PM
I have a question about selling stuff that is technically yours, but located at someone else's house. In my case, this has to do with what is "mine" at my parents' house. My mom has kept a ton of my old toys from my childhood, and it has occurred to me that some might actually be worth something. Of course, there are a few sentimental items that I'd want to keep myself, but for the most part, I don't want any of them. Do you all think I have the right to sell them since they were mine as a child? My mom doesn't want to part with any of it, and there is a LOT. Some of my old toys are even taking up space in a storage shed that my parents pay for each month.

This might be one of those times where I just have to grin and bear it...but I see the potential to actually make some money off of some of these items and get myself closer to being out of debt. But the "are these things really mine?" question keeps bothering me. What would you guys do/have done in similar situations?

That is tricky. Your mom might hold onto the items because they remind her of when you're little. Choose your battles, I say. How important is it to you to sell stuff that is not stored at your place or taking up your space?

This is probably one of those instances where I need to choose my battles. My mom isn't going to give these things up willingly, so I should just let it go.

Yeah, I think you have to let that go. My mom has been cleaning out her attic and digging up all sorts of old toys for my son to play with. I have to admit that it makes me so happy to see my son also love the toys that I loved. Priceless? No. But probably worth the price that I would get for them on ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dweebyhawkeyes on July 26, 2013, 10:39:28 PM
Yeah, I think you have to let that go. My mom has been cleaning out her attic and digging up all sorts of old toys for my son to play with. I have to admit that it makes me so happy to see my son also love the toys that I loved. Priceless? No. But probably worth the price that I would get for them on ebay.

That is really sweet; at my grandmother's house I definitely played with the toys my parents had when they were little and it's a pretty special feeling. There is a line between hoarding and making use of things, but this is an especially sweet thing to do.

Oh! I haven't been purging enough of my own things lately, but my coworkers and I are ridding the classroom of various things we have no use for and no other teachers can/will claim. It's school policy that we can't sell the old things, and we've had to out them in the dumpster. So pro tip for those of you inclined: Check school dumpsters for toys, papers, craft supplies, furniture, etc. It's actually pretty amazing what you might find.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Xavier on August 12, 2013, 06:34:12 PM
Great thread.
This will be my second gauntlet.  If I can handle them both I'll be a friggin' superstar, or at least better than I was.

Many of the posts noted the psychological component behind why we collect all this stuff in the first place.  For my part, I whole-heartedly agree.  Having come from a background of years of having little it can be very, very challenging to let things go.  We're not little robots and in my view, recognizing our own little idiosyncrasies is part of putting ourselves on a better path.

For those who haven't watched it, the TV series 'hoarders' is a stark and sometimes disgusting look at the hoarding behavior.  I  made the mistake of eating dinner while watching this a few times.  To be clear, I'm not looking down at these folks.  These are people with something more wrong than simply being lazy.  Left unchecked, I could completely see myself heading down that path.  Scary but true.

Challenge accepted.  I'll report back occasionally.  Strength to everyone else tackling their own clutter! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on August 12, 2013, 11:18:38 PM
Nice to have you on board, Xavier!

I've been a bit slack on the clothes front, but at least I've been working on the food front. Still eating up things that have been hibernating in the pantry and freezer for way too long. I haven't been super gung-ho about it, but am doing enough that I can see the difference, plus discovering how tasty some of that stuff is and wondering why I neglected them in the first place!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on August 13, 2013, 05:54:24 AM
Well, we are moved into our fab apartment, and I keep finding more things I want to get rid of! Got another box and a couple bags to take to the Goodwill within the next few days.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on August 13, 2013, 07:30:11 AM
Wife is taking two plastic containers of children's/baby clothes to a consignment sale along with 2 boxes of toys (would have liked to seen more toys go bye bye, but oh well).  That's something like 75 articles of clothes (we could sell more, but they put a 75 item limit on clothes).

I still have to take my used electronics over to the thrift store to see if they will take it.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on August 19, 2013, 12:56:51 PM
Ahhh, I sold my old laptop today for $100. Yay! I'd been lazy about getting that thing listed. Now I feel the motivation to get rid of some more stuff. I'm going to try and sell a few more items, and if those don't sell, I'll donate them soon. Just ordered a few bags from www.donatestuff.com (check it out if you haven't - they mail the bags and you stick them in the mail with your linens and clothes).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 19, 2013, 01:27:12 PM
I've been working on this the past few months.  A coworker and I have been challenging ourselves, first to get rid of 7 items a day for a month.  I got going fast on that one and inspired myself to get rid of 500 items in total.  Gave away all of my old jewelry from when I was a kid to a friend's daughter, bags of stuff to goodwill, trashed old makeup, chapstick, toothpaste samples, sunscreen, medicine, went through my paper piles, clothes, etc.  I'm at 465 now, just need some motivation to finish it out.  After we lost steam on the items per day we set ourselves a 6 week declutter challenge, which ends this week setting personal goals of areas of our apartments to declutter.  I'm in the lead so it's looking like my coworker owes me a drink.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Myrmida on August 19, 2013, 04:59:55 PM
My last big purge was 2 years ago when we were expecting baby #1.  Now, we're expecting baby #2 and I'm up to my old tricks.  I already went through my dresser and closet, but I think a second, more ruthless, pass is in order.  Let's face it, I will never be a size 2 again. 

I also want to get rid of the majority of my books.  I realize that I've been holding on to several of them for bad reasons (pride, sunk cost, etc.).  I'll keep things I use frequently, but I've got shelves of books that I will never look at again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on August 25, 2013, 06:18:54 AM
So in recent times I've been cooking from the pantry more than usual, and successfully annihilated a container of dried mushrooms, and a bag of dried borlotti beans. I'm thinking next I'll work on some dried mung beans, couscous and cornmeal that has been lying around for a while.

And just today, I finally listed a of pair skinny jeans on eBay. Hopefully someone will want it. When I find more time I'll start listing some dresses too, spring will be arriving soon in Australia.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ender on August 25, 2013, 10:29:02 AM
I am turning my computer desk (aka where I waste time) into a normal desk without any computer setup.

I'm tempted to get rid of the whole thing as I use what is in it probably 1/1000 days a year but... can't get there yet :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Myrmida on August 25, 2013, 12:03:10 PM
Woohoo!  I went through my books today and ditched all but a few shelves, trying to keep it down to ones that I use as reference. 

We also did a bunch of re-organizing my son's toys, so that he only has a few out at a time - when he gets bored with those, we'll exchange them for some that are put away.  We also put into storage a few toys that are too young for him (but we are keeping them for baby #2, who should arrive in the spring).

I also pulled out my old maternity clothes, although I can't find my non-maternity, larger-size clothes, which would be perfect for those first couple of months before I "pop".  I may have actually donated them, which is too bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dweebyhawkeyes on August 25, 2013, 12:20:43 PM
So I used to have an addiction to buying office supplies (my dad's the same way) and I had a bunch of spiral notebooks and writing utensils that were slightly or never used. If I tear out the used pages, do you guys think it's fair to donate useable spiral notebooks? I'm never going to be able to use all of them. I've seen people buy bags of pens and pencils and various art supplies from thrift stores so I'm sure donating those is fine, but I've never seen second-hand paper goods sold. Would donating those be an asset to a thrift store or a burden?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BC_Goldman on August 25, 2013, 05:36:43 PM
Friend of mine was having a yard sale yesterday so I loaded up my car with all the stuff I had in my junk room. I was able to make 75 bucks in about four hours. We're planning to do it again this Sat and then take any leftovers to Goodwill to be rid of them. I don't anticipate doing as well next time since I sold some of my best stuff last time.

Now I need to see if I can sell some of my Star Wars CCG cards somewhere for some more income.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on August 25, 2013, 06:09:43 PM
So I used to have an addiction to buying office supplies (my dad's the same way) and I had a bunch of spiral notebooks and writing utensils that were slightly or never used. If I tear out the used pages, do you guys think it's fair to donate useable spiral notebooks? I'm never going to be able to use all of them. I've seen people buy bags of pens and pencils and various art supplies from thrift stores so I'm sure donating those is fine, but I've never seen second-hand paper goods sold. Would donating those be an asset to a thrift store or a burden?

It's something I'd personally be willing to buy.  If they are in pretty good shape you may inquire with a local school as well, or if they can pass for almost-new, put them in a local school-supply drive as lots are happening right now.  If they are beat up you may just want to recycle.

I feel your pain on office supplies!  I looooooove me some office supplies.  I've been really actively working on controlling this for several years now and it's making a difference stuff-wise and we ALWAYS still have everything we need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on August 26, 2013, 02:29:35 PM
Donated two bags of stuff this weekend! Felt great. Now, if that Craigslist person would get back to me about buying a few items, I'd be super happy right now :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Myrmida on August 27, 2013, 08:47:08 AM
Donated two bags of stuff this weekend! Felt great. Now, if that Craigslist person would get back to me about buying a few items, I'd be super happy right now :)

I do get tired of the people who respond to ads and then never show up.  I'm trying to give away a chair and ottomann, and I'm only willing to put limited amounts of effort into giving something away!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Katnina on August 27, 2013, 01:31:56 PM
Dropped off 5 items of clothing at the thrift shop tidy, and 4 yesterday.  Still more to go but I can only take so much on the bike :).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on August 27, 2013, 02:31:17 PM
Donated two bags of stuff this weekend! Felt great. Now, if that Craigslist person would get back to me about buying a few items, I'd be super happy right now :)

I do get tired of the people who respond to ads and then never show up.  I'm trying to give away a chair and ottomann, and I'm only willing to put limited amounts of effort into giving something away!

Ugh, exactly. Another Craigslist pet-peeve: when you agree on the price, then they meet you in person to get the item and ask you to sell it to them for less. I've had that happen a few times. Still no word from the current Craigslist person, but did manage to sell one other item. $25 in found money!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on August 29, 2013, 10:44:33 AM
Over to the donation center:
about 6 kids toys (small number, but we wanted to let our daughter pick some more tonight)
1 Baby Swing
1 steamer for cooking (we have another one)
1 set of 3 cooling racks (we had gotten two sets for our wedding 9 years ago :-/ )
1 VCR (yes, it was sitting in our storage room)
2 DVD Players (we upgraded to blu-ray in combination with Amazon Prime and we have an xbox 360)
1 dual cassette tape player (yes, sitting in our storage room)
1 300 Disc CD Changer (digitizing audio removed the need for it)

And thrown out:
Assortment of daughter's coloring books and stuff that isn't used anymore.

The basement and storage room have so much more room in them now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BC_Goldman on August 31, 2013, 12:00:32 AM
I'd have loved to get my hands on a CD changer that large. Digital is nice but I buy CDs whenever possible since you actually own CDs unlike digital purchases. And since I get a good bit of my music at yard sales and thrift stores it's usually cheaper than digital too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on August 31, 2013, 02:50:24 PM
I'd have loved to get my hands on a CD changer that large. Digital is nice but I buy CDs whenever possible since you actually own CDs unlike digital purchases. And since I get a good bit of my music at yard sales and thrift stores it's usually cheaper than digital too.

Guess i should have put that one up here!

I had our entire CD library in it at one point, but we didn't listen to it enough and I digitized all of our CDs (still have the CDs themselves, just in boxes in storage).  My wife put most of her's on he iPhone, mine was on DVDs so I could take them to work and just flip around whatever I wanted.

Did you want a VCR also? ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BC_Goldman on September 02, 2013, 09:01:08 PM
Nah, I converted to DVD long ago (EDIT: Actually, I think DVDs were already around when I started buying stuff). I just sent my VHS Star Wars Trilogy and one of Abbott and Costello to the Goodwill with the rest of the stuff that didn't sell.

I was looking at digitizing my DVD collection but it would take an insane amount of storage space to do so. My BluRays would be even more. This was all pre-MMM and I don't think I've bought any since finding his site.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on September 03, 2013, 07:55:02 AM
Went on a spree this weekend, got rid of a bunk bed, and am working on getting rid of all our VHS tapes. Also 3 big bags of clothes, a desktop computer, and trying to find a place to bring my broken flatscreen TV to recycle.

I haven't even made a dent in the kids' rooms. That will take an act of God to clear out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lifejoy on September 03, 2013, 05:54:48 PM
Just moved to a smaller place (woo! $400/month cheaper!) and am trying to divest myself of an epic amount of STUFF. Blech.

I find it very difficult to get rid of nice items that I never use. Like a coach bag. Sigh.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Daleth on September 03, 2013, 06:02:02 PM
Just moved to a smaller place (woo! $400/month cheaper!) and am trying to divest myself of an epic amount of STUFF. Blech.

I find it very difficult to get rid of nice items that I never use. Like a coach bag. Sigh.

Yay! Sell the Coach bag on eBay. That might make it easier. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: N on September 03, 2013, 06:14:09 PM
passed along several bags of clothes my kids have outgrown recently-maybe 8 large bags?
made yet another pass thru the kitchen stuff and weeded out two more paper grocery bags of items I can live without. I have a box of stuff my friend is coming tomorrow to look thru-games and toys for her kid, a couple of clothes items.

went thru sons toys today and got rid of all broken items, things missing parts of the set, and some cheapie toys that he agreed could go. got rid of a paper grocery bag of toys! boxed up some of the cars he no longer plays with so much.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on September 04, 2013, 09:31:55 AM
So in recent times I've been cooking from the pantry more than usual, and successfully annihilated a container of dried mushrooms, and a bag of dried borlotti beans. I'm thinking next I'll work on some dried mung beans, couscous and cornmeal that has been lying around for a while.

Ha! Love the word choice, "Annihilate." I'm working on my pantry as well. I just reorganized the whole thing, got rid of some really old stuff and started putting out on the counter the latest bag of whatever to remind me to cook it and eat it. Next up, some gourmet "red rice" I bought about two years ago.

Yay, nice to see someone else doing similar with their pantry! I haven't cooked red rice but my mum does, she usually just mixes it with white rice and steams it as per usual, gives nice textural contrast.

In other news, my jeans on eBay didn't sell (it's an unusually tiny size... sigh), I have re-listed it. Also, yesterday I compiled some dresses, will take pictures this weekend so I can list them as well. Clearing out clothing is getting harder and harder as I don't actually have much. Most of what's left are the items that are really nice and I really like, and the items that are just really old and comfy that I'm not ready to throw away yet.

I also have a very nifty kick scooter I'm thinking about selling... originally bought it ages ago as I thought it would be an alternative to public transport, but it seems to be not so good for the knees when used extensively, so I've neglected it since then. Might give it another spin again and think about it further.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: blake201 on September 04, 2013, 01:03:39 PM
Cool thread. Just got started on a serious clutter purge...

Got rid of 90 books (which is just a small start, I have floor to ceiling bookshelves in all three rooms of my little apartment, all bulging with books 2 or 3 deep), mostly donated them but sold the ones on Amazon that were worth more than $3 each. The truly embarrassing thing is that about 20 of those books were about decluttering or organizing.

Got rid of four or five bags of clothes. Mostly just donated anything decent, anything in bad condition I cut up for rags and anything really nice I sold on eBay. For kids clothes that my daughter has outgrown I gave them to my brother who is about to become a dad to his own little girl.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SavingMon(k)ey on September 07, 2013, 08:07:04 PM
I have a similar issue on the clothes front. I have a fair few t-shirts that are very worn, what tends to happen with these t-shirts is they slowly get demoted from, "I'll wear it out and about" -> "i'll wear it to do dirty jobs in" -> "i'll wear it for bed". Some t-shirts i've got i've had for the past 10 years or so and even though they have some small holes in they are good for slouching about it. :)

Other items of clothing I donate to charity and anything else is either donated/recycled or straight up binned.
While I totally get the progression of t-shirt roles and use mine up the same way, my partner (who is indeed pretty frugal but no extreme mustachian) wears hers until there are more holes than cloth. Sometimes they are so "holy" they are hard to fold! When I suggest retiring one of those holy shirts, I meat strong resistance. "But they are sooooo comfortable!" Ok, then. Lol!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SavingMon(k)ey on September 07, 2013, 08:15:57 PM
Oh, and this is an inspiring thread, by the way. We just moved and I got rid of a lot of stuff, but still feel like I have too much. A couple things I'm not sure what to do with. Feel very attached, but also silly for being attached.

1) A box with cassette tapes and CDs of my performances in college (two degrees in music). No, I won't listen to them (or will I? I don't even own a cassette player anymore!)
2) A box with letters from family and friends. Letters my grandma sent to me as a kid. Letters my sister sent to me in college. And so on. Back when people wrote real letters.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on September 07, 2013, 08:59:45 PM
Ha, worldstrad, I love the comfort of well-worn clothes too! Though mine aren't as tattered as your partner's, from the sounds of it. :p

And hello to a fellow music degree holder... for your cassettes and CDs, are you able to convert them to a digital format? Same goes for the letters, you could take photos of them and upload somewhere safe. But I think it's okay to keep some things with sentimental value, as long as you don't go overboard with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: bluecollarmusician on September 08, 2013, 06:16:27 AM
Oh, and this is an inspiring thread, by the way. We just moved and I got rid of a lot of stuff, but still feel like I have too much. A couple things I'm not sure what to do with. Feel very attached, but also silly for being attached.

1) A box with cassette tapes and CDs of my performances in college (two degrees in music). No, I won't listen to them (or will I? I don't even own a cassette player anymore!)
2) A box with letters from family and friends. Letters my grandma sent to me as a kid. Letters my sister sent to me in college. And so on. Back when people wrote real letters.

We also just moved, and we are dealing with the same thing.  I have imported many of the CD's to the hard drive on the computer- super easy, and you have it forever.  You could do the same with the cassettes, might have to borrow something that could get it into the computer, or possibly record them to CD... not sure.  As a musician myself I understand wanting to hold on to those old recordings.  And I also understand that you will probably never listen to them.

And with the letters... if your printer/scanner has a paper handler (or even if it doesn't) it is pretty easy to scan them in.  I was resistant to this at first, since I like being able to hold them in my hand when reading back over them.  My wife convinced me to give it a try.  I found once I had them scanned in and could see them on the screen it was much easier to get rid of. 

We also determined that we didn't have to get rid of ALL of it, just most of it.  I would say we got rid of 90+% of the old paper stuff (letters, etc) tapes, CD's and Video tapes (copied many of these to DVD's and then imported to computer- the DVD's take up little space and are a nice back up.) and just kept a couple of things things with great sentimental value. 

Once you get rid of so much stuff, it seems silly to hang on to the last little bit... but that is what worked for us so far.  Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SavingMon(k)ey on September 08, 2013, 04:36:39 PM
Oh, and this is an inspiring thread, by the way. We just moved and I got rid of a lot of stuff, but still feel like I have too much. A couple things I'm not sure what to do with. Feel very attached, but also silly for being attached.

1) A box with cassette tapes and CDs of my performances in college (two degrees in music). No, I won't listen to them (or will I? I don't even own a cassette player anymore!)
2) A box with letters from family and friends. Letters my grandma sent to me as a kid. Letters my sister sent to me in college. And so on. Back when people wrote real letters.

I have imported many of the CD's to the hard drive on the computer- super easy, and you have it forever.  You could do the same with the cassettes, might have to borrow something that could get it into the computer, or possibly record them to CD... not sure.  As a musician myself I understand wanting to hold on to those old recordings.  And I also understand that you will probably never listen to them.

And with the letters... if your printer/scanner has a paper handler (or even if it doesn't) it is pretty easy to scan them in.  I was resistant to this at first, since I like being able to hold them in my hand when reading back over them.  My wife convinced me to give it a try.  I found once I had them scanned in and could see them on the screen it was much easier to get rid of. 


Great idea with the CDs! What kind of device can transfer cassette tapes, though? I have never seen such a thing. Anybody?

Scanning the letters... hm. Yeah, I may be able to do that with some of them, but the ones from my grandma... I'm just too silly attached! Thankfully those aren't too many (maybe 10 or 15).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SavingMon(k)ey on September 08, 2013, 04:41:13 PM
Ha, worldstrad, I love the comfort of well-worn clothes too! Though mine aren't as tattered as your partner's, from the sounds of it. :p

And hello to a fellow music degree holder... for your cassettes and CDs, are you able to convert them to a digital format? Same goes for the letters, you could take photos of them and upload somewhere safe. But I think it's okay to keep some things with sentimental value, as long as you don't go overboard with it.
Sorry, I accidentally skipped your response. Going digital may work for some of this stuff. Any idea on how to do that with cassettes?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PlayOutside on September 08, 2013, 05:20:04 PM
I'm a late joiner, but I'm IN!

Got rid of 5 bags of clothing, passed along another one, and gave away a bunch of little kid books. Organized the hall closet and tossed bunches of expired lotion/ ointment/ medicine-esque stuff. Tackling the kitchen tomorrow. Might get rid of the Christmas dishes- they're not really pretty and are just taking up space. I don't think I even got them down last year!

Also on my list is diving into the large amount of fabric that I am holding on to and the desk area... so much to do!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sleepyguy on September 08, 2013, 09:38:59 PM
I'm moving out and renting out our home in next 2-3 months... OMG the amount stuff I have!  So far I've donated/given away

6-7 garbage bag of clothes
37 LCD tv
2 laptops
4 computers
8 lcd monitors
about 20 pairs of shoes
garbage bag of books
dining room set + 6 chairs
2 couches

I still have WAY too much stuff... we'll be staying at our downsized area for about 5-6yrs... my goal in that time frame is keep selling/donating my things where I'm down to pretty much not much stored (except for tools).  If i get down to about 1/6th of what I have now I'll be pretty pleased :)


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on September 09, 2013, 08:53:52 AM
Scanning the letters... hm. Yeah, I may be able to do that with some of them, but the ones from my grandma... I'm just too silly attached! Thankfully those aren't too many (maybe 10 or 15).

If some of them are cards, I have torn off the front cover and just saved the part where they have written a note. I found out that St. Jude's accepts recycled greeting cards: http://www.stjudesranch.org/shop/recycled-card-program/

I went through my stash of cards and cut down the bulk by half by tearing off the front cover and donating them. I saved the ones that were sentimental to me, but they all fit in one small shoebox now. Victory!

In other news, I sold some old curtains and bedding on Craigslist! That's $25 of found money! Now I need to tackle a few more boxes of "stuff to sell."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on September 09, 2013, 09:10:24 AM
Sorry, I accidentally skipped your response. Going digital may work for some of this stuff. Any idea on how to do that with cassettes?

I haven't actually done it myself so I don't know how easy or difficult it is, but I've heard about it before. If you do a google search on how to convert cassettes to digital, there are plenty of sites that can help you get started.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on September 09, 2013, 09:47:40 AM
Ha, worldstrad, I love the comfort of well-worn clothes too! Though mine aren't as tattered as your partner's, from the sounds of it. :p

And hello to a fellow music degree holder... for your cassettes and CDs, are you able to convert them to a digital format? Same goes for the letters, you could take photos of them and upload somewhere safe. But I think it's okay to keep some things with sentimental value, as long as you don't go overboard with it.
Sorry, I accidentally skipped your response. Going digital may work for some of this stuff. Any idea on how to do that with cassettes?

I've done it with cassettes, you need a decent tape deck and a computer with a good quality sound card. Get an 1/8" plug to two RCA adapter cable, plug the tape deck's outputs to the sound card's line in.

Then use a free program like Audacity to record and de-noise them. Then you can split them into individual songs. I record the entire tape at once, so I don't have to sit and stop and start the program every time.

I need to write a quick how-to for doing this, it's pretty easy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SavingMon(k)ey on September 09, 2013, 11:23:27 AM

[/quote]

I've done it with cassettes, you need a decent tape deck and a computer with a good quality sound card. Get an 1/8" plug to two RCA adapter cable, plug the tape deck's outputs to the sound card's line in.

Then use a free program like Audacity to record and de-noise them. Then you can split them into individual songs. I record the entire tape at once, so I don't have to sit and stop and start the program every time.

I need to write a quick how-to for doing this, it's pretty easy.
[/quote]
Cool! I have Audacity on my laptop but never actually used it. I'll look more into this. And if you do write a how-to for this, please share! :) Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on September 28, 2013, 04:52:25 PM
I just sold $53 worth of stuff at a community yard sale this morning. I left with two suitcases and a backpack and came home with only one, but heavy, suitcase. It felt great to get rid of stuff, but also to sell it to members of my own community and even meet new people!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Norrie on September 28, 2013, 08:24:00 PM
We've spent the past year purging our house. It's been slow-going, as I'm a sentimental fool who has trouble letting go, but we're getting there. Our master bedroom closet is so badass these days. We could stand to do one more quick run through, but overall it's great.

The biggest thing that we're facing right now is the kids' playroom. They've outgrown it, so we're going to turn it into another living space, but OMG, the toys and books and crap. It's overwhelming.

UFYH has been a wonderful inspiration. I read it daily.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: livetogive on September 29, 2013, 03:33:04 PM
I'm getting rid of clothes now; 7 dress shirts, a suit, and 3 other shirts.  Help motivate me to get rid of 2 more suits I never wear!

I could theoretically still wear them so it's tough for me to get rid of 'em.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: livetogive on October 02, 2013, 05:24:10 PM
2 bicycle trips to Goodwill last weekend!

Next up is selling what can be sold and back to Goodwill again...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on October 30, 2013, 11:00:40 AM
Hope everyone is still doing well!

I've been lazy for the past several weeks, my room is a mess. LOTS of snail mail. (I sign up for electronic communications instead of snail mail, but somehow I still get quite a bit.) This weekend I'll be tidying up and throwing out more things in the process. My parents are visiting in a couple of weeks, not sure if they want to squeeze in with me or stay at our other relatives' bigger place, but either way there is the chance they might drop by my apartment and be horrified at the state of affairs, so that will provide impetus to clean things up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on October 30, 2013, 11:45:10 AM
I've weeded out lots of stuff to donate this month and set aside some nicer things to sell, but I'm having trouble finishing the job and getting the things out of the house!!  Right now the guest room is basically a giant pile of stuff to bring to goodwill.  So progress is happening and I love how uncluttered and neat my drawers and closets are getting, but it's still a work in progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on October 30, 2013, 11:55:31 AM
Any advice for getting my husband to sort through his wardrobe?  He did a major clean-out a year ago when we moved across the country, but he still has way more clothing than necessary (and much more than me).

I picked a day when we didn't have a lot going on (weekend).  I brought out a stack of his shirts, put them on the bed and asked him to go through with it.  I started with the easy stuff - the bajillions of team sports t-shirts he got free from playing soccer for years.  I then moved onto "harder" items like the 15 year old shirts he hasn't worn for 5, before ending with more questionable items.  I pre-culled and didn't ask him to go through things like his collection of undershirts or shirts he wears often.  He got rid of 20+ shirts.   He also knew I had been going through lots of stuff and maybe had a twinge that he ought to help participate/encourage (only the slightest twinge though).  Oh, also set a date you intend to drop off items at Goodwill (or similar.)  Then you can say, oh we planned to drop it off tomorrow so we really need to go through it now.

When he finished the pile, I did not try to capitalize on his apparent interest by throwing more things at him (pants, socks, etc). and left it when I was ahead.  Much thanks, raving etc as well.  (Seriously, it's for both of us so you wouldn't think I'd have to do this, but as I've learned in trying to get him to bring his dishes TO the kitchen and INTO the dishwasher, praising for the baby steps helps.  Even if at age 6 I knew to do this regularly.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on October 30, 2013, 03:01:57 PM
I got rid of another box of stuff this weekend (left over things that didn't sell at the community yard sell). I saw a post on my neighborhood list-serv that a local church was accepting donations. I also discovered a drop-off location for clothes and shoes near a place I frequently go, so next time I have a random pair of shoes or a few shirts I don't want I know where to take them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on October 30, 2013, 03:09:53 PM
I am up to around 84 items removed/given away/sold.

Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on October 30, 2013, 03:15:04 PM
I am up to around 84 items removed/given away/sold.

Yay!

Kudos!  As a helpful tip (in cleaning out items and raising your number), in my great clean out I learned that sunscreen, makeup and toothpaste expires.  I had a lot of sample toothpaste tubes, bottles of sunscreen I couldn't remember the year I bought, and 3-10 year old makeup I tossed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on November 04, 2013, 07:38:24 AM
Did 6 bags of kid's clothes, an old flatbed scanner, and some old (but still usable) pots and dishes. Gave them to a new Salvation Army store nearby, was pleasantly surprised at how laid back they were. Very cool place, and I almost got a magnetic bike trainer for $10. Also, they had real brass fireplace tools (which I need) for $10, I will be going back for those.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on November 05, 2013, 01:03:09 AM
You guys are doing such a good job of getting rid of stuff!

It is a public holiday here today. I decided to do a bit of cleaning and wiping around the house, and I did so using old undies which I would otherwise have to throw out anyway. I feel quite accomplished. I'm also slowly filling up another bag of clothes to be donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on November 07, 2013, 09:18:51 AM
I got rid of another box of stuff this weekend (left over things that didn't sell at the community yard sell). I saw a post on my neighborhood list-serv that a local church was accepting donations. I also discovered a drop-off location for clothes and shoes near a place I frequently go, so next time I have a random pair of shoes or a few shirts I don't want I know where to take them!

For DC folks, SOME (So Other May Eat) is accepting donations. I never knew that before this year, so I thought I'd share.

http://www.some.org/give_in_kind.html
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DTown on November 11, 2013, 05:13:08 PM
I just made a big donation over the weekend:

- 2 boxes filled with books I've already read and don't intend to re-read
- 2 old laptops and computer parts
- Big box of random things I've intended to get rid of for months
- Old printer/scanner that I hated
- 20 or so T-shirts I never wear
- Box of school/office supplies that I have no intention of using

I finally listed some old text books on Amazon and expect to get $150 for them :D. I also listed an old for-parts laptop on ebay to see if anyone wants it.

I made a new pile of stuff that I'll get rid of if I don't need any of it over the next couple months.

It really feels great to have all that crap gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 11, 2013, 06:21:52 PM
I just made a big donation over the weekend:

- 2 boxes filled with books I've already read and don't intend to re-read
- 2 old laptops and computer parts
- Big box of random things I've intended to get rid of for months
- Old printer/scanner that I hated
- 20 or so T-shirts I never wear
- Box of school/office supplies that I have no intention of using

I finally listed some old text books on Amazon and expect to get $150 for them :D. I also listed an old for-parts laptop on ebay to see if anyone wants it.

I made a new pile of stuff that I'll get rid of if I don't need any of it over the next couple months.

It really feels great to have all that crap gone.

Nice!  It really becomes a snowball effect, as you start to see the results and get excited I think, and become more willing to relinquish items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on November 11, 2013, 06:28:14 PM
Awesome work DTown, that's a lot of stuff! I can so relate to feeling great after the things are gone, it's like an invisible weight lifted off the shoulders.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs WW on November 15, 2013, 04:08:25 PM
I try and weed out a few things every day, ranging from papers to furniture. I stopped counting at 500 items (counting one heap of papers as one item) and that was in September. We don't have that much stuff, but it really gets you thinking when you can remove more than 500 things from your house and hardly notice it... The weeding continues!

The minimalists have a great callenge on decluttering, where you get rid of one thing on the first of the month, two on the second and so on for the while month!

www.theminimalists.com

Keep up the great work all!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MustacheCowboy on November 15, 2013, 05:57:06 PM
I've been slowly selling old kids clothes on eBay and the selling prices have been much higher then I expected. "Finding" the cash has been addictive plus the joy of having less has felt awesome!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Daleth on November 16, 2013, 02:37:53 PM
Oh, and this is an inspiring thread, by the way. We just moved and I got rid of a lot of stuff, but still feel like I have too much. A couple things I'm not sure what to do with. Feel very attached, but also silly for being attached.

1) A box with cassette tapes and CDs of my performances in college (two degrees in music). No, I won't listen to them (or will I? I don't even own a cassette player anymore!)
2) A box with letters from family and friends. Letters my grandma sent to me as a kid. Letters my sister sent to me in college. And so on. Back when people wrote real letters.

You could transfer the music from the cassettes/CDs to files on your computer. In other words, keep it but don't keep it--keep the music but not the objects.

I would keep letters. I always keep letters. It's not like they take up that much room, and it's sometimes fun to look back at them and remember things you'd forgotten, be reminded of someone through their handwriting, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on November 16, 2013, 02:44:16 PM
A giant pile of junk went to goodwill today- decor knick knack things, some clothes,  some assorted kitchen junk, etc.

Looks like we're going to be moving soon, so we will have a lot of incentive to clear out even more stuff as we go through it all to pack.  Less stuff = less to pack = less to move.  Plus the new place is going to be much smaller and I don't want it to be all cluttered up. That's another incentive to pare down.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wtjbatman on November 16, 2013, 09:29:38 PM
Over the last few months I've made a commitment to declutter and sell the things that I don't need or use any longer. Part of this is because I feel like I've definitely accrued too much crap over the years, I'd like the money so I can invest it, and because my girlfriend is not impressed at how much stuff I moved into the house we are renting.

So far:
- Sold around 90% of my Xbox 360 video game collection ($500)
- Sold a set of Anime DVDs ($200)
- Sold most of my books to Half-Price Books ($120)
- Donated three garbage bags filled with clothes
- Threw out probably four garbage bags of old magazines, papers, etc when we moved

To-do:
- Finish selling the rest of my games (est. $150 worth)
- Sell the rest of my embarrassingly large Anime DVD collection (est. $500-800 worth)
- Sell the two older Xbox 360 consoles I don't use (est. $150 worth)
- Figure out what else I have to sell or donate... I know there is lots

The books were easy as a couple years ago I discovered the joys of reading on a Kindle. I have so many books on that thing, and I can take every one with me wherever I go. And reading on an old school Kindle there is no eye strain like reading on a computer monitor. The video games I started getting rid of at the encouragment of my girlfriend, but it didn't take me long before I agreed with her. Why do I need old games I will never play again? Off to Ebay/Amazon they went! Same with the Anime DVDs. A lot of them are still worth money, but since I am able to download/stream so many of the shows I like, there is no reason to hang on to these physical DVDs while I can still make money off them. A few boxed sets I will be able to sell for more than I paid, since they are no longer in print and are considered rare among anime geeks.

I have some hobby gaming items and computer items that I intend to keep no matter what. I have two kindles (my old school e-ink version I prefer to read on and a new kindle fire hd that I use for everything else), two laptops (one is my primary computer I have hooked up in my man cave at home, the other is older and I bring it to school), and some hobby gaming things like board games (not Monopoly... google Dominion or Twilight Imperium III or BSG the board game) and books that I can't easily read on my kindle. I feel I've made some good progress, but I also know I have a ways to go. As evidenced by my above list of things I intend to keep! Hey, I said I was decluttering, not renouncing my worldly possessions and turning into a monk ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on November 16, 2013, 09:52:19 PM
Hey, I said I was decluttering, not renouncing my worldly possessions and turning into a monk ;)

I love that line!  :D

I'm definitely in on this challenge.

I am working my way through old books (far too many to count, but at least most of them were bought second hand), clothes (same, although a lot less in number) and anything else that isn't nailed down.

I am listing them all on Trade Me (NZ equivalent of ebay). It is quite addictive seeing stuff that was gathering dust in my house now increasing my bank balance.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on November 16, 2013, 11:44:15 PM
Mrs WW I like the idea of weeding out a few things everyday or doing it incrementally a la the Minimalists. I just get so lazy, though! Must do it more consistently.

Today I donated another bag of clothing, which makes me happy. My goal is to whittle my clothing down so that they all fit into two suitcases... maybe even one, though that may be difficult due to bulky winter coats. We'll see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: yesslynn on November 19, 2013, 08:09:38 PM
This is thread is great! I'm excited to use the extra time off for Thanksgiving to go through a bunch of things that are not used or even looked at to sort into selling and donating piles and then actually sell and donate them. I cut down a bunch on things when I moved across country with only the stuff I could fit in the trunk and backseat of a Dodge Neon but it's been almost a year and a half and now, again I seem to have accumulated too many things. Two people in a one bedroom apartment contributes slightly to the problem but we definitely do not regularly use all of the objects currently causing this clutter so getting rid of stuff, and maybe making some money, sounds like a wonderful plan.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ironfist on November 20, 2013, 03:33:11 PM
Working on purging a lot of extra stuff myself but unfortunately yard sale season is over so it's hard to sell a lot right now.  Maybe donating to Goodwill would be an option?  At least it's a tax deduction...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CNM on November 20, 2013, 03:54:46 PM
For those of you getting rid of clothing and accessories, you might want to check out liketwice.com and thredup.com.  They are used clothing websites and they will send you a pre-paid shipping bag.  Send them your sellable stuff, and they'll make an offer on the whole lot.  I sent a giant bag to liketwice a few months ago and got $125!  It's much, much easier than trying to sell on ebay or to an individual buyer.  Liketwice is women's clothing only, thredup is women's , boys, girls, and baby as well as shoes and accessories. 

Here are some referral links that give you and me a bonus but you certainly don't need to use them:  www.liketwice.com/GLdQ9 (http://www.liketwice.com/GLdQ9)  and http://www.thredup.com/r/XYUOUP (http://www.thredup.com/r/XYUOUP)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Norrie on November 20, 2013, 06:13:03 PM
Where do you guys stand on donating versus selling?

We've worked hard at purging, and have done a good job, but have more to do over Thanksgiving break. I'd really like to just donate it and get it out of our lives, because my guess is that if we plan on selling it, it will sit in a pile in our garage for a year before eventually being donated.
Are we being wasteful in that we probably could earn bits of cash on some of the stuff? Or should we just get it out of our lives and be done?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on November 20, 2013, 06:51:20 PM
Where do you guys stand on donating versus selling?

We've worked hard at purging, and have done a good job, but have more to do over Thanksgiving break. I'd really like to just donate it and get it out of our lives, because my guess is that if we plan on selling it, it will sit in a pile in our garage for a year before eventually being donated.
Are we being wasteful in that we probably could earn bits of cash on some of the stuff? Or should we just get it out of our lives and be done?

My wife is more into selling, I'm more into donating.. with a caveat.  Things that have real value, I'd rather sell.  And by real value I mean like collectables.  Things like your standard fare of books, movies, clothes, etc qualify has donation worthy.  Some of it is even trash worthy. 

I just don't think it is worth the effort and my wife has done some of those "small sale" type site stuff where people don't show up and it just gets very frustrating.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JessieImproved on November 20, 2013, 06:55:40 PM
Where do you guys stand on donating versus selling?

I have discovered that I detest selling things.  Unless it's large sports equipment, a car or something like that, it's getting gifted to friends/family or donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Empire Business on November 20, 2013, 08:05:56 PM
I hate selling things too.  I will sell things like books/DVDs, where I can slop a big box into the used store, come back in an hour and have them give me a number.  Everything else are donations.  We even have a place that will pick up.  They don't take everything but they will take many things.

The emptier it gets in here, the happier I feel.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on November 21, 2013, 12:42:47 AM
I have a huge amount I should get rid of, but it's the expensive books from past enthusiasms that weigh most heavily on me. I'd give them away if I found people who really wanted them, but they are way too specialized for the few local secondhand booksellers to be interested in. Without a car I can't take them further afield even to give to a library, and Melbourne doesn't have any specialist bookshops for most of these narrow interests. In the UK I would fare better - most of them came from there - but international postage rates from Australia are so horrendous that no overseas buyer would want to cover that cost.

For other stuff I'm stuck because I don't have any means of taking photos and nothing's likely to sell on eBay without one. Freecycle has been great for things like ski-gear because people collect, but I've run through most of what people are likely to be looking for and it won't work for the books.

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on November 21, 2013, 11:09:03 AM
I'm coming to post my goal for the weekend (to hold me accountable!): Clean out one cabinet in my kitchen. I want to have a cabinet dedicated to canning supplies/storage only. I'm going to start doing more canning in 2014, so I need some space to store the equipment and the things I can. This means I need to get rid of other kitchen items I don't use!

I'm really debating on getting rid of my microwave, which I hardly use. Since I have such a small kitchen, this would massively free up counter space! Has anyone else given it up?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on November 21, 2013, 12:48:19 PM
I have a huge amount I should get rid of, but it's the expensive books from past enthusiasms that weigh most heavily on me. I'd give them away if I found people who really wanted them, but they are way too specialized for the few local secondhand booksellers to be interested in. Without a car I can't take them further afield even to give to a library, and Melbourne doesn't have any specialist bookshops for most of these narrow interests. In the UK I would fare better - most of them came from there - but international postage rates from Australia are so horrendous that no overseas buyer would want to cover that cost.

For other stuff I'm stuck because I don't have any means of taking photos and nothing's likely to sell on eBay without one. Freecycle has been great for things like ski-gear because people collect, but I've run through most of what people are likely to be looking for and it won't work for the books.

What about listing them on Amazon?  I did this for several nicer books that I didn't think the used book store would pay enough for.  It doesn't require a picture, just the ISBN or title a description of the condition.  If you truly don't care about making money off of them , you could just charge enough to cover the cost of shipping, whatever that might be.  It would at least expose the books to a wider audience who might be interested in some harder to find articles.

I guess I'm not really familiar with Austrailian postal practices, but in the US there is a special rate for shipping books/educational materials, so this might be feasible.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ironfist on November 21, 2013, 12:49:57 PM
I hate selling things too.  I will sell things like books/DVDs, where I can slop a big box into the used store, come back in an hour and have them give me a number.  Everything else are donations.  We even have a place that will pick up.  They don't take everything but they will take many things.

The emptier it gets in here, the happier I feel.

I've discovered that just letting go of my old junk is the hardest part.  I don't really miss anything once it's gone.  I think I'm going to put a time limit on my records and if they're not all sold by Christmas they'll be going to Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on November 26, 2013, 01:33:06 PM
I'm coming to post my goal for the weekend (to hold me accountable!): Clean out one cabinet in my kitchen. I want to have a cabinet dedicated to canning supplies/storage only. I'm going to start doing more canning in 2014, so I need some space to store the equipment and the things I can. This means I need to get rid of other kitchen items I don't use!

I'm really debating on getting rid of my microwave, which I hardly use. Since I have such a small kitchen, this would massively free up counter space! Has anyone else given it up?

Did it! Found room in one kitchen cabinet for canning items and took the microwave out of the kitchen. I'm going to keep it in my closet for one month and see if I ever feel like I need it. If not, I'm selling it in January.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 26, 2013, 02:11:31 PM
I'm going through my stacks of magazines.  I have 3 years worth of my college alumni magazine and Martha Stewart Living (gift & freebie) that I need to cull before I move at the end of December.  Right now I'm trying to go through 1-2 each night I'm home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on November 26, 2013, 02:15:29 PM
I'm going through my stacks of magazines.  I have 3 years worth of my college alumni magazine and Martha Stewart Living (gift & freebie) that I need to cull before I move at the end of December.  Right now I'm trying to go through 1-2 each night I'm home.

Magazines are a common perpetrator. If they're that valuable, you can scan key articles or pictures into Evernote (and tag them to make them easily searchable!) or switch to electronic subscriptions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 26, 2013, 03:30:24 PM
I'm going through my stacks of magazines.  I have 3 years worth of my college alumni magazine and Martha Stewart Living (gift & freebie) that I need to cull before I move at the end of December.  Right now I'm trying to go through 1-2 each night I'm home.

Magazines are a common perpetrator. If they're that valuable, you can scan key articles or pictures into Evernote (and tag them to make them easily searchable!) or switch to electronic subscriptions.

I'm going low tech.  After reading I'm ripping out pages of things I want to keep from MSL.  I'm tossing the alumni magazine except 1-2 special ones (e.g. where my husband and I have a mention in the class notes for being married, or one where I'm featured in a cover story).

Maybe I'll never go through the ripped pages, but at least I'll have cut down the pile by 95% by doing so.

But yes, they are evil for just kind of slipping on you.  And then going through them becomes a chore instead of a pleasure.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on November 26, 2013, 07:19:23 PM
Donating is also much easier for me, but there are some things I prefer to sell (e.g. they will fetch a good price, or they are quite specific/niche so I want it to go to someone who really wants it).

As for magazines/books... I'm also having to think about what to do with that. Most of mine are related to food and wine, or cookbooks, and some of the content isn't necessarily always easily searchable on the internet. I'll have to think about which of the information/recipes I'm actually likely to use, and discard the rest. And, since I'll be moving next year, if I really want to keep something, I will also have to think about whether it would make more sense to sell it and buy again later if I'm still set on it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on November 28, 2013, 03:50:43 AM
What about listing them on Amazon?  I did this for several nicer books that I didn't think the used book store would pay enough for.  It doesn't require a picture, just the ISBN or title a description of the condition.  If you truly don't care about making money off of them , you could just charge enough to cover the cost of shipping, whatever that might be.  It would at least expose the books to a wider audience who might be interested in some harder to find articles.

I guess I'm not really familiar with Austrailian postal practices, but in the US there is a special rate for shipping books/educational materials, so this might be feasible.
Thank you for the suggestion. Many of these titles are published pre-ISBNs and there doesn't seem to be an easy way to list a title on Amazon that has not been previously listed. Bulk consignments of printed matter can be sent by sea to a single address, but apart from that there's no separate print/book postage rate. A parcel weighing 1.5 - 2 kg costs $56.90 by air (which is what most Amazon buyers would want); $62.90 if tracked; and $40.60 even by sea.

I have had a little success selling via Fishpond to Australian & NZ buyers, but again it only works if the title is fairly mainstream and recent. They really don't handle narrow interest scarce books with no ISBN, and certainly not without a photo.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: yogagirl95 on November 30, 2013, 06:36:04 PM
Ive sold some of my daughters toys on Craiglist this week. She set them up for the pictures, so I gave her some of the money. I also sold a textbook that I had for $30 on half.com, and I have 3 auctions going on ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 01, 2013, 09:58:03 PM
Throwing in here :) I'd like to nuke a lot of my stuff.  I already had a lot of textbooks posted on Amazon (probably burned close to $1k on them total) but now I'm sick of storing them.  Lowered the price on most things so that they're within a couple bucks of the lowest price, just to get it moved.  Whatever is still sitting by my desk in February (when the first week of school has passed for everyone around here) they'll go to Half Price.

I went through around half a dozen bags of clothing last summer (I lived overseas for 2 months, and came back with a wake-up call!) but will need to again soon (because I get a lot of free t-shirts and they are almost always too big for me!).  I've also got some businessy clothes that are too big or getting pilly that can also go.

Any suggestions for off-beat items to sell beyond eBay and Craigslist for random stuff like:

- Wetsuit (for triathlons, not sports)
- Queen sized air mattresses
- car parts (switches for an old car)

I've posted them but if they don't sell, I'm not sure if there's something similar to a consignment shop for clothing for these - or if I just give it to Goodwill and shrug?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on December 01, 2013, 10:17:06 PM
My red shirt had been sitting in my donation bin for a while.  When a relative mentioned in passing about needing a bit of red fabric for a quilt, guess where that shirt went.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 02, 2013, 01:54:51 AM
I'm in! My cluttered room is attached :) we're sacrificing a room until January 31st to work through all the clutter that was hiding in the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AustinKat on December 02, 2013, 05:28:15 AM
Throwing in here :) I'd like to nuke a lot of my stuff.  I already had a lot of textbooks posted on Amazon (probably burned close to $1k on them total) but now I'm sick of storing them.  Lowered the price on most things so that they're within a couple bucks of the lowest price, just to get it moved.  Whatever is still sitting by my desk in February (when the first week of school has passed for everyone around here) they'll go to Half Price.

Don't know how old your textbooks are, but Chegg (http://www.chegg.com/selltextbooks (http://www.chegg.com/selltextbooks)) might buy them (and they'll even pay for shipping). Worth a shot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aglassman on December 02, 2013, 01:02:11 PM
Just sold 4 old winter tires for my Mustang (sold 2 years ago).  They've been in my garage for 2 years collecting dust.  Finally unloaded them on CL for $100!  Feels great!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 02, 2013, 01:07:01 PM
Throwing in here :) I'd like to nuke a lot of my stuff.  I already had a lot of textbooks posted on Amazon (probably burned close to $1k on them total) but now I'm sick of storing them.  Lowered the price on most things so that they're within a couple bucks of the lowest price, just to get it moved.  Whatever is still sitting by my desk in February (when the first week of school has passed for everyone around here) they'll go to Half Price.

Don't know how old your textbooks are, but Chegg (http://www.chegg.com/selltextbooks (http://www.chegg.com/selltextbooks)) might buy them (and they'll even pay for shipping). Worth a shot.

Ah, thanks! I haven't heard of this service before.  Their prices are pretty low but something is better than nothing (and possibly better than Half Price).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on December 02, 2013, 07:36:26 PM
Any suggestions for off-beat items to sell beyond eBay and Craigslist for random stuff like:

- Wetsuit (for triathlons, not sports)
- Queen sized air mattresses
- car parts (switches for an old car)

I've posted them but if they don't sell, I'm not sure if there's something similar to a consignment shop for clothing for these - or if I just give it to Goodwill and shrug?

Do you have Freecycle where you live? That way they would go to someone who actually wants them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 02, 2013, 07:51:43 PM
Any suggestions for off-beat items to sell beyond eBay and Craigslist for random stuff like:

- Wetsuit (for triathlons, not sports)
- Queen sized air mattresses
- car parts (switches for an old car)

I've posted them but if they don't sell, I'm not sure if there's something similar to a consignment shop for clothing for these - or if I just give it to Goodwill and shrug?

Do you have Freecycle where you live? That way they would go to someone who actually wants them.

Oh yes, we do - I was just hoping not to turn 200$ into 0$ (the battle-cry of hoarders everywhere).  Freecycle would be the 'free' option, over Goodwill, but I'd rather get 50$ of 5$ for it than nothing, you know?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 02, 2013, 10:17:06 PM
Any suggestions for off-beat items to sell beyond eBay and Craigslist for random stuff like:

- Wetsuit (for triathlons, not sports)
- Queen sized air mattresses
- car parts (switches for an old car)

I've posted them but if they don't sell, I'm not sure if there's something similar to a consignment shop for clothing for these - or if I just give it to Goodwill and shrug?

Do you have Freecycle where you live? That way they would go to someone who actually wants them.

Oh yes, we do - I was just hoping not to turn 200$ into 0$ (the battle-cry of hoarders everywhere).  Freecycle would be the 'free' option, over Goodwill, but I'd rather get 50$ of 5$ for it than nothing, you know?

Check out the laws in your state.  In mine, you may not sell used mattresses.  I don't know if an air mattress would count or not.  The issue is a lot of people are uncomfortable buying it used, same as with wetsuits from a bit of the skeevy factor.  I might recommend giving up on those two if you are not having much luck.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 03, 2013, 07:32:07 AM
Check out the laws in your state.  In mine, you may not sell used mattresses.  I don't know if an air mattress would count or not.  The issue is a lot of people are uncomfortable buying it used, same as with wetsuits from a bit of the skeevy factor.  I might recommend giving up on those two if you are not having much luck.

It's legal to sell used mattresses - I've purchased one.  The skeeve factor might get me though.  Guess we'll see!  I only posted it within the last week so we'll see what shakes out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aglassman on December 03, 2013, 08:48:31 AM
Gotta love the useless laws out there.  Uh, if you don't want a used mattress or wet suit, don't buy it used.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CNM on December 03, 2013, 08:57:22 AM
Throwing in here :) I'd like to nuke a lot of my stuff.  I already had a lot of textbooks posted on Amazon (probably burned close to $1k on them total) but now I'm sick of storing them.  Lowered the price on most things so that they're within a couple bucks of the lowest price, just to get it moved.  Whatever is still sitting by my desk in February (when the first week of school has passed for everyone around here) they'll go to Half Price.

I went through around half a dozen bags of clothing last summer (I lived overseas for 2 months, and came back with a wake-up call!) but will need to again soon (because I get a lot of free t-shirts and they are almost always too big for me!).  I've also got some businessy clothes that are too big or getting pilly that can also go.

Any suggestions for off-beat items to sell beyond eBay and Craigslist for random stuff like:

- Wetsuit (for triathlons, not sports)
- Queen sized air mattresses
- car parts (switches for an old car)

I've posted them but if they don't sell, I'm not sure if there's something similar to a consignment shop for clothing for these - or if I just give it to Goodwill and shrug?

For your wetsuit, is there a Play It Again Sports near you?  It is a used sports store that has a lot of locations across the US.  Another place to try and get rid of it is at a swap.  Around here we have a huge Ski Swap in the winter and Bike Swap in the summer where people-  mostly retailers but some individuals, too- off-load their used or last-season stuff. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 03, 2013, 11:31:33 AM

For your wetsuit, is there a Play It Again Sports near you?  It is a used sports store that has a lot of locations across the US.  Another place to try and get rid of it is at a swap.  Around here we have a huge Ski Swap in the winter and Bike Swap in the summer where people-  mostly retailers but some individuals, too- off-load their used or last-season stuff.

Oh we definitely do and they take wetsuits according to their website! Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 03, 2013, 02:47:20 PM
Check out the laws in your state.  In mine, you may not sell used mattresses.  I don't know if an air mattress would count or not.  The issue is a lot of people are uncomfortable buying it used, same as with wetsuits from a bit of the skeevy factor.  I might recommend giving up on those two if you are not having much luck.

It's legal to sell used mattresses - I've purchased one.  The skeeve factor might get me though.  Guess we'll see!  I only posted it within the last week so we'll see what shakes out.

Not to beat on a dead horse, but did you buy from craigslist?  The seller might not have known about the law (if you do indeed have one in your state).  I learned about it when I bought a new mattress and they told us they charged a fee if you return it because they have to trash it.  I then looked it up.

Gotta love the useless laws out there.  Uh, if you don't want a used mattress or wet suit, don't buy it used.   

Consumer protection, I believe it's sold as.  Also known as "too many bed bug infestations" likely, which if you live in an apartment building can hurt everyone there.  Not saying I think the law is great, but providing a modicum of a reason why it may not be 100% bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 03, 2013, 09:24:32 PM

Not to beat on a dead horse, but did you buy from craigslist?  The seller might not have known about the law (if you do indeed have one in your state).  I learned about it when I bought a new mattress and they told us they charged a fee if you return it because they have to trash it.  I then looked it up.


Nope, I bought it from a store that sold used furniture.  According to them, they ripped out the lining, reversed it, stapled it back on, and ran the whole thing through chemical warfare.  I never caught bed bugs, rashes, or any other sort gonoherpesyphilitis from it in 5 years, and it was comfy enough, so they did something right.  Plus it was cheap. Go Minnesota laws!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: impaire on December 04, 2013, 09:35:06 PM
Where do you guys stand on donating versus selling?

I've done both--with the tax write-off, I figure it's win-win anyway. However, I will not "keep things to sell later" without a clear plan of when "later" is (I enter it in my calendar as a task due for a certain date, or if it's a pile of stuff to deal with, I'll pencil a set amount of time--for instance, 20 minutes every other day until it is all gone). If I can't hold myself to the plan, or can't even bear to plan, then to Goodwill it goes.

I'm strongly allergic to clutter :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aglassman on December 05, 2013, 11:53:49 AM
Where do you guys stand on donating versus selling?


I sell large items.  Furniture, electronics, auto parts, ect.  These can be done in one transaction, for a lump sum.  You end up with more money that way as with donation, you are only getting a % off your taxes.  On the other hand, you can just make up any reasonable value, so you my be able to get more via the % off your taxes than from the cash.  Stuff like clothes and odds and ends I just donate as it's more efficient time wise, and you can get more value form the tax deduction.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dobatseatcats on December 08, 2013, 11:19:39 AM
I've been working hard at decluttering and have quite a pile to unload - some of the crap in our basement storage locker isn't even mine! (leftover stuff people gave me to sell at our yard sale last summer.... yeah, never again.) We're going to be selling our condo and moving someplace cheaper in the next year so this stuff has to go!

I'm shocked at how difficult it's been to get rid of stuff on Freecycle. People not showing up when they say they will, people getting upset that I can't do daytime pickups because I work full-time and don't get home until 7 (which is clearly stated in my postings), people rescheduling over and over again until I can't keep straight who is coming when for what.

I'm really tempted to just throw this crap in the alley (in my city there's a better than even chance that someone would take it. Maybe not now though because it's snowing).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 08, 2013, 11:43:24 AM
I've seen people send out a "Curb alert" and say what they have out and when the garbage will come by to pick it up.  Then people come out, or not, and the crumbs get hauled off, and you don't need to bother scheduling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on December 09, 2013, 08:08:46 AM
I've got two chairs... one's a huge La-Z-Boy, the other's a nice wooden-framed sitting chair... both were rescued out of the trash. The recliner needed repair, but after using it for a while, we realized it's just too big, and we don't have room for it, so it's going back in the trash. The other chair just doesn't have a good use and it's not that comfortable, but I hate to get rid of it if we can reupholster it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on December 09, 2013, 10:33:30 AM
If this has been mentioned upthread, my apologies...

Has anyone here used Zumu to sell CDs?  If so, do you recommend it?  Are there other sites/services out there anyone knows of for selling CDs?

Same question for textbooks.  I know about Chegg, thanks to an earlier post.  Any other good sites out there for selling used textbooks?

Many thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 09, 2013, 11:21:01 AM
I'm going through my stacks of magazines.  I have 3 years worth of my college alumni magazine and Martha Stewart Living (gift & freebie) that I need to cull before I move at the end of December.  Right now I'm trying to go through 1-2 each night I'm home.

Update: I've finished everything but the MSL magazines.  I'm also vowing to stay more on top of them in the future.  Also tossed 4 sweaters in a new "one item in, one item out" policy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on December 10, 2013, 12:14:03 AM
One bag of clothes and books to the charity shop. 21 items listed for sale on TradeMe. Photos taken of another 20ish books ready to put them up for sale too. Feeling much lighter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bethany J on December 10, 2013, 07:04:44 AM
You might want to check completed listings on eBay before tossing magazines. Just sold 7 issues of Domino magazine my mother-in-law was going to toss for $39.99. Architectural Digest can do well, maybe the Martha Stewart Living also. I look up almost everything on eBay before I get rid of it, I have had many surprises over the years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 10, 2013, 08:10:12 AM
You might want to check completed listings on eBay before tossing magazines. Just sold 7 issues of Domino magazine my mother-in-law was going to toss for $39.99. Architectural Digest can do well, maybe the Martha Stewart Living also. I look up almost everything on eBay before I get rid of it, I have had many surprises over the years.

Never thought of that.  Too bad I already ripped apart a bunch of them.  At least I still have about 20 left...  How do I see the completed listings?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bethany J on December 10, 2013, 08:27:40 AM
Click on advanced search, type in whatever magazine and check completed (to show all) or just sold listings. You can also sort by highest and lowest price in the drop down box (where usually it is ended first or best match). Sorting that way has helped me sort out the best price of an item when buying also. I have been doing eBay for years (too many!!!) if anyone has any questions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CNM on December 12, 2013, 11:15:28 AM
You guys, I feel like my house is getting FULL of CLUTTER.  I'd really like to clean out my kitchen cabinets and pantry. I'll set this as my goal before 2014 arrives.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 12, 2013, 11:43:20 AM
A part progress report - in addition to going through things like papers, clothes and other items, I've been diligently trying to eat down food in my cabinets as well.  I had to throw out a jar of vodka sauce that expired in 2010 (and I'm fearful of what else I'll find), so I'm trying to keep less of a stockpile on hand, not to mention I don't want to move more food items than I need.  So I'm thrilled to say I can see space now, that it's not entirely chock full.  Maybe only 20-25% down, but that's still progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on December 12, 2013, 11:56:59 PM
Well done CommonCents, you've done so much even just based on your contributions on this 5th page of the thread alone!

I successfully sold a dress on eBay the other day, very happy. I'll have to go through more of my wardrobe.

Also trying to eat up stuff, cooked some couscous the other day. Had to throw out a can of coconut cream.

My boyfriend is moving interstate soon (I'll follow several months later) so he's even more dedicated to organizing his stuff at the moment and deciding what to keep and what to throw.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JessieImproved on December 20, 2013, 04:42:13 AM
I did this to my bathroom closet stuff...

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/11462938774_76c642c5be_o.jpg)

This represents about 90% of my lady stuff, and also shoe care, travel stuff, and some kid stuff.  It's hard to tell from the picture, but I estimate I reduced by about 30-40% this time.  This included taking a pile of unused/barely used stuff, putting it in a nice Christmas bag (reused), and putting it under the tree.  When my mom and sister come over for Christmas, I will let them look through it and get what they need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on December 20, 2013, 06:26:25 AM
That's really neat, jpcrowe!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 20, 2013, 06:45:20 AM
That's great! Good for you! The holidays secretly seem to be a great time to do some stuff-clearing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on December 20, 2013, 12:01:00 PM
I made $20 selling some books over the last two weeks. Another couple of auctions are due to close this weekend, and they are up to $15 already. It's not a fortune, but it's stuff that wasn't being used, so has freed up some space and given me a bit of extra cash. It's quite addictive, I think I will list a pile more stuff today. I find pictures of 'minimalist' homes a bit too empty and soulless, but at the moment I am too far the other way, and I have a long way to go until things look relaxing and spacious.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 20, 2013, 12:07:52 PM
Congrats!  And great job on selling things.  I've found part of the battle is figuring out my "geegaws" and trying to limit their incursion into my home.  For example, one was candles.  They smell so nice - but I haven't actually used them all that much so I have a ton just sitting around.  Since I recognized this, I have not bought anymore (except two for my wedding day for the altar).  I tend to let magazines pile up, so I'm trying to get better about reading immediately.

But, we just bought a house, so I think it'll be eye opening when we move and I find yet more stuff I don't really need when I pack up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on December 20, 2013, 12:12:48 PM
But, we just bought a house, so I think it'll be eye opening when we move and I find yet more stuff I don't really need when I pack up.

I tend to find stuff when I pack up (ugh-I don't want to bother moving this) and then again when I unpack at the new place (ugh-why did I bother moving this?)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 20, 2013, 12:25:11 PM
But, we just bought a house, so I think it'll be eye opening when we move and I find yet more stuff I don't really need when I pack up.

I tend to find stuff when I pack up (ugh-I don't want to bother moving this) and then again when I unpack at the new place (ugh-why did I bother moving this?)

That's actually why I've been trying to declutter (I actually started this summer), but it almost seems never ending.  There are definitely closets I haven't even gotten into.  And we have only 931 sq ft apt!  Another problem I have is getting rid of gifts.  My brother and his wife the past few years have given us sports themed gifts at Christmas - potato heads and gnome guys etc.  It's frustrating to unwrap because 1) sports is more my husband than me and 2) I just see it as clutter.  I am hoping this year is different, and next year I'm proposing a present truce.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: stripey on December 20, 2013, 11:56:10 PM
But, we just bought a house, so I think it'll be eye opening when we move and I find yet more stuff I don't really need when I pack up.

I tend to find stuff when I pack up (ugh-I don't want to bother moving this) and then again when I unpack at the new place (ugh-why did I bother moving this?)

I completely identify!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 21, 2013, 10:16:54 PM
Finally went through the other half of my desk, with the "stuff" rather than papers.  Pens to binder clips to old phone boxes and random stuff.  I was not nearly as ruthless as I should have been, but I did get rid of: a bag full of magnets, a bag of binder clips (going to take to the office), a bag of old keys, and random papers.  Found a Panera gift card with $5 still on it from 6 years ago, last used in 2010, and a roll of pennies.  Also wrapped up some brightly multi-colored eraser shapes for my nephew (dog, star, smile, fish) from when I must have been who knows how old to add to his Christmas presents and threw away the dingy ones.  Found a very small present I picked up for a friend about 1-2 years ago and wrapped that up too.  Boxed up everything in a Barnes and Noble box I had around here.

It's amazing how much stuff I've just carried from place to place, like the eraser shapes, without reflecting on it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Empire Business on December 21, 2013, 11:32:24 PM
I am almost finished with my last scan/shred campaign.  The only documents left (of mine, anyway) are stuff like ID.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on December 21, 2013, 11:43:15 PM
I hadn't even thought of listing paperwork. Yesterday, in a fit of boredom at listing more books for sale, I went through some piles of paperwork instead. I managed to clear out a two inch thick pile of random stuff.

I'm now reading my way through the 'Not Buying Anything' blog and getting more inspired to minimize.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on December 22, 2013, 07:54:09 AM
I've been trying to embrace minimalism and did a BIG purge (which is funny because I live in a 750 SQ Ft house with basically 2 closets, so where I'm keeping all this stuff I don't know), and donated like 6 garbage bags to Goodwill. Now I'm using up the Xmas bags I hoard with gift-giving, as well as gifting some of my travel/sample cosmetics (to a friend who I know likes them). Also started on a big paperwork fest. Finally installed the printer/scanner, and scanned years worth of medical claims/statements so I can shred the actual copies. Off to shred now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aj_yooper on December 22, 2013, 08:01:36 AM
I've been trying to embrace minimalism and did a BIG purge (which is funny because I live in a 750 SQ Ft house with basically 2 closets, so where I'm keeping all this stuff I don't know), and donated like 6 garbage bags to Goodwill. Now I'm using up the Xmas bags I hoard with gift-giving, as well as gifting some of my travel/sample cosmetics (to a friend who I know likes them). Also started on a big paperwork fest. Finally installed the printer/scanner, and scanned years worth of medical claims/statements so I can shred the actual copies. Off to shred now!

I can learn from you!  Paper trips us up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Empire Business on December 22, 2013, 09:50:32 AM
I've been trying to embrace minimalism and did a BIG purge (which is funny because I live in a 750 SQ Ft house with basically 2 closets, so where I'm keeping all this stuff I don't know), and donated like 6 garbage bags to Goodwill. Now I'm using up the Xmas bags I hoard with gift-giving, as well as gifting some of my travel/sample cosmetics (to a friend who I know likes them). Also started on a big paperwork fest. Finally installed the printer/scanner, and scanned years worth of medical claims/statements so I can shred the actual copies. Off to shred now!

800 square feet here, two tiny closets.  (Well, and a linen closet, it's just towel shelves.) 

I have no idea how there was ever as much stuff in here as I had.  And however much I seem to get rid of, there is always more.  It seriously is like peeling back an onion.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 22, 2013, 10:11:09 AM
I've been trying to embrace minimalism and did a BIG purge (which is funny because I live in a 750 SQ Ft house with basically 2 closets, so where I'm keeping all this stuff I don't know), and donated like 6 garbage bags to Goodwill. Now I'm using up the Xmas bags I hoard with gift-giving, as well as gifting some of my travel/sample cosmetics (to a friend who I know likes them). Also started on a big paperwork fest. Finally installed the printer/scanner, and scanned years worth of medical claims/statements so I can shred the actual copies. Off to shred now!

800 square feet here, two tiny closets.  (Well, and a linen closet, it's just towel shelves.) 

I have no idea how there was ever as much stuff in here as I had.  And however much I seem to get rid of, there is always more.  It seriously is like peeling back an onion.

So true.
931 sq feet here, but 6 (small) closets.  Linen, coat, mine, husbands, tools, and cleaning/stockpile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on December 23, 2013, 12:10:58 AM
580 sq feet, no closets, but a room that is practically a 'junk' room. Working my way through it gradually.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on December 26, 2013, 10:37:43 PM
I am stunned. Speechless.

My husband came to me today with a pile of things for me to put up for sale. Without me mentioning anything. He is getting rid of stuff. Voluntarily.  :-O

Maybe after all of these years he is finally getting it..... I am very excited, just thinking about thenew, less cluttered living space that may result. :-D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ichangedmyname on January 02, 2014, 11:29:15 AM
I'm here :) *waves*

I am a clutter-er. I would like to slowly release the clutter I have accumulated so eventually we can move to a smaller place, live minimally and not in clutter. I started out a thread and was invited to check out this thread. I think I have ventured in here in the past only to read but didn't have the determination to join. Now I am throwing down the gauntlet!

*off to read from the beginning to catch up*
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 02, 2014, 11:35:17 AM
I'm here :) *waves*

I am a clutter-er. I would like to slowly release the clutter I have accumulated so eventually we can move to a smaller place, live minimally and not in clutter. I started out a thread and was invited to check out this thread. I think I have ventured in here in the past only to read but didn't have the determination to join. Now I am throwing down the gauntlet!

*off to read from the beginning to catch up*

Welcome!  I am very glad you followed up on my suggestion.  You'll find we cheer on small and large accomplishments, and I've gotten some great advice on disposing of items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 02, 2014, 11:44:52 AM
I am going through my massive (several hundred) collection of CDs.  I am preparing to ship them out and get some $$ for them.  I am also storing the ones I really like on my desktop and laptop--hoping I have enough storage space.

I am using Zumu and Abundatrade.  I am finding that Abundatrade usually gives better prices, but not always.  If you know of an even better website for used CDs, please let me know.  Thanks.

Right now, my living room looks quite cluttered, with various stacks of CDs all over, but once this project is complete, the result will feel great.  Plus, I will receive checks in the range of $300 total.  Win!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ichangedmyname on January 02, 2014, 11:48:01 AM
I know we have boxes of movie DVDs somewhere in the basement. where are you sending your CDs and getting money for them? Sounds awesome!

CommonCents, thank you!

I have a lot of cosmetics that I haven't used. Should I just throw them all out? Or donate? I don't know if anyone would really appreciate lotions and body washes, makeup, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 02, 2014, 12:11:00 PM
Right now, I plan on sending some of the CDs to Zumu, and the rest to Abundatrade.  You enter the bar code, and the website tells you what they will pay.  Then you ship the CDs (at no cost to you), and they send you a check!  Both sites also accept DVDs.

I can't believe I bought this many CDs.  I probably have at least 500 of them.  Let's say I paid an average of $12 for each one.  Had I invested that money instead???  Oy.

I think I will end up keeping 20 or 30 of them.  Huge lesson here.

Regarding your question about make up, lotion, etc., is there a women's shelter in your town that could use them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on January 02, 2014, 12:51:41 PM
Hi ichangedmyname, welcome to the decluttering club. :)

Don't worry, most of us here started off with far too much stuff. Soon you will be finding out how addictive it is to have a clear out. Things feel more spacious and light.

I stuck a picture of a beautiful, minimalist (but not empty) house on my pin board. Now, every time I feel myself waivering about throwing out something completely useless, I look at that picture and it inspires me to keep going.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on January 02, 2014, 06:38:59 PM
I'm here :) *waves*

I am a clutter-er. I would like to slowly release the clutter I have accumulated so eventually we can move to a smaller place, live minimally and not in clutter. I started out a thread and was invited to check out this thread. I think I have ventured in here in the past only to read but didn't have the determination to join. Now I am throwing down the gauntlet!

*off to read from the beginning to catch up*

Yay, welcome! Even though I think I have less things than most people, it's amazing how they can accumulate. I've gotten rid of a few bags of things and yet sometimes it still feels like I have just as much stuff. So don't feel discouraged if at first you don't see much difference. Keep on it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kms on January 03, 2014, 06:37:22 AM
I love this thread, I've read all six pages of it and it feels good to see we're not alone.

Between the two of us, my wife has always been the de-cluttery part. I've never been really bad but usually decided to keep stuff around just in case. After all we did have enough space. Recently, however, I've felt more and more overwhelmed by how much stuff we've had around, even though all our friends thought our apartment was basically empty. Truth be told we really didn't have much stuff compared to our friends and family, and what we had was stowed away in closets. My wife's had the idea many years ago that we need to de-clutter once a year, and she picked Jan 1. Apart from the fact that she picked to worst possible day, one that inevitably comes with a massive hangover, I liked the idea. I'm not sure what exactly gave me the final push, it may have been my parents' house - they're not hoarders but really bad when it comes to getting rid of things, and I certainly know where my cluttery side is coming from. They're more collectors than hoarders, keeping random stuff they aren't emotionally attached to gathered at yard sales or random family members' attics, several sets of everything "just in case" (like three complete sets of ironing equipment, three fridges, probably around twelve chairs, etc.) - but it's all usable and good, no trash or broken things, just way too much of everything.

Either way, we've started to de-clutter our apartment step by step, room by room. Over the last six months we got rid of:


The thing is that I have absolutely no idea where we've kept all that stuff - we have a 74qm / 800 square feet inner city apartment, just thinking about it now gives me the jeebies and yet even before we started getting rid of everything our friends considered us to be minimalists living in a basically empty apartment. When we told them we'd started purging our apartment the thing that amazed them most was the fact that we still owned stuff in excess. And still there's always more and I feel like it never stops - "And however much I seem to get rid of, there is always more.  It seriously is like peeling back an onion." - very true. I still have way too many spare parts for my bicycles for example - do I really need four spare saddles? I hardly think so.... Speaking of which, I also have three bikes, two of which I use regularly but the third one I haven't used in years. Maybe I should get rid of that one too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on January 03, 2014, 03:59:14 PM
I need help making a decision about a mobile phone I don't use. Tried it for a while but found I'd rather not have one. Gave it to my son when he lost his, but then he gave it back because he acquired a new one with a more workable keyboard. So it's been sitting uselessly in a drawer. However, I'm reluctant to dump it in a phone recycling bin at a shop, because it has photos of documents from when I was travelling, including 2 passports. And now I've so completely forgotten how to use the thing that I've no idea how to delete all the personal information so that no-one could retrieve it.

And at the back of my mind is that I could use it again just to take photos of things I want to get rid of. Yet, people take stuff I post on Freecycle without photos and I don't really want to become an eBay or Gumtree seller. Takes to much attention to monitor, I think.

Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JessieImproved on January 04, 2014, 07:42:22 AM
I need help making a decision about a mobile phone I don't use. Tried it for a while but found I'd rather not have one. Gave it to my son when he lost his, but then he gave it back because he acquired a new one with a more workable keyboard. So it's been sitting uselessly in a drawer. However, I'm reluctant to dump it in a phone recycling bin at a shop, because it has photos of documents from when I was travelling, including 2 passports. And now I've so completely forgotten how to use the thing that I've no idea how to delete all the personal information so that no-one could retrieve it.

And at the back of my mind is that I could use it again just to take photos of things I want to get rid of. Yet, people take stuff I post on Freecycle without photos and I don't really want to become an eBay or Gumtree seller. Takes to much attention to monitor, I think.

Any suggestions?

The photos may be on an SD card inside the phone, that you can take out.  What kind of phone is it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JessieImproved on January 04, 2014, 06:12:04 PM
Here's today's dose of decluttering inspiration: I just spent most of the day going through a room I use for storage.  It went from "can't walk through it" to the floor being clear enough to run a vacuum.  I took a large load to Goodwill and have another load of books to drop in the BetterWorldBooks drop off in the morning.  I use the storage room to mentally separate myself from things before I get rid of them, so it's an integral part of my decluttering effort.  Now it's empty enough to actually use!

So who's gotten rid of some stuff lately?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 04, 2014, 06:53:22 PM
Well, it's still an ongoing project, but I am close to the end.

I have 65 CDs packed up to go to Zumu for a whopping $18.  And I have 230 CDs set aside to be sent to Abundatrade--they will fetch around $300.  Postage to both places is free--all I have to do is get boxes and pack them up.  I guess, to make it even easier on me, I can schedule a USPS pick up at my house--I've never done that before, but it would save me from having to haul the boxes to the PO on my bike trailer.

I also have 3 textbooks ready to be sent to 2 different places for around $200.

Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on January 04, 2014, 10:22:54 PM
The photos may be on an SD card inside the phone, that you can take out.  What kind of phone is it?

LG HTC something or other (510, is what I vaguely remember) - quite an old model, bought as a reconditioned item on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mm1970 on January 05, 2014, 12:10:46 PM
Someone on this site - don't know who, don't know where, recommended Home Storage Solutions printable calendar for "Declutter your home in 15 minutes a day".

http://www.home-storage-solutions-101.com/support-files/2014-printable-declutter-calendar-final.pdf

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.

Over the holidays I worked on just decluttering bits and pieces as I had time. I was home with the boys, so I didn't really have that much time.  But I printed January and February and got to work.  January is "the kitchen".

Well, this morning my husband helped pick out a few books to donate.  Then we tackled two kitchen drawers.  Amazing!  We still have 9 more drawers to go, but we do have all of January.  I got rid of half the stuff in that top drawer.  Even if we only do 1/3 of the days in this calendar, we will be SOOO much better off at the end of the year!  I really like the small, focused jobs.  And doing it TOGETHER is better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: yogagirl95 on January 05, 2014, 12:57:41 PM
Went thru my girls clothes, which is a big job.

My oldest has too many, mostly been gifts. I donated 2 big bags yesterday, have 2 tubs saved to go to consignment store ( I have had the apt for 4 months, that big of a wait), and one tub saved for my younger daughter.

Went thru my clothes, found about 10 items to donate. I don't have much clothes anyway, but sent in a bag to thread up last month.

Sold my ipod for $160 on craigsist.
Sold my kindle fire tablet, 2 years old for $75 on ebay, probably $60 after fees.
Traded daughters camera for $43 into amazon, will get a credit for it. ( she got a new camera for xmas)
When I sent in the camera to amazon, traded in 5 dvds for a grand total of $1. lol
Sold two books I bought at goodwill, will net about $7 after fees and what I paid
Sold 4 textbooks, one instructor edition. For $10, 35,75, 40. Not sure fees but maybe $20 at most
sold daughters headphones for $60 net on amazon.

Ive also sold some nailpolish on ebay. sounds funny right? But I used to collect them and some of the colors are discontinued. Ive made about $50 back.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: needmyfi on January 05, 2014, 01:42:10 PM
I need help making a decision about a mobile phone I don't use. Tried it for a while but found I'd rather not have one. Gave it to my son when he lost his, but then he gave it back because he acquired a new one with a more workable keyboard. So it's been sitting uselessly in a drawer. However, I'm reluctant to dump it in a phone recycling bin at a shop, because it has photos of documents from when I was travelling, including 2 passports. And now I've so completely forgotten how to use the thing that I've no idea how to delete all the personal information so that no-one could retrieve it.

And at the back of my mind is that I could use it again just to take photos of things I want to get rid of. Yet, people take stuff I post on Freecycle without photos and I don't really want to become an eBay or Gumtree seller. Takes to much attention to monitor, I think.

Any suggestions?
   

We donated ours to the local YMCA cell phone drive-they ship to overseas military and provide them with free time as well. Didn't need ours anymore when we switched to a $7 a month burner.  Seemed like a good cause and unlikely to end up in nefarious hands.  Check online for a charity that specializes in this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ScienceSexSavings on January 05, 2014, 02:29:58 PM
I need to get on this, too! My situation isn't too bad, more annoying than anything else. If anyone has recommendations for places other than Amazon and Ebay to sell things in Canada, I would love to here them! Mostly books, CDs and DVDs, I got rid of electronics, etc. before moving.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ugh on January 05, 2014, 03:23:18 PM
I have been putting off a major basement clearing and got the inspiration at 4 am today when a pipe froze and split, sending a cascade of water over all the stuff in the crawl space.  What fun.
It has been educational, though.
I have discovered that most things which were put in the crawl space can be let go of without much pain, especially when they are soaked.
Anything you really want to keep needs to be packed and sealed with great care to prepare for possible water damage from below, on the sides AND above. 
Looking at what my children have left in storage, there is a direct correspondence between the amount of crap they accumulate and their financial picture.
The kid with the least baggage has the most cash.  The kid with the most accumulated junk that "might be worth something" someday has the least cash.
I think there might be some connection there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 05, 2014, 04:19:41 PM
Between last week cleaning out the garage and getting rid of several bags of trash and today rounding up all the excess boxes in the house (how the hell did we get so many anyways?!) our basement is looking much better.  It's still half deconstructed, but there are a few places where we can see the floor and counters.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 05, 2014, 04:30:10 PM
Hey Zaga--I need some of your boxes to pack up my CDs!!  I'm only across I 70 from you.  About 1600 miles.  :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 05, 2014, 05:06:31 PM
Hey Zaga--I need some of your boxes to pack up my CDs!!  I'm only across I 70 from you.  About 1600 miles.  :(
Lol, that is a bit far!  If you lived closer I'd save them for sure!  Only half of them fit in the recycle bin this time, and it's 2 weeks until the next pickup.  Our bin is one of those giant ones on wheels too, it's completely full with more waiting, we threw out a ton!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 05, 2014, 06:15:58 PM
We took photos of some sentimental clothes (highschool jumpers etc), made sure the photos were clear, then chucked them in the bin! Also went through a stack of magazines and will now pass them on to a friend or doctor's waiting room
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on January 05, 2014, 08:52:18 PM
I have been putting off a major basement clearing and got the inspiration at 4 am today when a pipe froze and split, sending a cascade of water over all the stuff in the crawl space.  What fun.
It has been educational, though.
I have discovered that most things which were put in the crawl space can be let go of without much pain, especially when they are soaked.
I had to smile at this. This happened to me in the house I rented out in the UK when I first came to Australia. My tenant didn't like to chuck anything out without consulting me, and I found it hard to remember what I had stored there. It was easy to say 'chuck' to the university essays I had hung onto, but harder to let go of the stash of old love letters. Having assured me they were mere black mush and illegible, she dug them in as mulch around the garden roses - which apparently then bloomed very well that year!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on January 06, 2014, 07:11:49 AM
The thing is that I have absolutely no idea where we've kept all that stuff - we have a 74qm / 800 square feet inner city apartment, just thinking about it now gives me the jeebies and yet even before we started getting rid of everything our friends considered us to be minimalists living in a basically empty apartment. When we told them we'd started purging our apartment the thing that amazed them most was the fact that we still owned stuff in excess. And still there's always more and I feel like it never stops - "And however much I seem to get rid of, there is always more.  It seriously is like peeling back an onion." - very true. I still have way too many spare parts for my bicycles for example - do I really need four spare saddles? I hardly think so.... Speaking of which, I also have three bikes, two of which I use regularly but the third one I haven't used in years. Maybe I should get rid of that one too.

I can so relate to this. Most of my belongings are concentrated in my bedroom or kitchen, and it feels like there are endless things to sort through.

To make things worse, I have stuff at my boyfriend's place too, so even when I think I'm making progress here it's still just half the battle!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ichangedmyname on January 06, 2014, 10:25:55 AM
Gonna do the kitchen counters today.

I wanna get rid of the plastic containers. We have a ton of plastic "Tupperwares"that are either missing a lid, have burnt bottoms, 'disfigured' from putting in the dishwasher, etc. Also I want to throw out some plastic ladles and wooden spoons. Maybe keep 3 of one thing? I promise to take pictures so I can at least pat myself on the back for ANY progress.

ETA:
Just waiting for my mother-in-law to go to work. I hate working when someone else is in the house. My husband is asleep so he is not conscious and doesn't count.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kms on January 06, 2014, 10:38:15 AM
Had a good weekend and found plenty of stuff to get rid of:

* Old (aka 1978, oldtimer by now) bike I no longer use -> for sale
* The sad sad remainder of our music CDs (the ones I thought I was still emotionally attached to but never listened to ever again) -> trash
* More of my wife's deco stuff -> partly donated, partly for sale
* A cheese cutter we got as a gift from a French friend but never used -> donated
* My old coin collection - what the hell was I thinking? Coins, the stamp's cooler brothers... -> for sale
* A steam cooker we have no idea how and where we got from and have never used -> donated

Once again I have no idea where that stuff was hiding and how it managed to escape and survive our last purges.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Wolf_Stache on January 06, 2014, 11:02:52 AM
I have a similar issue on the clothes front. I have a fair few t-shirts that are very worn, what tends to happen with these t-shirts is they slowly get demoted from, "I'll wear it out and about" -> "i'll wear it to do dirty jobs in" -> "i'll wear it for bed". Some t-shirts i've got i've had for the past 10 years or so and even though they have some small holes in they are good for slouching about it. :)

Other items of clothing I donate to charity and anything else is either donated/recycled or straight up binned.

I had an old T-shirt that had sentimental value to me, so I kept it way past its expiration date. I recently turned it into a laptop sleeve, using fabric from Joann's remnant bin as the inside and the T-shirt graphic as the outside pocket. It turned out really nice and I get to still enjoy that old t-shirt!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 06, 2014, 11:13:18 AM
I have a similar issue on the clothes front. I have a fair few t-shirts that are very worn, what tends to happen with these t-shirts is they slowly get demoted from, "I'll wear it out and about" -> "i'll wear it to do dirty jobs in" -> "i'll wear it for bed". Some t-shirts i've got i've had for the past 10 years or so and even though they have some small holes in they are good for slouching about it. :)

Other items of clothing I donate to charity and anything else is either donated/recycled or straight up binned.

I had an old T-shirt that had sentimental value to me, so I kept it way past its expiration date. I recently turned it into a laptop sleeve, using fabric from Joann's remnant bin as the inside and the T-shirt graphic as the outside pocket. It turned out really nice and I get to still enjoy that old t-shirt!

When I was a kid, my mom made my favorite t-shirts into a bean bag.  You could also make a quilt with them.  It was a great way to get me to relinquish them and still remember things like my participation in the Alaskan State Championships for skiing, or Odyssy of the Mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on January 07, 2014, 08:50:07 AM
I'm getting ready to move to a smaller house and the additional motivation of if-I-get-rid-of-this-I-don't-have-to-pack-it-and-transport-it had been fantastic!!!  I found so much to get rid of and some great stuff to sell!  Feels so good to get this clutter out of my life and be able to enter the new space without worrying about how I'm going to store all this junk I never use and don't want.

The mountain of items we've stacked up in the spare bedroom to donate is just crazy!!  I wish I had taken a picture but I think my husband will have taken it over to goodwill before I get a chance to snap a pic.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 07, 2014, 09:00:13 AM
Ask him to take the picture.  I've been donating a lot, and I think the pictures will be helpful in case I ever get a knock on the door from the IRS, to prove my donations, in addition to my list of items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: somepissedoffman on January 07, 2014, 01:36:02 PM
The girlfriend and I cleaned out the garage and the house this weekend, including the mounds of junk that the previous owner left (messy short sale), and put it all out with a free sign and accompanying craigslist ad.  We were worried most of it wouldn't move and we'd have to get creative with disposing of it, but it turns out our neighbors are hoarders and almost all of it was gone within an hour.  Whoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kms on January 07, 2014, 03:03:44 PM
I wish I had your neighbors, we're having serious trouble getting rid of our stuff.

Had luck with the bike though, put up the ad yesterday and it sold today, buyer will pick it up on friday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on January 07, 2014, 07:36:36 PM
SWMBO and I have been doing a good deal of decluttering lately. Our goal is to fit a recliner into our tiny-ass bedroom. We've shrunk down the clothes and random bedroom stuff from two dressers, a closet, and a bookshelf to a dresser and a closet, though the closet and remaining dresser are very full. We're using it as practice for a life of moving to lots of interesting places and not being owned by lots of hard-to-move stuff (though the decluttering hasn't quite spread to the dearly beloved kitchen implements yet).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JessieImproved on January 08, 2014, 12:11:17 PM
(though the decluttering hasn't quite spread to the dearly beloved kitchen implements yet).

The kitchen is going to be the most daunting task of all I think, especially since DH and I have to do it together.  Every other part of the house can be tackled by one person at a time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on January 08, 2014, 05:15:46 PM
We're using it as practice for a life of moving to lots of interesting places and not being owned by lots of hard-to-move stuff

This is what motivates me to get rid of my stuff, too.

(though the decluttering hasn't quite spread to the dearly beloved kitchen implements yet).

And this is probably my more difficult task, too. :(  But I will have to do it sooner rather than later, because there is definitely a move later in the year. I guess I'll have to sell, donate or throw quite a few items away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on January 08, 2014, 05:36:24 PM
I know I need too. But I love my pans and my knife and my dishes and I really like (but never use) my Kitchen-aid and my food processor. I don't wanna!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: impaire on January 09, 2014, 01:44:59 PM
Hey guys--I'm doing the Apartment Therapy Cure this January (with modifications, since they recommend things like buying flowers every week... in January... No way!), and they have a suggestion to put the items you're having trouble parting with in an "outbox" (http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/a-simple-step-to-success-set-up-an-outbox-january-cure-assignment-4-198802). Perhaps that would work for getting rid of these stubborn egg slicers and Kitchenaids? (I tried with belly fat, it was a fail).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 09, 2014, 03:36:00 PM
Just finished up boxing up over 200 CDs and 3 textbooks.  Two boxes are ready to go to the post office.  I have to wait for shipping labels for 4 other boxes.  But all the boxes are taped up and are OUT OF MY HOUSE!!  That was a big, long project, and I am glad it is done!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on January 09, 2014, 08:02:53 PM
Hello! I've been doing this here and there. I've got several bags to donate in the trunk of my car with an assortment of drinking glasses, books, and clothes.

1. I went through ALL of the clothing boxes (we pack away summer during winter, etc, due to small closets) and found items to give away. Yay!
2. While I had time off of work, I attacked one drawer at a time and got this horribly almost-can't-open it drawer completely cleaned up and organized.
3. We keep postage stamps in one of the formerly messy drawers, and some are ooooold. So, spouse and I--every time we have to mail something--use up as much of the old postage as we can. Then, we take it to the PO and have them check it, and pay them remaining few cents to mail the item.
4. Spouse cleaned the spice shelves and alphabetized them!
5. I cleaned out the pantry cabinet. Cleaned the shelves and re-organized the food by type. Thankfully, only one food item was so old it needed to be thrown away...but I did find three jars of tahini!

Tomorrow's dinner will be created around what we have and what I want to use up!

Feeling good!

 



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kms on January 12, 2014, 12:12:28 PM
Paperwork. It's amazing how much of that stuff accumulates over the years. Contracts, statements, copies of this and that, you name it. We went through every single piece of paper this weekend, they were taking up eleven folders, and managed to scale down to two by scanning hundreds of pages (old bank statements, tax documents, etc.), then throw them out with the rest of the stuff that didn't get scanned.

Two folders are left now, instead of taking up an entire shelf they now sit there on the right side, sad and lonely ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 12, 2014, 03:11:03 PM
I'm up and running again with clutter clearing. Seems to be a New Year with me. I also signed up for the get rid of 1 item a day thread.  So far we've donated two large garbage bags of clothes and a bag of old shoes.  Collecting up other items as I go along. Also going through the pantry and using up items close to expiry ( so far: coconut pie, flourless chocolate mud cake, chocolate brownie mix, gluten free raisin bread, home made baked beans, homous....mmm this ones a fun one).

Well done killermichschnitte. So far my study with piles and piles of paper work remains untamed. :(. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shamelessHedon on January 12, 2014, 08:52:58 PM
Cleaned out the bathroom cabinets. 2 trash bags of old crap. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pachnik on January 12, 2014, 09:03:56 PM
In preparation for moving in about 6 weeks, I went through some things and pulled out 6 boxes of stuff.  I am loading up the trunk tomorrow and taking it over to the thrift store.   I should probably take our old Ikea Poang chair too since the new apartment will be a bit smaller. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: N on January 14, 2014, 01:01:23 AM
There is a "community free table" at one of my weekly meetups. Every week I take a pile of stuff there. Im really trying to purge purge purge. We are moving in a couple of months and I just have to pare down.

Its astonishing how much Ive already gotten rid of in the last two years. And how much is still left. But Im working on it.

Last week, I donated outgrown snowpants, some toys, vases, curling irons.
A friend is taking one of my broken tivos off my hands.

It pains me to weed out books, but I will make yet another pass through them and let go of some more. I will try to find at least 25 to donate or maybe sell.

I also cleaned out a cabinet in my kitchen. two actually. I tossed a broken mandolin and some other old grimy stuff from the cabinet over the stove that no one ever uses. then I weeded out most of our glasses and cups. My daughter and I splurged on a cute set at costco for 20$, and we are getting rid of all of our mismatched, ratty plastic cups. Im thinking we will let go of our wineglasses, too. we never use them and they just take up space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ichangedmyname on January 14, 2014, 12:22:32 PM
I'm going to sort all my magazines and sell them on eBay. I checked and outdoor actually pay for back issues.
Also gonna consolidate all my samples perfumes makeup and sell the unopened ones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on January 15, 2014, 12:10:42 PM
So far, we made a huge donation to the Salvation Army before our move.  Now, we've listed 25 items for sale on eBay (sold 7).  I also listed a few textbooks on Amazon.  Only one has sold.  All together we've made about $260.  We also will have a nice tax break from our donation last year...and we're filling boxes for our next donation. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: N on January 15, 2014, 10:14:41 PM
Organized book shelves and game shelves.  Filled three paper grocery bags with books and games to donate/sell.

Listed 6 books on half.com and sold one today!

Made a pile of stuff for a friend to look over when she comes on Friday. whatever she doesnt take will donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Moomingirl on January 16, 2014, 02:50:06 PM
I've made more than $100 selling stuff on TradeMe in the last few weeks. It constantly amazes me what people will buy, until I remember that I bought the same stuff myself. :D

Dropping two bags off at the charity shop today, and then I will start another sweep of stuff to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 16, 2014, 03:07:24 PM
I just listed some television series I STILL haven't watched (and therefore are still in their wrapper) and I keep on top of my book pricing for text books.  Hopefully with new semesters starting all over the US, someone wants a good deal from me.  I also stripped half a dozen shirts from my closet and put them in my Donation bag.  Will probably do more of that tonight as I clean my office and shuffle things!  I'd like to get my movie collection to just one shelf (from 3), nuke about half my closet, and sell or donate about half the books I have now - some are getting sold and some are listed on Paperbackswap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 17, 2014, 10:31:55 AM
Listed 16 books today on Amazon.  Some of them are too cheap to make selling worthwhile so they'll likely end up going to Half-price, but now I have them on a dedicated shelf.

Edit - ended up listing 24 items; mailed a book for PaperbackSwap, too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 17, 2014, 02:50:52 PM
I've been on this mission since before Christmas, and I think it's partly why I stumbled upon MMM, got hooked and have been reading avidly for the last few weeks.

So in the last month I have:

Convinced my husband to donate his non-running motorcycle, and followed through on that.
Sold several larger items on Craigslist
Sold lots of books, shoes and other items on Ebay and Amazon (got $55 for an old text book just today!)
Donated a Subaru Outback load of stuff to the thrift store including too-large clothes (I've lost 50# over the last few years), cookbooks, dishes, kitchen equipment, a printer, glasses and who knows what else.
Taken nicer clothes to the consignment store
Gone through files and burned old, unneeded documents
Thrown out or recycled bunches of stuff that no longer had value
Organized my iTunes library (another form of clutter!)
Reorganized the shop and removed any trash - still a work in progress, but much better!

Doing all of this forced me to handle lots of belongings I'd forgotten about, found ways to repurpose existing items, edit my wardrobe and really be happy with what I have, instead of thinking about what I don't have.  The reduction in clutter is already making my life easier and more streamlined (and it wasn't bad before, compared to lots of Americans), and I'm already happier with less.  I realized it was madness when I was thinking about spending money to buy more storage items for crap I wasn't using.  Now I have more than enough storage and can find just about anything easily.

Still left to do:

Finish organizing and sorting the shop tools & materials
Organize filing cabinet & label files
Reduce unused foodstuffs in the kitchen & freezer, probably by slowly and systematically feeding stuff we won't eat to the chickens so they can turn them into delicious eggs
Sell a few extra pieces of horse equipment
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 19, 2014, 07:43:04 PM
I've sold 2 books, sent 1 CD off on SwapaCd, sent 2 books off on PaperbackSwap.  My inventory on Amazon is up to 43 (from 11 a week ago); I have 3 shelves dedicated to stuff leaving one way or another, and I organized my office and recycled a big back of magazines and other paperwork.  I think 2 shirts / 1 sweater made it into the Thrift bag, too.

horsepoor, great job on the iTunes / music declutter.  I go on binges of deleting every once in a while but have many hours left.

Let's keep it up, Mustachians!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 19, 2014, 09:54:07 PM
Sold a $45 book on Amazon today, and then sold a bike rack on Craigslist tonight.  Nice to see the wad of cash in my change jar growing as the clutter shrinks.  Eyeballing the big fancy coffee table that's relegated to the basement and wondering how much someone might pay for it...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 22, 2014, 07:59:36 AM
My wife had a mini-meltdown last night. She's an OCD introverted neat freak, and me and my 4 kids are all ADHD extroverted creative types. Needless to say, she feels overwhelmed most days, and we had a long discussion about the unsustainable amount of clutter our kids have strewn everywhere. Our youngest kid is borderline Aspberger's, and oftentimes she brings the entire household to a screeching halt over the stupidest things. She's very possessive over things like empty plastic toy packaging... like, seriously.

We've been talking about it for a while, and have taken steps to minimize already... but it's never enough. We're coming out of the Christmas season with piles of just useless stuff everywhere, and it's just too much. Getting rid of a few bags of clothes isn't going to even make a dent in our mess (because we have done so, several times, in the last few weeks). I even threw away two recliner chairs and removed our kitchen island, because we just didn't have room to store everything. I just unbolted that sucker form the floor, moved the AC outlet to the floor, and put it to the curb.

So basically, I'm going to have to do more than give minimizing some lip service. It's crunch time, and I'm gonna have to step up my game.

As a side note, do you collective "peoplez of teh interwebz" think minimizing kids' stuff is best done with, or without their knowledge? If they haven't touched something in 6 months, do you make it disappear? With #4 (our problem child) she generally takes change very badly... with her, it's better to put it away, and hope she doesn't notice it's gone. So far, that's worked pretty well. if I tell her "We're going to throw away this empty package" she freaks out, but if it just vanishes, she's like "Where's the package? It's gone? But I wanted to keep it!" and we just say "Sorry, it's gone." She just moves on, living in the moment like she always does.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 22, 2014, 08:34:17 AM
Continuing the decluttering post move, particularly as we sort where things will go.  Unpacking the kitchen, we found (so far): 4 holiday christmas mugs and 6 different mugs.  A small start.  After much kicking and screaming, I've also agreed to go through the box of wires and stop holding onto wires "just in case" they go to something important.

(Didn't Mark Twain say, "if I had more time, I would have written a shorter novel"?  If we had more time when packing, we would have moved less stuff, particularly boxes with stuff from my old workplace.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aglassman on January 22, 2014, 08:50:58 AM
I came up with a great system for cord management.  I put similar cords in freezer bags, and labeld them with a Sharpie.  So, USB gets one bag.  All those random sets of ear buds get put in a sandwich bag, then into a freezer bag.  All power cords go into a bag.  All RCA cords go into a bag.  All audio adapters go into a bag.... ect...

Then, I put all those bags into one large shoe box.  Now I don't feel bad about the box since I know I'll be able to find a cord if I ever need one. If I find a straggler, it just goes in the appropriate bag! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on January 22, 2014, 09:04:08 AM
I just finished moving into our new house (a house half the size of the one we moved out of) and did some very successful decluttering along the way!! I was able to pass some good items onto the friends & family who showed up to help with the move, and I was able to donate tons more stuff to goodwill.  I don't even know where it all came from.

One big thing that helped remove temptation to keep junk was this rule: if a box was still packed from when we moved before, I didn't even open it.  It just went straight in the donation pile.

Because we were able to get rid of so much junk, I've now got space for all the art and craft supplies I thought I was going to have to get rid of because I thought there would be no room!  To have created space to do what I love just by giving away junk we don't need feels amazing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ace1224 on January 23, 2014, 06:54:57 AM
 i re-did all the closets in the house and i took 3 bags of clothes and shoes to the domestic violence shelter.  i now only have the clothes i wear hanging in the closet and finally got rid of all my college t shirts.  i took a bunch of my son's stuff as well
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 23, 2014, 08:45:02 AM
Moving is shaming I think.

I moved in with my (now) husband at the end of 2010.  A bunch of my work materials got packed up and put in storage (I was temporarily unemployed).  Apparently, along with them were also some books I boxed up when I moved in and got put in the basement unwittingly with the work materials.  Discovered this unpacking (we moved to a house) last night.  On the positive side, I'm thrilled I found some items (music, cross-stitch books/patterns) I'd looked for unsucessfully a few times.  On the negative side, motivation to really keep decluttering - I never even noticed the other (academic) books were gone.  Clearly, I don't need them.  My husband and I also argued over two books that we both swear aren't ours, so they are going out the door too.  (But I'm really right.  At least he's *taken* an engineering class at some point in his life.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 26, 2014, 01:57:12 PM
I organized and decluttered my craft/sewing cabinet today.  It's been a total wreck really ever since I built the cabinet and threw everything in it.  The mess was causing me to never do any projects, because I knew it would take an hour just to sort through and find what I needed.  Now I have the upper drawer all divided with drawer organizers, and labeled the Altoids tins that I keep miscellaneous crap in, so I know what is in each one.  Art supplies in one place, fabric all in one place and so on, and I put just my current projects in the most accessible spots, so I can easily grab one and work on it for a few minutes at a time without a big production.  This will help me avoid buying new supplies as well, since I can go in and see exactly what I have and try to figure out a way to use it.  I've actually impressed myself with how tidy it all is now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on January 26, 2014, 08:03:01 PM
So I was downstairs with our kids, when my wife comes running down -- mind you this is right before dinner and after dinner we were going over to a friend's house whose father-in-law just passed away..  She comes down saying: "We have another major problem"…  She shows me a pair of pants and says: these have a wet stain (took every ounce of energy not to be sarcastic). She proceeds to tell me all of the clothes she had sitting in plastic bags in the corner of our bedroom (by two outside walls with little to no insulation) are wet and some have a strong mildew odor.  These are clothes she has had for at least two years sitting there (she has another pile out of a bag on the other side of her dresser and more clothes under our bed).  She proceeds to tell me the carpet is wet.

I go up, and I do the test on the drywall -- no water at all (solid -- so either the water has frozen the drywall or the drywall is still stable -- I'm not about to put a hole in it to find out :) ).  Feel the cable wires that are in the corner.. Still dry.  Rug..  Dry. 

Only explanation I can come up with is that the plastic bags had moisture in them from the recent changes in temperature or something with the humidity in the house.  And they held it.   But, she has gone through the bags and is washing a few pairs that now fit and getting rid of the rest.  This is why I tell her holding on to things is a waste.  We wind up having to shift things and buy storage bins for everything which costs just as much as replacing the clothes *if* you have to.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on January 27, 2014, 06:45:10 AM
We're rearranging a lot of things in the house at the moment, and the Mr. has finally given up the majority of his old rec league trophies, more clothing, some kitchen extras, the guest bed and has agreed to pare down the books again.  It's been a major accomplishment, because he hates to let go of anything.  He realizes though, that once stuff is gone he doesn't miss it, which has led to his instructions that If I decide to get rid of something 'just don't tell me about it.' (Not that I would get rid of his things without asking, but he can be rather attached to some of my things too :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Michread on January 27, 2014, 07:15:50 AM
My dh pays the bills.  I wanted to track our yearly expenses and WOW was I shocked to find 20 yrs of credit card statements, home owners statements and other such nonsense paperwork stuffed in the basement filing cabinet!  My dh insisted that he was NOT going to deal with it,  Well I pulled it all out and we did deal with it.  We found his birth certificate & our marriage license too (good thing we didn't just toss the whole thing)!

He did the same thing to me last year when I asked him to clean his side of the garage - I'm not going to deal with it.  I pulled it all outside and told him he WILL help me or I will toss whatever I think needs to go.  Yup, he did it with me.

I consider myself a well organized person too. Yikes, look what happens when you're not looking (20 yrs in the same home)!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 27, 2014, 10:11:32 AM
My dh pays the bills.  I wanted to track our yearly expenses and WOW was I shocked to find 20 yrs of credit card statements, home owners statements and other such nonsense paperwork stuffed in the basement filing cabinet!  My dh insisted that he was NOT going to deal with it,  Well I pulled it all out and we did deal with it.  We found his birth certificate & our marriage license too (good thing we didn't just toss the whole thing)!

He did the same thing to me last year when I asked him to clean his side of the garage - I'm not going to deal with it.  I pulled it all outside and told him he WILL help me or I will toss whatever I think needs to go.  Yup, he did it with me.

I consider myself a well organized person too. Yikes, look what happens when you're not looking (20 yrs in the same home)!

Errhhm.  We just moved and I packed up pretty much everything in the house, 90% of things.  I asked DH to take care of his clothes, the tool closet and his papers.  Saturday, a week after the move, we had to go back to the apartment for 5 hours to pack up everything he hadn't touched, which included a pile of papers 10 years old from when he first moved in.  When I moved in with him 3 years prior I asked him to go through them, and finally just left it on his side of the room, where they sat for years.  At least he finally was motivated to sort through it and trashed/shredded several bags of papers, but I don't know how to stop him from packrating this way in the new house.  He also has an old file cabinet stuffed with very old papers that he won't go through, so it's useless to store papers we actively need filed/managed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 27, 2014, 02:29:46 PM
Well I 've started decluttering again. It must be a New Year thing. Bags of clothes, a few boxes of miscellaneous household items...and finally have started on my study:  oh dear....paper nightmare. But now I'm started its gonna get better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FI@2022Jem on January 28, 2014, 01:30:58 PM
Hi!
I'm hoping to join this thread for on-going inspiration and accountability.  We am in the process of a major organizing/consolidating/clearing of clutter as I am pregnant with our first child.  The catch all room for closet, office, guest room, junk room will now become mostly nursery (and part guest room/office).  So far we have:
-donated a love seat and chair
-consolidated half the closet with my husband's closet and left half for baby
-Donated about 3 bags of clothing and brought a bag for consignment
-reduced my hoarded college and grad school textbooks by about 80% through amazon, donation and recycling
-brought a busted air mattress ('guest bed') for return (under warranty!) and replaced it with a slightly smaller and easier to store model (I am most proud of this because old me would have just tossed it out and had to shell out another $70 for a new one!)

We still need to work on paperwork, actual nursery storage and set-up, clearing out at least half the dresser for baby, etc.  Plus the whole rest of the house continues to need some improvement.  Thanks for letting me join!  My baby-imposed deadline is early April!  Continued good luck to everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on January 29, 2014, 07:38:45 PM
My boyfriend is moving, and unsurprisingly, over the years I've accumulated quite a few things at his place, which are now coming back home to my apartment. So just when I think I've done alright getting rid of a few bags of stuff, I have to work hard again just to get back to where I was! Today I donated another bag of clothes, so that's something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 30, 2014, 10:39:43 AM
Went through a box that had been stored in the basement.  Had old college notebooks.  A very sad sign that I wanted to just toss without going through everything!  But I perserved and found a few papers I want to keep, but mostly it's getting recycled.  The sad part is that I've been carrying that box around for 13 years now.  At least it is one more down...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on January 30, 2014, 04:06:30 PM
Funkystickman, I used to declutter my kids room when they were at school. They never even really noticed.  I had 3 kids and the stuff gets overwhelming if you do not cull it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on January 30, 2014, 04:18:17 PM
As a side note, do you collective "peoplez of teh interwebz" think minimizing kids' stuff is best done with, or without their knowledge? If they haven't touched something in 6 months, do you make it disappear? With #4 (our problem child) she generally takes change very badly... with her, it's better to put it away, and hope she doesn't notice it's gone. So far, that's worked pretty well. if I tell her "We're going to throw away this empty package" she freaks out, but if it just vanishes, she's like "Where's the package? It's gone? But I wanted to keep it!" and we just say "Sorry, it's gone." She just moves on, living in the moment like she always does.
I have read several minimalist/organizing/decluttering blogs, and it seems people are pretty evenly split on the best course of action.  So, I'm led to believe that it probably depends on the individual family/children involved.  Seems like if asking causes trauma and grief for your daughter, while doing does not, then you should do what's working best for you.  The Mr. is this way about things.  If I get rid of an item from the house, he rarely notices/cares.  If I ask him about getting rid of an item from the house, he worries we might use it again and suddenly is very sentimentally attached to it.  So he prefers I just not tell him, and it works out pretty well. 

*Disclaimer* I do not currently have any children in my house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 30, 2014, 06:37:23 PM
We've held off a bit on the severe minimizing, but we did put about 3 trash bags worth of stuff to go to Salvation Army. My wife loves to rearrange furniture, and we usually clean out the dressers "to make them easier to move..." and end up putting a lot less back in them. :)

Still, things are happening slowly. My wife, just today, asked me about doubling up house payments, because our house is depreciating... I've been telling her this for 6 months, but I waited until she was ready to think about it.

But yeah, the kids' stuff, that's going to get cleaned out in a big way, and soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on February 02, 2014, 08:00:50 PM
oh dear....paper nightmare

So much of my paper nightmare (mostly stored under my bed) is financial stuff: bank statements and share transaction records etc. too old to need to be kept any longer for tax purposes, but as I still use the same bank account and broker, I feel I should shred this stuff rather than just chuck it in the recycling bin.

I noticed a "hand shredder" (1 page at a time, that would be very tedious, I think) for $99 and an "up to 50 sheets" at a time one for $159 at OfficeWorks this morning when I went in to do photocopying. It was the size as much as the cost that put me off: wherever would I store that monster? It wouldn't fit under the bed and would certainly take up more space than even a very large stack of papers.

Do other people here bother to shred such stuff?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aj_yooper on February 02, 2014, 08:06:35 PM
oh dear....paper nightmare

So much of my paper nightmare (mostly stored under my bed) is financial stuff: bank statements and share transaction records etc. too old to need to be kept any longer for tax purposes, but as I still use the same bank account and broker, I feel I should shred this stuff rather than just chuck it in the recycling bin.

I noticed a "hand shredder" (1 page at a time, that would be very tedious, I think) for $99 and an "up to 50 sheets" at a time one for $159 at OfficeWorks this morning when I went in to do photocopying. It was the size as much as the cost that put me off: wherever would I store that monster? It wouldn't fit under the bed and would certainly take up more space than even a very large stack of papers.

Do other people here bother to shred such stuff?

Look for a paper shredding event by a bank or village.  They bring in industrial size shredders.  We had two boxes done last year.  Felt great!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 02, 2014, 08:30:03 PM
I have a small shredder, Embassy brand, that's probably 5 years old, and the only problem I've had is the tab broke off that lets it turn on (because if the tab is triggered it must be sitting in the basket).  So I've put cardboard and duct tape on it and it works great for papers and plastic cards.

Amazon has similar ones for 50$ or less.  I keep mine under my desk in my home office; when I'm feeling lazy, I put Netflix on for a few hours and sit on the floor and grab the fattest files and just shred paper.  It only eats 3-5 pages at a time and I need to let it cool every 20 minutes or so - so I make a day of it.  Taking out the vast majority of my bank statements, especially banks I no longer used, reduced many pounds and inches from my filing systems.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on February 02, 2014, 09:10:17 PM
Shredding is a VERY important detail if there is any potential that accounts or PII data remains on the documents.  It is also important to use a cross-cut shredder.  Also, I know this goes against what is wanted.   Do not recycle those papers.  I actually use mine as kindle for fires :)

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on February 03, 2014, 04:10:29 AM
Helpful replies here, but I've never seen a shredding event advertised anywhere here in Melbourne, Australia. I don't drive and my own bank is accessible only by tram and then a walk at the far end. Papers are far too heavy to take far in any worthwhile quantity. Other banks will do nothing for you if you are not a customer - not even change coins for notes.

I did borrow a small shredder once from someone at church but it was very heavy to get it home and then return it, and anyway  it kept jamming, probably because I was over-feeding it, so I went off the idea. I don't know what PII data is, but everything has my name and address on it, and some kind of account number.

This is such a tiny flat that I honestly don't know where I'd store the shredder. No space under the desk: there's already a suitcase and a heater there. Wardrobe floor has more luggage and backpacks. And the idea of spending the best part of a day shredding is truly ghastly. A bonfire would be great: but in the parking area of a block of flats - I don't think so. 

Maybe I'll see what my accountant suggests the next time I have occasion to talk to him.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ace1224 on February 03, 2014, 05:38:15 AM
completely disgusted with myself and my family.  i cleaned my son's closet this weekend, and threw out four (FOUR!!!!) bags of BROKEN toys and things.  and then mailed one box of nicer things to my nephew. 
i had a serious talk with his dad we have got to stop the madness.  while we thought we didn't buy him that much stuff anymore, obviously we were wrong.  the grandparents have got to stop too.
i counted over 150 dollars worth of Predator toys alone! (i included Aliens as well since he likes to play Predator vs. Alien) the only good thing i guess he is his obsessed with those and plays with them constantly.  good, because he's not getting anymore.

i took some more stuffed animals and books to the domestic violence shelter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on February 03, 2014, 06:15:40 AM
We took the last big load of donation items to goodwill over the weekend.  I didn't even count how many carfuls of stuff went.  It makes me embarrassed and pretty confused!  Our living spaces have always been organized and not cluttered... Yet we had SO MUCH STUFF.  Moving really makes you aware of how much junk you have crammed in those closets and nooks and cubbies.  It's finally gone though and I'm very happy to feel comfortable in our new small house.

There are only 2 big areas left to tackle now, and I will face them later.  The storage shed (which is currently housing a lot of things my sister wants to take next time she visits), and the holiday decorations in the attic.  I'll deal with the holiday things when I pull them out next holiday season.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on February 03, 2014, 08:11:54 AM
We took the last big load of donation items to goodwill over the weekend.  I didn't even count how many carfuls of stuff went.  It makes me embarrassed and pretty confused!  Our living spaces have always been organized and not cluttered... Yet we had SO MUCH STUFF.  Moving really makes you aware of how much junk you have crammed in those closets and nooks and cubbies.  It's finally gone though and I'm very happy to feel comfortable in our new small house.

Oh yes!  +100!
Have another box of papers to go to the dump/feed a fire one night.  My goal in this unpacking is to not keep items that aren't:
1) Regularly used
2) Highly sentimental and very limited in number (e.g. my deceased grandmother's tea set, yes, but not my childhood papers)
3) Beautiful, decorative and again, very limited in number (e.g. time to cull the ~10 vases!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on February 06, 2014, 06:52:28 AM
I thought I'd pruned my wardrobe pretty ruthlessly, but as I was going through my summer stuff to pack for a trip to FL, I realized that I am still hanging on to some XL shirts, even though I've shrunk down to a medium.  Making another pass-through and getting that stuff to the consignment shop is going on my hit list as soon as I return.  I think I might dump all my Christmas decorations too.  Up until this year I'd been decorating for Christmas, but suddenly I'm OVER IT and want most of that shit out of my life.

I'm not sure how to go about pruning DH's book collection.  It's not much, but it's cluttering the book shelves, and he hasn't opened any of them in years.  Maybe I'll just box them up and stuff them in the basement for a few months and see if he notices...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on February 06, 2014, 07:20:11 AM
Books are kind of a weird thing.. they're part decoration, part reference, part comfort, and occasionally for reading.

But yeah, they can get out of hand.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 06, 2014, 07:32:40 AM
I brought some big reference books to Half Price, and have nearly filled a paper sack of clothes to donate or consign.  I recently dumped 2 television shows that I had all the seasons for.  My books are still getting out of hand, even though I haven't bought any new for quite a while.  I need to start writing down the name of the books I want to read, rather than just getting the stupid book.  My queue is at least 20 long.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on February 06, 2014, 11:04:29 AM
Yesterday, I had a snow day from work.  I continued unpacking items from the move and the donation pile grew by a round tin and 9 wine glasses collected from visiting wineries.  Slow and steady wins the race...to a happier, less stressful and more relaxed home environment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on February 06, 2014, 11:19:40 AM
I donated 4 boxes of clothes and housewares to the Salvation Army this week.  It felt good! 

Now I need to tackle our storage areas. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FI@2022Jem on February 07, 2014, 01:47:42 PM
I started on the paperwork and moved it from the unsightly corner of the extra room (soon to be nursery) to the floor of a hall closet!  This was made possible by cleaning out the hall closet!  Cleared out that closet by getting rid of several extra sets of cheap sheets (really, how many extra sets does one need?!), and putting the bulky extra blanket and rarely used items on the top, previously unused shelf (I am not so lazy as to avoid using a step stool a couple times a year).  I also consolidated the closet in the nursery so that baby will get over half for baby clothes and storage needs. 

Still to do:
-finish clearing all the items on the floor to the bare minimum to install new carpet upstairs (we redid the downstairs floors ourselves when we moved in years ago, upstairs carpet are conservatively 20 years old and it shows). 
-Continue to unclutter kitchen counters (trying to convince ourselves to get rid of the microwave!) and put another shelf in the "junk cabinet" so that it is more of a pantry area then a junk storage.
+lots of other to be determined projects
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on February 12, 2014, 05:09:44 PM
Well I'm at it again. 4 garbage  bags of clothes out. 3 from daughter who finally agreed to relinquish things that needed to go ages ago. 3 boxes  of stuff to the family store  yesterday.  And oh my goodness I've started on my paper clutter, which I've been avoiding for years.  Payslips  and bills back to the 90s. Think its going to look worse before it looks better. So far 3 garbage bags of paper shreddings.....1 bag in the compost. 2 on standby for fire lighting when the weather cools down. I don't normally get this way with clutter, but I have to confess I feel completely overwhelmed by the  paper clutter. Baby steps, have faith,  breathe, it will get better...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on February 12, 2014, 05:25:41 PM
Good luck happy, paper clutter is the worst. I have to clear out mine as well. It's the most difficult area for me because I feel paranoid that I'm throwing out important information that I may need again one day in the future.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on February 12, 2014, 05:57:36 PM
I'm moving to a new one-room apartment in a little over a week, and I haven't seen it. I'm really worried that it's significantly smaller than my already tiny place. I don't have a lot of excess, but I do have some. So here's what I hope to purge this week:


I'm struggling with the best way to get rid of these items. They aren't particularly valuable, aren't even worth donating, but I feel very bad about throwing things in the dump. I'll post them on Facebook groups for free, but I don't think anyone will want any of this stuff. Siiiigh!

I left three of my six coffee mugs at work, and I'm making good progress toward eating everything in my pantry. But I'm actually acquiring more kitchen appliances and left over ingredients from someone before I move :-/

I really, really, really hope my things fit comfortably in my new apartment! So worried...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on February 12, 2014, 06:08:29 PM
They aren't particularly valuable, aren't even worth donating
Useful but inexpensive items are definitely worth donating. The paperwork, maybe not, but everything else could be nice to donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on February 12, 2014, 06:18:34 PM
Quote
I feel paranoid that I'm throwing out important information that I may need again one day in the future.

Yes deep down I have this irrational fear that I will need some particular informationfrom 2 decades ago to prove something some day to some one without knowing now what that might be.  What the?


Good luck  with the new apartment Nikki.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CG on February 12, 2014, 07:09:24 PM
Quote
I feel paranoid that I'm throwing out important information that I may need again one day in the future.

Yes deep down I have this irrational fear that I will need some particular informationfrom 2 decades ago to prove something some day to some one without knowing now what that might be.

I don't really want to encourage people to keep old paperwork, but I did have this happen when I applied for an age pension. Although I'm now an Australian citizen, I had to document precisely when I arrived in Australia [in 1975!], on what visa, and how long I have spent outside Australia since then. I also needed tax assessment notices for the last 10 years, and it would have been pay-slips too except that I was self-employed.

So at the very least keep all cancelled passports, and also tax assessment notices for far longer than the ATO website says. I did wonder what would have happened had I been unfortunate enough to lose everything in a bush-fire.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on February 12, 2014, 07:14:30 PM
Thanks CG, maybe I can stick all those shredded bits back together!
Seriously though, this sort of ridiculous expectation, is what bothers me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on February 12, 2014, 07:52:42 PM
You know, I remember a few years ago reading a blog (my efforts at googling it have failed) where the writer basically said the easiest way she could get out of the clutter in her life was to get rid of everything, including the sentimental stuff. And years later, if at some point she thought "What did I ever do with that such-and-such?" she'd just think "Oh yeah, we lost that in the house fire" and move on with life. It was a way to mentally separate those things from herself as a person... they weren't her identity... and she was able to deeply minimize and move on with life with no regrets.

Sometimes (quite often) I think about getting rid of everything I have and just starting over after an "imaginary house fire." I probably won't ever do it, but it makes me realize what a stronghold material possessions can take in your life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on February 12, 2014, 07:59:10 PM
Yes good point, I was just thinking, what would CG have done if she'd lost those documents in a house fire? I think I'll use it more deliberately myself to get going.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on February 13, 2014, 05:12:56 PM
Adding a little fuel to the fire (pun intended):

Finally going through the huge stack of bills and invoices and insurance papers we got after my bad accident 2.5 years ago. Scanning everything into Evernote. Wish me luck... probably going to hit the upload limit, but it resets in 5 days. Can do the rest next weekend.

Yay, paperwork!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 14, 2014, 11:10:52 PM
Biked a bag of clothes to the donation bin and letters to RTS into the post box (rentals are fun like that, always surprised when they haven't let their bank know they've moved!).

Put all my winter clothes AWAY (took until over halfway through summer... I did it once, then we had to use our suitcases, and I didn't put them back in!). Then reorganised our laundry so I can actually reach the sheets. The poisonous cleaners we're working our way through are now well out of reach, and we have 2 small shelves to go before we can get rid of a set of shelving and replace with a chest/small upright freezer. Did that bit while it was 30degrees C outside without the aircon on! Then turned it on and lay under it. Oops. But so worth it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mm1970 on February 16, 2014, 09:58:48 AM
So I started with the "declutter in 15 minutes a day" calendar (see thread below), but I couldn't keep up with it.  Never expected to.  Anyway, I'm still working on the kitchen.

Here's what we've been working on:
Books - donated a bunch to the library

Rummage sale: The school is having one next weekend to raise money for the 6th grade trip.  We are gathering stuff
Kids toys - especially the big ones.
Kids and adults clothing and shoes
Baby backpack

Other news:
My husband has been working on the hall closet.  When we bought the place, it was a little indentation where the prior owner kept her cat box.  It had no shelves, an old pipe on the side from the old heater that was under the house (to vent it), and a very badly done "arch". (A lot of homes in my town were built in the 20's with arches.  This house was built in the 40's and someone tried to give it 20's character by putting in three arches.)

Anyway, he started the project a long time ago (pulling out the pipe, putting in electrical), but stalled because of full time job/ two kids. He took a day off this week (no school for the big boy), when the little guy was still in daycare. Made all of the shelves and started sanding/ staining.  We are hoping to finish by end of March (after shelves will need doors).  Having shelves will make this very useful, but right now it's just a place where we dump stuff behind a baby gate.

In the kitchen, I decluttered the spice drawer, and took the dried spices (that we once fresh from the farm and sat on the counter till they dried) and put them into containers.  I also decluttered the vinegar/ spice/ oil shelf.

I seem to accumulate frozen bananas, so I defrosted 3 (out of probably 10) and have banana bread in the oven.  My goal is to have the kitchen completely decluttered by the time my mother in law visits at the end of March.

I also reorganized my fabric and yarn.

On a body front, I've lost 11 lbs.  I'm really trying to not rebound (it's happened twice before).  My goal is to get to my pre-pregnancy weight (or close) so I can get rid of the big clothes and figure out which of the small clothes still fit.  So I can declutter the closet.  That's still 20-25 lbs from now.  Probably take at least a year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on February 16, 2014, 06:08:22 PM
Just sold a weight lifting bench on Craigslist.  Woot!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ender on February 16, 2014, 07:19:46 PM
I spontaneously decluttered my closet today by adopting the "if I haven't worn it in the past year I'm getting rid of it" rule.

The girlfriend had a "you should keep this" veto she used a few times but otherwise I basically cut my wardrobe in half and filled a couple trash bags I'll bring to good will.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Wolf_Stache on February 17, 2014, 12:19:08 PM
Tried on all my pants and shorts, and go rid of anything too big or way too small. Turns out I had more pants that fit than I thought, but they were buried beneath piles of too small pants. So cleared out about half my pants. Took a big garbage bag over to goodwill this morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: N on February 18, 2014, 12:27:21 AM
Im moving in a week, so its hardcore decluttering around here right now.

I have 4 kitchen garbage bags and 2 boxes of items to donate waiting to go. Im making trips almost everytime I go out. Every week I bring a box of stuff to my homeschool meetup for the free table.

Im struggling with items that my mother gave me or that I got from her house after she passed away. Some of them I really dont like or use, but its still hard to get rid of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on February 18, 2014, 08:37:56 AM
Im struggling with items that my mother gave me or that I got from her house after she passed away. Some of them I really dont like or use, but its still hard to get rid of them.
One thing that has helped me in the past is thinking of the items as a group instead of considering each individual item.  Since they are all sentimental because they remind you of a specific person or place, I was able to say 'Okay do I really need 10 (or however many) things to remind me of that one time? Or does that one item I really love serve the same purpose of these other items.' It helped me to let go of some of the pieces that I really didn't care about other than their place of origin.  I definitely struggle with sentimental items, you just have to find the sweet spot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on February 18, 2014, 11:29:30 AM
Right now, I'm struggling with tons of kids' junk (for lack of a better word) all over the house. My two youngest daughters save everything they find/make/get. Crafts, notes, scraps of paper, trinkets, empty boxes, tissue paper, holy freaking cow. I'm debating on whether to make them have an imaginary house fire and just start over. It's that bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 19, 2014, 06:30:43 AM
Awesome goal! Good luck. Knowing you haven't seen it for years must help.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MarcherLady on February 22, 2014, 07:05:20 AM
22/2/14   The remaining (9) boxes are getting harder, since most of them contain my husband's old climbing gear/photographs/university books/general 'stuff'.  All of it is too old for selling or donating, but too precious (to him) to dump.   It's his problem to sort out, really, but I'm the one that wants the boxes gone from the bedroom.  His solution would be to move them to a different room, which: No.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MinimalistMoustache on February 22, 2014, 01:45:53 PM
Well I 've started decluttering again. It must be a New Year thing. Bags of clothes, a few boxes of miscellaneous household items...and finally have started on my study:  oh dear....paper nightmare. But now I'm started its gonna get better.

Happy - Thanks for this! Just the motivation I need to make TODAY the start of eliminating the paper dragon! Many, many years ago, I actually lost most of my material possessions in a house fire. This may have triggered an inclination for living as a minimalist much of my adult life --even prior to it becoming a "movement" :-) A few years ago, I chose to live on my own and found it easier to downsize even more. When I eventually relocated, everything packed nicely in my vehicle!

Still have few possessions. My areas of clutter have been played out through doing more grocery shopping than is required and in the accumulation of way-too-much paper. I have one shelf of books that can be passed on, and approximately four (4) "storage" boxes I want to sort through. Likely much of it can be discarded (receipts from long-ago abandoned investments, bank records, cancelled checks, etc.)

For some folks, this may seem like a small volume of stuff to clear out. After all, the clutter only spans one cabinet and one-half of a closet. Yet, it seriously weighs on my energy every time I see or think about it. These books and piles of paper represent a lot of poor choices and years of indecision.

Thanks everyone for sharing their experiences through this thread. I am encouraged!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on February 22, 2014, 01:55:59 PM
You know, I remember a few years ago reading a blog (my efforts at googling it have failed) where the writer basically said the easiest way she could get out of the clutter in her life was to get rid of everything, including the sentimental stuff. And years later, if at some point she thought "What did I ever do with that such-and-such?" she'd just think "Oh yeah, we lost that in the house fire" and move on with life. It was a way to mentally separate those things from herself as a person... they weren't her identity... and she was able to deeply minimize and move on with life with no regrets.

Sometimes (quite often) I think about getting rid of everything I have and just starting over after an "imaginary house fire." I probably won't ever do it, but it makes me realize what a stronghold material possessions can take in your life.

This is interesting. i've had hoarding tendencies my entire live. and i love to shop. but about 5 years ago our basement flooded. not just a few puddles, but a full 30 inches deep water pouring in flood. it was sewer water, black water. it took a professional cleaning company to decontaminate (i was pregnant and had an 18 month old, so no way I was going to touch that). we had just moved in about 6 months prior, so the basement was full of boxes yet to be unpacked, extra furniture, bedding, books, christmas tree and so on. we lost it all. my highschool year books, wedding photos, baby clothes. i was sad, for a little while. but i have to say it was SO freeing. and i didn't feel bad about the missing things, i'd just think "oh yeah, lost that in the flood." it was almost as if i needed an excuse to let the stuff go and i could no take on that responsibility myself. (i know, i'm crazy like that). and don't get me wrong, there was a lot of useful and meaningful stuff in that basement, things i could have sold (ie. all my med school text books, i was an M3) or used (baby clothes!) or enjoyed (wedding pictures and year books) but overall i would still say i'm glad we had the flood. now we live in a bigger house (and our family has doubled in size) and its still a constant chore to declutter and keep organized, but i don't seem to have the emotional draw that i used to. i'm much more willing to give things away (goodwill at least once a month), as i know someoen else can use them vs being destroyed (be it physically or just outdated) hanging out in my basement or garage.

and i say that taking a break from loading the truck for a run to goodwill. i still struggle with the thoughst of "i could SELL that" and have a little cash, but i know the time it would take is never worth the money that comes it. I count it as gaining time back in my day and my life. priceless. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on February 23, 2014, 05:41:30 AM
What's in Your Digital Junk Drawer? (http://unclutterer.com/2014/02/20/whats-in-your-digital-junk-drawer/)

My biggest problem is having lots of bookmarks (and sub-bookmarks) to websites that I haven't visited in months or years. I hoard those thinking I won't remember it when I need it. But I haven't needed them.

I rationalize it saying it's not taking up that much physical space. But it's a pain to see all those bookmarks.

I'm getting rid of most of them today and start again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on February 23, 2014, 07:42:32 AM
We're back at it again. Got rid of a big old monitor, a couple board games, the bread machine, half a box of books, and some old written stuff for school. I need to do some ripping of CDs into ISOs and then a bunch of old video game boxes will be gone too. Then I think we're doing another round of clothes (some to get put away for the season, others to go away for good) and seeing if there's any basic kitchen stuff down in the basement that we own in duplicate or triplicate from combining households. Yay owning less stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on February 23, 2014, 07:39:28 PM
Cleaned out some of the garage and now actually have room to park one car in the garage.  We still have too many kids toys and other things (snow blower and power tools/work bench) taking up the other side.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on February 27, 2014, 10:26:45 PM
Just want to chime in with an update now that I've moved!

I didn't end up finding new homes for the assorted things I listed before. Some I moved with me (craft supplies), and others I just left in my apartment like a jerk for the apartment to deal with (coffee machine without carafe, toaster oven that's seen better days) :S  I did this after my Korean friend recommended it, so I guess it's not as big of a deal to leave things behind and uncleaned here. Interestingly enough, in Korea people moving out don't have to clean their places at all before leaving! I remember scrubbing my place while boxes were being moved out in the States. This is much more relaxing ^___^

Unfortunately, it means sometimes you end up moving INTO a messy apartment. I was pretty lucky in that my school cleaned mine first. Of course, it wasn't cleaned to *my* standards ;-D

Now that I'm in my new place, I have some storage challenges in my kitchen. I need to get a cabinet or shelving unit so that my appliances aren't on the floor and my food items are more organized and not shoved in random cabinets. Fortunately, most of this will vanish into my belly at some point.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on February 28, 2014, 01:08:22 AM
Good luck in your new place, nikki! It seems pretty good from what you've said in your journal. :)

I am now also seriously thinking about how much stuff I want to move interstate with me. I can purchase 40kgs of check-in luggage for $54. At first, 40kgs seem like a lot, but things can add up so quickly. I'll be selling, giving away or getting rid of all furniture, closer to the moving date. But that still leaves clothes, kitchenware, small appliances, books, laptop. I have absolutely no idea how much my things will weigh when all added up. And suitcases alone will weigh several kg, I think...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on March 02, 2014, 04:46:35 PM
I am also doing the pre-move clean-out although my move is many months away. This is the first time in my post-college life that I have ever had more than 6 weeks notice of a move so I am determined to minimize the last-minute scramble as much as possible.  One thing I am very happy about is that I decided to start cleaning out closets for Goodwill, and had a difficult time filling up a box. You have to understand that before the last move I had innumerable trips to the food pantry, dumping station, electronics recycling, Goodwill, and several free piles on the sidewalk--that was after 1.5 years longer than I have been here, in a smaller apartment. I have gotten much better being choosy about what comes in and moving unwanted stuff out than I used to be.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MarcherLady on March 04, 2014, 04:12:56 AM
2/3/14

I guess taken in whole, that's a moderate success... "could try harder"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on March 04, 2014, 08:04:44 AM
Ah, MarcherLady, mild success is better than none.  You could try checking UFYH every once in a while, and sub in 'pull 5 things out of a box and deal with them' for a challenge.

From December on, since I listed a bunch more books and things on Amazon, I've made anywhere from 20$ to 180$ a month.  Huge encouragement to keep selling my stuff - if I'm not using it, someone else should in exchange for money.  Win-win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Luck better Skill on March 04, 2014, 02:27:55 PM
oh dear....paper nightmare

So much of my paper nightmare (mostly stored under my bed) is financial stuff: bank statements and share transaction records etc. too old to need to be kept any longer for tax purposes, but as I still use the same bank account and broker, I feel I should shred this stuff rather than just chuck it in the recycling bin.

I noticed a "hand shredder" (1 page at a time, that would be very tedious, I think) for $99 and an "up to 50 sheets" at a time one for $159 at OfficeWorks this morning when I went in to do photocopying. It was the size as much as the cost that put me off: wherever would I store that monster? It wouldn't fit under the bed and would certainly take up more space than even a very large stack of papers.

Do other people here bother to shred such stuff?

Look for a paper shredding event by a bank or village.  They bring in industrial size shredders.  We had two boxes done last year.  Felt great!

I have a fireplace for paper stuff.  Works better for me than a shredder.  Before current house used a charcoal grill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on March 09, 2014, 05:22:30 AM
Donated more clothing today. Yay! If only selling is as easy...
I've also sorted some of my other clothing into a "rag box" which I will use for household cleaning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MinimalistMoustache on March 09, 2014, 02:40:33 PM
Do other people here bother to shred such stuff?

Look for a paper shredding event by a bank or village.  They bring in industrial size shredders.  We had two boxes done last year.  Felt great!

I have a fireplace for paper stuff.  Works better for me than a shredder.  Before current house used a charcoal grill.

Thank you, LuckBetterStill !!!!! Yesterday, I was knee-deep in the midst of a huge paper clearing at home (and it continues). Everything else in my environment is clutter-free and minimally furnished -- with the exception of these paper demons which usually live -- unsorted -- within paper bags in the closet.

After culling through a lot of "why-am-I-keeping-these" documents, I realized I wasn't comfortable with just placing them in recycling/garbage. . . even with my personal information removed. Also, there is another bag filled with discards that will soon be shred-worthy.

I really appreciate this idea and will give it a go - Thanks!

MOD EDIT: fixed quote tags
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Norrie on March 09, 2014, 02:55:34 PM
I've been gone for quite a few months and am trying to catch up, which is a bigger challenge than I thought that it would be, but we're still purging!

It feels great. I'm starting to get really cut throat about which clothes get to continue living here and which have to go. We've been on a slow purge mission for the past two years or so, and it has been so great to lighten our loads.

My husband's recording studio recently flooded from a burst pipe (amazingly, all equipment was spared, but the building is pretty much a total loss inside). He had to move out in a hurry, and then had a big sale to get rid of a ton of excess gear that he really does not need. He's been clinging to that stuff for a long time, and I was worried that it would be hard for him emotionally. But it was not, and soon after the sale a really perfect opportunity opened up for him, so he's now in a much nicer, safer studio with all of his equipment fully insured.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wealthviahealth on March 09, 2014, 03:19:27 PM
For the past two months I have been selling off many of my unessential possessions that take up room and
could be freed up for money better spent on wealth generating assets.
I have found to it feel very liberating and helps to mentally declutter as well just by knowing that I have less "stuff"

I just posted a similar topic to this buy my main question surrounds- have you had any major regrets in items you sold while in
a selling/ declutter frenzy. Thread here-https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/ask-a-mustachian/am-i-taking-this-too-far-(-selling-my-old-'favorites')/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on March 09, 2014, 07:14:51 PM
DW is pretty much all set for the consignment sale drop off this Tuesday.   I wish we were getting rid of more, but at least it is something.  I actually kind of hate these sales.  They are only twice a year (she takes things occasionally to a consignment shop other times), but will store things.  I'd much rather donate  stuff and get it out of the house quicker.  She has done well at the sales, so there is that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on March 09, 2014, 08:43:23 PM
I have never wanted, regretted, etc anything I have gotten rid of. This even includes jewelry that I sold for about 1/3 of what it was worth.  I don't get rid of family heirlooms usually but you need to limit how many you take-spread among family members that want it is my motto.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 10, 2014, 08:36:05 AM
There have been a few items I've wanted afterwards (a few years later), but I can't recall any specifically at the moment, so I'm going to say that means that no, it didn't really make an impact.

My mom just brought a slew of boxes for me from her house this weekend.  Sigh.  We just bought a house and moved, and I haven't even finished unpacking the boxes I moved and now I've got this wall of boxes piling up.  Anyways, went through one box and saved out about 15% of it (my high school diploma and a few awards).  The AP course notes, tape deck holder, some weird diarama etc though are going out the door.  (On a slightly disturbing note, in 4th grade, my G&T teacher had us color diagrams of the body to learn bones.  In 11th grade AP Bio, my teacher had us color diagrams of the body to help us learn body parts, cells parts etc.  You would think that somewhere in there, you'd move on from coloring...)

I tried burning some papers but it created a lot of ash I thought (as compared to the logs), so I may go back to recycling instead.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrCash on March 10, 2014, 08:38:13 AM
You know, I remember a few years ago reading a blog (my efforts at googling it have failed) where the writer basically said the easiest way she could get out of the clutter in her life was to get rid of everything, including the sentimental stuff. And years later, if at some point she thought "What did I ever do with that such-and-such?" she'd just think "Oh yeah, we lost that in the house fire" and move on with life. It was a way to mentally separate those things from herself as a person... they weren't her identity... and she was able to deeply minimize and move on with life with no regrets.

Sometimes (quite often) I think about getting rid of everything I have and just starting over after an "imaginary house fire." I probably won't ever do it, but it makes me realize what a stronghold material possessions can take in your life.

The sentimental stuff is definitely the hardest part for me.  Even arts and crafts that I made in Kindergarten.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 11, 2014, 08:00:34 AM
Try Kijiji at kijiji.ca

I need to get on this, too! My situation isn't too bad, more annoying than anything else. If anyone has recommendations for places other than Amazon and Ebay to sell things in Canada, I would love to here them! Mostly books, CDs and DVDs, I got rid of electronics, etc. before moving.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 16, 2014, 01:28:13 PM
On first reading the unclutter posts I thought I did not fall into the clutter category.  I do not have stacks of stuff in the bedroom or excess things in the kitchen. My kitchen cupboards are orderly and neat with nothing unnecessary.   I read with interest the posts from others about garbage bags of clothes and crammed kitchen cupboards.  Perhaps even with a little fascination.

And then the penny dropped…I keep my bedroom and kitchen clean and do not have loads of certain types of clutter ...but I have tons of paper clutter, hidden in a closet, stacked in the dining room, stacked on shelves:  I have tons of craft supplies that almost fill a room:  my garage and cellar were a mess and unnavigable…I have mountains of unprepared broken stuff weighing me down.

Denial is powerful.  How could I have thought I did not have clutter? How did I not notice the heaviness of so much mess?

So, thanks to you all I have completely decluttered one room of craft supplies by buying new shelving, sending several carloads to the dump and marking several types of materials to be used up and not replaced. One bag went to the Goodwill.  I feel so pleased I could skyrocket heavenwards and do loop-de-loops.  I want to proudly show the room off.  My DH is shocked at the change.  I even have a clean table on which to work!  I found so many duplicate supplies which I had bought because I could not find the existing ones.

Thank-you all so much! Thanks for sharing your inspiring stories and continued focus.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on March 16, 2014, 01:38:34 PM
Thank you for sharing your story, wintersun! That's really great work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 16, 2014, 02:07:40 PM
Thank-you Limeandpepper,  I have followed your example of making rags out of old fabric and now have the rags in a plastic box to discourage bugs. Somehow, standing at the kitchen counter cutting rags seems like a nice break from dealing with facing a room of mess.

 Further to my post above, I have also, with lots of help, emptied the guest room of clutter, you can actually walk into the space and sit on the empty bed. 

The exercise equipment is accessible now and the excess furniture and boxes and junk are gone.  It felt so good to donate the love seat and get it OUT. The floor has been cleaned for the first time in many many months and the rug is vacuumed.  It feels so light and spacious!  The curtains which were in a pile are now airing ready to be ironed.

One issue I have is dealing with the excess that I take out but needs to be sorted.  I now have two sparkling spaces but a third room is the repository for some of the stuff.  Getting down to sorting, tossing and scanning paper is a bit daunting still.  I have a closet full of paper where some of the craft supplies will live and the next step is emptying it so that the craft supplies can go in there. Meanwhile some of them are in the hall in a long line.

So, next for me…
...empty the closet and put the craft supplies in there in decent boxes
…label all the craft boxes
…deal with the paper
…repair some furniture
…get a storage piece of furniture for my home office

And, maintain the spaces that were so crammed with mess. I think that my major issue is being too overwhelmed at times to tidy as I go.  I am putting aside time each month on my calendar to check these now clean areas and looking to shift my habits.

Decluttering has involved some spending on storage boxes and shelving, mainly because I never organised any of this stuff initially.  Having it be accessible, sorted by type and soon labelled is going to be fantastic.  Until now I would have needed to lift and search several large unlabelled garbage bags and boxes trying to find something and it just was too much.

Having written that last paragraph I feel some lethargy so I will end by saying how delightful the guest room is, all sparkly and clear and clean!  I am so motivated by this whole MMM community, thank-you!


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on March 16, 2014, 02:42:32 PM
Wintersun- sounds like you are making great, great progress!  Sometimes it feels like it gets worse before it really gets better while everything is still strewn about waiting to be sorted, etc. You will get there. And for now you can enjoy your guest room and craft room.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 17, 2014, 10:39:04 AM
Of the ~7 boxes mentioned above that my mom dropped off, we went through and took the contents of about 3 to the dump.  I also integrated the 2 boxes of books for now, but will go through them later to reread and figure which to donate.  Keeping one box of childhood memories.  Still have a box of papers to go...

I posted a box of binders on freecycle and had two people so far flake out on picking up, so I may have to take those to the dump as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on March 17, 2014, 11:15:22 AM
DW is pretty much all set for the consignment sale drop off this Tuesday.   I wish we were getting rid of more, but at least it is something.  I actually kind of hate these sales.  They are only twice a year (she takes things occasionally to a consignment shop other times), but will store things.  I'd much rather donate  stuff and get it out of the house quicker.  She has done well at the sales, so there is that.

She came back with something like 25 out of 75 pieces of clothing, a baby tub, and an unopened game.  So, a large quantity was sold.  DW has a meeting with a consignment store Thursday for what was remaining (the tub will probably just get trashed).

I really need to get back to scanning in documents and shredding things again.  We also should go through our books again.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrCash on March 17, 2014, 11:29:49 AM
Anyone know a good place to sell slightly used computer equipment?  (motherboard/cpu, ram, power supply, etc.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on March 17, 2014, 11:36:55 AM
Anyone know a good place to sell slightly used computer equipment?  (motherboard/cpu, ram, power supply, etc.)

What kind of motherboard/cpu are you looking to sell? I need to replace one in a tower case.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LanceBurkhart on March 17, 2014, 11:39:47 AM
We turned a large, ugly file cabinet into a single folder and some cloud-stored PDFs with a Doxie (http://www.getdoxie.com/  (http://www.getdoxie.com/)). The $100 we spent on the Doxie helped us fit into an apartment that is $525/mo less than our old one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrCash on March 17, 2014, 12:07:58 PM
Anyone know a good place to sell slightly used computer equipment?  (motherboard/cpu, ram, power supply, etc.)

What kind of motherboard/cpu are you looking to sell? I need to replace one in a tower case.

Here's the ad I put on craigslist:

Computer Equipment - MB, HD, Power supply, etc - $120
I'm selling several pieces of very gently used computer equipment including:
an 80GB Western Digital HD ($17)
a 600W CORSAIR Power Supply ($70)
a 770 ATX AMD Motherboard ($75)
a 2GB DDR3 stick of RAM ($18)
an AMD Sempron 140 Single-Core Processor ($38)
Subtotal = $218

All of the items are in excellent condition and I have the original packaging. If you buy all of them, I will sell them for $120 and I will throw in a free ANTEC 3-speed fan.

*Please note: The processor and the motherboard must be bought together.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on March 17, 2014, 12:39:51 PM
Anyone know a good place to sell slightly used computer equipment?  (motherboard/cpu, ram, power supply, etc.)

What kind of motherboard/cpu are you looking to sell? I need to replace one in a tower case.

Here's the ad I put on craigslist:

Computer Equipment - MB, HD, Power supply, etc - $120
I'm selling several pieces of very gently used computer equipment including:
an 80GB Western Digital HD ($17)
a 600W CORSAIR Power Supply ($70)
a 770 ATX AMD Motherboard ($75)
a 2GB DDR3 stick of RAM ($18)
an AMD Sempron 140 Single-Core Processor ($38)
Subtotal = $218

All of the items are in excellent condition and I have the original packaging. If you buy all of them, I will sell them for $120 and I will throw in a free ANTEC 3-speed fan.

*Please note: The processor and the motherboard must be bought together.

Let me think about it. I'll PM you if I'm interested. Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on March 17, 2014, 01:05:51 PM
You may need to come down some on the PC hardware to move it. That stuff is ancient, and it looks like I could buy a new 770 motherboard for less than $60.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MarcherLady on March 20, 2014, 06:48:36 AM
Thanks, Basenji. 
I've totally fallen off the wagon of de-cluttering in the last couple of weeks.  So - I'm holding myself accountable to do another box - tonight

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 20, 2014, 08:29:12 AM
I'm looking about my house now for all the invisible stuff that makes me feel stressed and disorganized. For me, it's paper...OH! and my pantry full of food that should be eaten! Agh!

Yep!  Those are my big culprits too.  I know this, having just unpacked oodles of stuff in the move.  Sure i have a box of candles...but I have more than a box of those other stuff too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on March 20, 2014, 08:43:37 AM
I've been steadily decluttering for the past few years, it's bizarre how much stuff you can store "just in case" you need it for something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MarcherLady on March 20, 2014, 01:58:42 PM
Hey, I did it! I totally got off my bum and emptied another box. I whined about how much I didn't want to do it all the way through, and I picked one I knew would be easy, but I did it. And it's all thanks to you Mustachians in the computer judging me ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on March 23, 2014, 08:37:34 PM
Another fuckton of stuff to goodwill, and a bag of textbooks ready for HPB and ebay! Owning less stuff is rad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on March 24, 2014, 09:03:07 AM
AH!  I was doing so well in January and February, but I fell off the wagon.  I still have a lot of purging to do.  I'm going to start back...today. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: crumbcatcher on March 24, 2014, 01:16:32 PM
I sold my first two things on eBay -- a stash of Chuck E. Cheese tokens that we've had sitting around forever, since the last birthday party my son attended there.  Who would have thought that people would pay good $$$ for those!?

Calculating shipping for eBay items is something I am still trying to figure out.  I took a loss on one item and got it just right on the other.  As soon as I get more comfortable with the shipping aspect I'll be listing a lot more often.

Lots of clutter to clear out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 24, 2014, 01:25:09 PM
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: m8547 on March 24, 2014, 09:52:31 PM
So far this week I've sold $145 of stuff (3 items) after fees and shipping costs. I'm selling an old chair for $30 tomorrow, and I have about another $130 of stuff (a backpack and an old radio) that I plan to sell soon. After that maybe I'll get rid of those shelves and see how much other stuff I can give away. I can't think of much else to sell, though.

Quote
I've been steadily decluttering for the past few years, it's bizarre how much stuff you can store "just in case" you need it for something.
I keep a lot of "just in case" stuff for two reasons. First, a lot of that stuff would be relatively difficult/expensive to obtain if I did need it, versus keeping it in case I need it. The second reason is that I hate to throw away anything, so I always try to find someone who can use something. I make so little trash that I use produce bags as trash bags. I've had people tell me there's no way they could live with a trash can that small, but I honestly can't comprehend what they need to throw away that's bigger than that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on March 25, 2014, 05:07:27 AM

Quote
I've been steadily decluttering for the past few years, it's bizarre how much stuff you can store "just in case" you need it for something.
I keep a lot of "just in case" stuff for two reasons. First, a lot of that stuff would be relatively difficult/expensive to obtain if I did need it, versus keeping it in case I need it. The second reason is that I hate to throw away anything, so I always try to find someone who can use something. I make so little trash that I use produce bags as trash bags. I've had people tell me there's no way they could live with a trash can that small, but I honestly can't comprehend what they need to throw away that's bigger than that.

It probably is a good idea to have a backup for some stuff and we do have an extra vacuum cleaner in case one breaks. We have a very small house though so we can't keep a lot of stuff stored and I'm not going pay for storage either. :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on March 25, 2014, 11:29:14 AM

Quote
I've been steadily decluttering for the past few years, it's bizarre how much stuff you can store "just in case" you need it for something.
I keep a lot of "just in case" stuff for two reasons. First, a lot of that stuff would be relatively difficult/expensive to obtain if I did need it, versus keeping it in case I need it. The second reason is that I hate to throw away anything, so I always try to find someone who can use something. I make so little trash that I use produce bags as trash bags. I've had people tell me there's no way they could live with a trash can that small, but I honestly can't comprehend what they need to throw away that's bigger than that.

It probably is a good idea to have a backup for some stuff and we do have an extra vacuum cleaner in case one breaks. We have a very small house though so we can't keep a lot of stuff stored and I'm not going pay for storage either. :)

This is a good thought!  We have a lot of back-ups...and we're in a one bedroom apartment.  I should get rid of our just-in-case items to make room for our we-use-it-every-day stuff. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on March 25, 2014, 12:14:21 PM
Great thread. Does anyone have tips for helping someone else get rid of their stuff? Mr Osprey is a hoarder and I am a minimalist. This causes is a great deal of marital strife! We recently moved apartments and I am itching to sell or donate the following:

- Kilograms and kilograms of clothes that are in good condition but far too big and completely against his current aesthetic
- A cupboard filled with electronic equipment and outdated "boys' toys" that he never uses, or that we have duplicates of (e.g. binoculars, old consoles). This cupboard has an imaginary "KEEP OUT NO GIRLS ALLOWED" sign on it.
- Piles of trading cards that keep on multiplying (Magic, The Gathering) - I play just as much as he does but I want to sell what we don't use
- Old textbooks that nobody has read in years... going all the way back to primary school!


I have the same issue!  My husband doesn't seem to see his old electronics as clutter, and his Magic cards have a semi-permanent place on our (broken and unrepairable, but he refuses to take it to the dump) coffee table.  This stuff drives me NUTS!  Especially since he parked an old computer by my desk over a year ago, "just until I can get rid of it".  Now when I bring it up and remind him that it's taking up MY space, he gets irritated.  !!

For my own part, I am having trouble with baby blankets.  We were given roughly 8000 baby blankets for our daughter.  Even worse, my MIL gave us all of my husband's old baby quilts that family had made.  So we've got way, way more blankets than any baby could ever possibly need, even in our cold climate.  But....many of them were actually made by family members.  I feel really, really bad about wanting to get rid of them, but I also know that there are people out there who would love to have them.  A friend of mine works for a counseling/adoption agency, and she said about 10 of her clients are supposed to give birth in the next few months.  (I already donated the disposable newborn diapers we were given, and the wipes.  Yay for removing that clutter!)  Would it really be so terrible to purge a few blankets and give them to a new (usually very, very young and poor) mother?  The only issue I see is that some of these family members do visit regularly, and would notice if some of the blankets were suddenly not there.  Perhaps I should just wait until our girl is out of the age when baby blankets seem "necessary"?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 25, 2014, 12:35:12 PM
Great thread. Does anyone have tips for helping someone else get rid of their stuff? Mr Osprey is a hoarder and I am a minimalist. This causes is a great deal of marital strife! We recently moved apartments and I am itching to sell or donate the following:

- Kilograms and kilograms of clothes that are in good condition but far too big and completely against his current aesthetic
- A cupboard filled with electronic equipment and outdated "boys' toys" that he never uses, or that we have duplicates of (e.g. binoculars, old consoles). This cupboard has an imaginary "KEEP OUT NO GIRLS ALLOWED" sign on it.
- Piles of trading cards that keep on multiplying (Magic, The Gathering) - I play just as much as he does but I want to sell what we don't use
- Old textbooks that nobody has read in years... going all the way back to primary school!


I have the same issue!  My husband doesn't seem to see his old electronics as clutter, and his Magic cards have a semi-permanent place on our (broken and unrepairable, but he refuses to take it to the dump) coffee table.  This stuff drives me NUTS!  Especially since he parked an old computer by my desk over a year ago, "just until I can get rid of it".  Now when I bring it up and remind him that it's taking up MY space, he gets irritated.  !!

For my own part, I am having trouble with baby blankets.  We were given roughly 8000 baby blankets for our daughter.  Even worse, my MIL gave us all of my husband's old baby quilts that family had made.  So we've got way, way more blankets than any baby could ever possibly need, even in our cold climate.  But....many of them were actually made by family members.  I feel really, really bad about wanting to get rid of them, but I also know that there are people out there who would love to have them.  A friend of mine works for a counseling/adoption agency, and she said about 10 of her clients are supposed to give birth in the next few months.  (I already donated the disposable newborn diapers we were given, and the wipes.  Yay for removing that clutter!)  Would it really be so terrible to purge a few blankets and give them to a new (usually very, very young and poor) mother?  The only issue I see is that some of these family members do visit regularly, and would notice if some of the blankets were suddenly not there.  Perhaps I should just wait until our girl is out of the age when baby blankets seem "necessary"?

Yeah that's a tough one.  There will be more women in need, so to avoid hurting feelings, I'd wait until the blanket season of life is closing before getting rid of them.  Then, I'd write the gifters a note, thanking them again for their gift and telling them you plan to plan it on to a young woman in great need, as described above, but if for some reason they would like it back to let you know within the week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HAULIN3 on March 25, 2014, 02:58:32 PM
Im struggling with items that my mother gave me or that I got from her house after she passed away. Some of them I really dont like or use, but its still hard to get rid of them.

Read "everything that remains"  a memoir by the minimalists.  It will forever change how you feel about those things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on March 26, 2014, 11:38:22 AM
Great thread. Does anyone have tips for helping someone else get rid of their stuff? Mr Osprey is a hoarder and I am a minimalist. This causes is a great deal of marital strife! We recently moved apartments and I am itching to sell or donate the following:

- Kilograms and kilograms of clothes that are in good condition but far too big and completely against his current aesthetic
- A cupboard filled with electronic equipment and outdated "boys' toys" that he never uses, or that we have duplicates of (e.g. binoculars, old consoles). This cupboard has an imaginary "KEEP OUT NO GIRLS ALLOWED" sign on it.
- Piles of trading cards that keep on multiplying (Magic, The Gathering) - I play just as much as he does but I want to sell what we don't use
- Old textbooks that nobody has read in years... going all the way back to primary school!


I have the same issue!  My husband doesn't seem to see his old electronics as clutter, and his Magic cards have a semi-permanent place on our (broken and unrepairable, but he refuses to take it to the dump) coffee table.  This stuff drives me NUTS!  Especially since he parked an old computer by my desk over a year ago, "just until I can get rid of it".  Now when I bring it up and remind him that it's taking up MY space, he gets irritated.  !!

For my own part, I am having trouble with baby blankets.  We were given roughly 8000 baby blankets for our daughter.  Even worse, my MIL gave us all of my husband's old baby quilts that family had made.  So we've got way, way more blankets than any baby could ever possibly need, even in our cold climate.  But....many of them were actually made by family members.  I feel really, really bad about wanting to get rid of them, but I also know that there are people out there who would love to have them.  A friend of mine works for a counseling/adoption agency, and she said about 10 of her clients are supposed to give birth in the next few months.  (I already donated the disposable newborn diapers we were given, and the wipes.  Yay for removing that clutter!)  Would it really be so terrible to purge a few blankets and give them to a new (usually very, very young and poor) mother?  The only issue I see is that some of these family members do visit regularly, and would notice if some of the blankets were suddenly not there.  Perhaps I should just wait until our girl is out of the age when baby blankets seem "necessary"?

Yeah that's a tough one.  There will be more women in need, so to avoid hurting feelings, I'd wait until the blanket season of life is closing before getting rid of them.  Then, I'd write the gifters a note, thanking them again for their gift and telling them you plan to plan it on to a young woman in great need, as described above, but if for some reason they would like it back to let you know within the week.

Thanks for the advice!  I'll probably end up doing something like this.  And, some of the blankets will definitely be useful when we decide to add a second child to the family, so it's not like I want to get rid of them all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 05, 2014, 04:25:53 PM
Today was an awesome decluttering day at our house!  We went to the basement and filled up DH's car with things for Goodwill, and also gathered a bunch of stuff for the trash.  The trash/recyclables are at the curb, and the donations are dropped off already,  love it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on April 09, 2014, 09:58:36 AM
Something about spring finally arriving has made me a woman with a mission.  I want to get rid of like half the stuff in our house.  We just moved last year so we don't actually have a TON more than we need (and some of it is not worth fighting the DH for), so I am currently focusing on my closet.  I am so motivated but it is still so hard to get rid of clothes!!!!  I keep thinking, 'wait, I never wear this but I should!'.  I really don't have many clothes but I just want LESS in my life right now.  I'm sick of having a hard time picking out outfits. 

My stretch-goal is having everything I could reasonably wear to work fit in one closet, but my closet is a small reach-in -- maybe just 2-2.5 feet across?  I haven't measured -- I currently keep some work t-shirts in my dresser and all my (many) dresses in their own closet (and since they are separate, I rarely wear them, which is dumb.  I want to wear them more).  So I'm not sure if that goal is attainable but I am culling and organizing and seeing where I end up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on April 09, 2014, 10:00:56 AM
Something about spring finally arriving has made me a woman with a mission.  I want to get rid of like half the stuff in our house.  We just moved last year so we don't actually have a TON more than we need (and some of it is not worth fighting the DH for), so I am currently focusing on my closet.  I am so motivated but it is still so hard to get rid of clothes!!!!  I keep thinking, 'wait, I never wear this but I should!'.  I really don't have many clothes but I just want LESS in my life right now.  I'm sick of having a hard time picking out outfits. 

My stretch-goal is having everything I could reasonably wear to work fit in one closet, but my closet is a small reach-in -- maybe just 2-2.5 feet across?  I haven't measured -- I currently keep some work t-shirts in my dresser and all my (many) dresses in their own closet (and since they are separate, I rarely wear them, which is dumb.  I want to wear them more).  So I'm not sure if that goal is attainable but I am culling and organizing and seeing where I end up.

My closet is an 18in rod and everything in a given season fits there.  Granted, I loosely follow Project 333 but I only ever have 5-6 out of "rotation" at a given point in time.  Just wanted to let you know it's possible!  Having fewer options also helps with choice-overload.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on April 09, 2014, 10:08:32 AM
Something about spring finally arriving has made me a woman with a mission.  I want to get rid of like half the stuff in our house.  We just moved last year so we don't actually have a TON more than we need (and some of it is not worth fighting the DH for), so I am currently focusing on my closet.  I am so motivated but it is still so hard to get rid of clothes!!!!  I keep thinking, 'wait, I never wear this but I should!'.  I really don't have many clothes but I just want LESS in my life right now.  I'm sick of having a hard time picking out outfits. 

My stretch-goal is having everything I could reasonably wear to work fit in one closet, but my closet is a small reach-in -- maybe just 2-2.5 feet across?  I haven't measured -- I currently keep some work t-shirts in my dresser and all my (many) dresses in their own closet (and since they are separate, I rarely wear them, which is dumb.  I want to wear them more).  So I'm not sure if that goal is attainable but I am culling and organizing and seeing where I end up.

My closet is an 18in rod and everything in a given season fits there.  Granted, I loosely follow Project 333 but I only ever have 5-6 out of "rotation" at a given point in time.  Just wanted to let you know it's possible!  Having fewer options also helps with choice-overload.

Yeah.  I think my real problem is that I am completely unwilling to get rid of my ~15 dresses.  I am (trying to) ruthlessly cull tops, I have a ton of tops that I hate, but every dress I own is perfect for SOME circumstance.  Also work pants (~5 pair) take up a lot of space hanging, I want to fold them but I'm told you should hang nice pants? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: yogagirl95 on April 09, 2014, 10:44:40 AM
Something about spring finally arriving has made me a woman with a mission.  I want to get rid of like half the stuff in our house.  We just moved last year so we don't actually have a TON more than we need (and some of it is not worth fighting the DH for), so I am currently focusing on my closet.  I am so motivated but it is still so hard to get rid of clothes!!!!  I keep thinking, 'wait, I never wear this but I should!'.  I really don't have many clothes but I just want LESS in my life right now.  I'm sick of having a hard time picking out outfits. 

My stretch-goal is having everything I could reasonably wear to work fit in one closet, but my closet is a small reach-in -- maybe just 2-2.5 feet across?  I haven't measured -- I currently keep some work t-shirts in my dresser and all my (many) dresses in their own closet (and since they are separate, I rarely wear them, which is dumb.  I want to wear them more).  So I'm not sure if that goal is attainable but I am culling and organizing and seeing where I end up.

My closet is an 18in rod and everything in a given season fits there.  Granted, I loosely follow Project 333 but I only ever have 5-6 out of "rotation" at a given point in time.  Just wanted to let you know it's possible!  Having fewer options also helps with choice-overload.

Yeah.  I think my real problem is that I am completely unwilling to get rid of my ~15 dresses.  I am (trying to) ruthlessly cull tops, I have a ton of tops that I hate, but every dress I own is perfect for SOME circumstance.  Also work pants (~5 pair) take up a lot of space hanging, I want to fold them but I'm told you should hang nice pants?


I would keep the dresses and work pants! I have same issue ( less dresses but more work pants) . They are so hard for me to find, and I would rather keep them in case needed. Who wants to shop for a last minute dress etc for an event? Its more expensive that way. I have some dress pants that Ive had for years, I think the Express and Limited work pants last forever.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on April 11, 2014, 11:12:26 AM
If you have dresses you like, keep them.  I always struggle when I need a dress for an occasion.  So hard to find!

I would definitely hang dress pants.  It's an easy way to keep the ironed "seam" without returning them to the dry cleaner.  Maybe I'm the only one that sucks at ironing.  If so, I don't see why folding is bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on April 13, 2014, 08:42:08 AM
Lol I don't think I understand how to hang pants in order to keep the seam, but since I usually stuff my pants in a pannier anyway it's probably a lost cause.

I got rid of SO MANY CLOTHES this weekend - 8 paper grocery store bags worth! I had no idea I had so much crap. It actually made me really happy to get rid of all the clothes that no longer fit, in some cases never really fit in the first place, and which made me feel a pang of guilt every time I spotted them. Now I only own clothes that fit and don't make me feel bad and it is amazing. I can't believe I packed and unpacked all of this crap through 3 or 4 moves.

It wasn't until the end when I hit my lounging/scrubby clothes I was able to say things like, "ok, I have 3 pairs of long athletic pants and 2 pairs of gardening jeans,let's cut it down to one of each." I definitely could have been more ruthless with my work clothes and sweatpants but I'm too new of a minimalist to get rid of items that fit and that I wear just because I already have enough of that item. Maybe some day I'll get there.  I do have some gaps in my work wardrobe and when I fill those gaps I'm going to institute a strict one-in, one-out policy.

As penance for staying attached to all this crap, I spent a GORGEOUS day mostly inside sorting through clothes because I wanted to finish this project before going on vacation next week. But I met my stretch goal of all work clothes in my two foot wide closet!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on April 14, 2014, 09:57:56 AM
Lol I don't think I understand how to hang pants in order to keep the seam, but since I usually stuff my pants in a pannier anyway it's probably a lost cause.

In case you're interested, youtube to the rescue.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_YdPNWvXOI

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on April 27, 2014, 03:22:32 AM
I am trying to get back into decluttering again as I have fallen off the wagon.:)

I have been moving furniture around to make the space a bit less cluttered and just put stuff (I want to keep) away in drawers or cupboards to make everything look more tidy. My house is small, about 600 sq feet I think, so everything needs to be put away to look tidy.

I am trying to use up toiletries instead of just storing them. It shows I don't need to buy certain products again as I don't use them.

I threw away some old earrings yesterday too as they have bent out of shape for some reason, I suspect it happened when one of my dogs jumped against my ear!



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on April 27, 2014, 06:05:20 AM
I dug out my two old laptops (one of them from 1997!) and took them to a recycling place today. Next stop, my old games consoles, and then my misc electronics. I think I'll be moving to a cheaper place this year and I want to have as little junk to carry as possible!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on April 27, 2014, 06:13:35 AM
My house is small, about 600 sq feet I think, so everything needs to be put away to look tidy.

Yeah I know what that's like! My apartment is small, so anything lying around looks pretty obvious.

I think I'll be moving to a cheaper place this year and I want to have as little junk to carry as possible!

Hello, fellow Melburnian! I can totally relate to this as I am moving interstate later this year, and I reeaaally need to cut down my possessions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on April 27, 2014, 08:05:39 AM
Hi! Are you moving Melbourne to Perth? A friend of mine moved over there for work and earns a nice 1.5x what he was earning here. Good luck there!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on April 27, 2014, 08:10:34 AM
Hi! Are you moving Melbourne to Perth? A friend of mine moved over there for work and earns a nice 1.5x what he was earning here. Good luck there!

Sort of. I'm moving my belongings to Perth but then will be travelling around Asia for several months, after which we'll return to Perth and think about what to do next. More details in my journal if you're interested. ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on April 27, 2014, 08:25:51 AM
I'll check it out! Have you ever read Magic Travel Blog (http://www.magictravelblog.com)? It's about two Perthians who travel around SE Asia for long stretches, with budget information and advice for frugal travelers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on April 27, 2014, 08:38:26 AM
I don't think I have - thanks for the link! I had a quick look, I'm about to go to bed but I'll read more when I have time. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Wolf_Stache on April 27, 2014, 09:48:09 AM
Sold three pairs of shoes that I no longer wear on ebay! Made 50 bucks with just an hours work to list them.

Now to list all those card games I never play...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on April 27, 2014, 11:06:52 AM
I have been trying to to stay ahead of the clutter wave, with some success, but it's hard to stem the tide of baby-related things entering the house.  It's like we're in the neap tide of accumulation season.  I'm hopeful that once the little bugger arrives we'll get a better handle on what should stay and what can go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abuzzyisawesome on April 27, 2014, 01:48:24 PM
Cleaning out craft supplies and selling some items - I have been clearing out stock and making wreaths with what I have accumulated. Sold 5 so far in two weeks. I think I have enough materials to make 2 or 3 more. Sold my treadmill (got a gym membership for $19.99 a month up the street from my office). Seems anti-mustachian, but my treadmill was out in a converted garage with no temp control, had no room for it in the house and last month water got into the room, narrowly avoiding ruining the treadmill. So, out it went. It feels great to have more space and to be able to organize.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 27, 2014, 03:58:31 PM
Got rid of a box of papers at the dump this weekend.

Today I brought over to a friend's 2 yo twins a few items from the boxes my mom dropped off from my childhood, all HUGE hits, so I was pretty pleased with that (even though one item already broken when the toddler tripped and fell, creating huge waterfalls).  Another was even requested to join in the crib for naptime.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dweebyhawkeyes on April 27, 2014, 05:19:25 PM
I am moving out of my childhood home into a tiny apartment soon! Meaning I have a lifetime's worth of stuff in this room and need to pare it down dramatically. I'm thinking of dedicating an entire day to boxing up "the essentials" and then being violent and unforgiving in donating/dumping the remainder. Does anybody have suggestions from their experience moving out?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on April 27, 2014, 06:57:23 PM
I am moving out of my childhood home into a tiny apartment soon! Meaning I have a lifetime's worth of stuff in this room and need to pare it down dramatically. I'm thinking of dedicating an entire day to boxing up "the essentials" and then being violent and unforgiving in donating/dumping the remainder. Does anybody have suggestions from their experience moving out?

Start today - the process of getting rid of half of what you own takes far more time than you think!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 09, 2014, 02:17:07 AM
I'm thinking about selling off a bunch of clothing on Gumtree (sort of Australian's version of Craigslist). These are pretty good brands and still in like new condition. Is it better, for example, to just price everything at $5 and see if people snap them up? Or should I price everything at $10 but say that the price is negotiable (and in the end they might still end up paying $5, which I don't mind but it has the bonus effect that they'll be happier to negotiate and then think they got a bargain)? Just trying to suss out what sort of tactic works better to get buyers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on May 09, 2014, 12:17:01 PM
I am absolutely getting the urge to clear out my closet again. The problem is, I don't feel good just chunking some of this stuff.... but I'm too busy to post up stuff and sell it on ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 09, 2014, 12:45:04 PM
I'm thinking about selling off a bunch of clothing on Gumtree (sort of Australian's version of Craigslist). These are pretty good brands and still in like new condition. Is it better, for example, to just price everything at $5 and see if people snap them up? Or should I price everything at $10 but say that the price is negotiable (and in the end they might still end up paying $5, which I don't mind but it has the bonus effect that they'll be happier to negotiate and then think they got a bargain)? Just trying to suss out what sort of tactic works better to get buyers.

Depends - what are others pricing it at?  You want to price at the average of everyone else or a bit below others, in order to get interest.  Keep in mind clothing is traditionally harder to sell than things like desks or bureaus.  I'd also avoid saying price is negotiable - if people want to bargain, they will ask you if that's the case.  No need to offer it up in advance.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 09, 2014, 06:39:04 PM
Depends - what are others pricing it at?  You want to price at the average of everyone else or a bit below others, in order to get interest.  Keep in mind clothing is traditionally harder to sell than things like desks or bureaus.  I'd also avoid saying price is negotiable - if people want to bargain, they will ask you if that's the case.  No need to offer it up in advance.

Good points. Pricing varies, and with Gumtree, unlike eBay, I wouldn't know if they are successful or not. So I'm actually using the prices of successfully sold items on eBay as guidelines. Yeah, clothing is harder to sell these days, even the better brands, especially compared to years ago. Good for buyers, not so good for sellers!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on May 20, 2014, 01:55:35 PM
I just counted and I have 25 pairs of shoes.  25!!!!!   Embarrassingly, this is after getting rid of several pairs, as well. 

1 pair gold/tan flats
1 pair black flats

1 pair black sandals
1 pair brown gladiator sandals

1 pair yellow open-toe heels
1 pair black closed toe heels
1 pair purple closed toe heels
1 pair blue strappy heels (painful, but they are my go-to summer wedding shoes)

1 pair "nice" flip flops
1 pair "shower" flip flops

1 pair tall brown boots
1 pair black cowboy boots (don't fit well, plan to replace these with a better pair of black boots)
1 pair brown ankle boots

1 pair LL Bean boots
1 pair Hunter rain boots
1 pair fashiony snow boots (currently packed away)

1 pair Keen sandals
1 pair Sperrys
1 pair around town low-profile cute sneakers (beat up but versatile)
1 pair Danskos
2 pair running shoes (I no longer run)

1 pair lifting shoes
1 pair paddock boots (for actual horse riding)
1 pair cycling shoes


I think I'm going to toss the yellow open-toe heels, because casual types of heels do not fit into my lifestyle/walking talents, and definitely the shower flip flops.  I don't belong to a gym or anything that would require shower flip flops, and if I ever need them I can buy them for $1. 

The black and purple heels I need to hang on to for work.  Technically I could probably let the purple ones go but they are much more comfortable and I am not ready to do that yet.  The other flats and sandals I wear often to work.

I may own too many boots but I love every pair.

Basically my shoe problem is the same as my wardrobe problem (which has come a long way!!!) -- but I have the hardest time dumping either comfort wear or technical wear.  I love it when clothes and shoes effectively fight the elements or are just really really comfortable. 

Anyway, I am mostly posting to see if I will get encouragement to drop one of the two pairs of running shoes, since I no longer run.  I need to hang on to one pair for physical therapy/ whenever I get into a random cross training mood, but two is probably overkill.  I justify both because the cuter pair, which is the pair I usually grab, are minimalist and therefore the other pair is technically probably better for cross training.  Both pairs are in great shape and a running store helped me pick out the more supportive pair....not that I run anymore. 


LOL wait I forgot I keep 3 pairs of shoes at work.  Soooo make that 28 pairs.  I am so embarrassed.  At least these don't add to the clutter at home!!!

1 pair black Clarks -- a good all-around shoe, kept at work so I don't have to always carry shoes on my bike commute
1 pair tall suede brown boots -- don't REALLY zip up all the way but sometimes I wear them anyway, especially if I biked in with sandals and get cold
1 pair black clogs -- in case I'm in a dress or something and forgot shoes

I swear to god I don't even consider myself a shoe person!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on May 20, 2014, 01:58:53 PM
@fallstoclimb:  do you have a base color for your wardrobe?  Black, gray, brown, blue, etc. - a neutral that everything else works with?  I ask because your shoe list makes it seem like you have the rainbow in your closet when in reality you probably reach for the same two or three tones/colors most days . . . . if you focus on the colors that you look best in, the shoe choices should narrow accordingly!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on May 20, 2014, 02:02:22 PM
Well, with the exception of the purple and yellow heels, most my shoes are black or brown.  Isn't that normal?  I'm not great with base colors but I have found life simpler when I have both black and brown shoe options -- I got really frustrated not having work appropriate black boots, and was frustrated before I had the brown sandals. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on May 20, 2014, 02:07:12 PM
Well, with the exception of the purple and yellow heels, most my shoes are black or brown.  Isn't that normal?  I'm not great with base colors but I have found life simpler when I have both black and brown shoe options -- I got really frustrated not having work appropriate black boots, and was frustrated before I had the brown sandals.

Right, but how many of your clothes can you wear with both the black and the brown shoes?  That's the root cause.  I don't own any khakis, brown skirts/pants, navy or things that don't go with black shoes* because I don't really look good in the above colors.  The result is that I don't need brown shoes at all and I've eliminated a chunk of clothes that didn't really look good on me to start with. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 20, 2014, 02:07:46 PM
Fallstoclimb, first, I think we all tend to have more shoes than we think we do because of "specialization."  For example, I have a pair of: soccer, softball, water (kayaking), water (sailing), dancing (West Coast swing - foolish purchase) and hiking shoes...  And I haven't gotten rid of my softball shoes, even though I haven't played in 7 years or the dancing shoes I have only worn once since buying 7 years ago.  Yet, I call myself "not a shoe person" because I wear the same pair of work shoes day in and day out. 

I'd cull by the following:
- fit (don't wear something that doesn't fit)
- if worn out
- ones that you don't wear/like

It's ok to keep 2 that do the same job as long as you wear both (and you don't want to throw away a pair and then buy another later to replace the wornout first).  Mostly I'd advice mindful buying in the future.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on May 20, 2014, 02:27:42 PM
It's ok to keep 2 that do the same job as long as you wear both (and you don't want to throw away a pair and then buy another later to replace the wornout first). Mostly I'd advice mindful buying in the future.

Yes, absolutely to this.  Thankfully at this point the only shoe I think I need is a decent pair of black boots, probably something ankle height that can be worn with pants or a skirt.  Any other shoe purchases will strictly be of the replacing, one-in one-out variety.  I really hate shopping so I am unclear as to exactly when I acquired all of these shoes.  I think a lot of my wardrobe-clutter problems are due to feeling completely overwhelmed by how to dress professionally, which was a problem for me in my early 20s -- luckily I've more or less figured it out now. 

I've talked myself into boxing up the brown boots that don't quite fit, the extra running shoes, and the black flats which honestly I don't really like, with a date ~ 6 months in the future, and donating them on that date without opening the box.  I don't usually feel like I need to resort to such measures, but, 28 pairs. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on May 20, 2014, 06:51:16 PM
I just counted and I have 25 pairs of shoes.  25!!!!!   Embarrassingly, this is after getting rid of several pairs, as well. 

My wife's uncle owned a shoe store.  They got shoes at below cost a lot of time.  As in her mom paid for them.  It started a bad shoe habit.

She might be down to 40 or 45 now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on May 21, 2014, 03:57:27 AM
I should do this too!

I've got a bunch of old electrical stuff (including an espresso machine), some furniture, and some computer bits that I no longer use. Should just be rid of them :)

I moved a couple of times a year or so ago and there was an awful lot of stuff accumulated from the place (I was in a sharehouse where everyone was leaving). I've got rid of some of it, some of it is in cupboards, and some of it is at my parents' place.

Problem is that some of the stuff is hard to sell. There's only so many people after a USB DAC or old hi-fi equipment :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 21, 2014, 04:01:09 AM
Problem is that some of the stuff is hard to sell. There's only so many people after a USB DAC or old hi-fi equipment :(

You might have to sell them for very cheap or even give them away for free. I would love to make more money out of my stuff but I'm beginning to come to terms with the fact that sometimes it's just easier to donate or freecycle, especially if you just really want to get rid of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on May 21, 2014, 04:11:21 AM
Problem is that some of the stuff is hard to sell. There's only so many people after a USB DAC or old hi-fi equipment :(

You might have to sell them for very cheap or even give them away for free. I would love to make more money out of my stuff but I'm beginning to come to terms with the fact that sometimes it's just easier to donate or freecycle, especially if you just really want to get rid of them.

I know, but it's quite hard to give something away when I paid hundreds for it back in the day :(

Maybe I'll go on an eBay rampage this weekend, and at least go through the stuff in plastic tubs in my cupboards/under my bed. I'm sure some of it can be dumped/sold.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 21, 2014, 04:19:36 AM
List them a few times on eBay or Gumtree first, and if it doesn't sell after a while and you get tired of putting up the ads over and over again, then you can give it away. The other thing I've heard some people do is get a stall at Camberwell Market, you can share a stall with a friend to split the stall rental cost, though I don't know what kind of stuff sells well there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on May 21, 2014, 05:33:12 AM
List them a few times on eBay or Gumtree first, and if it doesn't sell after a while and you get tired of putting up the ads over and over again, then you can give it away. The other thing I've heard some people do is get a stall at Camberwell Market, you can share a stall with a friend to split the stall rental cost, though I don't know what kind of stuff sells well there.

Not a bad idea. Most of the stereo equipment is still at my parents' place, so I probably won't sell it for a while, but I could sell some other things first.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sleepyguy on May 22, 2014, 09:00:55 AM
Made some more ground last week!  Donated and setup 4 pcs for a local NFP daycare.  3 full boxes of cloths to  donation bin.

Sadly I still got TONS more stuff to shuffle through.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 22, 2014, 01:00:55 PM
Made some more ground last week!  Donated and setup 4 pcs for a local NFP daycare.  3 full boxes of cloths to  donation bin.

Sadly I still got TONS more stuff to shuffle through.

Just focus on the progress you've already made!  You're ahead of where you were, and I bet it feels great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 22, 2014, 11:52:32 PM
I have a small fridge, the freezer seems to work fine but the fridge is a bit inconclusive. Reckon there's any chance of getting money from it? I'm thinking there may be handy people who won't mind getting it for a super cheap price and fixing it up, but then again they might just only want to pick up the ones that are completely free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JT on May 23, 2014, 03:02:19 AM
Right! That's all the hint I need!

In the boot of my car are some clothes gathered together for charity. 

This weekend, I shall find a charity bin and drop them in.

Thanks for the thread!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: deborah on May 23, 2014, 03:48:29 AM
I have a small fridge, the freezer seems to work fine but the fridge is a bit inconclusive. Reckon there's any chance of getting money from it? I'm thinking there may be handy people who won't mind getting it for a super cheap price and fixing it up, but then again they might just only want to pick up the ones that are completely free.
I have been offered several like this for free in the past, so I guess completely free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 23, 2014, 04:08:36 AM
Thanks, deborah - I figured that would probably be the easier way to go, too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on May 23, 2014, 06:41:22 AM
I have a small fridge, the freezer seems to work fine but the fridge is a bit inconclusive. Reckon there's any chance of getting money from it? I'm thinking there may be handy people who won't mind getting it for a super cheap price and fixing it up, but then again they might just only want to pick up the ones that are completely free.
Put it at the end of your driveway (if you live someplace that people drive past of course) with a sign on it that says $20.  It will disappear :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 23, 2014, 06:58:36 AM
Put it at the end of your driveway (if you live someplace that people drive past of course) with a sign on it that says $20.  It will disappear :-)

Haha, and will there be a $20 note in its place or not?

I live in an apartment block, and we aren't allowed to put stuff out on the sidewalk I don't think... though some people still do it.

Anyway I've put it up on Gumtree giving it away for free, and within like 5 minutes, 2 people have expressed interest! Maybe I should have at least put a $5 tag on it. ;)  Still, pretty happy anyhow, someone who's willing to take it and fix it must be in some ways quite MMM in their approach to life. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sobezen on May 23, 2014, 11:38:48 AM
Recently moved so sold the bedframe, mattress, boxspring, dresser, desk, sofa, dining table, bookcases, carpets and lamps.  Working on reducing some clothes that have outlived me (suits in particular).  Also discovered some of the childhood items command a nice premium, so it is time for them to find new homes.  Oh, finally pulling the trigger and selling the electronics (dvds and phones) and books (oh boy, really amassed a good collection) too.  Once these are gone anywhere I live will become a spacious castle!  Yippie!  Minimalism certainly has its benefits.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 24, 2014, 07:26:54 PM
Welcome, sobezen, and well done!

Also, I finally got rid of that fridge. It didn't take long, but it was frustrating because of the typical fickle, lazy, unreliable Gumtree sorts. I set a time and day with someone and they didn't show up and didn't even text me to tell me. I've had similar happen before as well. So discourteous.

But, now I have gotten rid of the fridge with someone who is a man of his word, he's a nice bloke, he arrived on time, he refurbishes fridges and washing machines for a living which I think is an admirable job because it reduces waste in the community, so...

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA PEEPS:

If you just want to get rid of any fridges, washing machines or scrap metal and don't care about getting money in return, you can have this guy come and get it and you won't have to pay him to remove it for you either. PM me if you would like his number.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 25, 2014, 12:47:39 AM
Well done lime and pepper!

I've been steadily working through craft projects so I can have a nice clear craft room. Got 1 crocheted rug finished! I did start a new one as a gift for a friend who's having a baby soon, but that is coming along quickly and has a clear end date (the baby shower).

Cleaned out the bathroom today, we've been steadily working through our excess stuff and I've been keeping a close eye on what we actually use so we don't buy stuff that will just sit around. It's so much easier to clean with less clutter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on May 25, 2014, 04:02:26 AM
Cleaned out the bathroom today, we've been steadily working through our excess stuff and I've been keeping a close eye on what we actually use so we don't buy stuff that will just sit around. It's so much easier to clean with less clutter!

Good job, I'm hoping to reach that stage. Right now my bedroom looks like it has been hit by a tornado. I'm just telling myself that things have to get worse before they get better, it's always darkest before dawn, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on May 25, 2014, 02:21:16 PM
Cleaned out the bathroom today, we've been steadily working through our excess stuff and I've been keeping a close eye on what we actually use so we don't buy stuff that will just sit around. It's so much easier to clean with less clutter!

Good job, I'm hoping to reach that stage. Right now my bedroom looks like it has been hit by a tornado. I'm just telling myself that things have to get worse before they get better, it's always darkest before dawn, etc.
It often takes me several times through to really clean excess clutter out.  I take solace from having even one drawer, or table top or closet shelf that I have cleaned off and can look at as the glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on May 26, 2014, 05:27:06 PM
Put it at the end of your driveway (if you live someplace that people drive past of course) with a sign on it that says $20.  It will disappear :-)

Haha, and will there be a $20 note in its place or not?
Lol, no, that's the point!  If you put a sign that says free people think it is broken and won't take it, but if you put a price on it then they will just take it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tmac on May 27, 2014, 05:40:12 AM
We're moving in 20 days and have just made the decision to seriously cull our belongings. There are five of us. If the stuff doesn't fit in the minivan, small pick-up, or rental trailer, it's not coming. Looking forward to a clean and streamlined new house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on May 27, 2014, 06:23:02 AM
We took about 5 small bags to Goodwill over the weekend - odds and ends and things that haven't been touched, plus a few clothing items that had been in the "Donate" pile for far too long.  A few less things to look at!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on June 02, 2014, 12:13:19 PM
I posted in here once, quite a while ago, about my desire to clear out stuff, both for the mental freedom and because we'll be moving soon, most likely to a smaller place.  (We're currently in about 880 sq ft, plus some garage space.)  And then I didn't do anything.  Over the weekend, however, I FINALLY got off my butt.  For some reason, was really just feeling like this had to get started.
The first thing is that my husband and I were talking about my desk.  I said that if we move to a smaller place, we could get rid of that and I could make do with something else for my computer.  He said, "If we move, that desk probably won't live through transport."  He's right.  So I went through the drawers which are falling apart and which I've just stuck "important" papers into without ever looking at them again, mostly because the drawers are falling apart and difficult/chancy to open.  I consolidated all of our "important" stuff into two small file folders: one has all the actual documents we need, like passports, social security cards, tax files, car stuff, medical info, etc.  The other has all of our manuals and warranties for things.  That's it!  I tend not to keep many papers anyway, but still got a nice big box full of recycling and biked about 2/3 of a ream of paper to work today to be shredded.  :)  Now we just need to get to work on making sure the few things that don't come through email start to, so that we can reduce paper even more.
I found 2 old (broken) cell phones and two old (broken) cameras which I left in the desk out of lethargy, because there's no good e-recycling around here so I didn't know what to do with them.  But we're visiting my family in Seattle this summer so I've got them sitting on my desk to remind me to take them down there for recycling.
I looked through my book collection with an eye toward what I actually value.  As in, if (when) we move out of state (probably next year), which of these would I actually think are worth taking?  I didn't get rid of too many, but some is better than none.  The silly part: I sold them to our local bookstore and the credit I got can be used half cash/half credit on any used books.  So I'll end up buying some more books, but I'm going to get some more children's books to read to my daughter.  I'm on a mission to find at least one book which has a dad who's not a completely incompetent ass (harder than you'd believe).
My projects for this week: Clean that skirt I wanted to sell to the consignment shop (it has one small spot on it that just needs to be sponged off) and put it in a pile with the pants that fit, but which I never wear because they look weird on me.  I need to remind myself that if I haven't worn them often in the 4 years I've had them (or more?) I won't start wearing them now.  I already got my husband to go through his "nice" pants and figure out which is the pair that actually fits.  The other two are going to Value Village, most likely along with a few kitchen items.
Finally, there's a winter clothing drive box in my building at work.  I've been hanging onto a coat for years as my "spare" winter coat.  Then I realized, I have plenty of spare winter coats.  We'll be fine.  So that one is getting donated.  (I went through hats/gloves/scarves last winter, so I know those are fine.)

For those of you getting rid of CDs/DVDs or just the cases, don't forget your local libraries!  I believe donations are tax deductible, and they really will take just the cases since so many of theirs get damaged so frequently.  Also, anywhere that has an archives section (like an academic library) would probably love empty CDs and cases.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Angie55 on June 02, 2014, 01:41:06 PM
Any advice in getting rid of burned DVD's and CD's? We have hundreds and I do not want to buy anything to shred them. Also, I need a way to destroy them in bulk not individually.  I don't want any legality issues of throwing them directly in the trash due to their content.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: eldred on June 02, 2014, 01:46:11 PM
Recently moved so sold the bedframe, mattress, boxspring, dresser, desk, sofa, dining table, bookcases, carpets and lamps.  Working on reducing some clothes that have outlived me (suits in particular).  Also discovered some of the childhood items command a nice premium, so it is time for them to find new homes.  Oh, finally pulling the trigger and selling the electronics (dvds and phones) and books (oh boy, really amassed a good collection) too.  Once these are gone anywhere I live will become a spacious castle!  Yippie!  Minimalism certainly has its benefits.  :)

How are you getting rid of your stuff?  I have books, DVDs and CDs I'm trying to sell.  I've used Amazon, Ebay, Craigslist, Half.com, and Ecrater.  Nobody is buying, even at $1 per book, $1-2 for CDs and $2-5 for DVDs...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on June 02, 2014, 02:03:45 PM


How are you getting rid of your stuff?  I have books, DVDs and CDs I'm trying to sell.  I've used Amazon, Ebay, Craigslist, Half.com, and Ecrater.  Nobody is buying, even at $1 per book, $1-2 for CDs and $2-5 for DVDs...

I recently packed up a bunch of CDs and sent them to Abundatrade.  Free shipping.

I sent some to Zumu also (Zumu promised me more than Abundatrade for a few of them), but my package (with a shipping label supplied by them!) supposedly got lost.  And their customer service basically just refused to answer my questions.  So I would steer clear of Zumu.

But I had a good experience with Abundatrade.

As for burned CDs and DVDs, I have no ideas for you, Angie55.  :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on June 02, 2014, 02:56:03 PM
Any advice in getting rid of burned DVD's and CD's? We have hundreds and I do not want to buy anything to shred them. Also, I need a way to destroy them in bulk not individually.  I don't want any legality issues of throwing them directly in the trash due to their content.
Can you just break them in half, then toss them?  Or scratch up the backs?  I've also heard that a few seconds in the microwave totally destroys cd's, but that sounds potentially dangerous.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Insanity on June 02, 2014, 06:25:20 PM
Any advice in getting rid of burned DVD's and CD's? We have hundreds and I do not want to buy anything to shred them. Also, I need a way to destroy them in bulk not individually.  I don't want any legality issues of throwing them directly in the trash due to their content.
Can you just break them in half, then toss them?  Or scratch up the backs?  I've also heard that a few seconds in the microwave totally destroys cd's, but that sounds potentially dangerous.

I wouldn't do hundreds of them in a microwave.  Unless it isn't your microwave and no one will know it was you.

You could just break them with a hammer, I have done that.  A lot easier than scratching them up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dweebyhawkeyes on June 02, 2014, 11:24:51 PM
Any advice in getting rid of burned DVD's and CD's? We have hundreds and I do not want to buy anything to shred them. Also, I need a way to destroy them in bulk not individually.  I don't want any legality issues of throwing them directly in the trash due to their content.
Can you just break them in half, then toss them?  Or scratch up the backs?  I've also heard that a few seconds in the microwave totally destroys cd's, but that sounds potentially dangerous.

I wouldn't do hundreds of them in a microwave.  Unless it isn't your microwave and no one will know it was you.

You could just break them with a hammer, I have done that.  A lot easier than scratching them up.
Invite your friends over to smash stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on June 07, 2014, 12:48:41 AM
My fiance and I are both preparing for his post-marriage move overseas to be with me in Korea. He has to sort through his things, purge, store keepsakes and other miscellaneous items, and pack up his life in limited luggage. I have to purge because it will make me feel better about accumulating another person and his belongings (although we will be moving to a larger "couples" apartment--university housing), and it's always nice to do a purge!

So we agreed upon this challenge: get rid of one item per day until I leave for California on July 31. We chose a nice even number of 55, and I set up a Google doc for us to keep each other accountable.

The rules: one thing per day must be dealt with (sold, given away, donated, recycled, trashed). We must stay on track or ahead. If we do more than one thing a day, we'll just put it on the next day. Finished when we're at 7/31.

So far I've cleaned out 1.5 drawers completely! Most of this involves moving books, papers, folders, etc. to my office on campus rather than storing them here, but hey--gone's gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tmac on June 07, 2014, 12:55:50 PM
Yard sale done! Our living room was packed full of stuff, piled high. We sold most of it and delivered the rest to Goodwill. We also sold our old pick-up truck and lawn tractor. Thank god that's over.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on June 08, 2014, 07:49:38 AM
I was lying in bed last night tossing and turning and thinking about the things I had just purged that day (mostly costume jewelery) when I realized I have way too many towels, many of which are old and I don't use. I also have a bag (paper, plastic and cloth) hoarding problem. So this morning I got rid of tons of bags and put aside 3 or 4 towels for Goodwill (have to see if they take them). I love purging!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dr.Vibrissae on June 08, 2014, 08:50:46 AM
I was lying in bed last night tossing and turning and thinking about the things I had just purged that day (mostly costume jewelery) when I realized I have way too many towels, many of which are old and I don't use. I also have a bag (paper, plastic and cloth) hoarding problem. So this morning I got rid of tons of bags and put aside 3 or 4 towels for Goodwill (have to see if they take them). I love purging!
Our local animal shelter is always looking for towels or other linens and bedding items.  That might be a good place to offer them (they are not picky about condition.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on June 09, 2014, 12:17:55 AM
Ditto the animal shelter or animal rescues.  They'd love to have old towels/blankets.

I need to get back at this.  I have two saddles that need to be sold, and probably a few other things worthy of ebaying.  Came across my computer from grad school this weekend and really need to just destroy the harddrive and get rid of the thing.  The paper clutter is starting to build again, and I need to think about pruning a few books and magazines.

Got rid of a ton of stuff and Christmas and haven't given it a second though since them, so there's got to be more around here that can go without being missed.  Ought to have the time to tackle it soon, now that the intensive garden work season is drawing to to a close.  Need to broach the subject of the motorcycle helmet and saddlebags for the bike DH no longer owns, or they'll be here forever.  Towards my end, I think I'll Ebay the antique Singer Featherweight I've been carting around for the past 20 years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on June 15, 2014, 07:10:42 PM
I was lying in bed last night tossing and turning and thinking about the things I had just purged that day (mostly costume jewelery) when I realized I have way too many towels, many of which are old and I don't use. I also have a bag (paper, plastic and cloth) hoarding problem. So this morning I got rid of tons of bags and put aside 3 or 4 towels for Goodwill (have to see if they take them). I love purging!
Our local animal shelter is always looking for towels or other linens and bedding items.  That might be a good place to offer them (they are not picky about condition.)

Thanks, Dr.Viebrissae! That is a great idea.

Yesterday I cleaned out the pantry and took items that I don't eat regularly to a family party where different members were happy to receive my panko breadcrumbs, Quaker Oats, jasmine rice, etc.  I really should get rid of all of my baking supplies. I haven't baked in more than two years. Think those items are up next for disposal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NV Teacher on June 15, 2014, 07:23:03 PM
I have a small fridge, the freezer seems to work fine but the fridge is a bit inconclusive. Reckon there's any chance of getting money from it? I'm thinking there may be handy people who won't mind getting it for a super cheap price and fixing it up, but then again they might just only want to pick up the ones that are completely free.
Put it at the end of your driveway (if you live someplace that people drive past of course) with a sign on it that says $20.  It will disappear :-)

My mother does this quite often in the summer but with a free sign.  It's amazing that people will stop and haul away our junk for free.  Way better than us having to drag it to the dump.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NV Teacher on June 15, 2014, 07:27:03 PM
Now that school is out for the summer I've had some time to clean out.  I made $160 this week selling some old crafting supplies on ebay.  A little money in my pocket and some clean space in my craft room.  I'd say that's a double win for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 04, 2014, 03:37:54 AM
The big move is at the end of this month, so I'm truly getting rid of stuff in earnest now.

Today, sold a microwave to a nice Taiwanese guy for $15, got to have a friendly conversation in Mandarin too, which is awesome as I don't have many people to speak to in languages other than English.

Tomorrow, someone is coming over to pick up my kick scooter for $100. It's a fabulous scooter that is so well-designed and so much fun to ride, and I'm sad to see it go, but at this stage it doesn't really make sense to take it with me interstate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on July 04, 2014, 09:29:48 AM
I inherited 5 big boxes of my dad's genealogy research (he was not much of a computer user, so it's all on paper and index cards). This was about 25 years of research. I am trying to scan about 1 box a week so I can get rid of the paper and keep everything in pdf's. The trickiest part is figuring out how to organize it on the computer. There is a LOT of correspondence between him and other genealogy hobbyists, and the letters are about several families, so I will have to file some letters in multiple folders.

Also I have an IKEA Poang chair and an IKEA rolling file cabinet I want to post on Craigslist. July is a great time to sell used furniture in Houston because so many new med students, residents, and fellows are starting training at the Texas Medical Center at the same time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 05, 2014, 06:52:40 PM
Tomorrow, someone is coming over to pick up my kick scooter for $100.

This happened yesterday.

And an hour ago, someone came to pick up an oscillating pedestal fan for $5.

TV stand, bedside table and lamp haven't received any promising responses yet. Might have to re-post.

Also should start selling off the really big items soon.

I would kind of like to keep the fridge and washing machine for at least another couple of weeks though as I'm still using them. I wonder how quickly I could get rid of them? Ideally I'd offload it during the last week if they're popular items that are easy to sell.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on July 05, 2014, 07:37:47 PM
Good work everyone!!

I decluttered A LOT when I moved earlier this year, but I am starting to get the urge to purge again. Planning to take a look some time this week and see where I can start to weed. I have some rather embarrassing luxury clothing items (they were gifts!!) that I just never wear, but have felt bad about selling them because they were gifts and SO EXPENSIVE. I need to be realistic about my lifestyle go and think about saying goodbye to these things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 06, 2014, 06:03:31 AM
I have some rather embarrassing luxury clothing items (they were gifts!!) that I just never wear, but have felt bad about selling them because they were gifts and SO EXPENSIVE. I need to be realistic about my lifestyle go and think about saying goodbye to these things.

I know what you mean. I have clothing that I hold on to, though mine are not necessarily expensive, but I rarely wear them and the main reason I keep them is for sentimental value. Sigh. At least there aren't too many of those items. Maybe I should just wear them more often, that way I don't feel bad. ;)

TV stand, bedside table and lamp haven't received any promising responses yet. Might have to re-post.

Very happy because I did end up selling off the bedside table and lamp today, after all; and the lady who picked it up decided she'd like the shoe rack as well, so she took that too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 10, 2014, 05:22:41 AM
Sold an office chair and a couch this evening, after putting up leaflets in my apartment block. I was surprised by how quickly people responded. I think I actually sold the couch too cheaply and I'm kicking myself a bit for that, but still, it's a relief to get it out of the way, and it was so hassle-free because it went to my neighbour across the hallway so we didn't even have to lug it up or down any stairs!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on July 10, 2014, 06:57:55 AM
I've finished the big donation runs but find a couple things about every other day or so to add to another slowly-growing donation pile.  I am definitely one who feels tied down by stuff and I am finding it so freeing to be offloading, even though we have plenty of space for things.

Does anyone have any advice for stopping inlaws from getting us junk?  I know I should probably just have a frank talk with them, but my mother in law LOVES shopping at craft shows and will be so disappointed when we tell her we don't want that crap anymore....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Doomspark on July 10, 2014, 08:43:58 AM
I'm trying to downsize / reorganize a little.

I'm going through our bookshelves and collecting books we don't want any more.  They're all being moved to one shelf.  When it gets full, I'll take the books down to the local library and donate them.

One major undertaking is going to be the computer room.  I have 4 non-functioning laptops and 6 non-functional desktop PCs that I need to either repair or dispose of.  I'm thinking of hauling them down to the local mom & pop computer store and seeing how much store credit I can get for them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 10, 2014, 10:44:25 AM
I've finished the big donation runs but find a couple things about every other day or so to add to another slowly-growing donation pile.  I am definitely one who feels tied down by stuff and I am finding it so freeing to be offloading, even though we have plenty of space for things.

Does anyone have any advice for stopping inlaws from getting us junk?  I know I should probably just have a frank talk with them, but my mother in law LOVES shopping at craft shows and will be so disappointed when we tell her we don't want that crap anymore....

Let your husband talk to them after he's had a few adult beverages and tell them not to give any more useless crap?  This is what my husband did with my aunt who loves giving horrid gifts.  On one bookshelf we have the one-of-a-kind custom art piece that we refer to as the "pubic hair horse".  I don't know if she thought he was joking when he said that, but the gifting has definitely tapered.  Seriously, it probably depends on the personalities and emotions involved, but maybe you could phrase it as: "we're really trying to go for a minimalistic household to streamline our lifestyle" or something like that.

This weekend I'm planning to get back to work on selling a couple saddles and other horse gear.  I also think I'm going to list my great aunt's Singer Featherweight for sale, and just see if I can do a general purge of some odds and ends.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on July 11, 2014, 05:47:59 PM
Just dropped a bag and a half of clothing off at a thrift shop. Woohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on July 12, 2014, 10:14:03 AM
I sold an IKEA Poang chair for $50 and a small file cabinet for $20 on Craigslist this week. Also I scanned about 1/4 of a box of genealogy research I inherited from my dad. I am taking some old paint to the hazardous waste recycle today and a bag of junky kids toys to Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on July 12, 2014, 02:04:12 PM
Wow--great work, BZB!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: palebluedot on July 12, 2014, 02:14:28 PM
Any advice in getting rid of burned DVD's and CD's? We have hundreds and I do not want to buy anything to shred them. Also, I need a way to destroy them in bulk not individually.  I don't want any legality issues of throwing them directly in the trash due to their content.

You can send them to this recycling center: http://www.cdrecyclingcenter.com/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boognish on July 14, 2014, 03:09:52 PM
I just moved into a 276 sq ft studio and am being forced to declutter. I'm finally letting go of crap I've been dragging around for years, feels good
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on July 15, 2014, 08:15:21 AM
Keep it going, folks... don't give up!

This week we got rid of an armchair (that we had rescued from a trash pile, so back in it goes). Also cleaned out our kid's bookshelf and got rid of 2 big boxes of books (going to a friend with little kids). Eliminated a dresser from the 3 girls' room, used that as an entertainment center and was able to eliminate our DVD shelf and 2 buckets of game controllers by repurposing the existing one. Also got rid of a small table we used to hold our printer.

On the down side, I did get a new writing desk, but it has hidden compartments, so I can store all my little computer-y things in it without them being out in the open. It's also the smallest writing desk I could find.

Son's room had two shelves of toys, we eliminated those and had him thin his stash of big toys that he's mostly outgrown. They will be going to another family.

So, progress! Was a busy week.

We're currently looking at replacing our kitchen cabinets... probably will do away with the dishwasher, since it doesn't work well and just takes up space. More cabinet space, and we can eliminate the 2 ugly pantry cabinets we're using.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on July 15, 2014, 09:15:58 AM
Keep it going, folks... don't give up!

This week we got rid of an armchair (that we had rescued from a trash pile, so back in it goes). Also cleaned out our kid's bookshelf and got rid of 2 big boxes of books (going to a friend with little kids). Eliminated a dresser from the 3 girls' room, used that as an entertainment center and was able to eliminate our DVD shelf and 2 buckets of game controllers by repurposing the existing one. Also got rid of a small table we used to hold our printer.

On the down side, I did get a new writing desk, but it has hidden compartments, so I can store all my little computer-y things in it without them being out in the open. It's also the smallest writing desk I could find.

Son's room had two shelves of toys, we eliminated those and had him thin his stash of big toys that he's mostly outgrown. They will be going to another family.

So, progress! Was a busy week.

We're currently looking at replacing our kitchen cabinets... probably will do away with the dishwasher, since it doesn't work well and just takes up space. More cabinet space, and we can eliminate the 2 ugly pantry cabinets we're using.
Wow!  I was just about to brag about getting rid of a box of clothing items, but I've been outdone.  Bravo! 

When we moved from a two bedroom to a one bedroom apartment, we got rid of a lot of stuff.  Unfortunately it wasn't enough.  We still have stuff overflowing and need to purge.  I'm going to attack our storage unit again (last trip was productive, but didn't dent the massive amount of stuff we have).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 15, 2014, 09:20:31 AM
Should probably join the thread, better late then never, right?

We bought our first house just over a year ago, now it looks like through some very unforeseen circumstances we could be facing another big move  to a new city. Not sure what the housing situation will look like for the next couple of years. We have collected an amazingly large amount of crap.

Much of it isn't ours, I believe I have at least half the supplies of our local art centre stored in my house so I'm tackling this first.  I have removed three large boxes so far.

We also were given a warning that we might have to evacuate due to several forest fires close to town so that definitely caused us to view everything in a new light (and has actually made it much easier to face getting rid of things) I went through several boxes of papers and got rid of a lot of them, added a couple of boxes of books to our sell/donate pile.

Right now I'm going through everything asking myself a couple of questions:
1. Do I want to move this item?
2. If I had to leave in the middle of the night, would I take this with me?
3. Is it replaceable? Would I run right out and buy it again if my house burned down?

The answer to the majority of stuff is "no" but sometimes the answers have surprised me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on July 15, 2014, 10:28:20 AM
I spent last night heavily weeding and reorganizing our file cabinet!! That job had been looming for ages, and it felt great to tick it off. It was a big job- our files were a complete disaster. I also hung up some pictures that were blocking easy access to the file cabinet, so now we can have a pleasant experience whenever we need to retrieve something or file something away!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on July 15, 2014, 10:39:51 AM
I spent last night heavily weeding and reorganizing our file cabinet!! That job had been looming for ages, and it felt great to tick it off. It was a big job- our files were a complete disaster. I also hung up some pictures that were blocking easy access to the file cabinet, so now we can have a pleasant experience whenever we need to retrieve something or file something away!

I think that of all things, organizing the files has been the most satisfying to me.  Going from 3 desk drawers stuffed with crap that I didn't want to deal with/didn't know what to do with down to 2 neatly organized file folders was blissful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on July 21, 2014, 11:50:15 PM
I must be the slowest declutterer ever, but I'm still at it sporadically bit by bit. Since we don't buy much other than food, groceries and key essentials, I must be making progress. Probably averaging 50 items a month - most of those are quite small. Went through my shoes to throw out any old ones and realised they were all old since I'm on a no buy clothes challenge and haven't bought shoes for over 2 years maybe even longer. Disposed of 1 pair.  Have a watch on two more pairs  of summer sandals which are in great condition because I don't wear them. If not worn next summer, they go!

Chucked out a shelf of Xmas lights, left over from DS's lighting phase. Not used in years and most didn't work when I checked so no loss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EarlyRetirementGuy on July 22, 2014, 08:56:31 AM
Bought our first house back in January and still have tonnes of boxes stashed away which havnt been opened since. Im of the opinion that if it hasnt been needed in the past 6 months, its unlikely to be needed much at all so better to get rid of most of it!

Will get some photos to track the de-cluttering journey for you all :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mike2 on July 22, 2014, 09:23:22 AM
My kitchen needs a serious decluttering.  I can't find my kitchen table, the pantry is full of stuff I don't eat anymore since I changed to eating a lot healthier, and a couple cabinets are just full of unused junk.  The kitchen has been bothering me more and more so I think I start on it this week.  It is going to be quite a project.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LalsConstant on July 22, 2014, 09:58:59 AM
I have been on a roll!  At least ten carloads gone and I have someone coming with a trailer to pick up even more.

A few things that are small and valuable I am going to keep until I have time to sell them on specialty websites.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on July 22, 2014, 10:06:21 AM
I've had a hankering to clean out the backs of shelves and odds and ends that stick around for one reason or another.  I'll probably scrape together a box of items and sell a few more.

I like to have lots of "breathing room" in shelves and any storage locations ;-)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Wolf_Stache on July 22, 2014, 09:21:57 PM
Anyone have any recommendations on how to digitize physical photo books? My mom mailed me THREE APPLE BOXES of photo albums! O.o
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 22, 2014, 10:16:14 PM
Anyone have any recommendations on how to digitize physical photo books? My mom mailed me THREE APPLE BOXES of photo albums! O.o
If they're photographs within albums, you should be able to take it to office works or your local equivalent and pay for them to scan the lot for you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on July 23, 2014, 05:15:24 AM
Anyone have any recommendations on how to digitize physical photo books? My mom mailed me THREE APPLE BOXES of photo albums! O.o

I've heard good reviews of Shutterfly - prints them in a book format with whatever layout you want.  You'd still have to digitize the actual photos . . . .  or at least the ones you want to keep.  Emphasis on the "the ones you want to keep".  Just because your mom gave them to you doesn't automatically mean they still have meaning and you have to tote them around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 23, 2014, 09:04:30 AM
Went through a box and a half of the latest pile my mom dropped off.  Sorted clothing and items into trash (bathing suits from 20 years ago do not hold their elasticity...), goodwill and keep.  Went through a big folder of papers, tossing most.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on July 23, 2014, 07:32:18 PM
My decluttering game of the moment is to declutter by date. For example, since today is the 23rd, I have to find 23 things to get rid of. For some reason that is more motivational to me than decluttering 15 minutes/day, or the same number of things/day. Weird, but I'll take any motivation I can get. I started this game on the 20th, so I have gotten rid of 86 things so far. Mostly I got rid of small things so I don't see much progress yet, but I will soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on July 24, 2014, 08:01:25 AM
BZB, that sounds like a really fun way to get rid of stuff.  I like it!  I might try it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 24, 2014, 08:13:14 AM
Went through a box and a half of the latest pile my mom dropped off.  Sorted clothing and items into trash (bathing suits from 20 years ago do not hold their elasticity...), goodwill and keep.  Went through a big folder of papers, tossing most.

Went through another half a box of papers, recycling most last night.  I'm trying to do a little each week.  Slow and steady will eventually get me through all of the remaining boxes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on July 25, 2014, 01:44:48 AM
I've decluttered a measly 1/2 a box the whole month of July. I still have a moving box from 4 1/2 years ago. Its up really high so I just keep not seeing it. Wish I could bring this up to my consciousness more often, but I get so consumed with the nitty gritty of life that I actually forget to declutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on July 25, 2014, 04:58:14 AM
Went through all of our papers and tossed about half (or rather put in the to-be-shredded pile).

Cleared out some clothes that had been on the chopping block for too long - a skirt that wrinkles, two pairs of inherited socks, and a dress that I'm always self conscious in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EK on July 25, 2014, 05:42:50 AM
I've had such an urge to declutter and finish some lingering projects, but no time to make it happen! Clutter in my house is very sneaky because it's not visible until you open a drawer or cabinet, or take a peek in a closet. I know it's there though and it makes me crazy!!

I have been squeezing in time here and there to read a wonderful book that I highly recommend to anyone in need of decluttering motivation- "The Joy of Less" by Francine Jay (aka Miss Minimalist).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trudie on July 25, 2014, 08:00:16 AM
My decluttering game of the moment is to declutter by date. For example, since today is the 23rd, I have to find 23 things to get rid of. For some reason that is more motivational to me than decluttering 15 minutes/day, or the same number of things/day. Weird, but I'll take any motivation I can get. I started this game on the 20th, so I have gotten rid of 86 things so far. Mostly I got rid of small things so I don't see much progress yet, but I will soon.

That's a really great idea!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on July 26, 2014, 10:28:25 AM
So far my decluttering by date game has worked really well, especially since we're in the big number side of the month. I found a bunch of old cleaners, spray paint bottles, and other toxic chemicals to take to the hazardous waste drop off today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 26, 2014, 01:40:49 PM
Today I am dealing with my sock tote, literally a large plastic tote FULL of socks that need to be matched...or turned into dog toys. It might swallow me whole....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Wolf_Stache on July 26, 2014, 03:42:47 PM
Just posted 25 eBay auctions to clear some signed books off my shelves!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on July 26, 2014, 06:30:23 PM
I feel a dip in my energy for getting rid of things because the clothing swap I was looking forward to this month never happened. So now, clothes that I set aside to swap are just sitting in a cabinet. If stuff doesn't actually GO, it makes it harder for me to mentally continue setting things aside. No visible progress, you know?

But I'll keep on keepin' on. I have about five days left before I go to America to get married and bring back a dude with tons of his own things. Then we'll move to a new apartment. So, ya... I can handle some of this now.

Another option is to just drop things off in donation bins, but then I don't get the option of swapping for things I could potentially wear. I really could benefit from more work clothes...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NV Teacher on July 27, 2014, 10:03:19 AM
I've spent a good amount of time this summer trying to help a relative that is a hoarder clean out her house and yesterday we hit the 20,000 pound mark at the dump.  And I'd estimate that that much if not more has gone to the recycle and donate centers as well.  The sad thing is  we've only managed to clear out maybe 20% of the hoard.  So keep up the decluttering everyone. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 27, 2014, 05:02:12 PM
I've spent a good amount of time this summer trying to help a relative that is a hoarder clean out her house and yesterday we hit the 20,000 pound mark at the dump.  And I'd estimate that that much if not more has gone to the recycle and donate centers as well.  The sad thing is  we've only managed to clear out maybe 20% of the hoard.  So keep up the decluttering everyone.

That sounds like a nightmare.  How is your relative dealing with letting things go? 

I just decluttered the garage.  My "corner" of the garage is dedicated mostly to horse feed and other horse items that get ferried back and forth to the barn on a regular basis.  However, lots of tools and general crap had accumulated there too.  Found some horse items that need to be either sold or given away; it's time for an Ebay blitz.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MayDay on July 27, 2014, 08:20:33 PM
Moved xcountry two years ago.  Moved from rental house one year ago.  Did major purges, had garage sales, sold on CL.

I undertook a basement clean out the last two weeks, and somehow got rid of about four boxes of stuff, and cleared out two plastic tubs for future storage needs.  How is that possible?  How does all this stuff accumulate?

Every time I do a good purge, it inspires me to be more valiant about keeping the junk from coming in in the first place.  That is always good, especially as we visit my parents next week, and they want to buy things for us.  I already told them that all the kids need is socks, underwear, and school shoes.  No toys, no other clothes. 

I wish I could get rid of photo albums and framed photographs without guilt. But for now they stay.  Maybe some day. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 28, 2014, 02:00:17 AM
How do you guys deal with greeting cards with really nice thoughtful messages written in them? The generic ones I can easily throw away, but these are way more difficult.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on July 28, 2014, 04:24:14 AM
How do you guys deal with greeting cards with really nice thoughtful messages written in them? The generic ones I can easily throw away, but these are way more difficult.

One per person if I'm feeling generous - at the end of the day it's to help remember my relationship with the person.  I'm not really a card person though, so my mementos tend to be displayable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 28, 2014, 06:33:34 AM
Thanks, smalllife. The one-per-person rule seems like it could work for me. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 28, 2014, 09:47:24 AM
How do you guys deal with greeting cards with really nice thoughtful messages written in them? The generic ones I can easily throw away, but these are way more difficult.

Gather them together, cut out the important messages and turn them into a piece of art, or scan them and let the physical copies go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on July 28, 2014, 11:00:12 AM
I joined this forum to get motivated but honestly, I think I am paralyzed by my clutter -- don't know where to start so I don't start at all<sigh>  complainypants, I know.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KatieSSS on July 28, 2014, 01:47:48 PM
Books have been creeping into my apartment lately. I've been trying to figure out how to get rid of them, and karma swept right in with a great solution! A "take a book - leave a book" shelf at work! If there isn't one where you work, I highly recommend it! I've brought in more books than I've taken out, so now I have less at home. When I'm done reading a book, I just put it back where I found it. A great system, if you ask me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on July 28, 2014, 06:08:32 PM
Gather them together, cut out the important messages and turn them into a piece of art, or scan them and let the physical copies go.

I like the first idea! :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 28, 2014, 06:43:40 PM
Um, be careful - I read on another decluttering site of someone who did that - turned out her passport was in one of the boxes.  Ouch.

Bought our first house back in January and still have tonnes of boxes stashed away which havnt been opened since. Im of the opinion that if it hasnt been needed in the past 6 months, its unlikely to be needed much at all so better to get rid of most of it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on July 29, 2014, 08:25:33 PM
I have 197 children's books in the trunk to take to work for the book drive.

Our entire company's goal was 2,000 books.  I think they will be surprised when I show up with 10% of the book drive myself.  We LOVE books, but now that the kids have graduated to Nook and iPad paper books are just clutter.  I was trying so hard to get to 200, but I am keeping a few signed/sentimental books. Bernie's Books will be reallocating these books to low-income children.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 29, 2014, 11:08:00 PM
I have 197 children's books in the trunk to take to work for the book drive.

Our entire company's goal was 2,000 books.  I think they will be surprised when I show up with 10% of the book drive myself.  We LOVE books, but now that the kids have graduated to Nook and iPad paper books are just clutter.  I was trying so hard to get to 200, but I am keeping a few signed/sentimental books. Bernie's Books will be reallocating these books to low-income children.
That is seriously cool! We have too many soft toys (sentimental no-kids-yet couple), and I have just started thinking they would do better for kids who don't have toys than hanging around our house.

I took everything out of my kitchen cupboards last night, and rearranged the lot. Haven't gotten rid of anything yet, but now we can see all of it! I also rearranged the pantry. It's overfull, so we'll be eating our way through it over the next few months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 30, 2014, 08:13:03 AM
I'm a couple of boxes lighter and 90.00 richer. I have been posting stuff on our local buy and sell page as I find it - mostly books but a old game we haven't played in a while, some old jewellery and a candle I was gifted that is way too smelly for us.

Some of our pantry surplus, and some new groceries from costco I am boxing up and taking to a local family who needs it. Will also take some kids books I found while organizing I know the kids will like.

Today my main goal is to finally decide what to do with some old clothing I have moved with twice and not worn....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on July 30, 2014, 11:54:50 AM
I've been continuing to make small progress.  Finally let go of a dress that is comfortable and has held up well over the years but isn't my style and never makes me feel pretty.  I felt the weight of letting that one go.

Question:  do I need to hang on to my navy blue strappy sandals with the really uncomfortable heel?  The ONLY time I wear these shoes is to weddings, however, they are kind of my only wedding-appropriate shoe.  (Typically I hobble in these shoes for the ceremony and then after dinner switch into flats that don't quite match my outfit, but at that point I'm a little tipsy so I don't care!).  It does seem like I should have one pair of wedding-appropriate shoes, but only wearing these stupid shoes a couple times a year seems silly. 

I do have 2 pairs of businessy closed-toe heels (purple and black) that would work with some of my formal wear dresses, but probably not the salmon/pink one and definitely not the brown dress....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NV Teacher on July 30, 2014, 05:26:02 PM
I've spent a good amount of time this summer trying to help a relative that is a hoarder clean out her house and yesterday we hit the 20,000 pound mark at the dump.  And I'd estimate that that much if not more has gone to the recycle and donate centers as well.  The sad thing is  we've only managed to clear out maybe 20% of the hoard.  So keep up the decluttering everyone.

That sounds like a nightmare.  How is your relative dealing with letting things go? 

Some days are good and some days are bad.  She is also dealing with the death of her mother so it's been a difficult few months for her.   

Friday we are going to start on a room that hasn't been opened in over 25 years.  She told me yesterday that she has cleared a path to the door but she was afraid to open it and see what kind of condition it's in.  They have a BIG mouse problem so who knows what we'll find.

Our grandma lived with them when she was elderly so they ended up with all of her things when she passed away.   I'm pushing her to get through this room before I head back to school because the family pictures should be in that room and honestly I want the pictures of my dad that they have. 

One bonus is that it's made me ruthless with my own junk.  I've gone through my things here and I've gotten rid of several bags of stuff and once I get to school I'm going to do the same there.  It's freeing to live in a space that isn't packed with stuff.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TeresaB on July 31, 2014, 07:45:05 AM
Question:  do I need to hang on to my navy blue strappy sandals with the really uncomfortable heel?  The ONLY time I wear these shoes is to weddings, however, they are kind of my only wedding-appropriate shoe.  (Typically I hobble in these shoes for the ceremony and then after dinner switch into flats that don't quite match my outfit, but at that point I'm a little tipsy so I don't care!).  It does seem like I should have one pair of wedding-appropriate shoes, but only wearing these stupid shoes a couple times a year seems silly. 

I do have 2 pairs of businessy closed-toe heels (purple and black) that would work with some of my formal wear dresses, but probably not the salmon/pink one and definitely not the brown dress....

If you only go to a couple weddings a year, how many formal wear dresses do you need? Can you get rid of the pink one and the brown one and the uncomfortable shoes and then just wear the businessy heels with the remaining dresses to your couple weddings a year?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on July 31, 2014, 08:12:45 AM
If you only go to a couple weddings a year, how many formal wear dresses do you need? Can you get rid of the pink one and the brown one and the uncomfortable shoes and then just wear the businessy heels with the remaining dresses to your couple weddings a year?

But the pink one and the brown one are the prettiest ones!!  I have a hard time letting go of formal wear dresses, because when I'm a few pounds up they tend to be forgiving in different ways.  I think for now I'll just hold on to all of them, it's not like this is clutter really.  I'll let this advice set for a while and reassess when the fall wedding season is over.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on July 31, 2014, 12:11:38 PM
If you only go to a couple weddings a year, how many formal wear dresses do you need? Can you get rid of the pink one and the brown one and the uncomfortable shoes and then just wear the businessy heels with the remaining dresses to your couple weddings a year?

But the pink one and the brown one are the prettiest ones!!  I have a hard time letting go of formal wear dresses, because when I'm a few pounds up they tend to be forgiving in different ways.  I think for now I'll just hold on to all of them, it's not like this is clutter really.  I'll let this advice set for a while and reassess when the fall wedding season is over.
I would recommend keeping them because they're expensive to replace.  I have too many formal dresses that I rarely wear.  However the replacement cost (time and money) is too high for me to purge them.  I focus on getting rid of excess t-shirts, worn out items, and items that I will NEVER wear again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on July 31, 2014, 07:45:09 PM
I just tossed my only formal outfit. Decided even if I needed it i just wouldn't wear it again. Since I've lost some weight it looks weird. However this weight loss is good, I actually have clothes that are too big now. Daggy ones are tossed. Good ones that are expensive to replace are stored in the bottom of the closet for now. Of course I'm "never going back", but thats happened before, so I'm just keeping them for the moment.  Good news is I went around looking for stuff that could fill up my garbage bin and couldn't find much! Must be making progress. Still heaps of stuff to declutter, but mostly will need to be donated/sold. Ahem, then there's the paper clutter…..still….
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on August 02, 2014, 12:42:18 PM
I feel like I am always de-cluttering and thought I didn't have anymore to get rid of. But I was wrong. And glad I was!

- 1 med Box and a bag of books ranging in subjects (off to the library). I did get rid of my whole Anne Rice collections I've started 20 years ago!
- 1 sm box of books (niche subject) off to a friend's house because she has a friend that wants them.
- 1 roll of 6.0 mm heavy duty plastic to friend's dad.
- tossed old suitcase and lots of odds & ends
- clothes (off to thrift store donation)
- 2 blankets (donating to animal shelter)
- 3 pairs of running shoes (donating to local running club. goes to kids at local high school)
- 1 David Bowie 4-CD 'box set' I've had for eons (gifting to relative)

And I am loving my walk-in closet! Didn't realize I had one! ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on August 04, 2014, 09:21:47 PM
And I sold a handbag tonight for $50! Clutter-Be-Gone
The FB local garage sale groups make a great place to sell.

And I cleaned out the jacket closet. Donating.

All this decluttering feels great!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on August 05, 2014, 05:24:12 AM
I'm having zero luck with CL and only flighty/flaky potential buyers on Fb yard sales.  I'm having an open house to sell my condo this weekend and I seriously need to get rid of some bulky weird items.  And of course I would welcome the extra cash too.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: canuckie on August 05, 2014, 09:28:12 AM
Over the last few weeks I have gotten rid of THREE (!) giant bags of clothes (and one bag full of ...bags). I  can't believe I even had that much. It feels really great to be free of that giant mass of useless. I feel lighter, and am now itching to find other things to toss!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on August 05, 2014, 01:36:38 PM
@mc6 do u could always do the "Monica closet" from Friends. Where its filled with lots of Stuff to make her place seem clutter free. ;)

@cunuckie i agree - is a great feeling to declutter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: eostache on August 08, 2014, 10:36:55 PM
(We have a lot of bikes!) The bf and I finally gathered together a big pile of bike parts, wheels, tires, and accessories that we are done with and are going to take it all down to the local bike kitchen. The guys there are running a nice little business and they help out folks that need some transportation. Some of the stuff we could sell if we really wanted to take the time to do so but I decided to let the bike kitchen guys try to make some $ off it. Those guys don't have any sort of internet so I am also giving them an old smartphone that I am done with. They could go to the library and use the free wifi to get online if they want.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on August 09, 2014, 03:47:31 AM
FINALLY, I took several things to the thrift store:

Plastic mug
Ceramic mug
Electric steamer
Backrest pillow
2 stools
several glasses
5 brand new large candles

Some of these items had been on my porch for.....TWO YEARS!  I'm so glad I finally got motivated to really get rid of them!

I need to keep up the momentum and start getting rid of some clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on August 10, 2014, 11:38:17 AM
I love this challenge - we recently downsized to a smaller apartment, and that was a huge catalyst for getting rid of stuff. Our old place had tons of storage space, and you just don't feel any sort of urgency to get rid of, say, a toaster you never use if it just sits on a cupboard out of sight. I've gotten rid of three garbage bags of clothes, a bag of excess linens/towels/blankets, my couch, my old hulk of a kitchen table (replaced with a sleek wooden folding one), so many books, and so much other random crap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pachnik on August 10, 2014, 12:49:39 PM
My favourite method of getting rid of stuff is trying not to let it get into the apartment in the first place.  Easier said than done though.  I took maybe a medium-sized box of stuff that didn't sell at our garage sale this spring over to the thrift store. 

I do have some concerns about accumulating more since the place we are moving into is larger than where we live now even though the rent is quite a bit cheaper. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abuzzyisawesome on August 20, 2014, 02:08:24 PM
Sold $45 worth of clutter on our local FB sell page. The house is starting to feel lighter and more airy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on August 20, 2014, 05:42:08 PM
Totally doing the same, local FB yardsale. sold an extra dining set, bed frame, cameral lens, and garden planter. In fact, I need to run off and deliver it right now!

It does feel wonderful! And even when I didn't think I have stuff to sell, something shows up in my house. and I'm like, "oh ya, i can sell that" ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: medstache on August 20, 2014, 10:20:06 PM
First time poster here! I'm using my last week of summer vacation from grad school to purge stuff. Have already sold a few books on Amazon, and I have a big Ikea bag of clothes ready to go to Goodwill. Also trying out the yerdle app to give stuff away without the hassle of craigslist/freecycle.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 22, 2014, 11:23:30 AM
For those of you getting rid of clothing and accessories, you might want to check out liketwice.com and thredup.com.  They are used clothing websites and they will send you a pre-paid shipping bag.  Send them your sellable stuff, and they'll make an offer on the whole lot.  I sent a giant bag to liketwice a few months ago and got $125!  It's much, much easier than trying to sell on ebay or to an individual buyer.  Liketwice is women's clothing only, thredup is women's , boys, girls, and baby as well as shoes and accessories. 

Here are some referral links that give you and me a bonus but you certainly don't need to use them:  www.liketwice.com/GLdQ9 (http://www.liketwice.com/GLdQ9)  and http://www.thredup.com/r/XYUOUP (http://www.thredup.com/r/XYUOUP)

All right, I'm in. We're going to be moving in the next year, but today, it's primarily the "In Training" part of my signature. I have a storage unit. Just sold an elliptical, but have a lot more to go through. Just quoted that message above so that I remember the links. They may be useful.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Write Thyme on August 25, 2014, 02:05:35 PM
I read about the 30 day declutter challenge on another forum, and I am currently on day 10. I'm excited to receive my shipping bags from donatestuff.com (http://donatestuff.com) so I can get rid of my growing pile of clothes.

I mentioned the challenge to my husband, and I'm hoping by day 30 he will see how wonderful it is to get rid of things and start doing it too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ADV_CJ on August 27, 2014, 03:08:04 AM
I'm in! We are possibly moving across country next year.  My goals are to sell off everything and only buy the necessities in the new place.  This week, I've sold off $575 in electronics (video games just sitting on shelves or in closets).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on August 27, 2014, 08:44:40 AM
Taking first batch of books to be sold/donated today--next batch and a bag of things for the consignment store in waiting for later this week. I also need to either recycle or give to a friend my moving boxes now that I've unpacked and my new roommate is moving in! I should also try to find a way to get rid of the many excess tote/grocery bags I have...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: te rose on August 27, 2014, 08:58:19 AM
I wish I could handle my stuff problem.  I have my parents house full of stuff since they passed away and no relatives to help.  My mother was disabled and her enjoyment was QVC, ect.  The stuff is all real good brand hew stuff.  All the estate businesses want 40% and I think that is too much.  Any thoughts or suggestions appreciated!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: te rose on August 27, 2014, 09:00:26 AM
Having problems with sign in
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Write Thyme on August 27, 2014, 02:51:41 PM
I wish I could handle my stuff problem.  I have my parents house full of stuff since they passed away and no relatives to help.  My mother was disabled and her enjoyment was QVC, ect.  The stuff is all real good brand hew stuff.  All the estate businesses want 40% and I think that is too much.  Any thoughts or suggestions appreciated!

That's a tough one. You can check out this site http://www.pickupplease.org/donation-pickup (http://www.pickupplease.org/donation-pickup) to see if you can have someone come out to pick up a bunch of things.

For the QVC stuff you could try selling them on ebay or amazon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on August 27, 2014, 03:08:55 PM
I wish I could handle my stuff problem.  I have my parents house full of stuff since they passed away and no relatives to help.  My mother was disabled and her enjoyment was QVC, ect.  The stuff is all real good brand hew stuff.  All the estate businesses want 40% and I think that is too much.  Any thoughts or suggestions appreciated!

That's a tough one. You can check out this site http://www.pickupplease.org/donation-pickup (http://www.pickupplease.org/donation-pickup) to see if you can have someone come out to pick up a bunch of things.

For the QVC stuff you could try selling them on ebay or amazon.
Or here, if they are still in new condition.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on August 27, 2014, 03:52:04 PM
I did a big round of clearing out stuff recently at the advice of the forums. Here's my apartment before: http://imgur.com/a/OdC3L (http://imgur.com/a/OdC3L) and after http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu (http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu).

Still have a few things to do, mainly figure out how to get the tv onto the wall, but overall it's going well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ADV_CJ on August 28, 2014, 02:40:01 AM
I dropped off 4 full 50 gallon trash bags of clothes to Goodwill that have been in the closet for years and not worn.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on August 28, 2014, 09:26:42 AM
Zikoris, that looks great! I also had a cat like yours once...what a cutie.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 29, 2014, 12:35:43 AM
I've got rid of so much shit since I was last on here, whenever that was.:) I'm really paring down and I love the feeling of having a more spacious house as it's less than 650 sq ft and it needs to be minimal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ashley on August 31, 2014, 11:45:59 AM
I cleared out three very full grocery bags of old clothes this morning. I know I could get rid of more, so I think I'm going to do one more sweep before I call it done. I'm realizing as I go through my wardrobe that it's mostly old, worn out, crappy looking stuff. Even the clothes in my regular rotation are looking pretty ratty (90% came from thrift stores in the first place). This makes me want to buy more clothes, which defeats the purpose entirely. Must resist.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on August 31, 2014, 11:06:09 PM
Wow, nice work, Mapleseed!  I'm also guilty of the old windows never made into a cold frame as intended thing.

I'm off work this week and decluttering is on my list.  This thread motivated me to get off my butt and go through my closet and prune out clothes I'm no longer wearing.  Have a pretty nice pile to split between donation and maybe Ebay, but need to go through my dresser and maybe the coat closet and my scarf collection as well.

Sold a few horse equipment items on Ebay, but need to redouble my efforts and get rid of my old saddle and a few other things.  Also plan to get after DH to make a few things disappear, at least from my line of sight, such as the saddle bags and helmet for the motorcycle he no longer owns...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 01, 2014, 05:14:40 PM
I am about halfway through The Joy of Less (borrowed from the library, of course).

One line that really struck me:  "Life is the space between our things."  I read this line while sitting in my campsite last weekend.  Between my bike and a camp table was a beautiful view of the Colorado mountains.  Yep.  The view (and the camping experience) was much more enjoyable than the bike (fairly useless at that particular location) and the table of stuff I had brought with me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 01, 2014, 05:19:39 PM
I am about halfway through The Joy of Less (borrowed from the library, of course).

One line that really struck me:  "Life is the space between our things."  I read this line while sitting in my campsite last weekend.  Between my bike and a camp table was a beautiful view of the Colorado mountains.  Yep.  The view (and the camping experience) was much more enjoyable than the bike (fairly useless at that particular location) and the table of stuff I had brought with me.
Isn't this place great? I have an experience like that at least once a week here. And I don't even count the breathtaking views when I bike into the office.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CatchingFire on September 01, 2014, 06:23:38 PM
Thoroughly enjoying de-stuff'ing our home.  Virtual yardsale (local Craigslist type ads) netted $265 this past weekend for things which I've been cleaning around for years.  Woot!  Must check out The Joy of Less.  Sounds perfect!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ADV_CJ on September 01, 2014, 07:25:00 PM
I've sold another $750 worth of stuff including two old bikes, and iPad, cell phone, and another video game system. That's about $1300 in the last  1.5 weeks. I've got so much more to go through. It's actually fun getting rid of all this crap. Hopefully I'll be able to contribute and get our cc debt paid off quicker than my plan entailed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 02, 2014, 03:06:50 AM
I have another pile of stuff to go to a charity shop and I just threw away some other crap.:) Woo hoo.

I am a fan of The Minimalists at the moment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 06, 2014, 06:06:59 PM
There can be a definite upside to clearing out clutter.  I was scanning books with my Amazon app to see if anything was worth selling.  One of my cookbooks that I've never, ever used, is apparently out of print and the cheapest used copy is listed for $225!  Woohoo, I'll gladly undercut the competition and sell that puppy.  That's some great motivation to keep going and see if I have anything else of significant value sitting around here.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 08, 2014, 10:42:42 PM
Listed a bunch of shit on Amazon and Ebay yesterday.  Already sold 5 books (not the $225 one yet) and have bids on my saddle and a brand new bathroom faucet that I apparently was going to install at some point.  Amazingly have watchers on DH's vintage Ray-Bans for $50 and Levi's sherpa jacket for $100 that his mother forced us to take last time we were at her house.

Also have two large boxes of crap staged in the basement to go to the thrift store in the near future.  Hoping to add to the pile when I get a little more time.

Threw an armload of magazines in the recycling bin.

Still have a ways to go though.  I want half empty cabinets where I can open them and see all of the contents without moving stuff around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on September 09, 2014, 01:10:45 PM
I've got a rather large box of stuff that I need to bike over to the local U for this upcoming weekend's freecycle event.  Yay!  Hopefully the students will appreciate having it, and I know I'll appreciate being rid of it.
Debating whether I should put the old sports helmet in there for students who want to play intramurals, or take it to Play It Again Sports and try to sell it?  Not sure it would be worth my time to try to sell it, or that they'd even take it, and don't have time before the freecycle event anyway.  Hmmm.
Gonna dig through the closets one more time, then do a pass-through in the guest room just to make sure I'm getting rid of everything that needs to go.
It's not even that much stuff but it feels so nice to know that it will be gone soon.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 09, 2014, 02:54:20 PM
Drat.  Just when I was getting excited/motivated about decluttering, I broke a bone in my leg and am on crutches.  This just happened two days ago, so the break is still painful and swollen, and resting is pretty much all I can do.  But just as soon as I regain significant mobility, I will start gathering up stuff to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 09, 2014, 03:27:07 PM
Drat.  Just when I was getting excited/motivated about decluttering, I broke a bone in my leg and am on crutches.  This just happened two days ago, so the break is still painful and swollen, and resting is pretty much all I can do.  But just as soon as I regain significant mobility, I will start gathering up stuff to get rid of.

Ouch! Hope you recover quickly. If you're still keen to declutter, maybe you could mentally walk around your house and perhaps make a written list of stuff you want to get rid of once you have some mobility? Or if you have any visitors or live with someone, you could ask them to bring you a drawer of stuff to go through while you're sitting/lying down?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 09, 2014, 04:59:56 PM
Gave away a fully stuffed garbage bag of kid clothes to a friend in need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 09, 2014, 06:02:08 PM
Drat.  Just when I was getting excited/motivated about decluttering, I broke a bone in my leg and am on crutches.  This just happened two days ago, so the break is still painful and swollen, and resting is pretty much all I can do.  But just as soon as I regain significant mobility, I will start gathering up stuff to get rid of.

Ouch! Hope you recover quickly. If you're still keen to declutter, maybe you could mentally walk around your house and perhaps make a written list of stuff you want to get rid of once you have some mobility? Or if you have any visitors or live with someone, you could ask them to bring you a drawer of stuff to go through while you're sitting/lying down?

Thanks!  I live by myself.  Actually, this experience might REALLY motivate me, because not only am I surrounded by stuff, but I can't do a darn thing about it!!  So when I get back on my feet, I will attack everything with a vengeance!!  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 12, 2014, 08:40:47 AM
Drat.  Just when I was getting excited/motivated about decluttering, I broke a bone in my leg and am on crutches.  This just happened two days ago, so the break is still painful and swollen, and resting is pretty much all I can do.  But just as soon as I regain significant mobility, I will start gathering up stuff to get rid of.

Ouch! Hope you recover quickly. If you're still keen to declutter, maybe you could mentally walk around your house and perhaps make a written list of stuff you want to get rid of once you have some mobility? Or if you have any visitors or live with someone, you could ask them to bring you a drawer of stuff to go through while you're sitting/lying down?

Thanks!  I live by myself.  Actually, this experience might REALLY motivate me, because not only am I surrounded by stuff, but I can't do a darn thing about it!!  So when I get back on my feet, I will attack everything with a vengeance!!  :)
Could you still clean out and declutter small areas while you are seated like junk drawers?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on September 12, 2014, 05:18:17 PM
I had a small but growing pile of donation items.  Five small grocery bags in all - little odds and ends, clothing, and a few items that had been mentally dragging me down.  I also culled my memory box and finally got around to ordering a T-shirt quilt off Etsy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 12, 2014, 05:52:50 PM
Put 10 books in a giveaway box .. I'm very slow at this and appreciate reading about all you ninja-like declutterers!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on September 13, 2014, 07:32:15 PM
Slowly slowly. Not making as much progress as I want, but improving. Between this, the losing weight challenge , and the buy no more clothes challenge and Project 33, I'm gradually clearing the wardrobe.  I'm finding it tougher than I thought - I have now convinced myself I don't need to keep clothes with holes in them.  I don't need to mend them, because I have way more than I need.  I can even let go of things I don't like and never wear, because I have way more than enough. Apart from an interview outfit last year, I've really not bought anything much in the last 2 years, so there's not too much I have thats highly fashionable, so really I'm down to wear it or lose it.
I used to be able to wander around the house finding old/broken stuff, not able to be donated to fill up by garbage bin (which is never full) each week, but can't do that now, so must be improving.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 13, 2014, 10:36:32 PM
Set aside two small items to give away today.  Noticed my medicine cabinet and the cabinets in the wet bar are wonderfully clutter-free.  Good motivation to keep going.

Next, I'm going to sell my espresso machine; hopefully craigslist will do the trick.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 14, 2014, 04:10:45 AM
We attacked my husband's floor to ceiling cupboard over the past few days. He has dramatically pared down his clothes, DVDs and records.:)

I'm going to do a quick sweep through the house today to look for anything more that can be donated to the charity shop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 14, 2014, 04:43:29 AM
I'm going to tackle a clutter pile of "shoulds". I decided earlier this year that I would make greeting cards instead of buying them. I even bought some coloured cardboard from our one and only trip to Costco. I've eventually realised that while it's fun to make cards using prints of photos I've taken, the other fiddly types of cards are unfun to make. So I'll declutter the pile that's been sitting in the spare room for MONTHS taunting me that yes, I love doing this really, I'll get back to it soon! Yeah, but no.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 16, 2014, 08:56:18 AM
Are you a flagrant offender of any of these?
http://metropolitanorganizing.com/professional-organizing-services/declutter-your-home-in-a-jiffy/

20.  I have 20 vases, which take up way too much space.  Time to cut this one down.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 16, 2014, 09:05:39 AM
Are you a flagrant offender of any of these?
http://metropolitanorganizing.com/professional-organizing-services/declutter-your-home-in-a-jiffy/

20.  I have 20 vases, which take up way too much space.  Time to cut this one down.

Thanks for this.  I have a whole tub of outdated or broken electronics.  Need to destroy the hard drives on the computers and get it all disposed of.

Just got rid of much of the random and dried up cans of paint this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Write Thyme on September 16, 2014, 09:47:24 AM
Are you a flagrant offender of any of these?
http://metropolitanorganizing.com/professional-organizing-services/declutter-your-home-in-a-jiffy/

20.  I have 20 vases, which take up way too much space.  Time to cut this one down.

I have 7-9 vases. They are all different sizes so I'm prepared to accommodate whatever sized bouquet my husband happens to bring home on a rare occasion. They are displayed on top of the kitchen cabinets.

What size will you be keeping?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gt7152b on September 16, 2014, 09:48:37 AM
Got together a pile of stuff this weekend and got it on craigslist or in the car for donating. Made $80 so far on the listed items. Lots more to go but they say the hardest part is getting started.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Elderwood17 on September 16, 2014, 09:58:20 AM
We moved a year and a half ago.  At the time we really thought we had gotten rid of a lot of stuff, but this past weekend I pulled some boxes out of a closet and opened them.   Two were full of winter clothes......hats, gloves, sweaters, etc.  They were mine, not DWs.  Obviously we lived an entire winter without them, so obviously I don't need them.  And yet I feel the urge to keep them.  Why is it so hard to get rid of perfectly fine things, even when you have proved you can live fine without them??
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on September 16, 2014, 10:14:58 AM
We moved a year and a half ago.  At the time we really thought we had gotten rid of a lot of stuff, but this past weekend I pulled some boxes out of a closet and opened them.   Two were full of winter clothes......hats, gloves, sweaters, etc.  They were mine, not DWs.  Obviously we lived an entire winter without them, so obviously I don't need them.  And yet I feel the urge to keep them.  Why is it so hard to get rid of perfectly fine things, even when you have proved you can live fine without them??
I struggle with this problem.  I have a lot of nice winter clothes--for running, for every day.  Now I live in a much gentler climate, so I don't use these items.  However, I can't seem to get rid of everything. 

We're moving to a house with negligible closet space in a month, so I will need to get over my fear of purging expensive items. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 17, 2014, 12:48:55 AM
An Amazon box came into the house today with a helmet for my son. I had the idea that every time a box comes into the house, I need to fill it up with things to donate! I am at the very beginning of my declutterring journey. We have a large family and live in a very large, very cluttered house :0/ Will try to do this task tomorrow. The box is only about 1 1/2 feet long. Shouldn't take me too long.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on September 17, 2014, 06:00:07 AM
I had the idea that every time a box comes into the house, I need to fill it up with things to donate!

I love that idea!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 17, 2014, 08:38:52 AM
Are you a flagrant offender of any of these?
http://metropolitanorganizing.com/professional-organizing-services/declutter-your-home-in-a-jiffy/

20.  I have 20 vases, which take up way too much space.  Time to cut this one down.

I have 7-9 vases. They are all different sizes so I'm prepared to accommodate whatever sized bouquet my husband happens to bring home on a rare occasion. They are displayed on top of the kitchen cabinets.

What size will you be keeping?


I'm getting rid of 2 bud vases I never use, 3 different round cyclinders from my cousin's wedding, 1 from my wedding, and a few florist vases.  Still dithering over 2 matched bud vases from my grandparents which I rarely use.  They are small to keep, and I think I'm just not quite ready to let them go even if I don't use them.

Keeping:
1 small German vase from my deceased grandparents
1 very low fat round vase
1 small blue (fancy blown glass) clear vase
1 small white vase
1 rectangle red clear vase
1 large blue clear vase (always filled with two dozen dried roses, the first flowers my husband gave to me 6 years ago when he left on a European vacation shortly after we started dating)
1 large cylinder from our wedding (getting rid of the double)
1 large clear florist vase

The red vase may also be on the chopping block.  All of the others I've actually used recently, some for a baby shower for my SIL this weekend (low vase holding chocolate lollipop favors, small white and blue vases holding sock flower bouquets, large cylinder holding cookie bars) and the large clear florist vase (and broken flowers in the German one) because ironically, my husband brought me flowers yesterday as I stayed home from work sick.

Also getting rid of the dried baby's breath kept from my wedding 2.5 years ago.  My wedding flowers were lost (a friend was going to dry them but threw them out when bugs got into them) so I had been holding onto them - in a large clear florist vase - but I think I'm ok saying goodbye to both.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on September 17, 2014, 09:48:22 AM
Hmmm I should target some vases to get rid of--probably will just return them to the friends who sweetly used them to bring flowers over. I also have a smattering of clothes and odds and ends that aren't resaleable or really swappable that I think I can donate next week.

Was excited to get an email from twice today that they are now accepting shoes--I definitely have more pairs than I need and hopefully this will spur me to send off even more things! Plus I have a box of socks I still haven't unpacked from my move a month ago and it's also the only box available to ship anything in, so maybe I can finally get that situation sorted...

Feeling a bit of momentum and inspiration!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 17, 2014, 09:55:00 AM
Are you a flagrant offender of any of these?
http://metropolitanorganizing.com/professional-organizing-services/declutter-your-home-in-a-jiffy/

20.  I have 20 vases, which take up way too much space.  Time to cut this one down.
One more big and easy thing to add to this list:

Any expired medicines, prescription or otherwise.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 17, 2014, 10:02:40 AM
Are you a flagrant offender of any of these?
http://metropolitanorganizing.com/professional-organizing-services/declutter-your-home-in-a-jiffy/

20.  I have 20 vases, which take up way too much space.  Time to cut this one down.
One more big and easy thing to add to this list:

Any expired medicines, prescription or otherwise.

Good call.  I fortunately already did this myself before my move, but along those lines - old sunscreen and toothpaste, both of which lose their efficacy over time (and are bad to use thinking they are still good!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 17, 2014, 11:02:05 AM
I live by myself, and rarely have company in my tiny little home.  (Sounds sad, but it isn't--don't worry.)  Since I do not have other people giving me feedback about my home, I find that my levels of cleanliness and organization, while comfortable for me, are probably not reasonable for lots of other folks.

Next Monday, 4 people from the City will be coming to my small house to inspect it (as part of the new process for permitting Accessory Dwelling Units in my town).  First, I can't really picture 4 people in my house, in addition to me.  Second, I am already feeling embarrassed about all the stuff in my house!  So, the upshot is that the appointment with these inspectors has served to motivate me to declutter!!  I have just a few days to get rid of lots of stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Elderwood17 on September 17, 2014, 04:02:12 PM
I had the idea that every time a box comes into the house, I need to fill it up with things to donate!

Great idea....box comes in, box goes out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 19, 2014, 02:37:48 PM
Well, the City has cancelled its planned inspection, by 4 of its employees, of my <400 sq ft house on Monday.  So I can stop stressing about how they will all fit in my house at the same time.

However, this morning, before I got the cancellation news, I was still worried about all the stuff in my house and what others might think, so I packed up about 15 shirts, a big fat candle (never used), a tea pot someone gave me, about 6 books, and about 14 video tapes and took them to the thrift store.  I also poured out about a tablespoon of whiskey that remained in a large bottle of JD, so that I could get rid of the bottle.  That freed up space so that I could move something from its "temporary" (months?) place on the kitchen floor and into a cabinet.

I had high hopes of carrying a bunch of textbooks from my house to my vehicle (so that I could get rid of them) this weekend, but I have been told by a doctor to not put weight on my broken leg (go figure!), so I will have to postpone the textbook decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on September 19, 2014, 03:07:20 PM
Dropped off another box at the charity thrift shop today...time to start another for twice with some shoes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on September 19, 2014, 03:11:01 PM
One thing that had been sitting around my house for a long time was old electronics. Since college, we've accumulated SO MANY old desktops and laptops, cables and connectors, broken digital cameras and mp3 players. I tried over the last year to give away some of it to those that wanted it, like the old webcams and tv antennas. But most of it just sat, and I didn't want to just chuck it in the landfill. My husband had an ENTIRE storage tote of just cables. To what, I had no idea, but he was sure they were useful. I pulled it out of the basement one day and pulled out each one, asking if it should stay or go. We had 8 iPod cables in the house, in addition to the ones that are in our cars and at our offices. It was so ridiculous. And so useless.

On Wednesday I finished dropping off the last box of all this stuff at Best Buy! Thankfully they've really stepped up their recycling program, and take all sorts of stuff, including all those random cables we had acquired over the years. They used to charge for recycling computers but not any more. PHEW!

Now onto the magazines!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 19, 2014, 03:16:58 PM
One thing that had been sitting around my house for a long time was old electronics. Since college, we've accumulated SO MANY old desktops and laptops, cables and connectors, broken digital cameras and mp3 players. I tried over the last year to give away some of it to those that wanted it, like the old webcams and tv antennas. But most of it just sat, and I didn't want to just chuck it in the landfill. My husband had an ENTIRE storage tote of just cables. To what, I had no idea, but he was sure they were useful. I pulled it out of the basement one day and pulled out each one, asking if it should stay or go. We had 8 iPod cables in the house, in addition to the ones that are in our cars and at our offices. It was so ridiculous. And so useless.

On Wednesday I finished dropping off the last box of all this stuff at Best Buy! Thankfully they've really stepped up their recycling program, and take all sorts of stuff, including all those random cables we had acquired over the years. They used to charge for recycling computers but not any more. PHEW!

Now onto the magazines!

Oh, I have a box of "wires".  DH wanted me to get rid of it - but "what it" it belongs to something?!  (And many times it does, in fairness.)  I should treat it like the hangar idea - put the wires that I used in a box, and ones I haven't used after a year, I toss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on September 19, 2014, 06:20:11 PM
One thing that had been sitting around my house for a long time was old electronics. Since college, we've accumulated SO MANY old desktops and laptops, cables and connectors, broken digital cameras and mp3 players. I tried over the last year to give away some of it to those that wanted it, like the old webcams and tv antennas. But most of it just sat, and I didn't want to just chuck it in the landfill. My husband had an ENTIRE storage tote of just cables. To what, I had no idea, but he was sure they were useful. I pulled it out of the basement one day and pulled out each one, asking if it should stay or go. We had 8 iPod cables in the house, in addition to the ones that are in our cars and at our offices. It was so ridiculous. And so useless.

On Wednesday I finished dropping off the last box of all this stuff at Best Buy! Thankfully they've really stepped up their recycling program, and take all sorts of stuff, including all those random cables we had acquired over the years. They used to charge for recycling computers but not any more. PHEW!

Now onto the magazines!

Oh, I have a box of "wires".  DH wanted me to get rid of it - but "what it" it belongs to something?!  (And many times it does, in fairness.)  I should treat it like the hangar idea - put the wires that I used in a box, and ones I haven't used after a year, I toss.

We have so many cables and computer pieces in different boxes. I love the idea of chucking anything still in the box after a year! I will collect all the stuff into one box this week.

Yesterday I took all SO's t-shirts into the lounge room and he folded and sorted while watching tv. Didn't get rid of any, but baby steps - he now has an empty drawer!
Today I'm sorting Lego while breakfast cooks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 20, 2014, 05:52:25 PM
Today I'm sorting Lego while breakfast cooks.

Whoa there...Legos are always awesome (unless you step on them). ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 21, 2014, 09:05:36 PM
Got rid of:
- 4 bras, each 15+ years old (yeah, time to go...DH gently pointed this out while I was debating if I really should get a new bra in the store), with 3 bras in) for a net decrease of 1.  At least it's going in the right direction.  I have plans to sort through the sock/underwear drawer more ruthlessly next weekend.
- About 2-3 inches of paper, sorting through the stuff that's piled up over the past few months.  It's been stuffed away in the closest since our Memorial Day party.  Sorted but did not file the paper I'm keeping.   Good timing on going through it - found a settlement notice from JCrew DH had 4 more days to respond to.  Still have a few more inches of paper to go.  I need a better location for our files than the furthest spot in the house from where the mail enters the house.
- A box for the iron I've apparently been carting around (I have a box issue stemming from moving too much in my childhood).  This is indicative of the random stuff I've carted around, as the iron has not been sitting in the box for many months now, and is annoying to use if you need to put it/out of the box each time, plus the iron does not need to be protected in the box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on September 22, 2014, 05:37:00 AM
I realized that no matter how organized my things are, no matter how much space I have to keep the items, things are still clutter if they are not being used or bring more stress than benefit. [Thanks, Clutter Busting (http://brooks-palmer.blogspot.com.au/)]

It really came home to me this past week when sorting through a box that I had labeled with bullet points. One of the bullet points read "unimportant papers." That's right. Rather than just toss or recycle the papers, I typed and printed labels and placed them on all four faces of the box, plus the top, to tell myself, there is trash in here.

And I dragged that box through two moves!



Well, the City has cancelled its planned inspection, by 4 of its employees, of my <400 sq ft house on Monday.  So I can stop stressing about how they will all fit in my house at the same time.

However, this morning, before I got the cancellation news, I was still worried about all the stuff in my house and what others might think, so I packed up about 15 shirts, a big fat candle (never used), a tea pot someone gave me, about 6 books, and about 14 video tapes and took them to the thrift store.  I also poured out about a tablespoon of whiskey that remained in a large bottle of JD, so that I could get rid of the bottle.  That freed up space so that I could move something from its "temporary" (months?) place on the kitchen floor and into a cabinet.

I had high hopes of carrying a bunch of textbooks from my house to my vehicle (so that I could get rid of them) this weekend, but I have been told by a doctor to not put weight on my broken leg (go figure!), so I will have to postpone the textbook decluttering.

1. This is an interesting story. Keep us posted.
2. Can you carry one book at a time to the car?
3. If not, how about stacked books as a book stand/coffee table, like this:

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QvDZGAOnyMg/TMgd-FL84tI/AAAAAAAAA48/-7Yrtp7JDqw/s1600/books4-+shelter.jpg)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on September 22, 2014, 06:28:00 AM
As well as getting rid of stuff, I have been steadily using stuff up and not replacing it. I looked in my bathroom cabinet today, I mean, really looked and it was almost empty.  Gone are all the random half-used and unnecessary bottles and tubes of  miscellaneous goop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 22, 2014, 06:48:39 AM
^That is a really good idea to use books as a side table.:)

My decluttering has slowed down as I got rid of so much stuff recently.

I just went through the drawers and threw away an old bottle of hand lotion, a disposable camera that I will never use, an old cassette tape (!) and a toothbrush.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on September 24, 2014, 09:45:26 AM
How is everyone doing?

I have been making some huge progress, due to having more time after quitting my toxic job.

I went through ALL Hubby's and my clothing. Weird experience, because we aren't shoppers, what we buy is always second hand (except socks and underwear) but we still had a ton of clothing - mostly because we are both the sentimental type. In my case, the last couple of years of work have been so stressful and toxic I have gained weight - and I have also been keeping a lot of clothing because I can't get it again, as it was handed down or purchased overseas or whatever. Hubby had a lot of clothing from his University days he has had a hard time parting with.

I have also been dealing with the 6! garbage bags of second hand clothing I bought for $40.00. I resold most of it for a profit, got at least another couple years worth of clothing out of it for myself, gave away a bunch to several deserving ladies who never spend any money on themselves and still had quite a bit left over.

Out of my house went two garbage bags full of clothing for rags and or art projects at our local  art centre and three bags to out local thrift store and another two to be given to specific people I know can use them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on September 24, 2014, 11:14:51 AM
I haven't been paying attention this thread because I poo-poo the whole minimalism anti-clutter thing. Yet, I know that I am messy and have a hard time getting rid of things. 
So, I'm pleased that I threw out a bag of cables I was going to give to an outfit I occasionally work for when I saw them next... but they haven't given me any work in eight months.
I've managed to foist about 10 books on other people who expressed an interest (including extra on a younger colleague who celebrates big paychecks by buying a bunch of books on Amazon). And have a couple others I promised to mail someone out of town.
A friend suffered a mysterious spine issue that's preventing her from walking. So I sent her a box of random crap from my place that I thought she might like. And brownies, in case she doesn't like any of the crap.

eta: oh! And I got as far as putting an old t-shirt in our bag-to-be-donated. Who knows if I'll actually let it get out the door. It's one of those "babydoll" t-shirts that's really tight around the shoulders so it's uncomfortable plus it's a graphic tee which I pretty much never wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 24, 2014, 03:19:45 PM
sheepstache--

MESSIES UNITE!

:-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on September 24, 2014, 03:52:07 PM
I'm doing this. I feel like my small apartment is getting cluttered, so it's time to donate stuff. My problem is that I like to repurpose items to extend their life and avoid waste, but I end up with a lot of half finished or to do project piles. I'm going to try and remember that a donated item might end up being enjoyed in its current state by someone else.

Tonight I'm donating clothes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 25, 2014, 05:29:20 PM
FINALLY!

I got a bit of energy to do some decluttering today and filled up 3 Amazon boxes of stuff that I've been dragging around for years! So freeing!

I'm excited about my personal Amazon box challenge, especially since I just placed a bunch of orders for Christmas and bday presents. Lots of boxes coming in = lots of boxes going out! One down, about 499 to go, but hey, its a start.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: basd on September 26, 2014, 05:03:44 AM
Hopefully I'll have the time this weekend to sort out some of the drawers that have magically filled up with junk.

On the other hand, I hope I don't have the time, because it's supposed to be the last weekend with truly good weather for a while. I'd rather enjoy the outside in that case. Those drawers aren't running away (hopefully).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on September 26, 2014, 06:47:18 AM
I love my house; I think it's beautiful, inspiring, smallish by today's standards, filled with used/repurposed/repaired/built by friends furniture.  Not cluttered, too much.  Our attic, garage and basement are not stuffed with too much unused stuff.

But.  This week I found two stacks of plates on my utility shelves in the basement, where the canning jars live with the turkey roaster pan;  these are those old Wedgwood jasperware Christmas and mothers day annual plates my MIL had and gave to DH saying they were "worth" something.  Maybe back in 2001.  I am shocked!  So I have never done Ebay, but it seems people pay upwards of $30 a piece for some of these!  I NEED to learn how to deaccession these ASAP.  Any takers?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 26, 2014, 08:55:24 AM
I have been bitten by the purge bug.  All of a sudden I want a clear house, with nothing extra.

My areas of clutter include two closets worth of clothes in four sizes, at least 30 broken things such as chairs, boxes, a plant stand, etc., dozens of pieces of framed artwork (inherited 19 years ago) in a closet, a cellar full, a garage full and a shed full. 

 The most enervating part is that last spring I got all the paper, files, journals and binders from everywhere in the house and put them on a table to sort and it grew until it takes up about16 sq ft  and drains me.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 26, 2014, 09:06:36 AM
Also, I have been helping friends and family members to get rid of stuff and it is a real education.  Not because they are hoarders, they are not, but because I don't want to grow old with over 50% of my space inhabited by broken, unused materials or objects.  The emotional drain of all that stuff is too much.  And I don't want to be in my 80s and directing young people to get rid of cellars full of weird things that might get used…but never did.  That generation had very little and knew that saving things for the future would possibly save them money.  But now that they are too old to do their own repairs all that stuff weighs on them.

I have been ferrying things to the dump and the thrift store over and over for my elders.

It gives me a new perspective on our own house.  I dream of a swept clear garage and cellar floor, visible floors in the house with nary a pile, a place for everything and everything in its place, all paper dealt with at the door and everything in good order.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on September 26, 2014, 11:47:55 AM
My inlaws are downsizing and insisting on giving us the other half of the dish set they first gave us when we moved in together.  It was appreciated then, but when we married we got our own dishes and we really don't have room for more.  But they 'can't' just donate them....I don't understand this sentimentality around objects, it is literally just passing on a physical burden to your children/loved ones.

I'm dorkily excited to revisit my wardrobe when I do my seasonal clothing switch.  I got rid of a LOT of crap in the spring -- about 6 bags worth, and I thought I didn't have many clothes -- but am hoping to get serious with a minimalist wardrobe with this switch.  I did also just buy some new clothes, but they're awesome, so I'm embracing it.

Also, trying to figure out what to do about kitchen stuff.  I probably don't need a frittata pan - I can't remember the last time I even made a frittata - but everything in my kitchen is well-stored so I don't really feel an emotional drain there.  I think I am going to pare down our coffee mugs to just the ones I love, I have really ridiculous and specific standards for mugs and about half of our collection bums me out when I have to use it.  DH does not agree on this front though so I will have to do it stealthily! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 26, 2014, 02:51:55 PM
  I think I am going to pare down our coffee mugs to just the ones I love, I have really ridiculous and specific standards for mugs and about half of our collection bums me out when I have to use it. 
  I dream of a swept clear garage and cellar floor, visible floors in the house with nary a pile, a place for everything and everything in its place, all paper dealt with at the door and everything in good order.

 

I love both these lines. Feels like therapy to read things like these on this particular post. I live in a terribly cluttered house with many children and I'm quite overwhelmed with our stuff.

But I got a good start with some Amazon boxes the other day. They are all 1/2 full on my dining room table.  Maybe I can get them done by the end of the weekend? I also gave my son a smallish Amazon box and challenged him to fill it with stuff from his room. We shall see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 26, 2014, 03:39:44 PM
I dream of a swept clear garage and cellar floor, visible floors in the house with nary a pile, a place for everything and everything in its place, all paper dealt with at the door and everything in good order.
Sounds like heaven :)

I despise clutter but I live in a too-big house with an ridiculous amount of built in storage so it manages to hide in ways that wouldn't bother a normal person but makes me crazy when I do stumble across it

Hidden clutter is still clutter. It's emotional/mental clutter, not visual clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 27, 2014, 06:13:56 AM
  I think I am going to pare down our coffee mugs to just the ones I love, I have really ridiculous and specific standards for mugs and about half of our collection bums me out when I have to use it. 
  I dream of a swept clear garage and cellar floor, visible floors in the house with nary a pile, a place for everything and everything in its place, all paper dealt with at the door and everything in good order.

 

I love both these lines. Feels like therapy to read things like these on this particular post. I live in a terribly cluttered house with many children and I'm quite overwhelmed with our stuff.

But I got a good start with some Amazon boxes the other day. They are all 1/2 full on my dining room table.  Maybe I can get them done by the end of the weekend?

1967Mama:  Stuff is so overwhelming isn't it?  My sis is bringing me boxes this morning to get a start on the paper.  Getting those Amazon boxes full and out of the house will feel so freeing.  You will float around the house I bet! 

fallstoclimb:  I agree about the mugs.  I am very fussy and certain mugs only get touched when we have a big potluck.  Let us know when they bite the dust.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 27, 2014, 06:16:57 AM
I have been removing things from rooms where they have been sitting for months and months.  No more stretching roller standing in the corner of the bedroom, no more wrapping paper on a chair, no more random papers on the bedside table.  Felt so good to look around the bedroom this morning now that it is cleared of those things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 27, 2014, 02:31:25 PM
Just cleared out another box of books! That's 3 since I started last week! Now we're getting somewhere!!!!

Thanks for the encouragement, wintersun..much appreciated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 27, 2014, 03:23:31 PM
Very cool 1967mama,  congrats! 

My family came by today and commented on how fresh and nice the living room looks without so much stuff on the mantelpiece and everywhere else.  Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 27, 2014, 05:16:29 PM
Way to go, everyone!

Decluttering is definitely an iterative process. I got rid of around 3/4 of my personal stuff over the last few years and yet I'm still finding stuff to get rid of. Today I'm finding new homes for some art stuff (starting by asking friends who do a lot of drawing/painting) and a heater that we didn't use all winter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Exhale on September 27, 2014, 07:43:43 PM
One way to think of "letting go"/"getting rid" of stuff may be to reframe it as "sharing" it with/"gifting" it to others who need it. At least that's what I suggested to my dad who is trying to get my hoarder mom to let go of some things so they have enough room to get in the door of their house...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldladystache on September 27, 2014, 08:22:44 PM
After many years of trying to decide which of my things I could bear to get rid of, I think I've come upon a "foolproof" method. Essentially deciding what to keep, rather than what to get rid of.

I'm moving to a place less than half the size, and I'm only bringing things I use, or things I really love. And I'm planning to get mostly new furniture, and leaving behind all the old shabby stuff.

I intend to take several months to complete the move, and when I have everything I use or love in the new place, I'll have an "everything must go" sale. Strangers in my house, offering 5 cents on the dollar for my stuff. And I plan to accept their offer. Then a day when everything remaining is free. Come and get it. After that, what remains goes to the dump.

Will it work? It kinda has to. I'll probably wind up bringing more than I should with me, but the majority of it will be gone.

The 580 square foot place will be mine next week. The 1106 foot place plus 2 car garage should be emptied by the end of the year. And for sale soon after that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on September 28, 2014, 01:08:04 AM
Oddly, I have gotten rid of more things. What have you people done to me??

Found an old pair of non-leather boots which were completely disintegrating, so that was an easy call. Consolidated some computer discs so I could get rid of one of the cases. Decided enough time had passed to get rid of some gift items we were never going to use. Was going through clothing to be mended and decided one dress was too ill-fitting to be worth the trouble. Gone.

One problem I'm having is last month I discovered a broken mug that needed repair. It had been my favorite mug but I realized since I hadn't missed it for a year, it was probably okay to get rid of. But now I feel bad about it . . . because I have (intact) mugs that I like even less. I find myself thinking, hm, since I still haven't gotten around to trashing these ugly ones, why did I get rid of the one I liked? (Bear in mind, I also have mugs that I like that are not broken.) So, funny how our brains make the connection that since we have some crap, we'd better hold on to all our crap! Or is that just my brain?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on September 29, 2014, 04:44:00 AM
One way to think of "letting go"/"getting rid" of stuff may be to reframe it as "sharing" it with/"gifting" it to others who need it. At least that's what I suggested to my dad who is trying to get my hoarder mom to let go of some things so they have enough room to get in the door of their house...

Good tip.

...I think I've come upon a "foolproof" method. Essentially deciding what to keep, rather than what to get rid of.

Another good tip.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on September 29, 2014, 05:55:21 AM
fallstoclimb:  I agree about the mugs.  I am very fussy and certain mugs only get touched when we have a big potluck.  Let us know when they bite the dust.

Just added two mugs to the donate pile.  DH thinks these are mugs I like to use so brings me tea in them when I request "special mugs" (yes, he brings me tea every night, I'm very lucky), but I actually never liked them due to my specific and ridiculous mug standards, so they are gone.  There are other mugs I don't love but I think DH will get annoyed with me for getting rid of them, we really do need about 8 mugs unless we want to start handwashing them and I'm not that much of a minimalist.  I might slip one in the donate pile and see what happens.

Also switched out my seasonal wardrobe.  I've paired down enough now that it's only about 10 items that I am putting into "storage" (a box in the basement) since everything else has a sensible place.  Began to wonder about setting a goal where I wouldn't have to switch out my wardrobe twice a year at all, but really I don't want to be looking at sweaters in summer or tank tops in winter when I'm getting dressed so I'm not going to pursue that.  It's also a good opportunity to reevaluate my clothes -- I set aside several for the tailor and found holes in one shirt that I trashed.  Overall I'm feeling really good about my closet.

Now, the entire dresser I have for workout/bike commute clothes is another story....but that is all-season wear, which is a different challenge.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 29, 2014, 12:47:54 PM
I am in the middle of a turf out and have come up for air.  Three carloads to the dump, one carload to the local art teacher, lots of books ready to go to the thrift shop, and suddenly I am exhausted.  I got lots of help this morning which was great.  I am so grateful for strong arms and backs.

My DH got in the mood and cleared his study and there is nothing on the floor in there except furniture- woohoo!

And I emailed a picture of an 8 foot long shelf to the local consignment shop and they want it!  Yay!!!

I am in that halfway place of lots of piles but I know if I come back tomorrow I will have renewed energy.

It is so energising to have other folks here doing the same.  You really rock!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 29, 2014, 12:50:19 PM
I am pretty sure I copied this from the forum some months back but have lost the poster's name:

"In Peter Walsh’s book “It’s All Too Much”  he focuses on what you want now as opposed to dwelling on unfinished business of the past or potential “maybes” of the future. By making room for life now, you give yourself permission to live optimally in the present, and that often leads to greater productivity and creativity."

Thanks to whoever posted that, I am finding it useful as a motivator.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 29, 2014, 01:43:56 PM
Helped a friend go through her problem area in her closets (cutting down 31 blazers...) and get rid of some on Friday.  She'll be helping me go through my shirts, my main problem area when we can set a date.  Got rid of a random box in my kitchen.  Will continue working on the paper pile (much reduced now).

I love this keeps popping up on my feed and remind me to relinquish and release items to another home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 30, 2014, 03:28:02 AM
I bought a few items recently for my capsule wardrobe (ironically lol) so I have just collected one large rubbish bag of clothing to go to the textile recycling centre near me.

I got rid of some of my hub's old underwear, a dressing gown, cushion, spare curtains and a few things from my wardrobe too.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 30, 2014, 03:42:04 AM
Another Amazon box made its way into our "to the thrift store" cupboard! Gave a box to my 13 year old son to fill with his outgrown clothes and toys and he told me he would have no problem filling it.

A friend told me about a company that will come, once a month, and pick up boxes that you leave on your front porch for them and donate them to charity. They even call you a week before and then the night before to remind you! I signed up today. The call a week before will really get me motivated to get cracking!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on September 30, 2014, 06:53:49 AM
Which company is this? That's awesome!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 30, 2014, 06:56:56 AM
Its in Canada --
http://www.diabetes.ca/how-you-can-help/clothesline
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 30, 2014, 12:02:52 PM
Common Cents, that is so cool that you have a buddy to help you declutter.

We dropped the 8 foot long shelf off this morning to the consignment store and next is another trip to the dump.  I am loving this!

Weirdly, my sister, my mother and my aunt and my cousin are all doing this at the same time.  Apparently my grandmother was a great one for clearing the decks and getting rid of excess. 

I am so delighted by having the rooms in the house look so clear and light.  What a joy!  Who knew?  Now I have only one room left which has major piles and right now a lot of them are books.  We are going to stand the books on top of the kitchen cupboards for now until we can get a shelf built in.

I was thinking we might need a bigger built in bookcase but I have donated so many books this week that I think that will not be an issue.

Next Up: A gentle request for consumable presents such as veggies seedlings, massage certificates, food and manure.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on September 30, 2014, 12:29:40 PM
Next Up: A gentle request for consumable presents such as veggies seedlings, massage certificates, food and manure.

omg, yes.  My family is terrible about getting gifts we don't want.  Examples:
- Star Wars jenga (sister)
- Cat necklace (brother)
- Big wine cork lazy susan (mom)  This was $150 or so too!
- Basket with 8 sections to bring things outside for a picnic (mom)

I have used none of them.  Even worse are when the projects take up my time and space too.  My mom wants me to help her lay out the pattern of the wine corks when we visit next, when I already planned a lot of activities, like borrowing her sewing maching to finish a quilt I am making for a wedding present.

I am working on channeling presents to more desired items to avoid more guilt clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 30, 2014, 05:11:47 PM
A quilt is a lovely present.  Lucky friend. 

Piled up more stuff to go this evening:  broken candlesticks, an old cd and tape player, musical rattles, a computer mouse, loads of children's' books.

I am really aware of how much I spent for so long.  Holy Cow!  I see books I bought and never read, must-have long sleeved tops I have never worn, furniture we don't use, several spare jars of spices which we will take years to use up.  And also there is stuff I bought second hand which was in really bad shape when we got it and was throwing good money after bad.  How many barely filled journals can one woman house?  Apparently at least 20.

Unfortunately I just brought a new thing into the house to fulfil my doctor's orders: a bike trainer thing to turn my bicycle into a stationary bike - so I can do doctor prescribed spinning exercises.  It cost less than three months at the gym and then I can sell it once my leg is better. I figure I can get half the price back. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 30, 2014, 05:36:17 PM
Next Up: A gentle request for consumable presents such as veggies seedlings, massage certificates, food and manure.
Please ensure manure and food are properly labelled. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on September 30, 2014, 08:47:52 PM
I got an Amazon box today... and I'm gonna have a ton of fun filling it up again with stuff to get rid of!  Not counting the air-filled bags that came in it, anyway.  Thankfully those are made of recyclable plastic.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 30, 2014, 09:37:06 PM
Yay, tariskat! I have several parcels waiting for me to go pick up (early Xmas shopping) so
I have a ton of decluttering ahead of me too! Yay for Amazon boxes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on September 30, 2014, 09:51:29 PM
We've decided to get rid of a large low bookshelf/side table. We were wondering how to rearrange our space after it's gone form our little dining area. SO suggested we put our dining table lengthways against one wall, and then we'd have a clear area. We're going to put a rug on the floor and our beanbag to make it a board games & puzzles area :) so much more useful and fun!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on October 01, 2014, 10:29:25 AM
Unfortunately I just brought a new thing into the house to fulfil my doctor's orders: a bike trainer thing to turn my bicycle into a stationary bike - so I can do doctor prescribed spinning exercises.  It cost less than three months at the gym and then I can sell it once my leg is better. I figure I can get half the price back.

These are actually nice to have when the weather is bad and you want a cardio workout.  I often use mine in the winter. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on October 01, 2014, 04:17:36 PM
I've been so inspired by this thread that yesterday I listed 40 items for sale on eBay and today I dropped off Halloween costume miscellany at the local consignment shop. Getting rid of my Amazon boxes too, and using them to ship the eBay items. Hmm, what should I part with next? :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 01, 2014, 05:15:19 PM
I had my teenaged son fill an amazon box of his own things he was ready to part with...divide and conquer, I say!!

Way to go, Practical Magic! Another good use of those amazon boxes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Exprezchef on October 01, 2014, 07:20:05 PM
I have been on vacation for the past few weeks and decided to tackle the clutter issue in my garage and my sons bedroom (he moved out a few weeks ago). It feels so liberating to get rid of the clutter and hopefully make a few extra bucks with some Craigslist items I want to try and sell. I have always had the anti-clutter mindset but my wife not so much on the same page. (She would disagree with that statement) We moved into our current house ten years ago and there were items in the garage that came with us from our old house. I am pretty sure most of those items were in the garage of my old house as well. ARRRRRR.  What I am not going to attempt to sell is headed to our local Goodwill drop-off in the morning. Whatever does not sell on Craigslist in 30 days will be donated as well. I had to keep reminding my wife that she needed to break the "emotional attachment" to the stuff. The easiest way for me to set everything in motion was to empty the entire garage onto my driveway and set a rule that every box/bag will be opened and everything will be touched. Everything needed a defined purpose or designated location before it went back in. My wife did not like this method because it took us a few days to complete but it worked. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 02, 2014, 01:28:51 AM
Exprezchef,

Laying everything out in the driveway reminded me of this show:

http://www.hgtv.ca/consumed/video/season+2/kerr+family/video.html?v=2389224673&p=1&s=dd#consumed/video

There are several other episodes on the website as well. I'm not sure if this link will work in the USA, but the show is called "Consumed" if you want to try and find it somewhere else online.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 02, 2014, 05:36:23 PM
I am making real progress! This Saturday I am taking boxes and boxes and boxes of crafting, knitting, and quilting supplies to a flea market to sell them. Whatever I can't sell, I am donating. It's NOT coming back into the house.

So excited.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 02, 2014, 06:34:48 PM
Please ensure manure and food are properly labelled. :-)

Jordanread, I will make sure to keep that in mind!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 02, 2014, 06:36:54 PM

These are actually nice to have when the weather is bad and you want a cardio workout.  I often use mine in the winter.

Fallstoclimb,  I am wondering about that.  My DH set it up today and tomorrow if my knee is okay I will test it out.  It could be a keeper!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 02, 2014, 06:40:47 PM
Today I delivered things that needed servicing: a picture to get glass in the frame, irregular foam cushions that need to be recovered (I am not quite up to that with my sewing yet).

Tomorrow is the final push for getting the excess out.

A Place For Everything and Everything in its Place!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on October 02, 2014, 06:44:45 PM
Today I delivered things that needed servicing:[...]irregular foam cushions that need to be recovered (I am not quite up to that with my sewing yet).
[...]

Those can be fixed????? If so, it's awesome, but I just went the route of hating my couch.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on October 02, 2014, 08:46:02 PM
I've been silently playing along, and have donated 5 bags of stuff plus a foot spa that I think I used three times in three years, plus thrown out a few bags of junk and recycled a bunch of cardboard. Slow going compared to some of you, but still progress!

I've also discovered a few things packed away that I forgot I owned, like some never-worn jewelry that I bought in Mexico four or five years ago, so that's been exciting!

I haven't been quite as successful at my goal of not acquiring any non-consumable stuff -- we have a baby coming any day now and have bought/been given a number of things for the baby over the last few weeks. Also we need to take my nephew shopping for winter clothes; he moved in with us out here in Denver from California this summer and I don't think he owns anything warmer than a sweatshirt. I'm pretty sure the net amount of stuff we own is still decreasing though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on October 03, 2014, 12:07:33 AM
This thread is so motivating - I've decided that it's time for another PUSH! of stuff out the door. I really want my space to be calm and uncluttered. Easy to say, hard to achieve.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 03, 2014, 04:44:12 PM
I just came across this great article:

http://www.everynothingwonderful.com/2011/01/5-tips-to-innovate-your-organization.html
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on October 04, 2014, 07:20:12 AM
Listed bunk beds on Craigslist! Progress. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on October 04, 2014, 08:55:36 AM
I just came across this great article:

http://www.everynothingwonderful.com/2011/01/5-tips-to-innovate-your-organization.html

That was a great article, thanks for sharing! After reading it I promptly went to the kitchen and pulled out the two spatulas that I hate to cook with and put them in the donate box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 04, 2014, 07:20:04 PM
I just came across this great article:

http://www.everynothingwonderful.com/2011/01/5-tips-to-innovate-your-organization.html

That was a great article, thanks for sharing! After reading it I promptly went to the kitchen and pulled out the two spatulas that I hate to cook with and put them in the donate box.

Well done!

I threw out more of my photos. I would like to have none except for a few from our wedding but I can't quite pull the plug yet. I would love to just have stuff for living in the here and now. Being pulled back into past feelings (even positive ones) just because I looked at or held an item disturbs my equilibrium.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 04, 2014, 08:57:41 PM
Has anyone else seen the show called "Consumed" that I linked to up-thread? It is pretty motivating, actually. I just watched the show I linked to and the host comes into the incredibly cluttered home and helps the people get rid of loads of their stuff. There are lots of other episodes as well.

The homeowners have to pack up all the contents of their home except basic furniture, a place setting each, a few pots and pans, and 10 non-essential items of their choice. Then we see them enjoying their peaceful, simple home for a few weeks.

Then a few weeks after that, they go to a warehouse where all of their stuff is unpacked and sitting there. They have to get rid of a huge amount of it.

Just thought others might enjoy it too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 05, 2014, 04:34:20 AM
I will have to watch Consumed, I watch Hoarding: Buried Alive all the time and that motivates me too.

I actually decluttered my kitchen utensil drawer last week, there was one serving spoon that I don't think I have even touched in the whole time I've had it in there.:D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 05, 2014, 04:37:54 AM
Jordanread, yep, the foam cushions are for a window seat and will be returned with new fabric instead of the ripped and stained old stuff.

1967mama, I will check out that show Consumed, it sound so liberating. 

Astatine, I have excess photos too.  Do you scan them at all?  I need to set and toss and then decide what to do with what is left.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 05, 2014, 04:47:19 AM
Astatine, great article! 

I love this quote:

"Anything that takes up space in your home, in your drawers, or on your computer takes up a space in your mind, your vision, and your emotions: do you really want to waste time, emotions, or space on a bottle you kept simply because it might be useful again? Or would you rather be rid of it and leave more space for creativity?"

My mind feels so free today after emptying the house of 90% of the excess!  Woohoo! I felt such wonder looking in at the newly cleared space when I got up.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 05, 2014, 04:50:33 AM
And Astatine, the following is a brilliant quote from your article up-thread!  Thanks so much for these nuggets:


                                Procrastination is clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 05, 2014, 05:07:25 AM

Astatine, I have excess photos too.  Do you scan them at all?  I need to set and toss and then decide what to do with what is left.

No, because of this:

Astatine, great article! 

I love this quote:

"Anything that takes up space in your home, in your drawers, or on your computer takes up a space in your mind, your vision, and your emotions: do you really want to waste time, emotions, or space on a bottle you kept simply because it might be useful again? Or would you rather be rid of it and leave more space for creativity?"

My mind feels so free today after emptying the house of 90% of the excess!  Woohoo! I felt such wonder looking in at the newly cleared space when I got up.

I'm going to go through and delete most of my photos at some point. It doesn't take up physical space but it takes up mental space for sure.

Getting rid of photos is a slow ongoing process for me. I started 10 years ago!! And I'm still going. I wish I hadn't got a whole bunch of photos printed out a year or two ago, damnit.

Going through electronic photos is slow because it's so easy to take so many with digital cameras. I liked my old camera that only held like 200 photos, which was a great discipline to hold to on a week-long trip. I've stopped using my camera and only take phone photos, and only ones that I like to share on social media or send to hubby. Still, too many photos!! It's frustrating having so many. It's too easy to take photos these days.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 05, 2014, 08:35:38 AM
I just watched a couple of episodes of Consumed and it was good. It's one of those programmes where you cry at the end when they do the big reveal of their new, improved home.:)

Some men came round to take some stuff that we left in our drive but there is still junk to go to the tip. I'm going to look through my house once more to see if there's anything I can add to the pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on October 05, 2014, 09:47:12 AM
Starting to fill my Amazon box with give-away; inspired by the 'too many coffee mugs!' mention upthread, I went there first.  I tossed what used to be my favorite go-cup but a piece inside the mug cracked so it leaks (and I threw away the busted part so I can't even fix it). So I've moved a broken go-cup with me to at least 2 homes. Wtf? It was an amazing mug that is broken, I haven't used in 3 years, and is now in the trash.  7 other perfectly good mugs / go-cups are in my box. When I get back from a 2-week conference/vacation with just a duffel bag of clothes later this month, it will be easy to fill the other half, I bet.

Also, I love Consumed! Will have to throw an episode of that on later today and pull out more things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on October 05, 2014, 06:20:49 PM
I am making real progress! This Saturday I am taking boxes and boxes and boxes of crafting, knitting, and quilting supplies to a flea market to sell them. Whatever I can't sell, I am donating. It's NOT coming back into the house.

So excited.

CU Tiger, how did it go at the flea market?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 05, 2014, 07:26:05 PM
Hubby has just half-filled a box with old magazines.

We're about to get his stuff (A LOT OF STUFF) out of storage and I'm keen to clear the decks as much as possible before we get swamped with boxes. Luckily we're able to get the removalists to drop off most of the furniture at a garage sale on the way home but it will still be SO MUCH STUFF. I'm quite intimidated tbh, but it will save us $3k per year so we're sucking it up and dealing with it. eep.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 05, 2014, 08:23:03 PM
I am making real progress! This Saturday I am taking boxes and boxes and boxes of crafting, knitting, and quilting supplies to a flea market to sell them. Whatever I can't sell, I am donating. It's NOT coming back into the house.

So excited.

CU Tiger, how did it go at the flea market?

It was great. I came home with $32 - which does not sound all that impressive until you consider I made it in sales that averaged 50 cents to one dollar. I paid for half the spot and got rid of so much stuff! At the end a woman asked me how much for all the remaining fabric and bought it for $8.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on October 05, 2014, 08:30:39 PM
Wow - throwing on that consumed show sure is a kick in the butt! I'm pretty sure we are considered minimalists compared to many of the families featured - but We still have too much stuff. Part of our problem is it is a 2 hour drive to even a remotely big city, don't have a recycling program or facilities in town and tend to bring stuff into the house "just in case"

But I went through our kitchen, linen closet and storage cupboard today and got a couple of boxes to donate and a garbage bag so progress was made :)

Love hearing how everyone else is doing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on October 05, 2014, 08:47:14 PM
Went through my dresser and got rid of a pile of clothes.  I organized my drawers and it's awesome to be able to see things in there better so I wear more of what I own.  Didn't find something I was missing though, unfortunately (last seen on an overnight trip so it might sadly be gone forever).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 05, 2014, 08:52:00 PM
Getting ready for my Wednesday pick up of stuff for the thrift store! (see link up-thread -- its in Canada) What a great motivator it is to know that a truck is coming in a few days to take away as much stuff as I can get out of here by then! I have currently sent my boys upstairs with a shoe box and yet another Amazon box to fill up with toys and outgrown clothes. 

Who knew decluttering could be so exciting! haha!

I'm glad that some of you have had a chance to watch "Consumed!" Imagine living in one of those sparse, simplistic, cleaned out homes? AHHHHHH! Blissful!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on October 06, 2014, 12:48:30 PM
5th box of mostly never-read books donated to the local library today. Now to attack the overflowing linen closet...

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 06, 2014, 01:01:21 PM
C.K. That's so great! I like MMM's theory that you can borrow MOST books from the library anytime (even if its inter-library loan and takes a while to get to you). THEY can store the books for us! haha! Here's a link to MMM's article on using the library -- I really enjoyed this one!

http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2011/11/08/get-rich-with-the-library/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on October 06, 2014, 01:47:53 PM
I am making real progress! This Saturday I am taking boxes and boxes and boxes of crafting, knitting, and quilting supplies to a flea market to sell them. Whatever I can't sell, I am donating. It's NOT coming back into the house.

So excited.

CU Tiger, how did it go at the flea market?

It was great. I came home with $32 - which does not sound all that impressive until you consider I made it in sales that averaged 50 cents to one dollar. I paid for half the spot and got rid of so much stuff! At the end a woman asked me how much for all the remaining fabric and bought it for $8.

That's great! Don't you love the feeling of multiple wins: reduce your clutter, make some money, and let others use and enjoy the stuff!  I've had some eBay sales lately and am always happy to receive feedback saying the person loves the item. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 06, 2014, 04:34:25 PM
So, yesterday was the final push to clear and then clean the worst clutter area in the house (plus some things from the garage and cellar).  My DH leapt in with gusto and took trips to the dump and chopped up furniture with his bare hands (just kidding he used a giant mallet thing). 

Houston, we have a floor!!!!!  Things look so light filled and airy and spacious!

And…when we were clearing I had put a bunch of stuff on top of my desk so now I have that to go through this morning.

And…when we were clearing, we put a bunch of paper that should be kept in two boxes and put them in a closet.  So this winter I will be scanning and doing minor filing.

And…when we were clearing we put things to be repaired in the garage.

Keeping in mind that amazing quote  "Procrastination is clutter" I have made some deadlines for the remaining clutter.  We have things to be darned, new fabric to be sewn into things like curtains, furniture to repair, antique tchochkes to repair, a bookshelf to build to give the books we are keeping a home, a workshop area to set up properly so I can reach tools and paint and drop cloths etc, and the dreaded shed to go through.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 06, 2014, 04:38:02 PM
Today someone was talking about getting something new and I practically shuddered.

Are you all feeling the revulsion at the thought of bringing anything in?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 06, 2014, 07:20:13 PM
Today someone was talking about getting something new and I practically shuddered.

Are you all feeling the revulsion at the thought of bringing anything in?

Hell yes. Tupperware is the exception but yes. Do not want more stuff ever again. Getting rid of stuff is such a huge motivator for consuming less and spending less. It's one of the best ways IMO to deprogram from the consumerist mindset.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on October 06, 2014, 10:21:14 PM
Today someone was talking about getting something new and I practically shuddered.

Are you all feeling the revulsion at the thought of bringing anything in?

Hell yes. Tupperware is the exception but yes. Do not want more stuff ever again. Getting rid of stuff is such a huge motivator for consuming less and spending less. It's one of the best ways IMO to deprogram from the consumerist mindset.

Haha Tupperware is also my exception.
__________________________________________

Last night when I got home from work I spent a solid hour on sorting through and clearing out old paperwork. I need to set aside an hour a few times a week, and I'll be there in no time!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 07, 2014, 02:46:30 AM
Some guys came to take away lots of junk today. They called up to me as I was looking out the window saying that they would use some of it so it wasn't junk to them.:D

Some things have also been given to my husband's family. It's such a freeing feeling.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 07, 2014, 05:35:19 AM
On Sunday I went through our file cabinet and got rid of old paperwork and files that we no longer need. The box they filled was about 9 inches x 12 inches x 30 inches. Husband shredded them for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 07, 2014, 07:28:22 AM
Right before I left for the week, I put a couple fancy planters out by the street with a free sign.  Hopefully they'll be gone when I get home on Friday.  Also sold a fairly obscure text book on Amazon.  Gave my bento lunch jar set to my dad while he was here.

Have two large, overflowing boxes in the basement that need to get transported to the thrift store soon.

This weekend I'll be incorporating a couple pieces of foam into a useful seat cushion for my tack trunk.

Really need to take a run at destroying the electronics clutter soon, and sell my espresso machine, which I rarely use, and takes up too much space on the kitchen counter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LisaCO on October 07, 2014, 08:52:52 PM
.....
Keeping in mind that amazing quote  "Procrastination is clutter" .....

I love this quote.  I never thought about it this way, but it's so true.  thank you. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 07, 2014, 09:04:22 PM
Loaded all my boxes out onto the front porch for pickup in the morning! heehaw~!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on October 07, 2014, 09:40:31 PM
Over the weekend I took some good quality dresses to the 'designer op shop'. Unfortunately they only bought two of them, but it's better than nothing.

I packed up two large garbage bags of clothes, a big box of unwanted kitchen gifts, three unwanted vases and every plastic flower in the house and DH took them to the op shop today.

(Why oh why did I go through a phase of buying plastic flowers, photo frames and cushions when I was younger? Now I have to get rid of them all.)

We are donating our Xmas Tree to DS childcare centre tomorrow because we never put it up and it takes up so much space in the cupboard.

We have gotten rid of so much stuff and it feels great to see it leave the house, but it sometimes feels like we've barely scratched the surface!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 07, 2014, 10:27:53 PM
Woohoo finally sold my red wool duffel coat on eBay today!  Hopefully I can move dh's vintage Levi's jackets next.  Arranged to give away a pair of too small breeches to a girl at the barn.  Also hereby committing to sell at least 4 pair of shoes and my espresso machine on ebay when I get home. Maybe the Singer sewing machine too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BigBigote on October 08, 2014, 08:02:30 AM
Alright, fine - you guys are way too motivating... I have now put in the give-away pile a pair of shoes that look practically brand new, look really good on, and are uncomfortable as hell so I always avoid wearing them but feel obligated to keep ...because they look good and I've basically never worn them since buying them two years ago.  The guilt is real!

Phew!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on October 08, 2014, 09:29:23 AM
We're moving in a month, so I need to get serious about getting rid of stuff.  I don't know how we've acquired so many new things since our move last year. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 08, 2014, 12:26:28 PM
LOL, Big Bigote! Yes I'm finding this very motivating too!

malaprop, and the amazon box technique is working! This morning a truck came and took away a whole porch-full of amazon boxes! I still have a loooong way to go, but I am finding that baby steps to decluttering are really helpful. Otherwise, I am paralyzed by the enormity of the task :-/

Taking a break from decluttering for Canadian Thanksgiving weekend but will be back at it next week!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 09, 2014, 04:16:02 AM
I'm dealing with abstract clutter - digital photos. Part of me would like to delete nearly all of them! Just keep some wedding ones. But somehow I can't pull the trigger. So I'm doing a half-assed deleting some in each folder. At least I have nothing older than 2009 thanks to the last big electronic decluttering I did. I've never regretted getting rid of/deleting anything so far - why can't I just live in the present?? Ugh. Brains. They overthink things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on October 09, 2014, 08:20:12 AM
I gave away a whole box of Bicycle Times magazines... I really like that 'zine, but there's so many ads for ridiculously overpriced stuff, so I let my subscription expire. Reclaimed a whole shelf on my bookshelf.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on October 09, 2014, 08:23:09 AM
Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to declutter - think of all the cookware that is only for holiday cooking.  If you don't use it for Thanksgiving dinner, you won't use it for Christmas - it can go.  It is also traditionally cottage-closing weekend, so can be designated as get the yard ready for winter weekend as well.  And if family are coming home, there are extra bodies to help.  ;-)

Other decluttering: My DD just broke up with her boyfriend - she and a friend are looking for an apartment together.  I am hoping that a pile of kitchen/bath stuff will be of use to her.  If not, it is being donated.  I needed it at one point, but not now. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 09, 2014, 02:13:47 PM
I am starting to look over my clothes with an eye to tossing.  Then of course yesterday I wore an old shirt that is destined to be tossed and all my friends exclaimed how good I look in it.  Maybe I will keep that one…

What was I thinking acquiring all this stuff?  And wow, how free it is without some of it.  I returned more stuff to people, this lot had been left at my house yesterday for a potluck and I just drove it all to its homes immediately today and felt the relief viscerally. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fireferrets on October 10, 2014, 11:37:26 AM
Read all 15 pages of this thread- dang do I feel motivated!

During college I accumulated a lot of video games (not like I had time to play them - just wishful thinking!), so now I'm selling them because now that I have a job, I don't have the interest in playing them- go figure. On average, I net about $10 per game (selling on eBay). ^____^

I offered the following deal to my boyfriend, who also has a ton of video games: if he lets me sell the games, we'll use the profit to buy him a Spanish guitar (which he has been begging to buy). I told him in order to take the deal, he has agree to pare down his collection to a dozen games. He's still mulling it over, ... ^,<
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on October 10, 2014, 12:00:37 PM
I got rid of our mop! It rarely gets used, we had no place to store it, and our place is so small that it's just as easy to clean the floors by hand with a big sponge.

I will have to watch Consumed, I watch Hoarding: Buried Alive all the time and that motivates me too.

Agreed, I feel bad about the schadenfreude I get from Hoarders. But I can't stop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fireferrets on October 10, 2014, 01:36:01 PM
I offered the following deal to my boyfriend, who also has a ton of video games: if he lets me sell the games, we'll use the profit to buy him a Spanish guitar (which he has been begging to buy). I told him in order to take the deal, he has agree to pare down his collection to a dozen games. He's still mulling it over, ... ^,<

There's a gauntlet that's like this - http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/throw-down-the-gauntlet/sell-your-junk-to-buy-something-nice/ - It's not very active but I love the idea.

Thanks for the link, Malaprop! :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ash7962 on October 10, 2014, 02:07:00 PM
I've been reading this thread for the last few days and I love it so far!  I'd like to join in!

Yesterday I threw out some old bras and socks that I had replaced, and therefore never wore because they were old/holey.  Not sure why I was keeping them.  I also sorted through a bunch of the make up/hair stuff I've some how accumulated despite the fact that I only wear make up to weddings and never really style my hair (pony tails and buns = awesome).  I had been storing those things in my linen closet because they were so rarely used, but now I've reclaimed almost an entire shelf so now my kitten's blankets and laundry supplies fit!  I've also ditched a bunch of books in the past month, but I still have a ton of paper clutter.  I looked into the doxie scanner that someone posted and found one for relatively cheap on Ebay.  I actually don't have much inflow of papers to keep, so I think I will try to sell it after I'm done using it (or maybe pass it along).  Last thing I did was take my well worn boots to a shoe repair store.  The soles/heel were totally worn, but the leather (I think?) part was still in good, if dirty, condition.  They were actually a gift I got years ago, so this is the first bit of money (38$) that I will be spending on them and its cheaper than buying new boots of the same quality!

Next steps:
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 10, 2014, 05:02:53 PM
Y'all are inspiring me. I am going to list some things on craigslist and Freecycle tonight!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on October 10, 2014, 10:04:13 PM
I'm not having much luck with selling things on Gumtree lately, so I've just been donating stuff to the Op Shop. I feel a little bad that we are giving away gifts that people gave us, but then I realise that the are just accumulating dust and it's better for someone to get some use from them.

This weekend, I plan to get rid of about 20 books I haven't been able to sell. Hoping some friends will want the freebies, otherwise they are getting donated.

I'm also going to sell some of my toddler's bigger toys that he no longer plays with. Toys seem to be the biggest clutter in our living areas, so keeping them minimal is key.

I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on October 11, 2014, 07:23:46 AM
I'm joining in! I realized I have no room in my storage unit for my bicycle when winter comes. Besides a chair and Christmas decorations, I cannot remember what is in there. Hopefully that makes it easier!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on October 11, 2014, 07:30:13 AM

I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
My opinion about this is 2 sets per bed that you use daily, and one set per bed that is used only occasionally.  Then I keep a good sized stack of pillow cases.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 11, 2014, 09:48:15 PM

I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
My opinion about this is 2 sets per bed that you use daily, and one set per bed that is used only occasionally.  Then I keep a good sized stack of pillow cases.

This seems like a good rule of thumb to me.  We upgraded to a King bed a couple years ago and now have all these Queen sheets and really only need one set for the guest bedroom.  However, that's a lot of perfectly good fabric, so I'm trying to think of some good uses for it, rather than just carting them all to the thrift store.    We actually have four sets for the king bed now; 1 set that kind of sucks and we don't use, 1 good set, 1 OK set, and now some flannel sheets for winter.  Should just get rid of that sucky set.  I tried repairing the fitted sheet once but the corners keep tearing out.

I just got done listing a couple more things on Ebay and got better photos of an item that wasn't selling.  Also used up some scrap wood and leftover foam and batting to make a nice padded seat for my tack trunk.  It's nice to see clutter being absorbed into something useful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fireferrets on October 12, 2014, 12:39:55 PM

I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
My opinion about this is 2 sets per bed that you use daily, and one set per bed that is used only occasionally.  Then I keep a good sized stack of pillow cases.

In my home, we keep one set per bed - otherwise, I noticed the "dirty" set sits in the laundry for a looong time before it gets washed (and only then when it was critically needed). Having only one set keeps us honest when it comes to getting it washed.
As for towels, there's one for each of us and two "fancy" towels on hand for guests - same reason as the bed sheets.

Much like Zaga, we keep extra pillow cases around to change more frequently. (^_^) I think we have one extra case per pillow.

I have to invent tricks like this because we are lazy bums. (-_-)'
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on October 12, 2014, 02:57:27 PM
I have kept old shirts from summer camp, school and university in boxes. I keep saying I'll send them off to be made into quilts to make them useful, but I haven't done it yet. Maybe by the end of the year...


I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
My opinion about this is 2 sets per bed that you use daily, and one set per bed that is used only occasionally.  Then I keep a good sized stack of pillow cases.

This is almost what I was about to say. Very good advice.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ash7962 on October 12, 2014, 04:44:06 PM
I've got some old bed sheets as well.  I plan on turning one of them into a laundry bag that I can hang in my tiny bathroom as a hamper.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 12, 2014, 10:07:17 PM
I have kids and with flu season approaching, I'm hesitant to part with sheets! haha
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on October 12, 2014, 10:36:06 PM
I have kids and with flu season approaching, I'm hesitant to part with sheets! haha

Ha ha....The boy has wet two sets of sheets over the last couple of nights and now it's raining so there's no chance to dry them. Looks like I need to keep a few surplus sets for at least the next few years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 13, 2014, 12:43:07 AM
Speaking of sheets -- I have a super-organized friend who puts the following in a pillowcase:

1 fitted sheet
1 flat sheet
1 more pillowcase

Genius, I say! Her linen closet is impeccably neat and tidy <sigh>.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on October 13, 2014, 06:36:39 AM
Speaking of sheets -- I have a super-organized friend who puts the following in a pillowcase:

1 fitted sheet
1 flat sheet
1 more pillowcase

Genius, I say! Her linen closet is impeccably neat and tidy <sigh>.

That is a great idea!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 14, 2014, 04:33:55 AM
I decluttered a bottle of whiskey by drinking the last tiny amount (not sure why it went back in the cupboard with so little in it, but oh well). *feeling virtuous*


I'm not having much luck with selling things on Gumtree lately, so I've just been donating stuff to the Op Shop. I feel a little bad that we are giving away gifts that people gave us, but then I realise that the are just accumulating dust and it's better for someone to get some use from them.

I've given up on selling anything in this city. It's hard enough even giving stuff away.

Re gifts: if it makes you feel better, I gave away a Christmas gift last Christmas within days of receiving it. I felt briefly bad but am being ruthless with what I keep/don't keep. Haven't regretted it.

I'm dealing with abstract clutter - digital photos. Part of me would like to delete nearly all of them! Just keep some wedding ones. But somehow I can't pull the trigger. So I'm doing a half-assed deleting some in each folder. At least I have nothing older than 2009 thanks to the last big electronic decluttering I did. I've never regretted getting rid of/deleting anything so far - why can't I just live in the present?? Ugh. Brains. They overthink things.

Since I wrote this I've been imagining how great it would be if I lost everything on my hard drive (well, I'd regret a few things). So that's probably a sign to be super ruthless.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on October 14, 2014, 05:07:26 AM
I decluttered a bottle of whiskey by drinking the last tiny amount (not sure why it went back in the cupboard with so little in it, but oh well). *feeling virtuous*

I'm dealing with abstract clutter - digital photos. Part of me would like to delete nearly all of them! Just keep some wedding ones. But somehow I can't pull the trigger. So I'm doing a half-assed deleting some in each folder. At least I have nothing older than 2009 thanks to the last big electronic decluttering I did. I've never regretted getting rid of/deleting anything so far - why can't I just live in the present?? Ugh. Brains. They overthink things.

Since I wrote this I've been imagining how great it would be if I lost everything on my hard drive (well, I'd regret a few things). So that's probably a sign to be super ruthless.

LOL @whisky. Sounds like a good way to declutter.
I changed jobs earlier this year and protectively transferred my key work files onto a stick "just in case". Despite getting the IT guru to do it,  when I tried to get  to the files, there was nothing there, and my old computer had already been cleaned. My heart sunk, but its now 8 months later and I haven't missed a thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on October 14, 2014, 06:12:34 PM
I got rid of some digital clutter yesterday. I couldn't find what I was looking for in my email inbox so I finally decided to give it a good clean out. Deleted 2000 emails and filed 500 or so. Feels so tidy in my inbox now :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Elderwood17 on October 14, 2014, 07:00:49 PM
I got rid of some digital clutter yesterday. I couldn't find what I was looking for in my email inbox so I finally decided to give it a good clean out. Deleted 2000 emails and filed 500 or so. Feels so tidy in my inbox now :)

Good job!  That is an area of clutter that gets out of hand quickly. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 15, 2014, 03:21:53 PM
This week has been super busy in the rest of my life, not much time for decluttering.  However today I got to toss out broken flower pots, etc. at my house and then at my mother's house which was satisfying.  I drove them straight to the dump.

The urge to purge is still strong.  There were several things I needed in a hurry this week and could not find and it was very inconvenient and annoying.  I want to know where things are and to have easy access.  I could not find some specific storm supplies, and I cannot find some hardware needed to secure the house which I KNOW is in the garage…grrrrr!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on October 15, 2014, 06:29:40 PM
I've cleared out a lot of paperwork lately. Need to keep working on that. And convince the BF that it's time to go through his giant, heavy filing cabinet!

This weekend we'll be taking a car load of clothes, books and DVDs to an op shop. I don't understand how we haven't run out of clutter yet! I'm definitely not bringing anywhere near this volume of new stuff into the house... I must have just never realised how bad we were with clutter before the last few years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on October 15, 2014, 06:39:30 PM
I don't understand how we haven't run out of clutter yet!

This is how I feel. We've been actively decluttering for months, but everywhere I look I see more! It's never ending.

It doesn't help that I put excess towels in a box to donate and DH takes them out and puts them back in the linen closet I just cleaned out! Arrgghhh....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on October 15, 2014, 06:50:01 PM
I don't understand how we haven't run out of clutter yet!

This is how I feel. We've been actively decluttering for months, but everywhere I look I see more! It's never ending.

I think part of it is that your standards change as your de-clutter... so my space is so much better now than it was two years ago, but I'm not comparing it that way. Looking around the house now 'resets' my expectation of what my house looks like, and all I can see is the clutter that needs to be gone for it to feel lighter and brighter. Of course once I get rid of that clutter my perception will reset again and I'll want to get rid of even more...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on October 15, 2014, 09:14:05 PM
Donating a too-small-pair of bowling shoes.

I came up with a trick. Whenever I'm thinking, 'I should spend 20 minutes cleaning up the apartment,' I tell myself that I can get out of it if I can think of one thing to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 15, 2014, 09:53:29 PM
Tossed a plastic pitcher into the donate pile.  That pile of crap is going to the Youth Ranch (allows a state tax deduction in addition to federal) on Friday.

Used a big foam core poster I brought home from work, plus some fabric to create decorative panels for my kitchen cabinets - I've been moving that poster board around here and there for about 2 months, so it's nice to have it in its final crafty destination.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 16, 2014, 02:13:03 AM

I came up with a trick. Whenever I'm thinking, 'I should spend 20 minutes cleaning up the apartment,' I tell myself that I can get out of it if I can think of one thing to get rid of.

Loved this idea, sheepstache!

Today, I gave my 11 year old son a mandarin orange box and asked him if he could fill it with small things to give away. He said yes and so I challenged him to do it in a limited amount of time. He decided on 20 minutes, so we set the kitchen timer and off he went! Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 16, 2014, 02:30:20 AM
On the weekend we made paperwork categories and worked out the flow for our physical paperwork clutter. SO bought a shredder today and nearly got the fancy large one, but we agreed the next one down would be better as it suits our long term needs. Next step is scan and shred :)
We've been working through a paperflow book that we bought for SOs dad a few years ago, it's been good to have some guidance as we set up a system that works for us.

 http://www.paperflow.com.au  (http://www.paperflow.com.au)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 16, 2014, 02:38:53 AM

There were several things I needed in a hurry this week and could not find and it was very inconvenient and annoying.  I want to know where things are and to have easy access.

This is one of my GREATEST desires! To have a place for everything, and everything in its place.

I once read an article (source?) that asked, "If the power was out in the middle of the night, would you be able to find a pair of scissors?" Of course, I just laugh at the thought...there's NO WAY I'd be able to find a pair of scissors! Yet, I have 2 good friends who answered the same question with an unqualified "YES!!" Harrumph ..... Baby steps, mama, baby steps!

Thanks for everyone who is posting their successes and challenges here -- so very motivating to me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 16, 2014, 05:08:17 AM
We got hubby's stuff out of storage. The furniture got donated without even coming to our house -yay!!!

Now there are just the boxes and boxes and boxes of stuff. So much stuff. I'm start to feel genuine revulsion to stuff. I suspect I may retch if I get any gifts this year with the exception of consumables like alcohol.

I find it distressing how much people are in the thrall of their Stuff. I used to be. Now minimalism seems to be so deeply appealing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on October 16, 2014, 05:36:35 AM
Funny you should mention this, Astatine. I just made some sort of minimalist pledge to myself. I've been intermittently decluttering in a random way for over 5 years, but it feels like I'm not getting anywhere. I'm not sure how far I will go, and how fast I'll get there but I feel an increasing aversion to stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on October 16, 2014, 01:38:44 PM
You are all very inspiring.

Sheets - for adults I find one winter and one summer set are fine.  For kids, lots of backup.  We went through 4 sets one memorable night.  Historical note, before fitted sheets, people had three sheets - the bottom one went to the wash, the top one went to the bottom, the clean one went on top.  It cut down on laundry and wear, and there wasn't a huge rush to get the laundry dry - if didn't matter if line drying took more than one day, the bed was made.  There are times that I think that if I could find sheets I liked that I could just buy all "top" sheets I would go back to that.

@Fireferrets - just curious.  What is the difference between acoustic and Spanish guitar?  I thought Spanish was acoustic?  Different strings? Different tuning?


I spent most of the summer outside (have to take advantage of warm weather).  Now that winter is approaching I am really sorting and rearranging and decluttering.  DD was here for Thanksgiving and we did a bunch of things that don't need a lot of strength, but do need two sets of hands. Outdoor things that are awkward are all put away for winter.  My plant stand for house plants is set up, the plants are all spruced up and on it, and the plant stand for seedlings is set up, ready for January.

As I sort and clean each area, I am looking at what I actually use and what I thought I would use, but don't.  A lot of the things I bought when I first moved here are now surplus, and are out or on their way out.  It's so nice to have more open rooms and surfaces.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WESTOFTHEHUDSON on October 16, 2014, 03:57:59 PM
I have given up on trying to sell any of the items I no longer need. I don't live in a largely populated area anyways and between waiting for an offer and waiting for people to show up (some never came and then I'd re-post), etc it was not worth my time. I finally found a non profit group that was accepting items for a grage sale fundraiser. I cleared out 3 large garbags bags of clothes/kitchen items and it felt sooo good!

I next found someone who could use my kids extra clothes toys and a younger neighbor who is able to wear some clothes and shoes and even wanted unopened hand creams,etc I had around the house. I feel like I am on a roll and it's very liberating to reduce the amount of stuff we have.

Next is to give away yarn that I haven't knitted with but have stored for over two years. I think our local library said they would take it.

Oddly enough, it still feels like a lot of stuff around the house but I might take a few weeks off and then sort through what I feel should go next.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on October 16, 2014, 04:15:43 PM
DH and I sorted through our storage area in our apartment building. We've learned that traveling with anything but a small suitcase is terrible, so out went 4 large suitcases, and we managed to fill 3 of them with other things to get rid of too! I'm trying to sell a few things, but I'd rather get them out of the house so if they don't sell soon those will be donated too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on October 16, 2014, 06:08:51 PM
....We've learned that traveling with anything but a small suitcase is terrible...

Yep. That's why if it can't fit into my Zuca, I manage without the item for trips of up to a week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on October 16, 2014, 06:57:00 PM
I have a few places where I donate, I no longer even try to sell. Years ago a friend ad I did a shared yard sale, and the only things that sold well were my garden plants.  So anything still good is donated, everything else is thrown out.

I have also found that for larger items, just putting them at the end of the driveway on non-garbage days works - they are usually gone in a few hours.  All this needs is decent weather - no snow, no rain.  This is on a very quiet rural road, so this technique should work anywhere.

I figure whatever it is has paid its way, I am not going to wear myself out trying to get the last few dollars out of the item.  Just because I no longer get paid for my time doesn't mean my time is not valuable. 

I have given up on trying to sell any of the items I no longer need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on October 17, 2014, 10:10:52 AM
My door is literally pulling at its top hinges from the shoes I hang over the back, and many of them I rarely or never wear, so I'm going to try taking some of the pairs to re-sell. Hopefully by the time I'm able to get over there, I'll have worked myself up to being comfortable with letting go of the pairs I like and still fit but hardly wear. They definitely aren't needed by any stretch of the imagination, I just need to take some time to accept letting them go. My door would thank me I know!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on October 17, 2014, 02:13:07 PM
Just had to dig through my file cabinet to find some documents and ended up putting aside a whole pile to be tossed.  Whoo-hoo!  We are so close to not needing the filing cabinet at all, although it serves as a TV stand in the office so it'll stay whether it's empty or not.  I am loving Evernote as a filing cabinet alternative. 

mo paper mo problems
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 17, 2014, 05:12:25 PM
We got hubby's stuff out of storage. The furniture got donated without even coming to our house -yay!!!

Now there are just the boxes and boxes and boxes of stuff. So much stuff. I'm start to feel genuine revulsion to stuff. I suspect I may retch if I get any gifts this year with the exception of consumables like alcohol.

I find it distressing how much people are in the thrall of their Stuff. I used to be. Now minimalism seems to be so deeply appealing.

We're still going. Not too many boxes left in the lounge room but the spare bedroom is full of boxes stacked higher than me.

Learn from my hubby:  THROW EVERYTHING AWAY. Do not keep stuff. Do not keep multiples of stuff you don't need. Don't buy books or DVDs. Stuff is overwhelming.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: flamingo25 on October 17, 2014, 06:39:10 PM
I HATE having excess stuff. Even though I've always been somewhat frugal, I am finding more and more how much crap I have accumulated over the past few years. I just took a big bag of clothes to a consignment store and have given away a lot of stuff on my local Buy Nothing group. So refreshing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on October 18, 2014, 10:04:52 AM
it's very motivating reading about everyone else's hard work!

i signed up to participate in a designer discard sale that is going on tomorrow -- a bunch of designers/artists are getting together to have a yard-sale-type thing where we are going to sell supplies, prototypes, and anything else we have lying around our house that we want to sell. i guess the assumption is that designers will have cool stuff because it seems like a lot of people are coming.

i feel like this is a great opportunity for me to get rid of my things that are too nice/valuable to just give to the thrift store but which i am a little too lazy to try and sell on ebay or something. :) so i'm going through everything and trying to sell as much as possible.

earlier this week i went through all my clothes and pulled about probably about 50 pieces to sell, including several of the dresses i made when i was running a dressmaking company. these are beautiful little shift dresses, made from vintage and eco-friendly fabrics, so i'm still wondering where to price them. the fabrics in them alone are worth ~$20 each. i guess i will price them around $30 and be open to negotiation. there's also a lot of just normal clothes, which i'm going to price at $5 each, i think ...

i've pulled about a dozen pairs of shoes, too -- will price them at $5 each except maybe a couple of pairs that are fancy brands and practically brand new, which i'll put at $10. i've also got a small jewelry box of costume jewelry, which i'll probably price pretty low.

today my task is to go through my fabric stash and see if i can part with half of it. i also have a silhouette cameo cutting machine that i just HAD TO HAVE a couple christmasses ago but have like 0 interest in now. and i think i can also sell off the linocut printing gear i bought to make my wedding invites. it was fun to do that project, but i don't see myself doing any more.

i also have a rather large stash of silly japanese stationery with like cats hiding in food on it. i cut this in half a few years ago at a stoop sale i held in brooklyn, but i'm probably ready to cut it in half again.

so ... busy day! but i'm pumped about tomorrow. i think i can probably bring in at least a few hundred dollars. i even signed up for a square credit/debit card reader for my phone, so people can buy my shit with plastic. woo! here's to everyone taking my shit and giving me money!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on October 18, 2014, 01:28:36 PM
Hit a bit of a slow patch here. Trying to convince DH not just to tidy all his stuff but to sort through and see what he actually needs. Managed to get rid of a few more clothes that aren't worn recently (mine and his) so still making a bit of progress.

Madgeylou that discount sale sounds great. Great opportunity for you and the other designers to collaborate which always makes running that kind of activity much easier. Would love to know how it goes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on October 18, 2014, 04:45:21 PM
I had a big pile of magazines I was keeping for recipes I wanted to try for months/years. One or two recipes per magazine. Last weekend I finally just ripped out the recipes, stuck them in a binder, and tossed the magazines. Bonus: now that I don't have to dig around looking for a recipe, I've actually started making them! I made two this week from the collection, a crazy good Thai green curry and some spiced roasted vegetables with pistachios (Canadian Thanksgiving side dish).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 18, 2014, 06:35:08 PM
9 full car loads of stuff to various charities and the recycle shed at the tip plus e-waste.

Still so many many boxes of crap.

There are also boxes of packing paper, 3 large boxes of rubbish (will gradually dispose of through the weekly rubbish collection and luckily our neighbour is going away next week so we can borrow his bin and fill it to the brim too), filled the recycling bin, have a huge pile of stuff for hubby to give to his friend tonight (not sure why the friend's stuff filled several boxes but there you go), gave away a grill to another friend, etc.

So much crap. Minimalism <3
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 18, 2014, 11:16:21 PM
Have to get moving again next week. Just found 4-5 amazon boxes in my cupboard! Will fill and release to Thriftland!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on October 19, 2014, 05:31:55 AM
I volunteer at a small local organization that doesn't have much storage space, so I took it upon myself to keep their tablecloths and chair covers in my closet between events.  Now I do not have as much space as I'd like for my own items.

That was over a year ago. Sometimes I "borrow trouble," as my sister says.

Recently, they committed to some clutter busting, which means they now have the space for their own things.  I had planned to return their linens anyway this month, whether they had space or not. Now, I don't need to have that conversation.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on October 19, 2014, 12:40:41 PM
@Malaprop - I agree about purses - I have a summer purse, a winter purse, and a dressy purse.  It is too much trouble to keep switching purses.

I am sorting out my DD's room - really it is supposed to be the "guest" room where she is by far the most frequent guest, but others have used it.  It is definitely her room at the moment - masses of her stuff.  All gone once she gets her permanent job and a place of her own.  Well, to be totally honest, half is her stuff, and half is mine - it is a handy place to "toss things in for a bit", and then the bit turns into months.  And what is with the cache of dog food?  That is scary, since she swears up and down it was not her.  No sign of mice, at least!

When I look at the house as a whole, I realize that my usage has changed since I retired.  I no longer have a lot of school prep and marking to do, which was why I had one bedroom turned into my office.  Some of the things I do in my living room (what a multi-purpose room that room is) could move into the office, and make the living room more welcoming to visitors.  Hmm, must think about this more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on October 19, 2014, 02:58:14 PM
Well, the sale was really fun! I sold a lot of dresses and shoes and some fabric and some random stuff like a bike basket. I sold only a few of the primo vintage fabrics -- seemed like people were looking more for finished items than raw materials -- so I'm thinking that I might need to bite the bullet and list them on Etsy.

Everything that I didn't sell, other than the primo vintage fabrics, I drove straight to the thrift store. Eight bins down to three and $250 in my pocket. No bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on October 19, 2014, 08:07:12 PM
Made great progress on the weekend. You can actually walk around in our spare room now! The main living areas are looking great, so much nicer when there's very little clutter. We took an entire car load to charity and now I can't see how we ever fit that much crap in the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Pants on October 20, 2014, 05:18:30 AM
Oh god, I read bits of this thread and got motivated to declutter ALL THE THINGS! Again.

I've been decluttering for a while... I went fairly hardcore for about 18 months before I moved to this house a year ago. I was living in a too-big house full of shit I had "inherited" from various hoarders in the family who never got rid of anything. I've been resting on my laurels for most of the past year at the new (much smaller) place, but I recently realised that there was room for improvement.

For example, books. I have now sold/donated the long-unread, the half-read, the maybe-will-read-agains, etc. I now only have one small bookcase and am determined to keep the books I own confined to that. I used to be very sentimental about books but realised recently that life is too short to read most of the stuff I've read more than once, so I got rid of it. And I've also accepted that I may never read the "classics" that I *should* read, and that's okay. Because I don't feel like reading them anyway. So I got rid of those.

Today I organised some documents, got rid of a lot of cardboard boxes left over from the move, made a list of things I should get rid of, on Gumtree or ebay or by donating to a charity.

And most importantly, I have listed two pairs of shoes on ebay and identified 6 other pairs that I will put up. I just hate taking all the photos... I am a shoe-a-holic. I have too many shoes to admit to on this forum... and some I only keep for sentimental reasons. Like a pair of heels that my ex bought me. Beautiful but no longer really "me".

*sigh*

So my goal for the next few days is to put them all up on ebay and also get rid of the now-unnecessary bookcase and a few other bits.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on October 20, 2014, 07:09:00 AM
My husband just decided on his own to sell 99% of his records -- about 200 of them -- and they were out the door on Sunday.  I'm shocked.  To be honest he had a bit of an emotional reaction but knew he was doing the right thing.  He almost never listened to them, and he saved the ones he had an emotional attachment to.  He was staring horrified at the empty shelf and then was like -- I'm going to look at the records I kept -- and sat and looking at them for a while LOL.  The poor guy.  Records have defined him for a very long time, but he wanted the money for his bike fund.  I DO wish he'd sold them before we moved those damn things 4 or 5 times across different apartments, but I'm proud of him for doing it at all, and with no pressure from me!  When he was having the "what have I done?" reaction I had to remind him we are not our things.  I'm a little afraid he will regret it, to be honest, but there was no reason for him to hang on to them.

We rearranged some furniture this weekend to make room for a dog bed in our bedroom, and ended up accidentally making our guest room this really streamlined, minimalist room.  I'm really happy with it and am wondering if we can do the same with the office -- it would involve getting rid of the filing cabinet, definitely doable, and the old school TV in there.  I do like being able to watch the news while working when there is some sort of major story going down, but its been over a year since I've done that....I should probably just let it go.  We'll see.   

Anti-minimalist, I do want to get some big throw pillows to turn the guest room bed into more of a daybed, but those are expensive enough it'll probably be quite a while before I actually buy them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 20, 2014, 07:28:39 AM
Congratulations to everyone who is hitting the decluttering hard - you are all so inspiring!

Yesterday I got down in the basement (The Basement of Doom) and while the laundry was washing and drying I sorted through things, reorganized some shelves so I can see what I have, and got a bunch of things to throw away/recycle/donate.

Here is where I ran into some trouble...my husband came along behind me and tried to sneak some of the stuff back into the basement. One of these items was a BROKEN dustpan....I said, "This is trash! It goes out!" In the end I prevailed and a large amount of pure-t junk left the building.

I think that we are now on the same page about the clutter. Our goal is that in the spring we are going to paint the floor with epoxy paint, for a clean look down there. We will have to get everything - EVERYTHING - out of the basement when that happens. We have about five months to reduce the amount of crap we'll have to move out and back in. I think having a reason to dejunk/declutter helps some people get stuff done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on October 20, 2014, 09:15:10 AM
Visited my sister this weekend.  I have new inspiration/motivation to declutter after seeing how it was impossible to walk around in her basement due to stuff/storage,
and surfaces everywhere were completely stuffed to the gills.  I'm very happy in my smaller and significantly less cluttered place.  It's more functional, looks bigger and brighter and is so much easier to keep clean!

Goals this week: Keep working through some paper clutter, and work on the digital clutter in my phone.  It's becoming evident I will need to replace it soon, so I want to only hold onto those photos I really want, not the 12 photos of the same object because it's so easy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on October 20, 2014, 09:45:26 AM

I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
My opinion about this is 2 sets per bed that you use daily, and one set per bed that is used only occasionally.  Then I keep a good sized stack of pillow cases.

This seems like a good rule of thumb to me.  We upgraded to a King bed a couple years ago and now have all these Queen sheets and really only need one set for the guest bedroom.  However, that's a lot of perfectly good fabric, so I'm trying to think of some good uses for it, rather than just carting them all to the thrift store.    We actually have four sets for the king bed now; 1 set that kind of sucks and we don't use, 1 good set, 1 OK set, and now some flannel sheets for winter.  Should just get rid of that sucky set.  I tried repairing the fitted sheet once but the corners keep tearing out.

I just got done listing a couple more things on Ebay and got better photos of an item that wasn't selling.  Also used up some scrap wood and leftover foam and batting to make a nice padded seat for my tack trunk.  It's nice to see clutter being absorbed into something useful.
If you or someone you know sews, old sheets can make great fabric for basic costumes, under-dresses, lining for fancy clothes, etc.  I make medieval costumes, and save old sheets for under-dresses.  They are great because they are so wide without seams.  Depends on the fabric though, if it has torn it may be too thin/worn even in the 'good' places to still be usable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 20, 2014, 01:46:00 PM
Hubs is going away on business this week -- this is often when I do my best decluttering. Amazon boxes are sitting in the hallway at the ready. Now its time to put on my gloves and get in the game! Go! Go! Go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 20, 2014, 01:50:24 PM
I got rid of a 2cm pile of photos last night and this morning I will add a pair of jeans to the donation pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on October 20, 2014, 02:34:53 PM
I decluttered quite a bit of the yard work to-do list (mental clutter) this weekend.  Seeds are no longer on the dining room table, they are planted, and two manual tasks are behind me for less than I thought it would cost.

As an added bonus, I went through the linen closet and streamlined/rearranged to give myself some breathing room when I open it up. Goodwill box is ready to go!

What do you guys do with papers that need to be shredded?  We don't have enough to justify purchasing a shredder but it gets big enough to be annoying waiting for the bi-annual free days from the library.  Burn it as starter paper?  Oh! yet another reason to cross off "get/make worm composter" off my to-do list.  :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on October 20, 2014, 02:50:35 PM
What do you guys do with papers that need to be shredded?  We don't have enough to justify purchasing a shredder but it gets big enough to be annoying waiting for the bi-annual free days from the library.  Burn it as starter paper?  Oh! yet another reason to cross off "get/make worm composter" off my to-do list.  :-)

Yea we use it as starter paper in the outdoor fire pit. You can also tear off just the confidential part of the document, and recycle the rest of the piece of paper. That way you're dealing with less overall paper to shred and dispose of.

When I had a worm composter I would shred it and give some to them using a small handheld shredder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ender on October 20, 2014, 03:02:11 PM
Posting a few things on Craigslist in anticipation of moving in December (and getting married!).

FEELS SO GOOD.

WHY HAVEN'T I DONT THIS BEFORE!

/done
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 21, 2014, 03:28:10 AM
What do you guys do with papers that need to be shredded?  We don't have enough to justify purchasing a shredder but it gets big enough to be annoying waiting for the bi-annual free days from the library.  Burn it as starter paper?  Oh! yet another reason to cross off "get/make worm composter" off my to-do list.  :-)

In January, we gave in and bought a small one for $20 at OfficeWorks. Paper is my nemesis so it helps with that and is far faster than tearing by hand to put in the recycling bin. I use the shredded paper as mulch sometimes and other times chuck it in the compost bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on October 21, 2014, 09:24:20 AM
Giving my box of 72 votives left from my wedding to a non-profit I volunteer with for decor their gala.  Technically it's not in my house, as it was put in my MIL's house, but it is my clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on October 21, 2014, 12:45:45 PM
I trashed bathroom cabinet old / never used stuff, pulled a purse (and will pull a second if I ever find it) to donate, and have been eyeing my book collection very hard.  I'm not counting the trashed things as part of my Amazon box, though; that's all gonna be give-away items.  If I did I'd probably have filled it.  I also added to my paper bag of clothes to donate, things I saw after coming back from vacation and just thought You know what, this is adorable but I haven't worn it for over a year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 21, 2014, 08:29:28 PM

I've also cleaned out our linen closet this weekend. Undecided what to do with the excess hand towels and sheet sets we seem to have. What's a reasonable number to keep?
My opinion about this is 2 sets per bed that you use daily, and one set per bed that is used only occasionally.  Then I keep a good sized stack of pillow cases.

This seems like a good rule of thumb to me.  We upgraded to a King bed a couple years ago and now have all these Queen sheets and really only need one set for the guest bedroom.  However, that's a lot of perfectly good fabric, so I'm trying to think of some good uses for it, rather than just carting them all to the thrift store.    We actually have four sets for the king bed now; 1 set that kind of sucks and we don't use, 1 good set, 1 OK set, and now some flannel sheets for winter.  Should just get rid of that sucky set.  I tried repairing the fitted sheet once but the corners keep tearing out.

I just got done listing a couple more things on Ebay and got better photos of an item that wasn't selling.  Also used up some scrap wood and leftover foam and batting to make a nice padded seat for my tack trunk.  It's nice to see clutter being absorbed into something useful.
If you or someone you know sews, old sheets can make great fabric for basic costumes, under-dresses, lining for fancy clothes, etc.  I make medieval costumes, and save old sheets for under-dresses.  They are great because they are so wide without seams.  Depends on the fabric though, if it has torn it may be too thin/worn even in the 'good' places to still be usable.

I do sew, but nothing like that.  I'd probably just use them as frost covers for the garden, or maybe make lightweight sheets for the horses.  They aren't worn out at all, just shitty quality with almost zero fabric allowance for the seams, so any stress and the seams tear right out.

Haven't had time to do much lately, but did get a bridle sold that was too small for my horses.  I should be able to really get after it once the weather turns less amazing and I'm stuck indoors more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on October 21, 2014, 10:29:47 PM
Time to get serious, looks like we are moving back down south! Going to be spending the next couple of weeks REALLY ruthlessly looking at everything we own. Posted a dozen items on  our local buy and sell and have created a list of big stuff we are not taking with us:) now those darn papers...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on October 22, 2014, 02:21:40 AM
well, went back through my books and am gifting away another 4 boxes (this is after I had already gone through them, ruthlessly, I thought) When actually staring the prospect of moving in the face (again) I really don't want to pack them yet again...off to do more, good luck everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on October 22, 2014, 07:01:46 AM
I spent an hour scanning a box of papers into Evernote. Also my wife replaced ALL of our old mismatched dishes FOR FREE from a full set someone gave my mom to sell at a garage sale. We actually didn't even take the whole set!

My kids haven't gotten on board with minimizing yet, but every day my wife tells them "You guys can't keep up with your stuff because you have too much stuff!"

I just smile. Their time is coming.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on October 22, 2014, 04:28:53 PM
I have a lot of kitchen appliances too. I use them all, so I won't get rid of them, but I have been thinking of getting rid of the extra attachments. I really only use a few blade styles on my food processor so I could get rid of the extras.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on October 22, 2014, 06:12:49 PM
I finally started listing some clothes on ebay. I haven't made a ton of money on them, but I felt like they were worth more than what I would get for them if I sent them to a consignment store. I sold 3 suits, a lot of maternity clothes, and some nice dresses. I just wanted someone else to love them as much as I did (when they fit!)

Then I cleaned out more and sent in two big bags to online consignment stores, and got $55 for them. Easiest $55 I've ever made! Took me all of 1 hour, including the time it took to drop it off at the post office.

I still have a box of clothes that I listed on ebay. No bites yet, but I'll lower my price if I have to re-list them.

Behold the end result! (attached)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fallstoclimb on October 24, 2014, 02:25:17 PM
Fully cleaned out the filing cabinet!

Well, I cheated a little.  My husband has a crate in the closet he uses for filing his teaching stuff, so I just stuck his papers in there (all of which were school related).  I sorted through the rest of our papers, trashed a LOT, put a very few into Evernote, and put the remaining in my desk.  Remaining folders are: previous year tax returns, current tax year, house sale documents, pet health records, very important receipts, career stuff (letters of rec, transcripts), and legal docs.  Wish I could Evernote or trash more but they all seem like things I should probably keep actual physical copies of.  The good news is everything feels much more accessible now, I hated digging through that filing cabinet. 

Followup question:  Do people actually use like security deposit boxes?  Should I be keeping things like the deed to the house there?  Because....I am not.  A fire just seems so unlikely, and aren't there probably backups of everything with the relevant companies and government entities?

Next up is to address the overflowing Goodwill donation pile.  I was sort of planning to wait until the next tax year because of my not-so-great documentation, but it seems like I am doing what I need to do to claim over $500 (basically just write down everything) -- from now on I'll start taking some pictures too. Hopefully that'll be enough, because I am getting super tired of everything still being in the house. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on October 24, 2014, 03:29:53 PM


Followup question:  Do people actually use like security deposit boxes?  Should I be keeping things like the deed to the house there?  Because....I am not.  A fire just seems so unlikely, and aren't there probably backups of everything with the relevant companies and government entities?
 

We had a safety deposit box 20 years ago, but we no longer have one. We keep our Wills in a plastic bag in the middle of the deepfreeze that is in the garage.

And yes, our lawyer has a backup copy of our wills, so if it really came down to that, there would be a copy in existence.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on October 24, 2014, 04:10:41 PM
If you're concerned about a fire, you can get fire-safe boxes that are pretty small.  They're like gun safes only tiny and for small things, like paper documents / deeds / passports / etc.  If you're worried about thievery, though, unless you drill the box into the floor, people can just pick it up and break into it at their leisure.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on October 24, 2014, 05:19:34 PM
I bagged up an extra scarf, extra earmuffs that someone gave me last year which still has the tag on it, packs of hand warmers left over from camping awhile ago that we never got around to using and will expire soon, extra quilts and blankets that I haven't touched in a couple of years.

Someone can use these items in winter and I've been squatting on them all this time; that seems almost morally wrong.

Thanks to you all and your inspiration I'm running out of stuff worth giving away. Everything else is either too worn or dinged up or I'm actually using it.

It feels weird to be this devoid of stuff. But it's a good weird.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on October 24, 2014, 06:53:42 PM
My housemate is moving out tomorrow (and I'll be leaving within a month) so we're going through everything in the house. We're not big on possessions and we always joked that we were minimalists but quite a bit of stuff has accumulated! So far we've filled two trash bags and had a bunch of recycling too, plus the enormous entertainment unit we both hate is getting taken away!

Once he leaves I'm going to start cleaning the house and I may never stop :P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on October 24, 2014, 07:57:22 PM
You guys have inspired me to go through my digital clutter!

Today I went through about 600 pictures and deleted the ones that were blurry. I hope to go through all of my pictures on the computer and sort them into different albums by the end of November. I have the terrible habit of taking a million pictures, uploading them, and then telling myself I'll go through them later. I can't even remember one time where I actually picked through the pictures before throwing them into the abyss of a single photo album.

This will be fun...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 24, 2014, 09:39:59 PM
Got rid of a huge desk from the basement. We never used it, it was strictly taking up space. Sayonara!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 25, 2014, 02:04:44 AM
Got rid of a large shelving unit today! I offered it to my parents, and they said they had the perfect space for it. Booyah.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on October 25, 2014, 05:14:25 AM
We spent some time decluttering our driveway and got rid of a car this week! Neither of us use our personal cars to commute to work, so a 2nd car was really unnecessary (and was costing way to much in repairs and maintenance to justify the very little it was driven.) So glad to finally have that rust bucket gone and donated!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fireferrets on October 30, 2014, 08:03:12 PM
Been slow-going getting rid of stuff on Ebay, but with rock bottom prices, I'm finally getting rid of stuff. The stuff no one buys, I yerdle for credits. If it fails to get picked up through Yerdle, Goodwill gets it.

The hardest part has been old craft projects. For instance, a dress I made that is so heavy the collar stretches out when I wear it. aghhh -,-

On the plus side, I unearthed some old burned CDs/DVDs that I am gonna use to make a sweet recycled art project. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on October 31, 2014, 06:50:01 AM
You guys have inspired me to go through my digital clutter!

Today I went through about 600 pictures and deleted the ones that were blurry. I hope to go through all of my pictures on the computer and sort them into different albums by the end of November. I have the terrible habit of taking a million pictures, uploading them, and then telling myself I'll go through them later. I can't even remember one time where I actually picked through the pictures before throwing them into the abyss of a single photo album.

This will be fun...

Good job! I haven't tackled that job yet... got about 10 years of photos to go through.

On a good note, my wife and the kids cleared off the whole pack patio area of junk last weekend. Threw away piles of scrap wood, wire, junk, busted garden hoses, threadbare rugs, the whole thing. It's awesome.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on October 31, 2014, 09:39:24 AM
I'm going slowly, but 3 more skirts are gone from my closet.  One was a hand me down I never liked, the other two sadly no longer fit.  Going to see if my sister wants one of those two.

I also am going to do a decluttering/cleaning "game" with a friend.  We have done two different decluttering challenges before to keep us motivated.  For this one, we'll each write down a bunch of decluttering locations or cleaning chores (e.g. kitchen utensils, purse etc.), then we'll mix them up and draw a set number to do each week.  There'll be some element of surprise, and it may help on not putting off certain "dreaded" areas.  (It may be silly, but I find tricking myself into thinking the project is new, different, interesting, or a game is helpful.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 31, 2014, 07:19:05 PM
Wow, you are all so inspiring.  I looked at an article on Peter Walsh who helps hoarders on tv.  He thinks excess clutter can be related to excess weight.  Do any of you concur?

My sister is still removing her stuff from my parents' house and once it is gone I am sure everyone will feel it.

I had a houseguest come last week and freak at my house: she said :"What happened to your house?  Where did all the stuff go?  Help me with my house!"  It was so satisfying to have someone really notice the changes I have made.

Due to various events I will be spending a fair amount of time at home recuperating and so I am going to deal with my computer clutter this week.  I have just dealt with Facebook clutter and removed half of my 'friends' and most groups.  One issue I have is finding things on my computer (macbook air).  I don't mean things I am looking for but things I want to delete and occasionally see on a list on the computer.  A lot of it is downloads.
 I am wanting to delete any excess but cannot locate it.  Or I suddenly find a whole bunch and spend time deleting only to find it is still on there.  Perhaps i need external help?


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 31, 2014, 07:20:15 PM
How many hangers do women aim to have in their closets?   I am thinking of future downsizing and wondering how much is reasonable to keep?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on October 31, 2014, 09:10:12 PM
wintersun,  I've heard Peter Walsh connect excess weight with clutter. From what I recall, he says if you can't find your running shoes, you're less likely to run. If you organize your snacks so that they are not at eye level, you are less likely to snack. It's things like that.

I'd also say that if you're busy, you're more likely to eat just anything, and more likely to take the most commonly-used mode of transportation-a car.

 If you're already self-conscious about yourself, you're less likely to do something odd in your neighborhood, like ride a bike to work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on October 31, 2014, 11:38:30 PM
Quote
I am wanting to delete any excess but cannot locate it.  Or I suddenly find a whole bunch and spend time deleting only to find it is still on there.  Perhaps i need external help?

Perhaps you need to empty the trash bin? I was frustrated with my pictures not being deleted until I learned I was only moving them to the trash can.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on November 01, 2014, 10:31:25 AM
How many hangers do women aim to have in their closets?   I am thinking of future downsizing and wondering how much is reasonable to keep?

Depends on how minimal you want to go ;-)  I have 24ish hangers, and other than the occasional time where I need to dry non-hanging items AND all the hanging items are clean that is a good number.  Big enough for variety, small enough to keep everything visible and meaningful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 02, 2014, 04:48:19 AM
How many hangers do women aim to have in their closets?   I am thinking of future downsizing and wondering how much is reasonable to keep?

Depends on how minimal you want to go ;-)  I have 24ish hangers, and other than the occasional time where I need to dry non-hanging items AND all the hanging items are clean that is a good number.  Big enough for variety, small enough to keep everything visible and meaningful.

I have 35 hangers, but I also have non-hanging clothes folded away in shelves. I'm trying to cull my wardrobe and hang up as many clothes as possible (35 in my case, hah), to visually remind me that I still have those clothes and that I should really wear them. It's really easy to forget you have certain items when they're folded away.

I have 50 items of clothing hung up on hangars, but that's *all* of my clothes except for 3 pairs of leggings, scarves, beanies, sunhats, socks, underwear, bras and a pair of swimmers. So it really depends on your clothing storage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lizfish on November 02, 2014, 07:16:09 AM

Donating a too-small-pair of bowling shoes.

I came up with a trick. Whenever I'm thinking, 'I should spend 20 minutes cleaning up the apartment,' I tell myself that I can get out of it if I can think of one thing to get rid of.

Genius. I am feeling so overwhelmed with our clutter. One thing at a time is really the way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on November 02, 2014, 09:06:29 PM
Two boxes are by the door to go out in the morning and we used up three candles tonight.  We should be able to use up all the excess candles by the end of next weekend as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on November 03, 2014, 06:18:02 AM
I was invited to the opening of an office next week where there will be a truck shredding papers for free.  I'm going to bring a box of records-- mostly financial-- that I no longer need to save.  I thought this was a brilliant idea as I otherwise would not go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 03, 2014, 08:08:19 AM
Finally made some progress on this. I've reorganized my office, and got rid of the collapsed boxes I keep for stuff I may need to return (usually tech of some kind). I cleaned out the spare bedroom and got rid of a full box of old stuff that isn't needed anymore. My SO isn't on board with this at all, so I've only been getting rid of my stuff. While I cleaning up, I did take a minute to count out the number of giant rubbermaid containers. We have 3 in the spare bedroom closet, 3 stacked in the spare bedroom, 2 in our bedroom closet, 1 in the office, and 4 in the shed. On top of that, there are 4 boxes of books in the spare bedroom closet, 3 boxes of I have no idea what stacked in the spare bedroom, and all kinds of crap.
I asked if she wanted to do anything with the two unopened snuggies in the closet, and she got a bit upset and said "FINE! I'll get rid of them". Other things (like a bag of super soft socks with the tags still on - pre-date me moving in 4 years ago) she says are for stocking stuffers.

How did you all get your SO on board? This is a bit of a challenge for me, since I'd pretty much have to get rid of her stuff. My stuff in the house consists of 4 under the bed drawers (I  brought the bed), 2 feet of closet bar in the spare bedroom (no room in our bedroom), and some equipment in the office. Not sure what I can do here, since I haven't even brought it up and caught a bit of heat with just the snuggies. Any ideas? Anybody else have issues with this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 05, 2014, 11:38:29 AM
Jordanread, it's tough.  DH doesn't want to spend the time decluttering (thinks we have space so we should just leave it alone) and persists in genuinely believing it's all "my" clutter and not his.  (This extends to paperwork.  According to him, 85% of the paper that comes in the house is "mine."  While disagreeing on that percentage, I point out unsuccessfully that I deal with mine but his just sits there forever, including the envelopes and junk that comes with the statement/bill.  I also unsuccessfully point out that as the paperwork is really stressful to me, it would be great if he would help out *even if he thinks it's "mine*.  I have yet to get him to recycle any junk mail though so I'm curious how others get it to work.)

So my method is 1) to work hard on my stuff, 2) to deal with joint stuff (particularly as he thinks its all mine regardless) and only then try 3) set up a specific time with him to deal with a specific area of his such as "the box from your old office 4 years ago."  I hold up items and ask if I can get rid of them while he plays his computer game.  Usually I can get through about half of a single box before he decides he's tired of it.  Sessions generally have to be scheduled months apart, not days or weeks. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on November 05, 2014, 03:37:31 PM
Your idea about Peter Walsh makes sense CK.  I was trying to figure out the link between the two in case it was useful.

Cookie, I just emptied the trash to see if that helps. Thanks.

Smalllife, Acorn, Astatine, useful to know.  I don't think I have more than thirty hangers at present but will count.  Right now I still have several different sizes of clothes and once I get to one size I will see what is left.

Meanwhile, my computer is getting a gentle fear out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 05, 2014, 03:53:29 PM
Jordanread, it's tough.  DH doesn't want to spend the time decluttering (thinks we have space so we should just leave it alone) and persists in genuinely believing it's all "my" clutter and not his.  (This extends to paperwork.  According to him, 85% of the paper that comes in the house is "mine."  While disagreeing on that percentage, I point out unsuccessfully that I deal with mine but his just sits there forever, including the envelopes and junk that comes with the statement/bill.  I also unsuccessfully point out that as the paperwork is really stressful to me, it would be great if he would help out *even if he thinks it's "mine*.  I have yet to get him to recycle any junk mail though so I'm curious how others get it to work.)

So my method is 1) to work hard on my stuff, 2) to deal with joint stuff (particularly as he thinks its all mine regardless) and only then try 3) set up a specific time with him to deal with a specific area of his such as "the box from your old office 4 years ago."  I hold up items and ask if I can get rid of them while he plays his computer game.  Usually I can get through about half of a single box before he decides he's tired of it.  Sessions generally have to be scheduled months apart, not days or weeks.


Thanks for the advice. But how does one deal with someone who has no interest in de-cluttering?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on November 06, 2014, 04:52:22 AM
One more candle gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 06, 2014, 01:13:03 PM
Thanks for the advice. But how does one deal with someone who has no interest in de-cluttering?

I guess that's what I was driving at - DH doesn't have interest in it.  He does it because I ask (presumably because he wants to make me happy...), but only if I don't nag or harp on it.

Agree with Acorn to figure out her motivations.  Does she like watching HGTV (and their minimal rooms)?  Having guests over?  More space for a workout room?  Preserving kid's stuff in scrapbooks before she forgets?  A bigger house?  Less to clean?  Figure out what might motivate her, and then focus on that in conversations rather than saying "declutter".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 06, 2014, 01:44:31 PM
But how does one deal with someone who has no interest in de-cluttering?

Do you have any plans to move? Or people visiting/staying over for Thanksgiving/Christmas?
Is she interested in anything (crafts, yoga, etc)? Can you propose the idea of clearing out space for a hobby area/exercise corner?

If everything is fine as it is and no major changes are coming up, I can see why people will not want to de-clutter. But if you can create a valid reason as to why you need the space (e.g. for visitors or for a home improvement project), that could help with motivation. I would market it as "de-clutter your things and get more space for your hobbies!" (although hopefully she doesn't have too many things required for her hobbies)

That's the frustrating part. Her family is coming out, and we are moving next year (if we can find a place), and we are cleaning every room top to bottom (one day a week). And still no interest in actually getting rid of things. Just straighten the huge pile of boxes. Cleanliness and clutter are two totally different things, where one is nice, and the other is like...gravity or air. It's just something that is. Doesn't make her mad, not anything that bothers her. It's like that is what a spare bedroom is for, boxes of stuff that is never used. I don't let it get to me, so it's not really a point of contention (as long as I don't ask), but it would be nice to actually get more usable space out of the house, and get rid of the clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 06, 2014, 02:08:18 PM
Can you make the stuff slowly disappear on its own or would it be missed?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RunningWithScissors on November 06, 2014, 04:00:21 PM
^ this.

My husband gets overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning out our basement and de-cluttering so my strategy is to do it myself.  I love the feeling of taking chaos and turning it into order.  If there's something that I think he might want, I'll ask - but that usually only involves one or two items at a time.  I've tend to just 'take care' of most items via Freecycle or Craigslist and only once or twice has he ever noticed, much less actually missed the item.  Plus, he's happy when the money I get for our unused items goes for an unbudgeted splurge on pho or a fish dinner.

Mustachianism through Bribery - hey, it has a nice ring to it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 06, 2014, 05:46:30 PM
Can you make the stuff slowly disappear on its own or would it be missed?

I wish I would have asked before cleaning...I probably could have gotten at least a few things out of there. Unfortunately, she is becoming aware of most of the stuff now. I might have to be sneaky about some of it, but the main opportunity has passed. I might just have to wait until we move and 'lose' stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on November 06, 2014, 07:02:43 PM
But how does one deal with someone who has no interest in de-cluttering?

Do you have any plans to move? Or people visiting/staying over for Thanksgiving/Christmas?
Is she interested in anything (crafts, yoga, etc)? Can you propose the idea of clearing out space for a hobby area/exercise corner?

If everything is fine as it is and no major changes are coming up, I can see why people will not want to de-clutter. But if you can create a valid reason as to why you need the space (e.g. for visitors or for a home improvement project), that could help with motivation. I would market it as "de-clutter your things and get more space for your hobbies!" (although hopefully she doesn't have too many things required for her hobbies)

That's the frustrating part. Her family is coming out, and we are moving next year (if we can find a place), and we are cleaning every room top to bottom (one day a week). And still no interest in actually getting rid of things. Just straighten the huge pile of boxes. Cleanliness and clutter are two totally different things, where one is nice, and the other is like...gravity or air. It's just something that is. Doesn't make her mad, not anything that bothers her. It's like that is what a spare bedroom is for, boxes of stuff that is never used. I don't let it get to me, so it's not really a point of contention (as long as I don't ask), but it would be nice to actually get more usable space out of the house, and get rid of the clutter.

Huh, well it's nice that you're laid back about it. They say everyone has a different comfort level with stuff. Personally, it's not something I think about, but I dislike being in a minimalist environment. When I get into a hotel room, I start putting my stuff on all the surfaces :) So it seems like she's on the extreme end. I can see how perfectly nice rooms being used for storage is a bit of a shame, but to her it might feel like if they're empty then it's space that needs to be filled. I would think being really insistent that you need a room for an alternative use would eventually work. It might just mean she's okay with moving stuff to the basement or something, but at least having full storage areas could be used as an argument against getting any more stuff.  And then when you talk about moving to a new place, discuss wanting each space to be optimized and usable for a particular purpose to avoid buying more space than you need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 06, 2014, 07:45:27 PM
But how does one deal with someone who has no interest in de-cluttering?

Do you have any plans to move? Or people visiting/staying over for Thanksgiving/Christmas?
Is she interested in anything (crafts, yoga, etc)? Can you propose the idea of clearing out space for a hobby area/exercise corner?

If everything is fine as it is and no major changes are coming up, I can see why people will not want to de-clutter. But if you can create a valid reason as to why you need the space (e.g. for visitors or for a home improvement project), that could help with motivation. I would market it as "de-clutter your things and get more space for your hobbies!" (although hopefully she doesn't have too many things required for her hobbies)

That's the frustrating part. Her family is coming out, and we are moving next year (if we can find a place), and we are cleaning every room top to bottom (one day a week). And still no interest in actually getting rid of things. Just straighten the huge pile of boxes. Cleanliness and clutter are two totally different things, where one is nice, and the other is like...gravity or air. It's just something that is. Doesn't make her mad, not anything that bothers her. It's like that is what a spare bedroom is for, boxes of stuff that is never used. I don't let it get to me, so it's not really a point of contention (as long as I don't ask), but it would be nice to actually get more usable space out of the house, and get rid of the clutter.

Huh, well it's nice that you're laid back about it. They say everyone has a different comfort level with stuff. Personally, it's not something I think about, but I dislike being in a minimalist environment. When I get into a hotel room, I start putting my stuff on all the surfaces :) So it seems like she's on the extreme end. I can see how perfectly nice rooms being used for storage is a bit of a shame, but to her it might feel like if they're empty then it's space that needs to be filled. I would think being really insistent that you need a room for an alternative use would eventually work. It might just mean she's okay with moving stuff to the basement or something, but at least having full storage areas could be used as an argument against getting any more stuff.  And then when you talk about moving to a new place, discuss wanting each space to be optimized and usable for a particular purpose to avoid buying more space than you need.
Had I been born a couple of decades early, I'd have totally been a hippie. One of the things that I didn't learn from MMM was the circle of concern thing. Sometime around age 12, I just realized I was in control of how I felt about things, and damn near overnight I stopped being ticklish and letting other people control how I felt (with a lot of practice since then). I personally prefer the Asian style of super minimalism, but I can live however. I feel like Raymond Reddington sometimes. He had a quote about being in a shipping container for 3 weeks. Something like the first week was absolute hell, but the other two were quite pleasant. :-) I do love a nice minimalist space, but I love my gf more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Firefly on November 07, 2014, 07:26:18 PM
My desire to have a clutter free house and my tendency to keep the stuff for "just in case" and just because I paid money for it don't go together. I am in a constant inner struggle. I've gotten very good about clothes - the amount of clothes I have is half a size it was a few years ago. And I am super careful and thoughtful about buying new clothes. There is hope though. We are moving soon - it will give me a chance to go through all the stuff and get rid of a lot of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fientologist on November 07, 2014, 07:56:37 PM
Our strategy in this regard is simple, yet effective.  Each year we go through our stuff and if we haven't used something in over 1 year AND if we don't plan on using it within the next year, we either give it away to friends, sell it, or donate it.  We recently took this to another level and got rid of a large batch of stuff that we'd fooled ourselves into thinking we were going to use last year.  And not only do we not miss any of it one single bit, but we've netted over $1,000 in cash from Craigslist and eBay, and probably another $500 in tax deductions from donations.

The only real exceptions for us in this regard are tools, as we're constant tinkerers.

The next step for us is to inventory basically everything we have, which presents myriad benefits (e.g., knowing exactly where anything is, having a record in case a disaster or burglary, etc.).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Firefly on November 07, 2014, 08:16:39 PM
My biggest problem is toys toys and more toys. 7 yo boy and 18 mo old girl. Since she is so much younger, I am saving all of my son's toys and supplies so she can use them later. But after she is done with it  - GONE! I usually just donate them or passing down for friends.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fientologist on November 07, 2014, 08:44:50 PM
However, since she is so much younger, you might be holding on to them for years to come (and/or she might not care for them when the time comes).  There always is a cost to ownership, whether in terms of maintenance, physical space, or sanity!

That being said, if these are fairly universal/classic toys, and you have a place to keep them safe and out of the way (e.g., in totes in your attic), you could save a bit of money in the future :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on November 08, 2014, 10:27:03 AM
Another candle gone, and burning all of these candles is really helping the gas bill!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on November 10, 2014, 05:02:39 PM
Malaprop Cocktail I know what you mean about creating temporary junk in order to clear out.  It is worth it but frustrating at the time.

I am looking ahead to the time when I have no clutter, have no excess paper and every space is clear and organised.  What I am realising is that I need to come up with some systems to put into place so that this does not happen again.  I have been looking online at peoples' command centers and organisational tips and styles and most of the time it strikes me that people are simply organising excess which recently is making my skin crawl.

I no longer want to keep a couple of bags worth of presents and paper and ribbon on hand, I intend to give people homemade consumables and other homemade things.  I find the wrapping paper /gift area of my closet to be draining.

I want all my clothes to be able to hang up at once with no seasonal storage and because I do not have a dress up type of job that is very doable.

I certainly do not want my computer to be chock full of useless stuff, I want to be very careful what I save.

I don't want loads of electric cords and no idea what they are for.

And I do not want to hold onto things because they were a gift years ago and no longer appeal to me (which is still going on with me).

Most of all it is the paper and journals that haunt me, I feel overwhelmed at times when more comes to light.  Fear of people reading my journals has lead to a mass destruction and yet I keep finding more pages of notes tucked inside other notebooks, etc.

I see my mother getting ready for her death by clearing the decks and I sort of want to clear the decks now.  I want the peace of mind that comes with knowing where things are AND it does not take an hour to uncover them, with relaxing because having a houseguest does not require days of clearing out and feeling clear and free.

Is this how you guys feel?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on November 10, 2014, 06:07:05 PM
Quote
And I do not want to hold onto things because they were a gift years ago and no longer appeal to me (which is still going on with me).

You hit the nail on the head. I feel the same way about all your points, but especially struggle with unwanted, handmade gifts from family. It is easy for me to get rid of a store bought gift, but the hand embroidered picture or quilt makes me keep it, even though it will only remain in storage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on November 10, 2014, 06:25:49 PM
I'm really focusing my efforts on the stuff that takes time to declutter.

+1
I have been going through my dad's geneaology research files that I inherited and scanning what seems useful to keep. It was a decades-long hobby and he kept all his correspondence and notes. I have filled about 3 1/2 large banker's boxes with paper to recycle, and I have just one more file box to finish.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on November 10, 2014, 07:53:23 PM
I see my mother getting ready for her death by clearing the decks and I sort of want to clear the decks now.

DH's grandfather passed away earlier this year and we spent a week helping the family start clearing out the house. It was just so sad to see his prized possessions (and junk) become a burden that had to be dealt with by grieving relatives. Seeing how little our 'stuff' means after we are gone has made me want to get rid of the unimportant stuff now. Hopefully when I eventually pass on, only the important stuff remains to be sorted through.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 11, 2014, 05:11:26 AM
It's not ideal, but I have may have found a solution. Since I have almost nothing left in the house that I can declutter, I decided to grab a few things out of my storage unit, just to then box up and take to goodwill. She's still not on board with decluttering for the sake of not having clutter, but apparently when there are huge piles of stuff being sorted, she'll start sorting some of her stuff. This past weekend, I filled up the trunk with some bags of clothes from the storage unit. I figured if I haven't missed them in the two years they've been in there, I could get rid of them. So I brought a bunch of stuff home, and then 'sorted' them into boxes and bags to go to goodwill. The GF decided to clean out her VHSs and VCR, as well as miscellaneous old technology from the entertainment center. I guess making clutter to clean it up seems to work for her. Here is a picture of the stuff that I grabbed from the storage unit, and then her pile grew into what you see in the top right.

(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LSov5y-AvO8/VF6g1HjUpFI/AAAAAAAALlQ/dev9m4M7iWU/w1597-h899-no/IMG_20141108_160112395.jpg).

Very little visible progress, but it's progress!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on November 11, 2014, 07:38:41 AM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on November 11, 2014, 08:13:59 AM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
Why not pack them away and see if they notice.  If they don't notice, offer to find a consignment shop and trade them in and say any profits, they can buy more toys with? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on November 11, 2014, 09:46:34 AM
From the raptitude post:
Quote
There’s this mild but always-present feeling that something is unresolved, because we only leave things lying around under the pretense that they’re only going to be there temporarily. But the resolution never comes, because the homeless objects have no place to go. I don’t want to beat this point to death but it’s unbelievable what a huge mental weight is released when there are no more “fish out of water” like this.

I totally feel like this about my clutter. I keep stuff because I intend to do something with it, which turns into a vague but persistent to do pile. I really don't have a lot of stuff or clutter, but it weighs on me nonetheless. If I get rid of stuff without repurposing it into something useful, I feel really wasteful. Also, when I do repurpose stuff, I get a lot of use out of it. Maybe I need to label everything with a project deadline or donate date. Anyone else have this issue?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on November 11, 2014, 12:41:23 PM
wintersun, for wrapping on any occasion, I've seen people use nothing at all, or only comic strips from the newspaper, or only butchers paper(the ribbon makes it festive) or only furushiki cloth (which is multipurpose).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on November 11, 2014, 12:58:10 PM
Nancy, yes. I'm learning when I'm really into a new hobby (and will be with it regularly for a while) and when I'm just craving a project temporarily. Once I discover it's the latter, I don't beat myself up about it.

It's like pushing back the plate at the table. You're satisfied; you have all you want from it. Even if others would have continued, you've had enough.
It's time to stop and take away the plate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on November 11, 2014, 05:45:27 PM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
If you don't teach your kids how to get rid of stuff now, they will grow up to not be able to get rid of stuff.  If you have a teenage son, he's more than old enough to go through his things and give you a few boxes that he doesn't want anymore.  Heck, anyone over the age of 6 should be able to manage that with prompting from a parent. 

I think that it is so much better (for most kids) to go through the process themselves and learn how to make decisions on what to keep and what to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on November 11, 2014, 07:21:34 PM
Thanks, CK! That's a really good way to look at it. I've had my fill. Time to let go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lumosma on November 13, 2014, 09:00:13 PM
I am really enjoying reading through these posts and being inspired, yet again, to declutter.  Mustachianism prompted my hubby and I to sell our house and move to a much smaller town house last fall when the second child went off to college. Prior to that I had decluttered a lot, and we sold/donated probably 40% of our stuff when we did that.  So freeing! But there's more to get rid of! 

I'm really trying to not buy stuff, its crazy how the clutter basically comes from stores.  Ugh.

I'll toss in a go-to book author to motivate for decluttering:  Don Aslett.  He is a gift!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on November 14, 2014, 12:33:14 AM
I decided to challenge myself to get rid of 30 items. Even though within the past 6 months I have gotten rid of half of my clothes and donated 5 suitcases full of stuff, I still feel like I can get rid of more. So far I only have 24 items on my list. So in attempts to find more things to get rid of I am reading minimalism blogs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on November 14, 2014, 05:29:17 AM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
If you don't teach your kids how to get rid of stuff now, they will grow up to not be able to get rid of stuff.  If you have a teenage son, he's more than old enough to go through his things and give you a few boxes that he doesn't want anymore.  Heck, anyone over the age of 6 should be able to manage that with prompting from a parent. 

I think that it is so much better (for most kids) to go through the process themselves and learn how to make decisions on what to keep and what to get rid of.

Fun side story: in the days before I could drive myself to Goodwill I was always carrying piles of things to my mom to take to Goodwill because the minimalist streak is ingrained.  I found out last year that she just squirreled them away in the attic . . . .   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on November 14, 2014, 06:35:20 AM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
If you don't teach your kids how to get rid of stuff now, they will grow up to not be able to get rid of stuff.  If you have a teenage son, he's more than old enough to go through his things and give you a few boxes that he doesn't want anymore.  Heck, anyone over the age of 6 should be able to manage that with prompting from a parent. 

I think that it is so much better (for most kids) to go through the process themselves and learn how to make decisions on what to keep and what to get rid of.

Fun side story: in the days before I could drive myself to Goodwill I was always carrying piles of things to my mom to take to Goodwill because the minimalist streak is ingrained.  I found out last year that she just squirreled them away in the attic . . . .   
Oh no!  And now when she passes away many years from now you'll have to get rid of that crap *again*!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on November 14, 2014, 12:10:28 PM
I'm sitting with my foot elevated from surgery a week ago, but am still reading and feeling motivated to declutter again! Cheering you all on from the side lines! Go Team!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 14, 2014, 04:00:04 PM
Fun side story: in the days before I could drive myself to Goodwill I was always carrying piles of things to my mom to take to Goodwill because the minimalist streak is ingrained.  I found out last year that she just squirreled them away in the attic . . . .   

Haha!  I give my stuff to my MIL who takes pics, notes (for documentation) and then donates it for me.  I should check her attic...  But it's actually been great, doing this has prompted her to start going through her stuff, which means less for us eventually.  And maybe she'll find she doesn't need the 5 bedroom house for just her and she can downsize to a condo as we've suggested.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on November 14, 2014, 05:29:11 PM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
If you don't teach your kids how to get rid of stuff now, they will grow up to not be able to get rid of stuff.  If you have a teenage son, he's more than old enough to go through his things and give you a few boxes that he doesn't want anymore.  Heck, anyone over the age of 6 should be able to manage that with prompting from a parent. 

I think that it is so much better (for most kids) to go through the process themselves and learn how to make decisions on what to keep and what to get rid of.

Fun side story: in the days before I could drive myself to Goodwill I was always carrying piles of things to my mom to take to Goodwill because the minimalist streak is ingrained.  I found out last year that she just squirreled them away in the attic . . . .   

Ugh!! My mom did the very same thing when I went through all my stuff after college and before moving out of state in the mid 80s. Turns out she's had it all this time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on November 14, 2014, 06:42:16 PM
Wife and I have been struggling with stuff lately. Specifically, the kids' mounds upon mounds of stuff they don't pick up. I'm personally sick of it (as is she) but when I suggest just getting rid of stuff until they can manage, she gets very defensive about taking their "stuff" away.

I'm personally of the thought that they're spoiled (mostly by grandparents) and they could use to do without. We have plenty of things for them to play with, it won't hurt my feelings to get rid of 3 GARBAGE BAGS of stuffed animals for my girls and a WHOLE BOOKSHELF of toys my teenage son doesn't play with any more.

Ugh. I could just scream. She's constantly going on about how cluttered the house is and how she never stops cleaning, but she won't do what it takes to fix the problem!

I need an "Easy" button.
If you don't teach your kids how to get rid of stuff now, they will grow up to not be able to get rid of stuff.  If you have a teenage son, he's more than old enough to go through his things and give you a few boxes that he doesn't want anymore.  Heck, anyone over the age of 6 should be able to manage that with prompting from a parent. 

I think that it is so much better (for most kids) to go through the process themselves and learn how to make decisions on what to keep and what to get rid of.

Fun side story: in the days before I could drive myself to Goodwill I was always carrying piles of things to my mom to take to Goodwill because the minimalist streak is ingrained.  I found out last year that she just squirreled them away in the attic . . . .   

Ugh!! My mom did the very same thing when I went through all my stuff after college and before moving out of state in the mid 80s. Turns out she's had it all this time.

I have to admit though, it's better than the alternative in some cases though!  My dad came back from his first year at the USCoast Guard academy to find his mom got rid of *everything* he had left at home - including all of his civilian clothes he couldn't wear as a first year, but could in the summer or as he gained seniority!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on November 20, 2014, 06:24:37 AM
November 20th is Use Less Stuff Day.

I discovered this when reading the Ava Gardner Museum Facebook page:

Quote
"Today is USE LESS STUFF DAY! Before Ava passed away, she arranged for an auction to take place at Sotheby's- which inevitably happened after her death in 1990. Over time, Ava preferred to have less clutter and more cash for the quality of her lifestyle...."


(https://scontent-2.2914.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10346108_10152864633494394_7856764437750187916_n.jpg?oh=309720161c3d8c02722984be99b5cb88&oe=54D93E21)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on November 20, 2014, 06:31:46 AM
We've got a move coming up in about three months, so I've doubled my normal decluttering instincts to prep for the big move. I don't want to pay to move a single thing that isn't of value to me. So far I've sold about $500 worth of stuff on CL and have quite a bit more to either sell, give away or trash.

This thread continues to serve as great motivation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on November 20, 2014, 07:32:08 AM
The Goodwill box that's been sitting in the living room has made it to its destination, along with several bags of clothes that SO got from a friend that didn't fit.  No new incoming!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on November 21, 2014, 01:44:48 PM
Kids did major minimizing today, will post pics tonight if possible!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on November 21, 2014, 02:12:33 PM
Would love to see photos, stickman!

My adult daughter took six garbage bags ... SIX ... full of stuff out of my 2 littlest kids room (they share). AMAZING! It looks so much better and they seem very content. Also, must be so nice for them to come into a clean room, have a clean place to play, and be able to clean it up so easily.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on November 22, 2014, 04:21:42 PM
I've been reading several minimalist blogs for inspiration and it has helped me clean out a lot of stuff. No more keeping stuff "just in case" I'll need it in the next couple years, because I know I won't. My home still has a lot of stuff, but this is a good first step!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: driftwood on November 22, 2014, 07:49:37 PM
Can you make the stuff slowly disappear on its own or would it be missed?

I wish I would have asked before cleaning...I probably could have gotten at least a few things out of there. Unfortunately, she is becoming aware of most of the stuff now. I might have to be sneaky about some of it, but the main opportunity has passed. I might just have to wait until we move and 'lose' stuff.

I know making it 'disappear' can cause huge problems in a relationship, but a small step may be to move things to some location you use for things you want to get rid of someday.  Box up certain things and hide them away... if the spouse doesn't ask where it is for a year or two or three, make them disappear then, or bring up getting rid of it. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on November 23, 2014, 04:38:07 PM
♬ 5 pieces of clothing ♬
♬ 4 stuffed grocery bags of junk and papers ♬
♬ 3 gym bags....♬
♬ 2 Bowling Balls...♬  <(customized w/name(s))
♬ 1....handmade rug♬


Closet is clean once again. I'm actually on a mission to find something, but am thinking its at work. Hope and pray as it contains much needed info.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 23, 2014, 05:36:42 PM
Yesterday I came home to find my husband cleaning up and decluttering "his" room in the basement during his annual shift from football season to ski season.  I got all inspired and added a couple tubs worth of fabric that I honestly will never get around to doing anything with, to my donate pile.  Also finally decided to release an antique clawfoot wingback chair that I bought at a thrift store and reupholstered when I was in college.  I love it, but it SO doesn't go with anything else in our house and had been relegated to the guest room in the basement where it really was just in the way. Need to plug into some podcasts and get back at it tonight.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on November 23, 2014, 08:09:57 PM
donated a grocery bag full of assorted kid clothes and baby towels
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on November 24, 2014, 09:41:54 PM
I'm really focusing my efforts on the stuff that takes time to declutter. What I realized is that in a move, it's easy to throw stuff I don't care about or that isn't worth much into a box to donate to Goodwill. But stuff that I would prefer to resell, or sentimental stuff that takes some time or effort to go through, there just isn't time to deal with it during a move so I end up taking it with me to deal with at another date.

That date is now. We are planning to sell the house and move to an apartment in a couple of years so this is the time to tackle the long-ish project of dealing with the stuff that takes time to deal with. I'm selling stuff on eBay and Craigslist bit by bit, digitizing my decades-old photos, and vowing not to buy much in the way of clothes or shoes so that my wardrobe will gradually get a little bit smaller as things wear out but aren't replaced. For the other stuff, we have been taking a few boxes of household miscellany to Goodwill every other week or so.

One thing I find a little funny and a little annoying is that the eBay project has actually led to more clutter because I am saving boxes and bubble envelopes when things come into the house (at this point mostly consumables like toiletries and cat food that's cheaper to buy online) to reuse them for shipping. I've at least managed to organize the boxes into a little shipping center on some wire shelving, but I'm looking forward to being mostly done with the eBay sales and being able to recycle boxes again (and maybe sell the shelving!).

Malaprop Cocktail, our guest room really resembles your remark! I am in the throes of putting up over 100 eBay auctions and shipping items as they sell. The cat doesn't know what to make of it and I think there will be a big sigh of relief all around when this project is over. ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: driftwood on November 24, 2014, 10:06:08 PM
Just got done with another wave of purging.  Made a tidy sum (actually just regained a tiny portion of what I paid for this stuff when I first bought it). 

I get rid of stuff, so that I have less stuff, and more time for my family, and more room to play.  But, during the purges, I'm usually pretty busy and after a bit I get tired of being so busy selling stuff.  It's nice to be done and enjoying the space I made in my house.  The goal is to have just the 'right amount' of things that we use all the time, and the flexibility to move to a smaller place without any pain.  Also, staring at the things I paid so much for and am only getting a little bit of money for is depressing, so it's nice to have it all gone and have cash instead. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Grog on November 24, 2014, 11:16:51 PM
I finally started decluttering, selling off for the first time some stuff I had laying around that I didn't use anymore (one electric guitar, one logitech videogame racing wheel) . I did get around 50% of my purchasing value, for which I'm very happy for, and such a liberating feeling of emptiness in the 1 m^2 that were occupied by these dust-collecting items.

Thanks to everyone for sharing their experience and convince me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on November 25, 2014, 06:04:31 AM
Sold 2 twin platform beds, replaced with twin bunk beds.  More storage room underneath, plus now they are in one room.

This enabled us to convert the other room over entirely to an office/library.

Also, we are cash positive, paid $50 for the bunk beds, got $75 for the pair of platform beds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on November 25, 2014, 09:46:29 AM
My two youngest daughters cleared out their massive toy collection. My wife, fighting it to the last, finally agreed to let all of it go after days of "but what if they want to play with it again?"

These two pics are about half of what they actually purged. There was also a huge duffle bag of Barbie stuff, and a few more boxes of trash.

My 9-year-old said "With less toys, I feel better. My room is nice to be in again. I want to keep it this way." This, coming from a child who had a 2-hour meltdown when we threw away her favorite styrofoam packing peanut! No, not making that up.

There is light at the end of the tunnel.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 25, 2014, 12:03:07 PM
Way to go everyone. On my home front, I decided to stop focusing on the "Getting Rid of" part, and focus more on the clutter. Since the GF gets super-defensive any time I bring it up, it just wasn't worth it. It's one of the few actual arguments we've had in our 6+ years together. So in the interest of peace, I sent her over that raptitude post regarding everything in it's place (http://www.raptitude.com/2011/02/everything-in-its-place-finally-and-forever/). I made it clear that I didn't want her to get rid of anything, I just want a home for everything. I don't think she was stoked about the entire thing, but throw in a couple of bribes regarding my behavior (I have to stop drinking for a few months), and she might just get on board. In a couple of weeks (probably after her family leaves after xmas) I'll shoot over the Stuff vs. Things (http://www.raptitude.com/2011/01/i-dont-want-stuff-any-more-only-things/) article and hope it sticks. Otherwise it'll be plan B...burning down the house and start from scratch (or losing stuff in the move within the next couple of years).

So whoever initially posted those links, much appreciated. I've found a lot of good stuff out of that little rabbit hole. The rest of you are kicking ass, though. Keep up the great work!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Firefly on November 28, 2014, 08:48:31 PM
We are moving in a month and I am taking this opportunity to do some serious de-cluttering. I have a headache just thinking about packing and unpacking all this stuff :). Feeling really good today - I spent the whole day today going through the basement storage (where we've been keeping most of the just in case things and kids' toys). Happy to report that I threw away 2 huge trash bags of stuff, donated another and sold boxes and boxes of misc. kid's stuff on local yard sale groups. It's amazing what people would buy! Not sure how popular those groups in other areas - in Boston area, there are TONS of local Facebook Yard Sale groups with lots of traffic. Highly recommend it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on November 29, 2014, 03:03:42 PM
Rid of 2 duffle bags, 1 picture + frame, and a rope light that just looked worn out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on December 02, 2014, 11:45:18 AM
This week or weekend we'll be moving our daughter into the second bedroom.  Which means getting rid of the mattress in there.  The cat's been using it as a scratching post and it's saggy and old, so no selling it unfortunately.  Still, it's something we're getting rid of.
Also, I finished the last little bit of a baby blanket that's been in the closet for years, found a full-size light summer duvet (we don't have any full size beds), and will add those items to a box of baby clothes I couldn't sell and donate them all to the local homeless shelter.
I also gave away an old sports helmet which I haven't used in years, threw away some broken lacrosse sticks that also haven't been used in years (because they're broken....) and figured out how to get rid of some kitchen items.  We're planning to move in May, right around the time the local U gets out.  I'm going to box up some of the kitchen items we won't be bringing (some pots, a pan, a few dishes) and sell them on Craigslist as a "kitchen starter kit".  It'll make some poor college student moving out of the dorms really happy to get all that on the cheap, and we'll have less stuff to move.  Win-win!
Still need to finish up a few more craft projects to donate or give to friends, and we have several boxes we don't even know the contents of which will need to be gone through.  But, progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on December 02, 2014, 11:54:04 AM
Our third bread machine finally crapped on the weekend, so into the garbage it went! We didn't actually buy any of the three - all gifts, mostly from people who used it once and decided not to use it twice. I have a big chunk of nice counter space free in the kitchen now that looks lovely. And now I have to stop being so lazy and do my bread by hand. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on December 03, 2014, 07:55:14 AM
I think this December is going to be a challenge month where we get rid of one thing every day. Should be fun, and get us started on getting rid of some of our crazy excess amount of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 03, 2014, 09:56:44 AM
Yesterday there was a silent auction at work for a social club fundraiser. I put in a few bids at the beginning, trying to support the cause, and also thinking I wouldn't win them, but ended up going home with 6 things for $7.50. My rule is that for everything I bring home I need to get rid of 2 things, plus my usual 1 thing per day. I found 13 things to sell, donate, throw out easily, but was on such a roll I ended up finding 8 more things to get rid of.

This is going to get very addicting and I'm super excited. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: benjenn on December 03, 2014, 11:00:03 AM
Someone gave me the idea last year (we downsized and moved from a 2,500 sf house to a 1,200 sf condo) when we moved about this same time) to hang all my clothes on the rods with the hanger backwards (hooked to the front).  As you wear the clothes, you rehang them the regular way.  At the end of the year, anything still on a backwards hanger has to go because you haven't used it in a year!  I checked the other day and only have a few things left hanging backwards... less than a month to go and they're gone if I haven't worn them!  I thought this was a great way to easily know what to get rid of.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on December 03, 2014, 03:59:09 PM
I'm going to box up some of the kitchen items we won't be bringing (some pots, a pan, a few dishes) and sell them on Craigslist as a "kitchen starter kit".  It'll make some poor college student moving out of the dorms really happy to get all that on the cheap, and we'll have less stuff to move.  Win-win!

This is a great idea to put together a "kitchen starter kit"! I did the same not long ago for a friend getting his first place away from the parents. We had so many duplicates that had somehow accumulated that we were able to get him started plus donate even more extras. I do not buy new kitchen stuff - but many of my family and friends are constant upgraders and the still great cast-offs end up coming our way to the point that we also have excess and just keep the best.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on December 04, 2014, 05:20:55 AM
3 bags of clothes out of the house today: donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on December 04, 2014, 11:40:49 AM
I'm going to box up some of the kitchen items we won't be bringing (some pots, a pan, a few dishes) and sell them on Craigslist as a "kitchen starter kit".  It'll make some poor college student moving out of the dorms really happy to get all that on the cheap, and we'll have less stuff to move.  Win-win!

This is a great idea to put together a "kitchen starter kit"! I did the same not long ago for a friend getting his first place away from the parents. We had so many duplicates that had somehow accumulated that we were able to get him started plus donate even more extras. I do not buy new kitchen stuff - but many of my family and friends are constant upgraders and the still great cast-offs end up coming our way to the point that we also have excess and just keep the best.

That's awesome!  Pretty much all of the stuff we're getting rid of were our own cheap starter pots and pans, things like that.  We've since gotten nicer ones, either as gifts for our wedding or as Christmas gifts.
I'm starting to get really excited for our move, if only because we're being forced to de-clutter and get rid of stuff we no longer use!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on December 04, 2014, 12:00:17 PM
There does seem to be some sort of virus involved in decluttering.  Like many of you, once I started to declutter my DH suddenly joined in.  Recently he is talking about getting rid of his dad's books that he never looks at…wow! Before this his office was full of stuff and the floor was only visible in the middle.  Now he even wants to empty the top of his bedside table which is making me do twirls of joy, I like a minimalist bedroom.

Somehow having less STUFF is making it easier for us to do home repairs and to maintain things more regularly, who would have thunk it?
I think it is related to feeling clearer and less weighed down.

I have a close friend who was really depressed in September and could not bear to be at home, particularly in her bedroom.  I suggested decluttering, especially under her bed.  She went home and got that done immediately and now has hired a declutter expert who is helping her do one room at a time.  She is feeling great and in part it is due to feeling less weighed down.

This week I am actually feeling like I have a porsche behind me revving its engine.  My husband is so into the cleaning out that he has gotten a teenager to help him and wants to tackle the garage spaces.  Now I am the one who is saying Wait!  I feel like he will throw out things that I would like to keep.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on December 05, 2014, 07:00:14 AM
I'm going to box up some of the kitchen items we won't be bringing (some pots, a pan, a few dishes) and sell them on Craigslist as a "kitchen starter kit".  It'll make some poor college student moving out of the dorms really happy to get all that on the cheap, and we'll have less stuff to move.  Win-win!

This is a great idea to put together a "kitchen starter kit"! I did the same not long ago for a friend getting his first place away from the parents. We had so many duplicates that had somehow accumulated that we were able to get him started plus donate even more extras. I do not buy new kitchen stuff - but many of my family and friends are constant upgraders and the still great cast-offs end up coming our way to the point that we also have excess and just keep the best.

That's awesome! Pretty much all of the stuff we're getting rid of were our own cheap starter pots and pans, things like that. We've since gotten nicer ones, either as gifts for our wedding or as Christmas gifts.
I'm starting to get really excited for our move, if only because we're being forced to de-clutter and get rid of stuff we no longer use!
When I was starting out, I would have been grateful for that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 05, 2014, 10:04:30 AM
There does seem to be some sort of virus involved in decluttering.  Like many of you, once I started to declutter my DH suddenly joined in.  Recently he is talking about getting rid of his dad's books that he never looks at…wow! Before this his office was full of stuff and the floor was only visible in the middle.  Now he even wants to empty the top of his bedside table which is making me do twirls of joy, I like a minimalist bedroom.

Somehow having less STUFF is making it easier for us to do home repairs and to maintain things more regularly, who would have thunk it?
I think it is related to feeling clearer and less weighed down.

Yeah, I was a bit impressed by how it turned out on my end. My GF still gets super defensive, and absolutely refuses to de-clutter or have a conversation about it. Turns into an argument every time. That being said, every time I get more of my stuff ready to throw away, cleared out, or ready to go to goodwill, some other stuff magically appears, and some of the rooms are getting a bit cleaner outside of what I do, and things start to have a permanent place where they are put away. Maybe it is like a virus. :-)

It's too bad my GF hates de-cluttering. ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on December 05, 2014, 12:47:33 PM
Yeah, I was a bit impressed by how it turned out on my end. My GF still gets super defensive, and absolutely refuses to de-clutter or have a conversation about it. Turns into an argument every time. That being said, every time I get more of my stuff ready to throw away, cleared out, or ready to go to goodwill, some other stuff magically appears, and some of the rooms are getting a bit cleaner outside of what I do, and things start to have a permanent place where they are put away. Maybe it is like a virus. :-)

It's too bad my GF hates de-cluttering. ;-)

Sounds like she doesn't hate it; she just hates agreeing to it with you. So she comes around when she's not feeling pressured. Win-win. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on December 05, 2014, 12:52:32 PM
Went through a garbage bag of teddy bears that my adult daughter had collected out of her little siblings bedrooms. Only kept out 3 for sentimental value. I should really start a box for each child with a few special things from their childhood. Does anyone else do this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on December 05, 2014, 03:30:51 PM
I am minimalist with my de-cluttering, having gotten rid of about 3 things so far :)

Today got rid of a bike saddle. Finally admitted it's a good seat but not quite right. I have another saddle, so no replacement buying needed. It's pretty banged up, so I didn't bother selling or giving it but I set it on top of the street trash can, sometimes stuff finds a taker that way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 05, 2014, 05:10:54 PM
Yeah, I was a bit impressed by how it turned out on my end. My GF still gets super defensive, and absolutely refuses to de-clutter or have a conversation about it. Turns into an argument every time. That being said, every time I get more of my stuff ready to throw away, cleared out, or ready to go to goodwill, some other stuff magically appears, and some of the rooms are getting a bit cleaner outside of what I do, and things start to have a permanent place where they are put away. Maybe it is like a virus. :-)

It's too bad my GF hates de-cluttering. ;-)

Sounds like she doesn't hate it; she just hates agreeing to it with you. So she comes around when she's not feeling pressured. Win-win. :)

Yeah. I'm realizing that's kind of the deal. Seems useless to me. I either need to figure out how to fake argue so she gets the point and I don't get worked up, or find a new GF.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on December 05, 2014, 05:16:41 PM
I'm going to box up some of the kitchen items we won't be bringing (some pots, a pan, a few dishes) and sell them on Craigslist as a "kitchen starter kit".  It'll make some poor college student moving out of the dorms really happy to get all that on the cheap, and we'll have less stuff to move.  Win-win!

This is a great idea to put together a "kitchen starter kit"! I did the same not long ago for a friend getting his first place away from the parents. We had so many duplicates that had somehow accumulated that we were able to get him started plus donate even more extras. I do not buy new kitchen stuff - but many of my family and friends are constant upgraders and the still great cast-offs end up coming our way to the point that we also have excess and just keep the best.

That's awesome! Pretty much all of the stuff we're getting rid of were our own cheap starter pots and pans, things like that. We've since gotten nicer ones, either as gifts for our wedding or as Christmas gifts.
I'm starting to get really excited for our move, if only because we're being forced to de-clutter and get rid of stuff we no longer use!
When I was starting out, I would have been grateful for that.

Me too, which is part of what made me think of it.  :)
One of the great things about my area, too, is the thrifty nature of many of the people.  There's stuff we could never sell, but we can put it in the "free" section of the transfer station and someone will snap it up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 05, 2014, 06:41:17 PM
Sold my juicer today!  One less thing in the house, and the $140 will go towards 3.1% of the remainder of my car loan.

Need to get the espresso machine listed next.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on December 06, 2014, 03:55:43 AM
A small car load of various items to the family store today. Trying to book a council cleanup, but the online booking system is playing up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on December 06, 2014, 07:55:50 AM
Donated some food to the local food drive today.

Next on my list is the green sofa.  Ugh, green sofa.  I just hope that the thrift shop people will think it's good enough to take away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on December 06, 2014, 08:22:01 AM
Yeah, I was a bit impressed by how it turned out on my end. My GF still gets super defensive, and absolutely refuses to de-clutter or have a conversation about it. Turns into an argument every time. That being said, every time I get more of my stuff ready to throw away, cleared out, or ready to go to goodwill, some other stuff magically appears, and some of the rooms are getting a bit cleaner outside of what I do, and things start to have a permanent place where they are put away. Maybe it is like a virus. :-)

It's too bad my GF hates de-cluttering. ;-)

Sounds like she doesn't hate it; she just hates agreeing to it with you. So she comes around when she's not feeling pressured. Win-win. :)

Yeah. I'm realizing that's kind of the deal. Seems useless to me. I either need to figure out how to fake argue so she gets the point and I don't get worked up, or find a new GF.

But maybe you're being mean or bossypants in the course of arguing and that's what she's resisting? I mean, I wouldn't assume that from how you talk about it, but it's a possibility to consider.

As you say, you do get 'worked up' and if she gets stressed out about the idea of getting rid of things, your emotional state adds more stress on top of that. She may just not feel capable of making decisions under those conditions so she withdraws and does it on her own later.

People who don't like to get rid of stuff are fearful of the huge feelings of regret they get from losing or getting rid of something that they find they want later and they'll go to great lengths to avoid that feeling. So no matter what small amount of well-meaning pressure you apply may be too much for her to feel she can make decisions in that moment.

Signed,
The secret hoarder on the thread
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on December 06, 2014, 10:09:06 AM
I have a grocery bag ready to go with extra towels and various items, a cork board that held my also-being-donated jewelry, and a picture that I've had since college.  In getting rid of the picture I've also decluttered a to-do list item: putting pictures in a collage frame that's been on the floor in the living room.  It's a stop gap, but it's done!  My sister is coming over for something unrelated so I'll offer her the jewelry before taking it to goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TeresaB on December 06, 2014, 02:30:26 PM
Yeah, I was a bit impressed by how it turned out on my end. My GF still gets super defensive, and absolutely refuses to de-clutter or have a conversation about it. Turns into an argument every time. That being said, every time I get more of my stuff ready to throw away, cleared out, or ready to go to goodwill, some other stuff magically appears, and some of the rooms are getting a bit cleaner outside of what I do, and things start to have a permanent place where they are put away. Maybe it is like a virus. :-)

It's too bad my GF hates de-cluttering. ;-)

Sounds like she doesn't hate it; she just hates agreeing to it with you. So she comes around when she's not feeling pressured. Win-win. :)

Yeah. I'm realizing that's kind of the deal. Seems useless to me. I either need to figure out how to fake argue so she gets the point and I don't get worked up, or find a new GF.

But maybe you're being mean or bossypants in the course of arguing and that's what she's resisting? I mean, I wouldn't assume that from how you talk about it, but it's a possibility to consider.

As you say, you do get 'worked up' and if she gets stressed out about the idea of getting rid of things, your emotional state adds more stress on top of that. She may just not feel capable of making decisions under those conditions so she withdraws and does it on her own later.

People who don't like to get rid of stuff are fearful of the huge feelings of regret they get from losing or getting rid of something that they find they want later and they'll go to great lengths to avoid that feeling. So no matter what small amount of well-meaning pressure you apply may be too much for her to feel she can make decisions in that moment.

Signed,
The secret hoarder on the thread

I will out myself here as a non-secret hoarder. And what Sheepstache is saying is absolutely true. I can't stand to talk about decluttering with my husband. I know that I need to get rid of lots of stuff, and I actually am making progress on my own, but my husband has a tendency to approach it in a very one size fits all way, for example: "You haven't opened that box since we moved in, so we should just recycle it all because you clearly don't need anything in it." That makes me run to the other extreme and dig in my heels: "No I'm sure everything in it is valuable and important. Even if I haven't needed it recently I am sure I will need it soon." In reality it's somewhere in the middle: Probably 95% of the box can be recycled, but there are some things in there that are worth hanging on to (like my college diploma), so it does need to be sorted through. But it's hard for me to acknowledge that when he's in full-on THROW AWAY ALL THE THINGS mode, because it just puts me into "keep the broken fragment of china in case I ever buy a broken plate that has exactly that piece missing" mode.

I also tend to declutter in layers in a way that my husband doesn't. He takes a category and is ruthless about getting rid of lots of stuff. I'm much more likely to get rid of a few things from multiple categories every few months. In the fall, I sorted through my clothes and my kitchen stuff, and now I'm thinking that there are still some things in my dresser and in my cabinets that I don't really use and could get rid of. I'll probably sort through them before Christmas and then do the whole thing again next spring. My husband will probably say something like "Why haven't you gotten rid of that before if you've never used it?" but it's because it really has taken me six months of marriage to realize that I don't make shortbread and don't need the special shortbread baking dish. (Actually, he will probably say, "What is that? I didn't even know we had it." LOL)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 07, 2014, 01:33:52 PM
Thought the Christmas lights were in the Christmas box, but turned out not.  In the hunt for them, I went through two bins I've been intending to go through "when I had time".  Things I boxed up when I moved into my husband's apartment back in late 2010.  Not surprisingly, I found a bunch of things to toss and donate.  I culled it down to less than half a box, most of which is sentimental that I might be able to relinquish at another time.  Just waiting to hear back if my college aged cousin wants any of the kitchen items before I donate them.  And a hat tip in thanks to my mom, who stayed over last night (we had an unexpectedly full house with last minute visitors of my nephew, his dog, and my parents) for offering to help me go through the bins while we were down there and looking through them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on December 07, 2014, 03:36:36 PM
Donated 3 big boxes last week, then sorted through another layer of stuff, and posted 7 online sales. Some of these are groups of similar items, so if it all goes that will be another 20 things gone. First item sold today, happy to have the $ in my pocket even though it was a small sale. Secretly, I want to make a little money back and free up the space because I have been unusually spendy (for me) in the last few weeks. And I still have a few things I want to buy this week...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 07, 2014, 08:54:54 PM
Today someone finally bought one of the two Levi's sherpa jackets from my husband's teenage years, which my MIL foisted upon us when we were visiting over the summer.  Books have not been moving on Amazon, so I probably need to just suck it up and lower the price.  The more the clutter is cut down, the more I'm inclined to just sell stuff cheaply to get it out of the house.  It helps that I've been doing some work around the house replacing the kitchen floor, ripping out an ugly 1970's railing and replacing beat up old baseboards. Things seem more orderly, so the clutter sticks out even more than before, when the main living area looked more chaotic due to half-finished projects.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on December 08, 2014, 03:27:54 AM
Today someone finally bought one of the two Levi's sherpa jackets from my husband's teenage years, which my MIL foisted upon us....

Sounds like you're not the only one getting rid of clutter. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 08, 2014, 06:49:49 AM
But maybe you're being mean or bossypants in the course of arguing and that's what she's resisting? I mean, I wouldn't assume that from how you talk about it, but it's a possibility to consider.

As you say, you do get 'worked up' and if she gets stressed out about the idea of getting rid of things, your emotional state adds more stress on top of that. She may just not feel capable of making decisions under those conditions so she withdraws and does it on her own later.

People who don't like to get rid of stuff are fearful of the huge feelings of regret they get from losing or getting rid of something that they find they want later and they'll go to great lengths to avoid that feeling. So no matter what small amount of well-meaning pressure you apply may be too much for her to feel she can make decisions in that moment.

Signed,
The secret hoarder on the thread

Yeah, I thought about that, but I am almost always pretty chill. I do get worked up when she gets upset and starts accusing me of wanting to trash all of her stuff. What did I do exactly? While cleaning a room, I asked (very nonchalantly): "Hey, I didn't know you had this! Is there a reason you are keeping it?". It's a stretch for me, but I do understand how it could be taken in a negative light. Part of the issue is that I usually just like talking through things, no decision needed. "I've been reading this thread, and this article, and I think it would be kind of cool to try something like that." "WHY DO YOU WANT TO GET RID OF ALL MY STUFF?!?!" Holy crap. I'm getting the hang of it. I stopped actually trying to talk things through, and just started doing them. If she agrees, she'll join in, and if she doesn't, she'll say something. It's just weird to me since I am usually more proactive than reactionary. Not a huge deal now that I figured it out, just different. I'm pretty flexible, and don't get the point of arguing, so the new method of communicating things is just a bit odd. It's amazing that something like this hasn't come up in the past 6 years, but that's what a relationship is I suppose. :-)

I will out myself here as a non-secret hoarder. And what Sheepstache is saying is absolutely true. I can't stand to talk about decluttering with my husband. I know that I need to get rid of lots of stuff, and I actually am making progress on my own, but my husband has a tendency to approach it in a very one size fits all way, for example: "You haven't opened that box since we moved in, so we should just recycle it all because you clearly don't need anything in it." That makes me run to the other extreme and dig in my heels: "No I'm sure everything in it is valuable and important. Even if I haven't needed it recently I am sure I will need it soon." In reality it's somewhere in the middle: Probably 95% of the box can be recycled, but there are some things in there that are worth hanging on to (like my college diploma), so it does need to be sorted through. But it's hard for me to acknowledge that when he's in full-on THROW AWAY ALL THE THINGS mode, because it just puts me into "keep the broken fragment of china in case I ever buy a broken plate that has exactly that piece missing" mode.

I also tend to declutter in layers in a way that my husband doesn't. He takes a category and is ruthless about getting rid of lots of stuff. I'm much more likely to get rid of a few things from multiple categories every few months. In the fall, I sorted through my clothes and my kitchen stuff, and now I'm thinking that there are still some things in my dresser and in my cabinets that I don't really use and could get rid of. I'll probably sort through them before Christmas and then do the whole thing again next spring. My husband will probably say something like "Why haven't you gotten rid of that before if you've never used it?" but it's because it really has taken me six months of marriage to realize that I don't make shortbread and don't need the special shortbread baking dish. (Actually, he will probably say, "What is that? I didn't even know we had it." LOL)

Yeah, I get that way too. I went to my storage unit and grabbed all of the bags of clothing. I didn't even bother going through them. The GF was appalled that I would do that, but I figured that I haven't missed anything from them in the past 3 years, so why bother? Granted, I am kind of like you and the plate when it comes to electronics. I hate throwing them away. I finally tossed all of my IDE hard drives and kept only one IDE cord, as opposed to an entire plastic grocery bag full.

Now, all that being said, I know I've noticed a huge improvement in my already pretty chipper mood. Not everything has a home just yet, but I'm getting there. Coupled with the book I'm currently reading (Cooked by Michael Pollan (http://amzn.com/0143125338)),the fact that pretty much everything in the kitchen now has a home has found me gravitating there and experimenting with different dishes. I usually cook a few times a week, but the frequency has been increasing. Also, my previous habit of keeping everything clean as I go has reasserted itself. For example, once I finish cutting everything, and stuff goes in the dish, the cutting board and knife get washed immediately. By the end of the meal, there are usually only 3 dishes to clean (plate or bowl for each of us, and whatever pot/pan/skillet I used to cook). Makes dinner very pleasant, and allows us to focus on the food. Now, couple that with my One Month, One Habit challenge for this month (eating in the dining room instead of in front of the TV) and the fact that I managed to find a home for everything that was stacked up on the Dining Room table, and meals are becoming more than the sum of their parts. Also, even though our kitchen layout is awful, everything being cleaned allows us to actually be in there together, working together on food. It takes a bit of creative spinning about, and god forbid someone goes to the laundry room when someone else needs in the refrigerator (which would trap someone in the laundry room), but we are actually able to accomplish a fair amount. Shit, yesterday, after heating up some stuffed clams in the oven for lunch, the GF actually sat down to the dining room table before I even got there. This is someone who absolutely loves her TV time, and for as long as she's been on her own has eaten all her at home meals in front of the tube. Oh, and night before last, we stopped watching TV to play some scrabble on the newly cleared off dining room table. Clean table, games in a specified home, and good times. There is a lot more happening as a result of this gauntlet than I expected. 

tl;dr: I've recently found that certain topics (like this one) cannot be broached conversationally with my GF, but if I begin taking action, she'll join in without ever acknowledging it. Aforementioned action makes things awesome.

Edited to reduce quotes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on December 08, 2014, 07:18:36 AM
I threw out 6 textbooks after checking that no one was buying them because they are too old.  I also posted two books for sale on the online yard sale, let's see if I get an bites. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 08, 2014, 07:28:38 AM
While cleaning a room, I asked (very nonchalantly): "Hey, I didn't know you had this! Is there a reason you are keeping it?".

Asking for reasons why she's keeping it might put her on the offensive instantly, even though you aren't intending it that way.  Maybe ask her if it's something she wants to keep, or if you can put it in a place where it will be easier found/used.  I suspect that it might be helpful if she doesn't feel instantly like you're trying to get rid of her thing, but rather trying to help her make it more accessible and usable.

@C.K. yes, MIL has been decluttering and more or less has DIL's hoard down to his one designated room.  I was never in their house when it was full to the brim, but for a long time they never got rid of anything, and the house was so stuffed that my husband was sleeping on the floor for a long time after he went home to help out while his dad had cancer. A few years ago they got rid of literally dumpster loads of crap. Knowing this makes me extra vigilant about clutter, because I don't think it really bothers my husband the way it bothers me, due to living in a packed house as a kid.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 08, 2014, 09:58:06 AM
Threw out the backpack that had mold on it.  I knew it had electronics we moved ourselves last year when we bought a house, but also found a small pair of earrings I didn't know I had buried in it...  That's bad on multiple levels.

My parents mentioned a friend of theirs moved last Tuesday and on Saturday had her annual party.  That's pretty awesome, to even have up stuff on walls and such.  We still don't have some things up a year later!  Many benefits to less stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on December 08, 2014, 10:36:44 AM
A week or so ago, my wife had another meltdown because of clutter. Christmas season sends her into a depressional tailspin of clutter, cooking, and having to be nice to family (none of which she enjoys). So we sat down, and I gently reinforced the idea that our kids will not hate us for getting rid of their stuff.

"But it's their stuff! How can we get rid of their stuff?"

"If it's causing you to hate living here, then it needs to go. People are more important than things." (She's told me this on numerous occasions)

The girls ended up doing a massive cleaning, my son didn't get rid of anything, but packed up 3 huge boxes of stuff and put them away in the shed.

It's slowly getting better.

We went to a Christmas party, and re-gifted our stuff for the White Elephant exchange. I got rid of a set of juggling clubs! (I still have 2 more sets... *sigh*)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on December 08, 2014, 12:51:32 PM
Whole front porch is full of several garbage bags of clothes and stuffed animals as well as a set of wooden tray tables and a rocking horse. They will be picked up tomorrow by a local thrift store that picks stuff up (for free!) once a month. I have gotten onto their monthly schedule which is equally fabulous and depressing. Fabulous because they will come each and every month and it gives me motivation to work towards the next date -- depressing because I have enough stuff to actually have a truck come by each month to pick up our clutter :-/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on December 08, 2014, 01:57:06 PM
When going through some of DH's stuff I found out he keeps sentimental crap. How did you manage to help someone get rid of it? I tried saying that keeping his old sneakers or robe will not get rid of the  memories, but they never managed to leave the closet.

We currently have a grocery bag by the kitchen island that we continually add stuff to donate whenever we see it. It's unsightly, but helpful to have someplace to put things before you have time to change your mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 08, 2014, 02:15:25 PM
When going through some of DH's stuff I found out he keeps sentimental crap. How did you manage to help someone get rid of it? I tried saying that keeping his old sneakers or robe will not get rid of the  memories, but they never managed to leave the closet.

We currently have a grocery bag by the kitchen island that we continually add stuff to donate whenever we see it. It's unsightly, but helpful to have someplace to put things before you have time to change your mind.

I wouldn't car sneakers or a robe sentimental, so I think you have a different issue going on here (fear of releasing items rather than sentimentality).  For sentimental items, I try multiple passes of decluttering.  Things I was on the fence on pass 1 I feel better about releasing on pass 2 - or 3.  I also try to pick one item of a collection to save that represents all of them.  (I've got way more sentimental items saved than I need.  It doesn't help DH tells me I should keep things from my grandparents.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on December 08, 2014, 02:16:48 PM
@Cookie -- go gently with sentimental people :-) I am very sentimental and yet I am peeling off the layers, getting rid of things that 2 years ago, I couldn't bear to part with. It will need to be on his own terms.  It can be done ... just sloooowwwlly  :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on December 08, 2014, 02:35:36 PM
Quote
I wouldn't car sneakers or a robe sentimental, so I think you have a different issue going on here (fear of releasing items rather than sentimentality).
They are from high school and remind him of riding bikes and hanging out with friends. I wouldn't have guessed old sneakers would be something sentimental, but they are. I'll let a couple months pass and then go through the closet again with him, maybe then he can part with the old shoes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on December 08, 2014, 02:41:16 PM
Quote
I wouldn't car sneakers or a robe sentimental, so I think you have a different issue going on here (fear of releasing items rather than sentimentality).
They are from high school and remind him of riding bikes and hanging out with friends. I wouldn't have guessed old sneakers would be something sentimental, but they are. I'll let a couple months pass and then go through the closet again with him, maybe then he can part with the old shoes.

Interesting.  Maybe suggest he reach out to the friends instead?  Sounds like he misses that time of life.  If he's moved away, he could still restart an online friendship.  I 3-way email with two long distance high school friends (one of whom moved away too) and have for 15+ years.  He might then feel better about it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 08, 2014, 05:29:25 PM
When I got home from work yesterday I FINALLY gave the balcony a once over - we had broken pots, rusty plant-stands, etc that are all now in the bin. Much better already.

Next step for the balcony clutter: releasing some of the pots (filled with potting mix) in which there are no longer plants. I don't know why I thought I needed to have 100 different pot plants on my balcony. Now that most of them are dead, I'm very happy to cut back to those that are surviving well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: bye-bye Ms. FancyPants on December 08, 2014, 06:37:12 PM
We moved everything out of our kitchen into the basement. Whatever we don't use in 30 days leaves this house. Its been about 2 weeks so far and we have barely used anything! I am amazed at what we could actually live without.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Angie55 on December 09, 2014, 10:14:28 AM
After an online clothes/shoe shopping spree (I'd much rather over-order online, try on at home, then return what I don't like) I've made quick decisions on what to keep and what to return. I've filled up my car with the clothes returns and gathered up unused (still in package) stuff from around the house. I've filled up the entire car just about between returns, old project returns, and 2 bags of goodwill. I have to get them all out by Thursday when DH needs the car.

I'm a total overbuyer. Especially for home depot type crap. I'd rather buy everything possible that can work to minimize the million trips to the store. I always procrastinate on deciding whether I need it or not. Then the stuff goes unused in my garage collecting dust. Sad part is most of this will end up on a gift card because receipts are long gone. I wish I could kick that habit!

I see more decluttering in my future. Some mice have decided my garage is their winter home. I'm too terrified to go in and shuffle stuff around yet. I'm waiting the 2-3 weeks until the poison kicks in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on December 09, 2014, 08:39:38 PM
Pardon if i missed a post in this thread, but what's the best method for getting antique furniture sold  (60 yrs or better) for good prices.   Craigslist isnt working well for this (sell other stuff there all the time).   Thx!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on December 10, 2014, 01:18:13 AM
I don't know why I thought I needed to have 100 different pot plants on my balcony.

Impressive!!  Legal??

;-)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on December 10, 2014, 10:01:37 AM
I don't know why I thought I needed to have 100 different pot plants on my balcony.

Impressive!!  Legal??

;-)

Translation for US - potted plants.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on December 10, 2014, 10:37:43 AM
Oh--thank you for that translation!  I was beginning to wonder if Happier had a nice little side gig, as many folks here in Colorado now do!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on December 10, 2014, 01:01:18 PM
Oh--thank you for that translation!  I was beginning to wonder if Happier had a nice little side gig, as many folks here in Colorado now do!

That might be why she's happier at home. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on December 10, 2014, 09:05:53 PM
several grocery bags full of toys and kids books are in the car ready for donation drop off
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 11, 2014, 01:02:39 AM
Oh--thank you for that translation!  I was beginning to wonder if Happier had a nice little side gig, as many folks here in Colorado now do!

That might be why she's happier at home. :D

Love it!!

But yeah, other posters are correct. Aussies call plants that grow in pots "pot plants". NinetyFour, you'd better file that away for when you visit us down under.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on December 11, 2014, 05:48:59 AM
Oh--thank you for that translation!  I was beginning to wonder if Happier had a nice little side gig, as many folks here in Colorado now do!

That might be why she's happier at home. :D

Love it!!

But yeah, other posters are correct. Aussies call plants that grow in pots "pot plants". NinetyFour, you'd better file that away for when you visit us down under.

Got it!  That term is now in my "Aussie glossie"--my Australian-inspired nickname for my glossary of Australian terms.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Pangolin on December 12, 2014, 11:39:56 AM
I posted another batch of junk nice stuff on ebay last night. The first batch brought in over a hundred bucks. It turns out that the t-shirts I wore as a teenager in the 90s are now desirable "vintage" items. My former packrat tendancies served me well for once. :-P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on December 12, 2014, 12:16:35 PM
This thread has been an inspiration to me.  Have taken 14 boxes of old papers to recycle.  A mini-van full of stuff to local donation center, and FINALLY able to get DH to recycle 15 years of old computers, hard drives, zip drives,  bernoulli disks ( anyone else even know what these are??), and a box of old  floppy disks.  we can now almost move around in the basement.  Still more to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on December 12, 2014, 10:55:00 PM
Booked council cleanup - 2 cubic meters of stuff is up on the kerb ready to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on December 13, 2014, 05:14:20 PM
DH emptied 3 more boxes and we sent another car load to the thrift shop today.  Found more zip disks and another zip drive.  DH not happy that we got rid of old computers last week and now he can't check what's on the old zip disks.  After 15 years I can't see what we could be missing... not easy to get rid of clutter!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 13, 2014, 10:28:04 PM
Realized this morning that all my Amazon listings were inactive... no wonder none of my books were selling!  Sold two of them since reactivating the listings, and also sold some car seat covers on Craigslist. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on December 16, 2014, 07:53:25 AM
Wow, there is some serious decluttering going on on this thread.  I do not have any to report per se, however the feeling of ease and enjoyment in our uncluttered spaces continues unabated.  My uncle came over the other day and could not stop talking about how beautifully we had fixed the house up and how great the new paint job looks.  Of course nothing has been painted, or fixed up, I simply decluttered and am keeping each room clutter-free. 

I still have a lot of papers in storage right now which need to be tossed/scanned/filed but they can wait until after Christmas.

I am working on how to declutter my Christmas preparation which still includes loads of presents, mailing cards and having a big messy wrapping station on the dining room table.  I have managed to use almost every gift in my gift drawer and do not plan to continue to have one.  I am using up all the old wrapping and ribbon and cards (I am ashamed to say that I am actually using some that someone else was tossing out).  I find the mess created by  having the wrapping stuff out for more than one day is messing with my serenity.  Note to self…not doing that next year.

Next year I want to cut back on the number of kids we give gifts to and put the Christmas card info into a database so I can print labels.  I know the card thing is outdated but it is an old fashioned thing I like and it is a way of keeping in touch with elderly friends abroad.

I aslo want to move more and more into baking gifts instead of buying them. 

One final part, we have always driven around delivering to houses, and it takes a lot of time and energy.  When we were younger it was like an all day party but now it is a slog.  I definitely want to examine this for next year.

Do any of you guys make this time of year too complicated?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on December 16, 2014, 09:26:35 AM
Good luck, wintersun.  We have actually simplified our Christmas big this year (no gifts for one family, and will miss the party on the other side and hopefully the avalanche of little white-elephants that comes with) but it helps that we don't have kids.  I have had some uber-busy Christmases and this year might be the simplest, woohoo.

Over the weekend I went through my closet and have now 2 paper bags of clothes to donate (already had 1 nearly full, just hanging out); filled a small bag with toys to give out; recycled most of the paper in my 'pet' file folder; went through 2 little bins of office supplies / computer things and reorganized and tossed things.  Over the last couple weeks I have gotten rid of probably 3 dozen books and half a dozen DVD's; my crap finally fits in my bookshelves! At the end of last week I recycled several huge stacks of paper in our office that were 10-20 years old, and this morning cleaned up my own desk at work.  As grad students our lab tends to get messy and I'm fighting it hard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Student on December 16, 2014, 01:06:40 PM
Before joining this forum I did these things:

-I used to have two closets full of clothing. They were so full to the brim I had to have a full hamper of dirty clothing all the time since all the clean stuff would not fit. I donated both closets to people who needed them, took 80% of my clothing and donated it in one go. I am still donating stuff since.
- I sold my tv since I desperately wanted to reduce my media-intake.
- I sold my iphone.
- I sold my laptop.
- I donated/ threw out all of the extra bits and bobs that were my ''decoration''.
- I stopped smoking.

My tip: have a big bag/basket where you throw in all of the clothing/stuff you want to donate on a daily basis. After a month it's a lot and when you have little time on your hands to go to a local charitybin. I've found this very helpful when I wanted to make donating and clearing out clutter a habit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on December 16, 2014, 01:50:02 PM
wintersun,

One organizer suggests butcher paper for all gifts year round. Decorate festively. Saves space and it's a multi-purpose item. You can wrap sandwiches or something in it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsRichLife on December 16, 2014, 02:23:04 PM
This week we've managed to sell some larger items on Gumtree for a reasonable amount. Must be the Xmas spending season that's helping us out.

1 x Smart trike that my son has grown out of
1 x quad bike scooter thing
1 x hiking backpack that my husband pulled out of a dumpster and cleaned up. Sold for a profit of $110!
Various bits of 'stuff' out of the man cave

I think I'm going to spend today doing a serious declutter and then take a load of things to charity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on December 28, 2014, 08:05:55 AM
Ms Rich Life,  You really did well on the backpack, congrats!!!  It is so satisfying to both clear the house AND a make money!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on December 28, 2014, 08:37:23 AM
I'm starting at one corner of the house and working my way across in a winter clean out project.  So far I've managed the master bath and most of the master bedroom.  Initially I was trying to do one room a day, but so far managing only about 1/2 room a day, which is okay.

I don't have the cleaning gene, so unfortunately the dustiness level is impressive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on December 28, 2014, 09:38:58 AM
Cookie and Funkystickman,
how are you doing with your digital organising?  I have not begun the photo thing yet.  To be honest I barely know how the iPhoto software works.  I just put things in there.  This winter I am determined to deal with the photos and the excess paper that I held onto in the big purge. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on December 28, 2014, 01:02:51 PM
Received a (requested) gift of a drawer knife block-thing, which means that I can declutter the knife block that hogs counter space :-)  As an added bonus we decided to only keep the knives we use, so half of the knives go with the knife block.

Gave up on taking a probably-silver serving dish to be appraised and am just donating it instead.

Just took a pile to Goodwill a week ago and already there's another half bag of stuff.  The main living area is finally at the point where I can clean up and not feel cramped (I like lots of breathing room  ..)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on December 28, 2014, 07:19:51 PM
Cookie and Funkystickman,
how are you doing with your digital organising?  I have not begun the photo thing yet.  To be honest I barely know how the iPhoto software works.  I just put things in there.  This winter I am determined to deal with the photos and the excess paper that I held onto in the big purge.

Going slowly. I did scan a box's worth of paperwork. I'm using leftover computer parts to build a file/print server (it's a tiny little computer) that will store all my digital stuff.... photo scans, DVD rips, music, whatever. For about $150 I can get a couple of 2TB drives and mirror them for safety.

The computer itself is already running Ubuntu (free OS) so I just need to get the drives and set them up. Then I can systematically destroy all the papers and crap I have piling up everywhere, including DVD's, CD's, and photographs. If I want to get fancy, I could even make a media server out of it, and be able to play my media from it on the Xbox or tablets.

Will post up progress as it happens.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on December 28, 2014, 07:37:48 PM
For me, after Christmas feels like time to kick it into high gear! As the visiting and such winds down, I want to really get going with the decluttering!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on December 29, 2014, 08:53:35 AM
Yesterday, I dropped off a bag full of various items at Goodwill. Then last night, I decluttered our sock drawers, which had become ridiculous. I could still cut back more. I find that the first pass of decluttering is the hardest for me. I keep a lot more stuff than I need. By the second and third pass, I'm better at letting go of stuff that I don't use. Does anyone else go through this or are you better at culling the first time around (which saves time).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on December 29, 2014, 10:49:36 AM
Nancy, I often have to make a few passes at things before I can let them go. The first time through, its funny to me how I will be thinking, "There is NO WAY I could get rid of xyz" and yet the 2nd or 3rd time through, I'm thinking, "Why was I keeping that?!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 29, 2014, 11:35:16 AM
Yesterday, I dropped off a bag full of various items at Goodwill. Then last night, I decluttered our sock drawers, which had become ridiculous. I could still cut back more. I find that the first pass of decluttering is the hardest for me. I keep a lot more stuff than I need. By the second and third pass, I'm better at letting go of stuff that I don't use. Does anyone else go through this or are you better at culling the first time around (which saves time).

I do it in stages also. As I get a freeing feeling from getting rid of the first wave of things it becomes easier to eliminate more in subsequent rounds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on December 29, 2014, 01:36:32 PM
I find that the first pass of decluttering is the hardest for me. I keep a lot more stuff than I need. By the second and third pass, I'm better at letting go of stuff that I don't use. Does anyone else go through this or are you better at culling the first time around (which saves time).

Yes, thats how it works for me too.  And sometimes at random times an item I've visited  and kept on a previous declutter will pop into my mind and I think, "I could let that go".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: deborah on December 29, 2014, 02:08:50 PM
I find that the first pass of decluttering is the hardest for me. I keep a lot more stuff than I need. By the second and third pass, I'm better at letting go of stuff that I don't use. Does anyone else go through this or are you better at culling the first time around (which saves time).

Yes, thats how it works for me too.  And sometimes at random times an item I've visited  and kept on a previous declutter will pop into my mind and I think, "I could let that go".
I think that this is the best way to do it - get rid of things that you absolutely don't need in a quick first pass; then get rid of things you really don't need in a second pass; then really get stuck into it and get rid of things you don't use. In between you have been subconsciously monitoring how often you actually use things, and have also been subconsciously changing habits, so you realise how little some things are used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on December 29, 2014, 02:28:53 PM
Nearby elementary school was hosting free shredder day!! Was able to bring in 4 boxes of old tax returns, medical records and other old personal docs for free shredding.  Next step is the guest bedroom closet that's jammed with clothes we haven't worn for years..
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on December 29, 2014, 05:51:16 PM
Oh excellent! Thank you for your responses! I feel much better about my progress now. You guys rock!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on December 29, 2014, 11:39:12 PM
Quote
Cookie and Funkystickman,
how are you doing with your digital organising?  I have not begun the photo thing yet.  To be honest I barely know how the iPhoto software works.  I just put things in there.  This winter I am determined to deal with the photos and the excess paper that I held onto in the big purge. 

Great! I deleted about 2,600 bad photos, and organized the past 4 years of pictures into files. I also have been working on unsubscribing from emails, and have gotten rid of all icons on my desktop. It feels great to have this done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on December 31, 2014, 07:12:07 AM
I decluttered by clothes - closests and dressers, and shoes. Totalled up about 8 bags. Now I have much more room in my closet, can actually see what I have, and everything that is left fits, is in good condtion, and I enjoy wearing. Decluttered the board games - got rid of quite a few that we don't play. Working on the rest of the house. The kids rooms are the hardest because they both like to hang onto junk long past the point where they have lost interest.

I moved every 2-4 years for about 20 years. Now I've been in the same place since 2008. The moving was very effective at getting me to declutter in the process of packing and/or unpacking. Now I just put things away and they are out of sight/out of mind. (And I am still one of the least cluttered people that I know.)

ETA: I don't know if I can do an item a day for 2015 since I just unloaded a ton of stuff. However, I like the idea and I am going to try!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on January 01, 2015, 04:47:21 PM
Cookie, that is impressive, 2,600 pics!  You must feel fabulous now.  I just wrote it in my diary to do this month (gulp). Thinking about it makes me want to snuggle under a blanket for a few months.

Funkystickman,  very cool.  I am not very tech savvy but vaguely know what you mean.  Good luck.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: morning owl on January 02, 2015, 07:12:52 AM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo? It's really helpful in learning how to organize your house. A brief summary: start with clothes, then books, then papers, then personal items, then mementos. (From easy to more difficult.) And don't organize by room, but by subject, so that you take everything out of its place and examine one item at a time, while the group of items is all out in front of you. This way you can see at a glance what you have (usually a lot!), and eliminate one thing at a time. This is important because she advises that you assess for yourself whether each item sparks joy in you -- that is the one and only determining factor on whether or not to keep the item.

This cuts through all the excuses. "Oh but when I'm thinner maybe I can wear that again... or my sister bought me this so I can't throw it away." The idea is that the item has served its purpose -- either in the past, or if it's a gift, then the gift was a symbol of love and thoughtfulness that we can be grateful for, and then let it go. If you don't think too much about it, or give yourself time to come up with an excuse on why you are keeping the item, then you can assess how you feel about it intuitively. If you clear things out this way, in theory, you'll be surrounded only by things that give you joy!

I'm on a mission to sort through my household of stuff using this method over this next year. Maybe I'll do a little each month. Just cleaning out all the paperwork in my office took about 3 days over the holidays.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 02, 2015, 09:18:40 AM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo?

You might be interested in this:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/23/garden/home-organization-advice-from-marie-kondo.html?_r=0
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 02, 2015, 11:13:32 AM
Neat read, thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: morning owl on January 02, 2015, 11:29:38 AM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo?

You might be interested in this:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/23/garden/home-organization-advice-from-marie-kondo.html?_r=0

Thanks, NinetyFour... I had heard of the book via this NYT article, and then took it out from the library. Worth the read. It's like a how-to for becoming a minimalist, in a very human way. Most minimalism ideas I find a bit preachy and cold, but this book is totally heartfelt and down to earth. It's like working at minimalism from the inside out, rather than taking a bunch of rules and applying them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gaja on January 02, 2015, 01:06:18 PM
We have been getting ready to downsize in 2014, and have lost 40-45 m3 of stuff. Most of it junk, a lot has been donated, and some has been sold. In a week, a 32 m3 moving van will try to take the rest of our stuff to the new house. According to my calculations, we have 30 m3 of stuff left, I hope I'm right.

We will be buying new beds for the new house, and we might need some appliances (washing machine and fridge). But otherwise, I whink we are well covered.

Will try to
a) not buy stuff
and
b) loose even more stuff as we unpack
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 02, 2015, 01:11:27 PM
We have been getting ready to downsize in 2014, and have lost 40-45 m3 of stuff. Most of it junk, a lot has been donated, and some has been sold. In a week, a 32 m3 moving van will try to take the rest of our stuff to the new house. According to my calculations, we have 30 m3 of stuff left, I hope I'm right.
We will be buying new beds for the new house, and we might need some appliances (washing machine and fridge). But otherwise, I whink we are well covered.

Way to go on getting rid of stuff, and what a fun metric!! However,

Will try to

(http://www.chanstickers.com/sites/default/files/trynot.gif)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 06, 2015, 11:18:23 AM
Just dumped another 4 garbage bags of clothes to Goodwill, and I talked my parents into bring it for me, didn't even have to make an extra trip! :)

We also minimized more board games. Wife swears we play them all, but I know better... not worth storing if they only play them once a month or less.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 06, 2015, 12:54:19 PM
Pulled a whole green garbage bag of old clothes and purses I never use out of my cupboard to donate. Brought in 5 new articles of clothing last night so was determined to find 5 things to get rid of and found much, much more! yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mr Dorothy Dollar on January 06, 2015, 07:07:41 PM
Get rid of the phone book for good by opting out. Saves you time by never having to recycle it again and is environmentally friendly. https://www.yellowpagesoptout.com/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 06, 2015, 07:15:19 PM
Awesome work, everybody!

Successfully convinced DH to get rid of a few old computers (a few had been in his long term storage and one in the carport). Yay!! There's one broken one to go which is tricky cos he wants to delete/rewrite the hard drive before disposal. But, big progress!

We've also given away a few things to friends and will take half a boot load of stuff to the recycle shed at the rubbish tip. I'm also finally getting of the box my electric garden shredder came in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 06, 2015, 07:49:35 PM
Magnet?  I found a bunch of old floppy disks while I was decluttering my home office - I ran a heavy duty (rare earth) fridge magnet over all of them, one at a time, both sides - not that anyone has a floppy disk drive any more.  They are in the recycling box now.


 There's one broken one to go which is tricky cos he wants to delete/rewrite the hard drive before disposal. But, big progress!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 06, 2015, 07:52:32 PM
Still trying to goad council into action to remove our pile of stuff awaiting collection. Its free, but they are useless at collecting. Last time they took so long my lawn died. Heh this time its on driveway. Just have to keep phoning up.

Cleared out some old makeup. Went through DDs wardrobe, out with another small bag of clothes, found 1 pr my undies and 2prs of her brother socks.

Made yet another restart on the study: tossed a small pile of old magazines. This is my most troublesome, most avoided, junkiest, dustiest room. I just have to do something regularly in there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 06, 2015, 10:04:54 PM
Magnet?  I found a bunch of old floppy disks while I was decluttering my home office - I ran a heavy duty (rare earth) fridge magnet over all of them, one at a time, both sides - not that anyone has a floppy disk drive any more.  They are in the recycling box now.


 There's one broken one to go which is tricky cos he wants to delete/rewrite the hard drive before disposal. But, big progress!


Thanks for the suggestion! DH also found a bunch of floppy disks when he got his stuff out of storage (the smaller ones with a hardcase, not the bigger actual floppy ones). I just slid the metal slide open and stabbed at the inner plastic drive with scissors to deform it and scratch it in a few places. Didn't think of a magnet but this was relatively fast too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 07, 2015, 12:50:16 AM
Sorted through about 1/2 of a junky cupboard today. Got rid of some stuff but gave up after a while. So frustrating. Nothing has a "home."  Junky, junky, junky.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 07, 2015, 01:45:27 AM
Sorted through about 1/2 of a junky cupboard today. Got rid of some stuff but gave up after a while. So frustrating. Nothing has a "home."  Junky, junky, junky.

I find it helps to focus on the stuff I got done, not the stuff still to go. So woot! You got rid of some stuff! Yay! (I also say to myself, you eat an elephant one bite at a time)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 07, 2015, 08:19:38 AM
Awesome work, everybody!

Successfully convinced DH to get rid of a few old computers (a few had been in his long term storage and one in the carport). Yay!! There's one broken one to go which is tricky cos he wants to delete/rewrite the hard drive before disposal. But, big progress!

Ah yeah, I forgot, I chunked an old PC tower this week. It was sitting in my closet. When I realized I could buy a $50 Altoid-tin-sized computer that was just as fast, it was gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 07, 2015, 03:31:10 PM
Thanks, Astatine! Feeling better about it today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 07, 2015, 03:58:13 PM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo? It's really helpful in learning how to organize your house. A brief summary: start with clothes, then books, then papers, then personal items, then mementos. (From easy to more difficult.) And don't organize by room, but by subject, so that you take everything out of its place and examine one item at a time, while the group of items is all out in front of you. This way you can see at a glance what you have (usually a lot!), and eliminate one thing at a time. This is important because she advises that you assess for yourself whether each item sparks joy in you -- that is the one and only determining factor on whether or not to keep the item.

This cuts through all the excuses. "Oh but when I'm thinner maybe I can wear that again... or my sister bought me this so I can't throw it away." The idea is that the item has served its purpose -- either in the past, or if it's a gift, then the gift was a symbol of love and thoughtfulness that we can be grateful for, and then let it go. If you don't think too much about it, or give yourself time to come up with an excuse on why you are keeping the item, then you can assess how you feel about it intuitively. If you clear things out this way, in theory, you'll be surrounded only by things that give you joy!

I'm on a mission to sort through my household of stuff using this method over this next year. Maybe I'll do a little each month. Just cleaning out all the paperwork in my office took about 3 days over the holidays.

I read the article someone posted after this message and over the weekend read the book. Really really enjoyed it! I trashed 3/4 of all my files over the weekend and will probably recycle more when I go through it again after following her suggested order of stuff-examination.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 08, 2015, 12:26:15 AM
I'm pleased to report I have decluttered paper in my study two days in a row for about 45mins each day. No visible sign of improvement but its a hell of a mess. 

I just must keep telling myself:

1. " an elephant is eaten one bite at a time" : thanks Astatine :)
2. I'll be retired in 3-4 years,  time to start culling, only keeping what is needed in the short term.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gaja on January 08, 2015, 03:38:57 AM
Packed the stuff from the bathroom yesterday. Decided to only keep five of the towels, the rest go to recycling. Those five are the only ones we have bought. The rest were hand-me-downs and gifts.

Also got the kids sorting socks and finding pairs. The rest of the mismatched socks were tossed. Some of those have been single for years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 08, 2015, 05:46:31 AM
Paper sorting is the worst.  I just put out the recycling (-26C, gotta love winter) - a full recycling bin, and a blue recycling bag full of paper.  I would say I am 1/2 way through, in that of the paper to keep about 1/2 is sorted and filed.  The rest gets spread out on my bed, sorted until other activities call, and then popped into a box until the next time.  I should be done by the weekend.  Paper done, office done, me done.

I have a stack of paper (regular 8.5x11 paper) to shred.  Has anyone made fire logs out of this (as opposed to newspapers)?  I want to set up a terra preta bed in the garden this spring, and they could be used for that.  I am not worrying about the ink, it is all vegetable based now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on January 08, 2015, 06:44:59 AM
SWMBO gave Goodwill almost half of her clothes yesterday and I cleared out a (smaller) fraction of mine. And I listed all sixteen of the books I still own on eBay. Nothing lights a fire under your ass like moving to a place a third the size of the one you're in!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on January 08, 2015, 09:24:32 AM
I'm pleased to report I have decluttered paper in my study two days in a row for about 45mins each day. No visible sign of improvement but its a hell of a mess. 

I just must keep telling myself:

1. " an elephant is eaten one bite at a time" : thanks Astatine :)
2. I'll be retired in 3-4 years,  time to start culling, only keeping what is needed in the short term.

Paperwork is the thing I'm dreading dealing with the most. I think I need to try your strategy of 'one bite at a time'. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 08, 2015, 02:36:38 PM
Started this week on a 1 year program to declutter.  It's called Declutter 365 if you want to look it up.

Week 1 was kitchen countertops.  I was doing great, my kitchen looked awesome...then I remembered that I have another kitchen in the basement.  Well, I'm tired, but the basement kitchen now also has completely cleared off countertops!  Well, except for the necessary items like dish soap of course!  All that remains for this week is to clear off the kitchen table (already mostly done) and to declutter potholders.

This is really going to be helpful to me I think.  I tent to start one thing, then see a mess someplace else and start on it, then see a mess somewhere else and start on it...  Next thing I know it's 3 hours later and the house looks exactly the same!

Next week is kitchen cupboards.  I hope to get rid of some things and have everything that remains be comfortably accessible.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 08, 2015, 02:44:05 PM
Oh, and I should add.  The recycle bin was completely full last week.  It's one of the big ones with wheels and an attached lid.  It was so nice to get that much crap out of the house and recycled!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 08, 2015, 02:51:46 PM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo?

You might be interested in this:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/23/garden/home-organization-advice-from-marie-kondo.html?_r=0

Thanks, NinetyFour... I had heard of the book via this NYT article, and then took it out from the library. Worth the read. It's like a how-to for becoming a minimalist, in a very human way. Most minimalism ideas I find a bit preachy and cold, but this book is totally heartfelt and down to earth. It's like working at minimalism from the inside out, rather than taking a bunch of rules and applying them.
I just read this on your recommendation. It is the best decluttering/minimalist/etc book I've read. I'm tidying in a haphazard way at the moment instead of the correct way she suggests, but I now have a gorgeously clear and prettily decorated bookshelf, and what looks like 100 books that ware "to-read" to be reviewed. I only pulled out the ones we haven't read yet, to give us a chance before they go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 08, 2015, 04:04:14 PM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo?

You might be interested in this:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/23/garden/home-organization-advice-from-marie-kondo.html?_r=0

Thanks, NinetyFour... I had heard of the book via this NYT article, and then took it out from the library. Worth the read. It's like a how-to for becoming a minimalist, in a very human way. Most minimalism ideas I find a bit preachy and cold, but this book is totally heartfelt and down to earth. It's like working at minimalism from the inside out, rather than taking a bunch of rules and applying them.
I just read this on your recommendation. It is the best decluttering/minimalist/etc book I've read. I'm tidying in a haphazard way at the moment instead of the correct way she suggests, but I now have a gorgeously clear and prettily decorated bookshelf, and what looks like 100 books that ware "to-read" to be reviewed. I only pulled out the ones we haven't read yet, to give us a chance before they go.

It's already on the kindle, and is next on the list to read.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on January 08, 2015, 05:15:33 PM
I love "get rid of paper as it never brings joy"!  YES!  I got rid of about 18inches of documentation I no longer need this week as well as some samples I received as gifts for buying certain products if I had not used them.  Tomorrow is recycle day so I keep stalking through the house looking for more candidates for the bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 08, 2015, 05:35:11 PM
I love "get rid of paper as it never brings joy"!  YES!  I got rid of about 18inches of documentation I no longer need this week as well as some samples I received as gifts for buying certain products if I had not used them.  Tomorrow is recycle day so I keep stalking through the house looking for more candidates for the bin.

I get joy from the occasional bill that shows how we're doing with our use of electricity etc :)
I just listed our couches and two armchairs on Gumtree, because the couches certainly don't give us joy! The armchairs might, but I re-covered them with the intention of selling them, so I'll try that before we use them ourselves. If it works, we'll be a couch-less household for a little while - I'm really excited about the space!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 08, 2015, 09:13:06 PM
I went through a shelf in the laundry that obviously hadn't been touched since before I started thinking seriously about minimalism (will never have a minimalist house cos DH is a recovering packrat and loves his CDs, DVDs, books etc, but I'm quite minimalist with my personal items now). I found half a packet of wooden clothes pegs that I didn't know I had. woot! So I put some out on the washing line (cos there's always a slow attrition rate of pegs getting lost or broken) and stashed the rest for later, but in a more easily seen spot.

Moved some stuff out to the carport (emergency water containers taking up space) and moved some painting stuff from when we painted the laundry and lounge 3 years ago.

Then looked at our leftover paint from 3 years ago. No idea how long it lasts, but at least 2 tins have started leaking out the side seam of the tin, and one was seriously rusted on the bottom. Need to work out what to do with it all.

In total, getting rid of to the recycle shed at the rubbish tip:
- plastic chest of drawers (they're a bit manky now from rust and leaking paint, so the shed might not take them)
- old gutter guard, no longer needed
- small bag of assorted crap from around the house

It's funny how I think I've gone through and cleared out every nook and cranny, and several years into serious decluttering, I'm STILL finding stuff to get rid of. Yikes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on January 08, 2015, 09:29:31 PM
Has anyone read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo?

You might be interested in this:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/23/garden/home-organization-advice-from-marie-kondo.html?_r=0

Thanks, NinetyFour... I had heard of the book via this NYT article, and then took it out from the library. Worth the read. It's like a how-to for becoming a minimalist, in a very human way. Most minimalism ideas I find a bit preachy and cold, but this book is totally heartfelt and down to earth. It's like working at minimalism from the inside out, rather than taking a bunch of rules and applying them.

A sentence I really like from the book: There are three approaches we can take toward our possessions: face them now, face them sometime, or avoid them until the day we die.

Kind of morbid, but sometimes I look at my stuff and think about what will happen after I die. The thought of having my family wasting time going through my junk is so depressing. I don't have too much stuff, but there's still some ways to go before minimalism.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 09, 2015, 12:45:24 AM
This book by Marie Kondo sounds fantastic! I am sad to report that it is not available at my library and in the spirit of decluttering, I will not be buying it....but, oh the temptation!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on January 09, 2015, 04:20:18 AM
I enjoyed the book. The main thing is asking yourself if each item sparks joy. If not, it's out! Another thing I liked is that she says if you do it correctly, you won't have to be constantly decluttering. I feel like I have to purge stuff every year so that really sparked joy in me! Lol
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 09, 2015, 07:42:25 AM
I might have to give that book a gander. 

Yesterday I went down in the newly decluttered basement and swung my kettlebell around.  I'd been avoiding the area when all the stuff waiting to be donated was lurking down there (even though it wasn't in the way of my weights).

This should be a good weekend for going through my dresser and decluttering - I have a bunch of race shirts that are ugly and ill-fitting, and probably some other things that haven't seen the light of day in a while.  Trying to figure out how to approach getting DH to remove some of his clutter from a couple pieces of furniture he has appropriated - his MO is to spread shit all over horizontal surfaces so he can see all of it.  I've mostly trained myself to ignore these flaming clutter spots, but as the clutter is reduced around them, they stick out even worse and make me itch to just bin everything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 09, 2015, 01:24:45 PM
"Found" $24.30 on two ancient Visa gift cards that have been kicking around in my wallet. Went to the 2 different websites to find out the balances and was pleasantly surprised. This decluttering business is paying off ... literally!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on January 09, 2015, 05:04:33 PM
Whilst continuing to slowly potter away at my bits and pieces. Esp those areas that become collection locations for like minded items that you might use one day. This was useful at Christmas as I was able to recycle some tissue paper / cellophone etc when making up gift baskets. I haven't really felt like I have made any significant progress.

Today however, with a couple of days warning, we were able to tackle my husbands spare room. This has a range of items from car parts / computer parts (some personal some relating to his business which works out of our home) / toys / tools etc. Major progress has been made, and he has managed to recognise some items are rubbish / or would be better in someone elses home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on January 10, 2015, 05:20:25 AM
The whole sparking joy thing really worked for me. Great reframing idea. I sold a chair on Craigslist, and I'm bringing two bags to Goodwill today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 10, 2015, 05:31:26 AM
I love "get rid of paper as it never brings joy"!  YES!  I got rid of about 18inches of documentation I no longer need this week as well as some samples I received as gifts for buying certain products if I had not used them.  Tomorrow is recycle day so I keep stalking through the house looking for more candidates for the bin.

I get joy from the occasional bill that shows how we're doing with our use of electricity etc :)
I just listed our couches and two armchairs on Gumtree, because the couches certainly don't give us joy! The armchairs might, but I re-covered them with the intention of selling them, so I'll try that before we use them ourselves. If it works, we'll be a couch-less household for a little while - I'm really excited about the space!
I used the 40 minutes cleaning, 20 minutes break and new shows on tv to get me through several large piles of paper yesterday and today. Tons of old receipts (from up to 7 years ago!) were tossed. Our recycling bin is now full, so probably up to 1.5 m3 of paper was removed. I then rearranged the dining area to fit our bikes better so we can get them in and out easier.

Yet, I'm struggling to see the difference in the house. I REALLY need to remember to take before and after shots. Will everything become clear once we are down to only the things we need and the things that bring us joy? I can still look at a spot and see things that don't fit. I think I'll keep trusting the process, since there hasn't been a downside yet!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 10, 2015, 03:46:26 PM
Took a slew of plastic bags out with recycling today, both the type we get at the grocery store and the fat pillows you get in packages.  Kept some for cat's litter/general use, but it was really nice to clear out that clutter.  I can actually get at stuff now.  (Still more to get rid of in the way of packing supplies.)

Also threw away a bit of boxed food that was waaay past date (2005 and 2007!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 10, 2015, 04:59:00 PM
My sweetie cleaned off the top of his dresser today <3
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on January 10, 2015, 05:33:48 PM
I went through my socks and underwear baskets today and threw out everything that did not spark joy. I have no more annoying socks or wedgie underwear, only ones that fit and do their job and make me happy. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 10, 2015, 05:47:12 PM
My sweetie has been clearing out our little boys shared bedroom today (ages 9 and 7)!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on January 10, 2015, 07:32:00 PM
My sweetie cleaned off the top of his dresser today <3

Share your secret!  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 10, 2015, 07:43:27 PM
It's funny how I think I've gone through and cleared out every nook and cranny, and several years into serious decluttering, I'm STILL finding stuff to get rid of. Yikes.

This is how I'm feeling too. I keep wondering if I'll ever be done! I've made good headway lately with family "heirlooms", donating some and selling most of it on eBay. Now I'm into the linens; old doilies and tablecloths, and neck scarves which belonged to my grandmother, pieces of lace and fabric. Dolls from the 1950s and older, which were my grandma's and aunt's. I have diligently protected these things over the years and moved them from house to house, and I finally decided I don't want to be a museum curator anymore!! With every item that goes away, I feel lighter. Ahhhh

I've made $2400 net so far from these sales (which included a bunch of my childhood toys from the 1970s).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 10, 2015, 07:54:43 PM
Practical magic, that's so awesome !!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 10, 2015, 07:57:39 PM
Thanks tariskat! I love coming here and reading about everyone's progress, it really inspires me.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 11, 2015, 06:57:39 AM
It's funny how I think I've gone through and cleared out every nook and cranny, and several years into serious decluttering, I'm STILL finding stuff to get rid of. Yikes.

Yes, I am in the same boat. It simply amazes me. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 11, 2015, 07:56:48 AM
My sweetie cleaned off the top of his dresser today <3

Share your secret!  :)
It was sort of accidental.  We were flipping the mattress (king sized, extra deep, pillow-top on both sides so it's extremely heavy), which involves propping the one end of it on his dresser and using the dresser as a lever while we pick up the other end.  There was just too much crap on his dresser for it to work, so we shoved everything out of the way and flipped the mattress.  Then he went ahead and cleaned it up so it wasn't a problem area anymore!

I'm very fortunate in my husband.  We have about the same level of "mess tolerance", so about the time when something is too messy for me, it's also too messy for him.  Now he wants me to clean off my dresser...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on January 11, 2015, 08:41:28 AM
Things that are coming up:

1.  I now notice how icky I feel when I clear a space and then have a small pile of TO DO items messing with the beauty of my tidy space.  Dealing with these newly revealed repairs, errands, etc. needs to be immediate or it ruins my newly found equanimity.  But now that I have done all this tidying my energy is low and I don't have what it takes to deal with this.  What do you do at this point?

2.  Just reread a post where I said i would deal with iPhoto this month…a good reminder to get going on that this week.

3.  I have started noticing things that are broken and needing attention-who knew there were so many?  Even earrings in my jewellery box missing  backs or broken.

4. I am much more into cleaning up after a meal and leaving every surface sparkling than I was before.  Now that my awareness (of how good it feels to have clear spaces) is growing it is affecting my habits.  And, I am much more aware of how the procrastinated task hangs over me trashing my ease and calm.

Are any of you noticing similar shifts?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on January 11, 2015, 02:45:43 PM
^ While it doesn't upset me or get in the way of my calm/mood, I've definitely started to make sure that papers/items don't start squatting in areas I've already decluttered. They're much easier to notice now since the spaces are clear and also easier to deal with right away since there aren't many.

As for broken things, I'm getting better at letting go of those. There's still some bad feelings over wastefulness, but if the item has been sitting around as "to be fixed or upcycled" for a dog's age, then I clearly don't need it and should release it back into the wild for someone else to use/fix (another forum member helped me with this).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on January 11, 2015, 03:20:45 PM
I'm not sure why, but I've been procrastinating putting some things I'd like to get rid of for sale online. I think because it's new and intimidating for me and I'm afraid of failure (that's a whole different story).

Today, realizing I was procrastinating, told myself just to make an account on kijiji. Then, just take a photo of a big framed mirror I've had for 2-3 years that's been sitting in my computer/storage room waiting to be hung. Then just post an ad. Three easy steps. Nothing to fear. It hasn't sold yet, it's only been up an hour, but it's still a huge step for me. Hopefully I can get addicted to it, and get rid of more stuff this way while making a little bit of income.

Yesterday I managed to get rid of 15 things. 14 were not suitable for donation or sale, but one was unused and someone is coming over today to pick it up. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on January 11, 2015, 05:51:15 PM
I went through all of my photographs and culled them by about half.  I can do another half, ideally to the point where they go in a *thin* photograph album.  My brother got the knife block and most of the knives with it (we only used three - why have the whole block on the counter top).  Another bag of odds and ends ready to go to Goodwill.  Slowly but surely.  It's amazing how much is still left after years of minimalist living.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on January 11, 2015, 08:53:18 PM
Wintersun I feel the same way! Having a to-do list makes me not able to relax because I can't stop thinking about what I have to do. I wish I realized this sooner about myself.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 12, 2015, 05:34:46 AM
Gave away 4 things on freecycle over the weekend (all picked up yesterday) and today I have to put out a cd / cassette player boombox type thing before I go to work.  My eBay auctions die today, so tomorrow I'm going to drop by a local consignment shop to drop off some sweet boots and a jacket and some nice slacks.  I also need to make trips to donate clothes and sell some books and most of my DVDs, but that's probably a weekend project!  Between the Marie kondo book and this http://markmanson.net/minimalism I am in a good place mentally to get rid of things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on January 12, 2015, 05:54:52 PM
Cookie,

I know, I think that I need to spend one year getting caught up with household to dos and then really chill with them. Right now most things on my to do list have been there for a few years and boy are they heavy!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 17, 2015, 04:03:04 AM
I have donated the bulk as I have decluttered over the years.  However, I got another round together around late Oct and decided to take it to a consignment shop.  The time is up and I didn't make much, I didn't break 100 but it feels good to get rid of some things while making something back albeit small.  Although, I am not looking forward to bringing home the remainder but it would be interesting to see what did sell.   

It has been heartbreaking as I have majorly decluttered over the past few years.  The waste has been depressing and heartbreaking. Things barely used, if at all. 

I am ready to do another round of clothes though.  I still have too much and nothing to wear at the same time. How does that happen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 17, 2015, 04:21:04 AM
I am ready to do another round of clothes though.  I still have too much and nothing to wear at the same time. How does that happen.

Because your wardrobe contains items that you do not love. I don't have many clothes (about 60 odd items, including jackets and leggings but excluding shoes, socks, undies, bras and hats), but last year was the first year I felt like I have heaps of clothes to wear. I was ruthless with my wardrobe and only keep clothes that I love to wear.  The high rotation clothes, stuff that you find yourself grabbing to wear without thinking cos you know you like wearing it. I still get rid of an item or two of clothes every 6 months or so as my tastes shift gradually over time, or my shape/size does. Most of my clothes go well with each other, so I can make many different outfits from not many clothes.

The method I used was to take each piece of clothing and ask myself (or got DH to ask me out loud - that works better for me), "do I love and want to keep this item?" If the answer was a resounding yes, then I kept the item. Any other response = get rid of it to charity.


Edit: Following up on your waste comment: doing this with my wardrobe REALLY helped with not contributing to more waste of money and environmental resources. It made me super concious of how bad I had been at buying clothes for myself. So now if I am in need of a new item of clothing, I ONLY buy it (whether from the op shop or new) if I really love it in the fitting room and can't wait to take it home and start wearing it. So yes, I do ask myself when trying on clothes, do I love and want to keep this, and I listen carefully to my gut feel. It's amazing how easy it is to try to justify something to yourself, when all that matters is if you love and want to keep it and use it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on January 17, 2015, 01:28:01 PM
Acorn,

I love this quote from you:

"A sentence I really like from the book: There are three approaches we can take toward our possessions: face them now, face them sometime, or avoid them until the day we die."

Seeing older rellies having to deal with their excess stuff inspires me to keep going.

Recently I got rid of food to the food bank (things that are no longer on my diet), jeans to the thrift store and the trash, shoe polish by the boatload (what was I thinking buying all that when we don't have those kind of shoes?), scarves I don't wear gifted to a grateful friend and lots of computer files.

Phew that feels good. 

And we got a cheque from the second hand store for a piece of furniture that we put on consignment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 17, 2015, 04:05:40 PM
I am ready to do another round of clothes though.  I still have too much and nothing to wear at the same time. How does that happen.

Because your wardrobe contains items that you do not love. I don't have many clothes (about 60 odd items, including jackets and leggings but excluding shoes, socks, undies, bras and hats), but last year was the first year I felt like I have heaps of clothes to wear. I was ruthless with my wardrobe and only keep clothes that I love to wear.  The high rotation clothes, stuff that you find yourself grabbing to wear without thinking cos you know you like wearing it. I still get rid of an item or two of clothes every 6 months or so as my tastes shift gradually over time, or my shape/size does. Most of my clothes go well with each other, so I can make many different outfits from not many clothes.

The method I used was to take each piece of clothing and ask myself (or got DH to ask me out loud - that works better for me), "do I love and want to keep this item?" If the answer was a resounding yes, then I kept the item. Any other response = get rid of it to charity.


Edit: Following up on your waste comment: doing this with my wardrobe REALLY helped with not contributing to more waste of money and environmental resources. It made me super concious of how bad I had been at buying clothes for myself. So now if I am in need of a new item of clothing, I ONLY buy it (whether from the op shop or new) if I really love it in the fitting room and can't wait to take it home and start wearing it. So yes, I do ask myself when trying on clothes, do I love and want to keep this, and I listen carefully to my gut feel. It's amazing how easy it is to try to justify something to yourself, when all that matters is if you love and want to keep it and use it.

I agree, I dont love everything.  Part of my problem is that I tire of clothes very easily. I just love new clothes.  I was doing the "do I love it"  for the most part last year and it worked fairly well.  For the last few years, I have only brought in a handful of items each year. Today, I have gone through my drawers and got rid of another 10-15 pieces.  I just dont reach for them.  I will slowly start to change out as I see things I really love.  Maybe one day, I will love and reach for it all.

Thanks for your thoughts.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kris on January 17, 2015, 04:50:24 PM
We're planning to retire in 3 1/2 years and leave the country, so I've started on a decluttering project so I won't have to do it all at once at the end.  Basically, I put a reminder in my phone for the first day of the month that says, "Get rid of some stuff."  Then when the day rolls around, I'll spend 15-20 mn in one of the rooms of our house gathering up some stuff to give away or sell.  The nice thing is, I generally think of the things I'll get rid of a couple of weeks in advance, and I get very excited about having that thing gone. This month, I took over 100 CDs to a used store and sold them.  Oh yeah, and gave away two fondue sets to friends.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Elle 8 on January 18, 2015, 07:26:16 AM
Edit: Following up on your waste comment: doing this with my wardrobe REALLY helped with not contributing to more waste of money and environmental resources. It made me super concious of how bad I had been at buying clothes for myself. So now if I am in need of a new item of clothing, I ONLY buy it (whether from the op shop or new) if I really love it in the fitting room and can't wait to take it home and start wearing it. So yes, I do ask myself when trying on clothes, do I love and want to keep this, and I listen carefully to my gut feel. It's amazing how easy it is to try to justify something to yourself, when all that matters is if you love and want to keep it and use it.

Thank you!  This is what I need to learn to do.  Too often I will buy something just because it is a great deal, even if it is not perfect for me.  I need to stop that and only buy the perfect items, even if they cost a little bit more. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on January 18, 2015, 06:22:02 PM
Cleaned out the laundry cupboard yesterday, got rid of a big bag of crap.

I'm learning techniques to help the BF cope with decluttering (he struggles with it emotionally) - such as doing the stuff that he doesn't need a say in (like expired cleaning chemicals) while he's out of the house, so that he doesn't have to watch/participate.

I don't understand how I haven't run out of stuff yet! I've probably donated ten big bin bags of 'stuff' in the last six months and by the time we next visit a charity shop, I'll have another three or four. I'm not buying anything, so how do I not run out at some point??
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on January 20, 2015, 07:16:48 AM
I did a declutter of my clothes-closet. I almost managed a Project 333. I wound up at 52 items including clothes for work and sports.

Enjoy my stacks of discarded stuff and my now incredibly roomy closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on January 20, 2015, 07:52:17 AM
That closet is half inspiring half terrifying! I'm still doing things piecemeal but have another box of stuff to mail off to Twice this week. I definitely still have too much--that is, more than I can/do actually wear--but I'm slowly paring down. It would be great to have half as much as I currently do. Baby steps!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on January 20, 2015, 08:24:23 AM
For the record though, I have two pairs of jeans in the wash that are missing from the picture.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 22, 2015, 03:51:15 AM
Quote
Enjoy my stacks of discarded stuff and my now incredibly roomy closet.
Oh yeah! Beautiful. Thanks for putting up the piccies.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 22, 2015, 08:51:33 AM
The box of things to go to the thrift shop is FULL!

This week I also went through the medicine cabinet and linen closet and got rid of expired drugs, cremes and potions I was not going to use, frayed and nasty towels, and a bunch of stuff that was just taking up space. It looks so tidy now and I can find things I want!

The January Cure is giving me the push I need to get things done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on January 22, 2015, 09:21:20 AM
We got rid of all of our cassette (music) tapes this weekend! I'm still trying to convince BF that we should get rid of the cassette player too - we don't have any cassettes left, not sure why he wants to keep it?! Next on my list is the vinyl record albums; we haven't listened to them in 10+ years!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on January 22, 2015, 09:35:58 AM
One box of kids clothes was gone through and sent to consignment.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Daleth on January 22, 2015, 02:18:08 PM
Next on my list is the vinyl record albums; we haven't listened to them in 10+ years!

Put those suckers on eBay. I think you'd be surprised.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on January 22, 2015, 02:32:27 PM
Next on my list is the vinyl record albums; we haven't listened to them in 10+ years!

Put those suckers on eBay. I think you'd be surprised.

I was considering that, but they are not all in "like new" condition, although they all play fine as far as I know. I guess I could just say that in the listing. There are too many to sell individually, not sure if I'm better off selling them in one large group (would take multiple shipping boxes) or in groups that would fit in one shipping box together.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on January 22, 2015, 03:42:10 PM
Next on my list is the vinyl record albums; we haven't listened to them in 10+ years!

Put those suckers on eBay. I think you'd be surprised.

I was considering that, but they are not all in "like new" condition, although they all play fine as far as I know. I guess I could just say that in the listing. There are too many to sell individually, not sure if I'm better off selling them in one large group (would take multiple shipping boxes) or in groups that would fit in one shipping box together.

Money more impt:
Look through them and sell the more valuable ones (e.g. like new condition, more famous bands) individually on ebay. You'll get more money back this way, but you'll need to put in more effort and be patient since they'll take a while to sell. The rest can be sold in bulk.

Time more impt:
Sell in bulk on craigslist for buyers to pick up locally, there will be people who are interested in flipping them. Gets rid of them fast, without having to bother about shipping. If you're living in the sticks, and craigslist is not an option, sell in bulk on ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on January 22, 2015, 04:05:14 PM
Next on my list is the vinyl record albums; we haven't listened to them in 10+ years!

Put those suckers on eBay. I think you'd be surprised.

I was considering that, but they are not all in "like new" condition, although they all play fine as far as I know. I guess I could just say that in the listing. There are too many to sell individually, not sure if I'm better off selling them in one large group (would take multiple shipping boxes) or in groups that would fit in one shipping box together.

Money more impt:
Look through them and sell the more valuable ones (e.g. like new condition, more famous bands) individually on ebay. You'll get more money back this way, but you'll need to put in more effort and be patient since they'll take a while to sell. The rest can be sold in bulk.

Time more impt:
Sell in bulk on craigslist for buyers to pick up locally, there will be people who are interested in flipping them. Gets rid of them fast, without having to bother about shipping. If you're living in the sticks, and craigslist is not an option, sell in bulk on ebay.

Time is definitely more important. I'm in the stix but could meet a craigslist buyer somewhere. I'm thinking maybe I should see if our used bookstore wants them first - they sell used vinyl albums in addition to books and CDs. If they want them I wouldn't have to deal with shipping.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on January 25, 2015, 08:49:19 PM
I'll join in the fun here, we are preparing for a big move and I've been purging everything. I sold 4 rather large things just over the weekend and made two runs to goodwill with loads of clothes, knickknacks, etc. I'm trying to reduce down to the bare minimum (as bare minimum as you get with a family of four) to minimize our moving costs and make sure that as we transition into a smaller house that we don't bring our clutter problems with us. We've got a month and a half and the furniture and excess is slowly being traded for $$$. Sadly, as I've heard reported many times before, the amount of money doesn't get near what we spent on things that have essentially gone unused - sort of sad, humiliating, depressing...whatever...

Loving the fact that we get a reset on life (both professionally, personally and in relation to our things), and looking forward to a life more focused on time together and less on things.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 26, 2015, 05:19:55 AM
Well, I had taken over 100 items to a consignment shop that sells furniture, household stuff, dolls, etc.  I made less than 100 bucks, which was fine.  However, I didn't realize if I want my stuff I would have to go through the store and pick it all out, which is all over the place. It would be one thing to be able to find it but that store is a mess. I cant believe it.  They dont even give you an idea of how many pieces were sold.  Had I known that, I would not have taken some stuff in.  I am shocked and a little frustrated.  On the other hand, I dont have to deal with the stuff any longer and the peace of that is great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 26, 2015, 09:24:47 AM
Well, I had taken over 100 items to a consignment shop that sells furniture, household stuff, dolls, etc.  I made less than 100 bucks, which was fine.  However, I didn't realize if I want my stuff I would have to go through the store and pick it all out, which is all over the place. It would be one thing to be able to find it but that store is a mess. I cant believe it.  They dont even give you an idea of how many pieces were sold.  Had I known that, I would not have taken some stuff in.  I am shocked and a little frustrated.  On the other hand, I dont have to deal with the stuff any longer and the peace of that is great.

Seriously?  You could just point to things that aren't yours then.  Have they thought about that?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on January 26, 2015, 09:39:40 AM
My latest box to Twice is en route! My closet and dresser are no longer so jammed that they are a pain, but I think I'll probably keep paring down as I get the inspiration. I have a big bag of clothes for an eventual clothing swap too--things that I couldn't re-sell at local used stores and that aren't name brand enough/nearly new to ship to twice. It's amazing how there's always, eventually, room for another round of purging as my mentality keeps changing so that letting go becomes easier. I don't have an urgent deadline for paring down, but I have it in the back of my mind that I might move in five years or so and it would be nice to have a light footprint. I guess I have the old dream too of taking off and traveling the world and I don't want stuff to hold me back. It feels good too to get to a place where I don't have things just in case, but because I wear and use them frequently.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on January 26, 2015, 09:44:01 AM
It's amazing how there's always, eventually, room for another round of purging as my mentality keeps changing so that letting go becomes easier. I don't have an urgent deadline for paring down, but I have it in the back of my mind that I might move in five years or so and it would be nice to have a light footprint. I guess I have the old dream too of taking off and traveling the world and I don't want stuff to hold me back. It feels good too to get to a place where I don't have things just in case, but because I wear and use them frequently.

This. Exactly this. So much! I feel lighter, more free, and closer to my dreams each time I get rid of more things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on January 26, 2015, 11:40:37 AM
....
Sadly, as I've heard reported many times before, the amount of money doesn't get near what we spent on things that have essentially gone unused - sort of sad, humiliating, depressing...whatever...
...

I've been finding it sort of liberating.  It basically means I should either A) rent it for a night, like movies or B) never, ever, ever pay full price for it.  Plus it means when I look at the sticker price I start thinking 'if I sell that in three months, I'll only get a dollar / whatever-tiny-number for it.' and that makes a lot of things not worth spending on.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 27, 2015, 08:51:16 PM
I'm winding down the eBay sales after 2 months and 170 items sold. Feeling really good about the decluttering and the cash, but as several of you have mentioned, it makes me want to weed out even more things. We recently sold a car after buying a newer used one for cash, and we need to sell yet another car. Then I can focus on decluttering the garage. It's frustrating trying to maneuver around it to clean and organize, so I'm trying to be patient. Seems like I am always trying to sell something! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 27, 2015, 11:43:59 PM
5 garbage bags full of mostly clothes, plus 2 boxes of books OUT!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 28, 2015, 04:32:56 AM
DS and DD have culled a couple of bags of old clothes…out they go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on January 28, 2015, 06:50:49 PM
I'll likely be moving in 4  months so I have to start decluttering for real! I cleaned out/reorganized my kitchen cabinets today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on January 28, 2015, 07:00:54 PM
I'll likely be moving in 4  months so I have to start decluttering for real! I cleaned out/reorganized my kitchen cabinets today.

That is what has motivated us, we aren't paying to move anything that isn't something we love, which means we are getting rid of most of it. But we are kind of doing it in reverse, I'm getting rid of all the big storage items (bookcases, a stand alone pantry, shelving, etc) and it is leaving us with piles of stuff to go through that were stored in these places. When you look at that stuff in piles instead in a neatly stored place it is really easy to see it for what it is. I'm excited to count up the amount of cash I've been accumulating from these Craigslist sales, I've had a person or two a day coming by the house for major items. Woot!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on January 29, 2015, 09:57:54 AM
Everyone making money on ebay and craigslist, what non-furniture items have you been selling?  I've just been donating everything because I figured I wouldn't get anything for my clothes (5-15 years old), kitchen odds and ends, etc. and it'd cost too much to ship via craigslist.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on January 29, 2015, 10:14:19 AM
Everyone making money on ebay and craigslist, what non-furniture items have you been selling?  I've just been donating everything because I figured I wouldn't get anything for my clothes (5-15 years old), kitchen odds and ends, etc. and it'd cost too much to ship via craigslist.

We've sold a lot of small things on Craigslist, especially kitchen appliances we decided to get rid of. We never ship anything, just meet in person with the buyer  in our apartment lobby or a coffee shop nearby. I wouldn't bother selling clothing unless it was quite valuable though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 29, 2015, 08:31:22 PM
Most of the stuff I've sold on eBay has been vintage or collectible memorabilia, and even some of that can be hard to sell. The newer items are usually in very good condition and/or quirky. I have a floor length gown that I bought in 2004 which still has its tags & was never worn.  It's a style that will work today, though it hasn't sold yet. The clothes I don't think I can sell on eBay are either sold at a local consignment shop or donated. Misc kitchen and household items are either donated or I'll have a yard sale every couple years.  I make a list of what is donated and even take photos, and our CPA has an Excel spreadsheet to figure out the tax donation amount.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 29, 2015, 10:04:09 PM
Everyone making money on ebay and craigslist, what non-furniture items have you been selling?  I've just been donating everything because I figured I wouldn't get anything for my clothes (5-15 years old), kitchen odds and ends, etc. and it'd cost too much to ship via craigslist.

Things I've sold most recently:  pair of car seat covers, ski goggles, a camera tripod, bike rack for car.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on January 30, 2015, 06:50:00 AM
Just put some stuff on ebay and half.com, let's see how this goes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on January 30, 2015, 09:16:37 PM
Great progress everyone!  Our place is also feeling much lighter lately: a whole set of books by one author (25? titles) given away to a very appreciative friend, sold and gave away about a shelf worth of crafting supplies, added more music and movies and clothes to the donation pile, and when my husband's wallet died and we had to replace it I was finally able to convince him that I should sell the one he was given as a gift a YEAR ago that was still new in box. He never liked it, but a happy buyer just took it away and that almost paid for his new one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on January 31, 2015, 07:55:25 AM
I'll likely be moving in 4  months so I have to start decluttering for real! I cleaned out/reorganized my kitchen cabinets today.

That is what has motivated us, we aren't paying to move anything that isn't something we love, which means we are getting rid of most of it. But we are kind of doing it in reverse, I'm getting rid of all the big storage items (bookcases, a stand alone pantry, shelving, etc) and it is leaving us with piles of stuff to go through that were stored in these places. When you look at that stuff in piles instead in a neatly stored place it is really easy to see it for what it is. I'm excited to count up the amount of cash I've been accumulating from these Craigslist sales, I've had a person or two a day coming by the house for major items. Woot!

Nice job on the sales! I've yet to try the put everything in a big pile and then declutter method. It makes a lot of sense (actually being able to see the massive amount of stuff). I was always afraid that I'd get halfway through and then have a monster pile of junk to climb over for the rest of my life. Of course, now that I've written that, it sounds ridiculous and unfounded (I know I'd just put it away). Off I go to give it a try.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 31, 2015, 09:04:31 AM
Piles work.  All my current knitting is on my bed.  I can see that I have to get over my dislike of turning a short-row heel in toe-up socks.  I  have many wonderful socks that are done up to this point.  February project now identified - sweet tomato heel (thanks to whoever pointed this out to me) here I come!  And two-at-a-time so I don't end up with half pairs.  I may have to buy a few long cables in the proper size needles, but that is better than what I have now.

I'll likely be moving in 4  months so I have to start decluttering for real! I cleaned out/reorganized my kitchen cabinets today.

That is what has motivated us, we aren't paying to move anything that isn't something we love, which means we are getting rid of most of it. But we are kind of doing it in reverse, I'm getting rid of all the big storage items (bookcases, a stand alone pantry, shelving, etc) and it is leaving us with piles of stuff to go through that were stored in these places. When you look at that stuff in piles instead in a neatly stored place it is really easy to see it for what it is. I'm excited to count up the amount of cash I've been accumulating from these Craigslist sales, I've had a person or two a day coming by the house for major items. Woot!

Nice job on the sales! I've yet to try the put everything in a big pile and then declutter method. It makes a lot of sense (actually being able to see the massive amount of stuff). I was always afraid that I'd get halfway through and then have a monster pile of junk to climb over for the rest of my life. Of course, now that I've written that, it sounds ridiculous and unfounded (I know I'd just put it away). Off I go to give it a try.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on January 31, 2015, 12:15:27 PM
My goodness! The piles really work! I decluttered all cabinets in my bathroom, so that room is done. Woot!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on February 01, 2015, 01:54:04 PM
This week I freecycled 6 scented candles that gave me a headache and 6 bottles of nail polish, and also sold a necklace on Ebay.  Woot!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 02, 2015, 02:53:55 PM
I'm in.
When I moved to a much smaller place last spring I already ditched some stuff.

I still have quite some bicycle parts that I've been collecting over the years, and though I like the idea of being able to use them again, I probably never will.

And I should help my parents clean out their home (my old room, but also other parts of the house).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 03, 2015, 06:08:36 PM
Wow this thread has really taken off since I've been here! Been doing a lot of decluttering actually. Went through clothes, shoes, purses, books,and paperwork. Probably 200 items out since the start of this year. SO happy about this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on February 03, 2015, 08:24:15 PM
Things continue to fly out our door in preparation for our big move. Donating about half and selling the other half. This week's big wins sale wise have been a ton of a bike parts, a very expensive bicycle, our only TV set w/ antennae and wall mount (I got this when my first daughter came feeling like I'd be around the house watching sleeping babies a lot and wanted to watch football, now I'd prefer to get the kids in activities more than tvs), a play kitchen, some lawn toys, some heavy duty shelving. Its been great so far, so freeing in so many ways and it doesn't hurt to have some cash in the pocket!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 04, 2015, 01:16:03 AM
I'm in!!

Since two weeks I'm decluttering and selling my stuff. Seeing progress at other people keeps me motivated!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on February 04, 2015, 01:23:35 AM
Why am I so attached to books? They're just dumb books. Grrr.

Kids books, and my non-fiction stuff mostly. Shelves, and shelves, and shelves of books.

Maybe they define a season of life for me? Maybe my memories lie in those books?

I don't know ... but I'm sure having a hard time parting with books. This is going to be a slow process.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 04, 2015, 01:57:41 AM
Why am I so attached to books? They're just dumb books. Grrr.

Kids books, and my non-fiction stuff mostly. Shelves, and shelves, and shelves of books.

Maybe they define a season of life for me? Maybe my memories lie in those books?

I don't know ... but I'm sure having a hard time parting with books. This is going to be a slow process.

Same here!! Good luck with the books, I'm waiting with that part of my clutter untill everything else is done ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 04, 2015, 02:01:38 AM
Why am I so attached to books? They're just dumb books. Grrr.

Kids books, and my non-fiction stuff mostly. Shelves, and shelves, and shelves of books.

Maybe they define a season of life for me? Maybe my memories lie in those books?

I don't know ... but I'm sure having a hard time parting with books. This is going to be a slow process.

Books are hard for a lot of people. I was only able to finally get rid of (to charity) the bulk of my books after I read this blog post on the Fantasy Self:
http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/08/declutter-your-fantasy-self/

My Fantasy Self with my books was multi-faceted. Stuff like, look how much stuff I know! Look at how intellectual I am! (not proud of any of these, btw, but it is what it is) I loved reading a book a day in the past, one day I will do that again, even though it's been years since I did that. My textbooks from uni are still useful! (they were to a job I had 10 years ago but now so much stuff is available online) etc etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on February 04, 2015, 02:12:26 AM
Why am I so attached to books? They're just dumb books. Grrr.

Kids books, and my non-fiction stuff mostly. Shelves, and shelves, and shelves of books.

Maybe they define a season of life for me? Maybe my memories lie in those books?

I don't know ... but I'm sure having a hard time parting with books. This is going to be a slow process.

Books are hard for a lot of people. I was only able to finally get rid of (to charity) the bulk of my books after I read this blog post on the Fantasy Self:
http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/08/declutter-your-fantasy-self/

My Fantasy Self with my books was multi-faceted. Stuff like, look how much stuff I know! Look at how intellectual I am! (not proud of any of these, btw, but it is what it is) I loved reading a book a day in the past, one day I will do that again, even though it's been years since I did that. My textbooks from uni are still useful! (they were to a job I had 10 years ago but now so much stuff is available online) etc etc.


Some of this sounds eerily familiar Astatine! I still have anatomy books >30yrs old, because, the human body doesn't change you know. And I liked that post too.

I've been intermittently plodding away at my study with paper clutter. There is still an awful lot to go, but I can see a couple of pieces of floor that have been covered for an awfully long time.  So,  progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 04, 2015, 08:26:43 AM
Why am I so attached to books? They're just dumb books. Grrr.

Kids books, and my non-fiction stuff mostly. Shelves, and shelves, and shelves of books.

Maybe they define a season of life for me? Maybe my memories lie in those books?

I don't know ... but I'm sure having a hard time parting with books. This is going to be a slow process.

Books are hard for a lot of people. I was only able to finally get rid of (to charity) the bulk of my books after I read this blog post on the Fantasy Self:
http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/08/declutter-your-fantasy-self/

My Fantasy Self with my books was multi-faceted. Stuff like, look how much stuff I know! Look at how intellectual I am! (not proud of any of these, btw, but it is what it is) I loved reading a book a day in the past, one day I will do that again, even though it's been years since I did that. My textbooks from uni are still useful! (they were to a job I had 10 years ago but now so much stuff is available online) etc etc.

That sounds a lot like me too. I managed to make the first pass through my books and get rid of about half. I still had my textbooks also, but realized I hadn't opened some of them in 10 years and would likely never use them. I gave some away, and still have lots in my 'donate' pile. Some books were easier to give away to specific people. "xyz might enjoy this book!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 04, 2015, 10:20:50 AM
Some textbooks do not get out of date immediately; you can go on Amazon and enter the ISBN and see what it's selling for.  It's easier for me to get rid of something and let the universe store it if I am also exchanging it for money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Write Thyme on February 04, 2015, 11:53:22 AM
I have a growing stack of magazines (thanks to free subscriptions) that I haven't read yet. I decided that I am not going to read them so I'm going to recycle them all in one go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on February 04, 2015, 12:10:20 PM
I have a growing stack of magazines (thanks to free subscriptions) that I haven't read yet. I decided that I am not going to read them so I'm going to recycle them all in one go.

unsubscribe! I used to sign up for free stuff, because they're free right?? but then I've come to realize that 1) I'm happier without all that junk 2) someone else can probably get more use out of it 3) if enough people reject these things, maybe they'll eventually stop making them, which would be better for the environment. now I'm more conscious of what I bring home with me, no matter the original price.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 04, 2015, 12:24:20 PM
I went through most of my makeup stuff and found bottles and bottles of moisturizers. Different brands, some used some unused. I've moved to using coconut oil most days for my moisturizer.... What can I use the moisturizers for other than for moisturizing skin?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aj_yooper on February 04, 2015, 01:33:03 PM
The unused might be donate-able to a shelter or to a friend.  The partially used, I would just use up.  That's what I have been doing with our half-used stuff. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Write Thyme on February 04, 2015, 04:58:01 PM
I have a growing stack of magazines (thanks to free subscriptions) that I haven't read yet. I decided that I am not going to read them so I'm going to recycle them all in one go.

unsubscribe! I used to sign up for free stuff, because they're free right?? but then I've come to realize that 1) I'm happier without all that junk 2) someone else can probably get more use out of it 3) if enough people reject these things, maybe they'll eventually stop making them, which would be better for the environment. now I'm more conscious of what I bring home with me, no matter the original price.

I definitely will! Yes they were free, and I really thought I'd read them. I was not impressed with the amount of ads inside them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on February 04, 2015, 06:03:39 PM
Thanks for the support on having trouble parting with books .. nice to know I'm not alone in my irrationality!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on February 04, 2015, 08:59:07 PM
I've learned that when I'm stressed, the clutter around me makes it worse. So, I've been really going through everything and editing down what I own because I am pretty stressed with school and work. One thing that has really helped me declutter cosmetics and toiletries is having my husband learn he has exzema. Because I want to ensure we are doing everything we can to get rid of it, I am going along for the ride. We've gotten rid of all of our products that have artificial fragrance (basically everything) and have switched to natural products. I love that the shelves I once had full of products are now empty!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 05, 2015, 01:13:48 AM
Today I feel like the clutter is everywhere :( Don't know where to start :( The clutter takes so much energy and viltality away... Does anyone feel the same way?!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on February 05, 2015, 01:53:35 AM
Kander: Find one room and do that. It really helps to just start somewhere. It doesn't matter which room.

Sort into a sell/recycle-stack and trash stack. When done immediately drive the trash stack to the dump. It really works.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 05, 2015, 07:50:49 AM
Today I feel like the clutter is everywhere :( Don't know where to start :( The clutter takes so much energy and viltality away... Does anyone feel the same way?!

I did feel that way, but now that I've started it's not so overwhelming. I've got a long way to go, but I'm enjoying it now. Whenever I'm stressed I just find more stuff to throw out, or post for sale online, or throw in the donate pile. Instead of clutter being a source of stress, it's now a source of empowerment, as I get rid of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 05, 2015, 09:20:02 AM
Thanks for the reactions.

The problem is that I constantly moving back and forth with stuff. I find it hard to throw things away so I'm moving the stuff from one room to the other. From the living room, then in the bedroom, etc etc. We even have a room that we call the "clutterroom" (in Dutch: rommelkamer). How sad is that?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 05, 2015, 09:26:25 AM
Thanks for the reactions.

The problem is that I constantly moving back and forth with stuff. I find it hard to throw things away so I'm moving the stuff from one room to the other. From the living room, then in the bedroom, etc etc. We even have a room that we call the "clutterroom" (in Dutch: rommelkamer). How sad is that?

I used to do that too, and still do to some extent, especially if I find something I forgot I had and I move it somewhere I think it might be used more often. I think it's a process and you shouldn't beat yourself up over not being perfect. Just keep trying to get rid of things a little at a time. If you're anything like me, once you get the positive rush of having less stuff weighing you down it'll get much easier over time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 05, 2015, 11:10:02 AM
Thanks for the reactions.

The problem is that I constantly moving back and forth with stuff. I find it hard to throw things away so I'm moving the stuff from one room to the other. From the living room, then in the bedroom, etc etc. We even have a room that we call the "clutterroom" (in Dutch: rommelkamer). How sad is that?

In the US it's usually called the 'spare room' or 'junk room' haha. 

Have you looked at the website (there is swearing... be aware) unfuckyourhabitat?  You could try their style - do 20 minutes of doing, 10 minutes break.  Start by pulling up any obvious trash, then clear a few surfaces, baby steps like that.  If you do them frequently enough your house gets pretty dang clean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 05, 2015, 11:23:32 AM
Until a few months ago, I worked with the Flylady method, but since our son can crawl and walk, I find it difficult to keep the discipline. Maybe this site suits me more. Today at least I managed to clean up one kitchen cupboard. 1 coffee mug and 2 cups discarded. Tomorrow I'll do the following kitchen cupboard.

Junk room... whaha.... In Holland we use the word junk or junkie when we talk about people that are addicted to drugs, so I hesitated to use that word ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 05, 2015, 11:36:11 AM
Oh, a junkie is a drug addict here, too.  For some reason junkie and junk room are completely unrelated, though.  Best to not be misunderstood on your own turf though :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 05, 2015, 05:31:31 PM
Cookie,

I agree with what you said above: "I've learned that when I'm stressed, the clutter around me makes it worse".

I am beginning to see more and more the correlations between clutter and my state of mind.  I have actually been tidying just so I can walk into a room and not feel overwhelmed. 

I am continuing to slowly declutter clothes as I grow out of them, another pair of jeans went to a pal today.  And, I went on a mini break and barely bought a thing, really just some toiletries I cannot buy at home.  The thought of bringing more into the house is too much for me.  Long may that last!

I am getting to the bottom of lotion bottles and face creams, I must have had 12+ different lotions lying around the house and car.  I find I am encountering a slight scarcity mentality about special things - I am mourning the end of some expensive face cream since I will not be choosing to buy that any longer.  The same with certain foods which I am not eating to save them so I won't feel bereft without them.

I did get a new book recently and am enjoying it very much.  But when I have learned all I can from it I will pass it on. 

You are all so inspiring to me, it feels great to look at this thread and see it growing longer and longer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 05, 2015, 11:43:33 PM
Discarded: a measuring cup. Hidden: a whole bag full of all kinds of plastic storage containers. I'm getting crazy of those things, they are everywhere! We never use them but my husband wants to keep them anyway. So I have a letter written by futureme.org and in 3 months I'll be reminded of the hidden storage containers. If my husband still has not missed follows an intervention whaha ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on February 06, 2015, 04:49:29 PM
I got rid of 3 items on craigslist and made $47. Two of the items were large, and have been junking up the basement for 5 years.

Sayonara!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 06, 2015, 04:54:02 PM
I just found a box of books and CDs that I packed up to get rid of years ago, still sitting in my spare room. Gone, gone, gone! But I'm not sure the best way to get rid of CDs these days. Garbage?

Sold a stamp book last night for $50, and put a couple other things for sale online today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on February 06, 2015, 05:38:10 PM
A group I'm a part of is having a fundraising auction, I'm donating some things.  Several candle holders, a small chopper/blender, a coffee grinder, several recipe books.  Hopefully these things will all find good homes and raise money for our little group!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on February 06, 2015, 05:41:29 PM
I just found a box of books and CDs that I packed up to get rid of years ago, still sitting in my spare room. Gone, gone, gone! But I'm not sure the best way to get rid of CDs these days. Garbage?

Sold a stamp book last night for $50, and put a couple other things for sale online today.

By stamp book do you mean one of those albums that have pages for each stamp from each country? I have a large one I need to get rid of; where do you sell that sort of thing and not get cheated for the stamps that might be worth something?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 06, 2015, 06:37:25 PM
I just found a box of books and CDs that I packed up to get rid of years ago, still sitting in my spare room. Gone, gone, gone! But I'm not sure the best way to get rid of CDs these days. Garbage?

Sold a stamp book last night for $50, and put a couple other things for sale online today.

By stamp book do you mean one of those albums that have pages for each stamp from each country? I have a large one I need to get rid of; where do you sell that sort of thing and not get cheated for the stamps that might be worth something?

It was a Canada Post Millennium Stamp Collection book from 2000 (plus I had three other special stamps from 1998 and 1999 that I threw in as a bonus). I don't know for sure that I didn't get cheated on stamps that might be worth something, but I searched kijiji in a different city (non available in my city) and just matched prices.

Like this one... for $30

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-art-collectibles/barrie/canada-post-millennium-stamp-collection-keepsake-bonus/583298287?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on February 06, 2015, 09:39:23 PM
You're all inspiring me to take the next step and declutter our paperwork. We have two large file cabinets (we've owned small businesses and still have several rentals), and I am tired of having all the files and paper around. So I went ahead and bought a Fujitsu document scanner, which I hear is actually fun to use. I'm going to save the PDFs onto thumb drives and probably won't sign up for a filing app. The mustachian in me already has a hard enough time paying for the scanner! ;-)

Update: Now I'm reading that thumb drives are becoming obsolete in an effort to get people to buy cloud space.  If any of you have thoughts on this, I'd love to hear them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 06, 2015, 11:16:00 PM
I brought all our computer cords and adaptors and junk into the lounge room, and sorted by type. My partner then went through them and ditched the useless ones, and the excessive multiples. Halved the contents, and might do another round soon because I found more stashed away!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 07, 2015, 04:40:17 AM
Proving that there is always more to get rid of, no matter how many times we declutter, our donate pile now has:

- nightshirt of mine. It's newish but uncomfortable to sleep in.

- clothes rack. Flimsy and yukky to use for drying clothes. We'll stick with just our 2 sturdy ones.

- large plastic under the bed box, missing its lid

- whisky stones. Gift from DH. they're beautiful but impractical as an ice replacement.

- tennis ball. Came with the cats when we adopted them but they don't play with it, probably cos it's too hard to bat around. We'll leave it outside somewhere for the neighbourhood kids to find.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on February 07, 2015, 07:06:51 AM
Rant:

When I post a Freecycle item or a Facebook yard sale item and NO ONE says please or thank you in the communication!  Like, if I am giving you something for free, say THANK YOU, for fuck's sake! 

Thanks for listening!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on February 07, 2015, 08:57:40 AM
The move that has been vaguely in the works for about a year is now really happening in five weeks. Storage space will be tighter in the new place, so I am determined to weed! Took seven grocery bags and two boxes of clothes to the Goodwill along with a piece of exercise equipment I realized I didn't like after using a few times. More going soon...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 07, 2015, 10:25:51 AM
Great job everyone!! 

We have a regularly scheduled weekly run to donate to a local mission for disadvantaged children.  There's a corner of one room where 'finds' during the week are gathered.  I ask the family the night before who has anything to donate.  There is always a pretty good sized load!  This week was an old pool noodle found in a closet when we rearranged storage, a Christmas wreath that I grew tired of, a couple of bags and boxes of perfectly serviceable clothes that were 'dumpster dived' by my son and washed by me, including a great wool coat, a nice leather coat, and a couple of purses (seriously folks, let's donate this stuff instead of tossing it!!!), a couple of old lamps, free mugs & free plastic cups that I abhor, and more that I can't even remember.  It's like this most weeks it seems.  Mostly stuff I can't remember. 

Also a big box of books was donated to the local museum/library that they will resell to fund themselves. 

Craigslist sales have seemed to slowed to a halt in my area.  I regulate most sales to furniture these days and I'm down to what we want to keep. 

Got a huge sack of grass seeds (won't work in my shady yard) and a small plant stand outside right now in son's garage sale.  If they don't sell today?  Off to the mission it goes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on February 07, 2015, 05:07:52 PM
I had 31 things in January, but nothing for February yet. I bought my house two years ago and didn't have much stuff, so I haven't accumulated a whole lot either....going to have to be creative with what I don't need!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 07, 2015, 06:08:06 PM
I gave away a silk cotton shirt yesterday!  Every piece counts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on February 07, 2015, 08:58:05 PM
Rant:

When I post a Freecycle item or a Facebook yard sale item and NO ONE says please or thank you in the communication!  Like, if I am giving you something for free, say THANK YOU, for fuck's sake! 

Thanks for listening!

That's also a big pet peeve of mine, and worse, when the person doesn't even show up to get their free item!! I've mostly stopped using Freecycle for that reason and we just leave things out in the parking lot of my husband's business with a free sign. Seems to disappear magically that way.  ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Elle 8 on February 08, 2015, 11:15:48 AM
I have three things currently listed on eBay and four more scheduled to go live tonight.  It doesn't really help with the clutter since they're tiny (books, jewelry), but psychologically, it feels good.  If only I could get my SO on board (sigh).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 08, 2015, 11:25:11 AM
I doubt if I should sell my DVDs of the games of thrones. Our DVD player broke down and we use Netflix now, so I don't miss my DVDs. But still I find it a hard decision, because I loved the serie and it's still my intention to watch the next season (I guess). Or maybe I could get the books instead of that? I don't know, meh :/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 08, 2015, 12:02:36 PM
I think DVD is a dying medium. Sell them while they're still worth something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 08, 2015, 12:22:41 PM
I think DVD is a dying medium. Sell them while they're still worth something.

Thanks. I've put them on Marktplaats (Dutch) to sell them! Also put some DVDs of House MD on it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 08, 2015, 05:24:09 PM
I found another box full of junk stuff I don't really need that I packed up at least two years ago and haven't missed. I threw everything in the donate pile, but discovered that photo frames are hard for me to get rid of! Why?!

Also I found a framed drawing that my ex drew for me 19 years ago. I don't need it, but it's hard to get rid of since he has since died (17 years ago). I can't decide whether his mom would like it, or if that's distasteful.

Lastly, what do you all do with old photo albums? I have about 20 of them that take up a full bookshelf. Scanning the photos is an option, but it would take months to scan them all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLR on February 09, 2015, 04:02:58 AM
Definitely moving in the next 8-9 weeks. Must get serious!

Tossed out a measuring cup that was at the end of its' life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mleigh on February 09, 2015, 10:21:57 AM
It's not super mustachian, but I bought a Groupon for photo scanning.  You send them in via UPS and they send them back, along with a CD of photos.  I don't own or need a scanner, so this was actually a cheaper option (not to mention the amount of time it saved!).  I got rid of the photo albums and the majority of the hard-copy pictures, too.  (It's also worthwhile to go through the photos BEFORE you send them in---lots of duplicates, not great photos, etc.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bardo on February 09, 2015, 12:08:10 PM
Why am I so attached to books? They're just dumb books. Grrr.

Kids books, and my non-fiction stuff mostly. Shelves, and shelves, and shelves of books.

Maybe they define a season of life for me? Maybe my memories lie in those books?

I don't know ... but I'm sure having a hard time parting with books. This is going to be a slow process.

Same here, although I purge periodically so that they will fix in existing bookshelves and have otherwise switched to e-books or the library.  That said, I'm not going to guilt myself over those books I do have.  I like them, and I re-read a large number of them.  I'm minimal enough in the rest of the house.

Same here!! Good luck with the books, I'm waiting with that part of my clutter untill everything else is done ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 09, 2015, 12:24:56 PM
I finished going through everything! Donated about 5 bags ( really only had about a carload to begin with) . And a couple bags of things to sell (mostly antiques). So happy about this!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 09, 2015, 12:46:21 PM
I finished going through everything! Donated about 5 bags ( really only had about a carload to begin with) . And a couple bags of things to sell (mostly antiques). So happy about this!

Wow, great job!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 10, 2015, 12:34:06 AM
Still going strong (when will I run out of clutter?). Been through a few more cupboards, kept adding to the donate pile, and made enough space in our storage systems to organise our remaining possessions in a more meaningful and useful way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on February 10, 2015, 01:34:21 AM
Problem -- not enough receptacles in which to store my give-away items!

I don't like using garbage bags because once, my ever so helpful husband threw away a full bag of beautiful sweaters that were like new.

Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 10, 2015, 02:06:02 AM
Maybe you can label the garbage bags your husband needs to leave alone? ;)


Today I got rid of:
- A photo-album with one photo in it! My husband bought it and I find it too ugly to keep and try to make something of it...
- A soap massage bar that clearly was overdated; yuk!
- A tube with paint that we haven't used in 3,5 years
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 10, 2015, 04:26:20 AM
I think DVD is a dying medium. Sell them while they're still worth something.

Thanks. I've put them on Marktplaats (Dutch) to sell them! Also put some DVDs of House MD on it.
I think you did the right thing. I sold / gave away almost all my DVD's too.

Did the same with my cd's some years ago. Still to do: get rid of the cassette tapes that are still stored at my parents' house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 10, 2015, 04:46:57 AM
I think DVD is a dying medium. Sell them while they're still worth something.

Thanks. I've put them on Marktplaats (Dutch) to sell them! Also put some DVDs of House MD on it.
I think you did the right thing. I sold / gave away almost all my DVD's too.

Did the same with my cd's some years ago. Still to do: get rid of the cassette tapes that are still stored at my parents' house.

Thanks. I hope someone will buy them soon. ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 10, 2015, 12:56:06 PM
Brought five pieces of garment to goodwill, threw some away that were too worn down, threw away a defective mp3 player, gave away an old backpack to a fellow member of my sports club, gave away a pair of curtains on a local give-away-stuff group on fb, put 6 books for sale on marktplaats (Dutch Craigslist), and threw away some old magazines and misc small items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLR on February 10, 2015, 07:34:54 PM
I went through a drawer of stationery items. Got rid of a lot of sticker the kids used to have fun with when they were little, and some colouring books.

Also went through some bathroom things. Got rid of a lot of hair things I haven't used in years. Just kept the three things I currently use to do my hair each time. Must have thrown out a dozen bits and pieces I once used....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 11, 2015, 04:54:53 AM
Sold the DVDs at a pawnshop (never been in a pawnshop before so I had the time of my life, because it made me think of that TV-show ) €21 richer (or €100 poorer, if I use the prices I've paid when I bought them)

Also got rid of:
- some old towels
- municipality booklet (a book with information about our town, I'm not sure if this is the right word but Google translate says so)
- A binder with information about our old house
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 11, 2015, 05:23:27 AM
Getting down to the nub on things I personally am ready to get rid of...have been staying decluttered for the most part since we downsized a couple of years ago and let a lot of 'crapola' go then.  After cleaning out my inlaw's home and my brother's home after they passed?  We BUMPED our donations up and our buying down so as to not have our children E.V.E.R. having to go thru so much stuff if something were to happen to us.

Yesterday's scheduled run to the mission from me personally:  Curling iron I bought w/o looking at it too closely at a yard sale for $1....for a spirally hairstyle that I don't have.  Pay attention!!!  Old pillow cover that went with a bedset from about 10 years ago.  Had been using it for the nap pillow that stays on the couch.  Ugh, over that color years back.  Didn't enjoy looking at it.  Didn't match anything else in the den.  Good-bye.

The rest of the car was FILLED w/clothes that my son had found dumpster diving that we had brought home and washed.  While we were on the way we stopped to drop off our trash at the dumpsters and he pulled OUT* a wheelchair and walker which will be wiped down and donated to a medical mission team to either use or sell to fund themselves.

*Why was this not set beside the dumpster's so someone who could use it could get to it easily?????????
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 11, 2015, 07:09:34 AM
The junkroom is getting empty :D Now let's try to keep it that way.

Sold a ice-make-machine

Got rid of:
- Calendar we found in the train (lesson: never take anything home for the reason that it's free!!)

I do rounds of 5 minutes, this works excellent with my son around :) 5 minutes decluttering, 5 minutes cuddeling and playing :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 11, 2015, 09:29:00 AM
Hey Kander - nice job decluttering.  Have you thought about renaming the junkroom to something else?  Perhaps that's what is causing people in your home to put 'junk' in there? 

I have to keep reminding my family that my desk is not for their junk/stuff/paperwork.  Not my monkey, not my circus!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 11, 2015, 09:43:18 AM
I've been spending a lot of time going through each room and finding stuff to throw in the donate pile or garbage or selling online. My donate pile is in the middle of the living room and the pile is so big that when people visit they ask if I'm moving.

So I spent a couple days dealing with the pile instead of adding to it. I packaged up a few things to send home with my mom next weekend, threw a couple useless things in the donate pile into the garbage, put more stuff up for sale online, and I've been pawning off books (or anything else) onto unsuspecting visitors. There are enough books that everyone finds something they want. :D

I have a much easier time giving away things to people I know than just donating it to a random organization. I don't mind donating the things I can't give to friends, I just like to give my family and friends the first chance. One step at a time? :p
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 11, 2015, 10:04:45 AM
Hey Kander - nice job decluttering.  Have you thought about renaming the junkroom to something else?  Perhaps that's what is causing people in your home to put 'junk' in there? 

I have to keep reminding my family that my desk is not for their junk/stuff/paperwork.  Not my monkey, not my circus!!

I want to use the junkroom as a "workroom". I'm a SAHM with a website that I try to write for, but sometimes it doesn't work out because of my son. So I hope to make the room as empty as possible (=child friendly), so he can play safe in his own room ánd in my room, without me watching the whole time.

That's my big goal for now :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on February 11, 2015, 07:19:42 PM
I have another round of things to donate.  I can't wait to get it out if the house. I need to address my collectibles soon. I no longer want them but am having a hard time donating them. I didn't have a problem with anything else.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: robtown on February 12, 2015, 06:37:55 AM
I've made some progress.   I sell bike (bicycle and motorcycle) surplus parts on Ebay but have been selling other stuff recently.   Today I mailed off  UPS rack mounts.   Earlier I sold a music box.    I also gave away a dozen small items at the Westminister bike show on Sunday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 12, 2015, 08:28:56 AM
I ventured into the garage last night for a few minutes while I was waiting for my friend and within 10 minutes found 6 more things and moved them into the house to donate/sell. I can't believe I kept this crap around for so long. When it warms up (my garage is not heated) I'm going to go through it so thoroughly. There are a lot of construction-type things in there I will never use that may sell for quite a bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 12, 2015, 11:16:11 AM
Got rid of:
- Eye shadow of Chanel. Mega expensive and I've used it only 5 times :( I gave it to my sister, she was very happy with it
- Make-up remover (I never use make-up, so I don't need it anymore) Also gave this to my sister
- Hairstuff - don't know how it's called in English, but it is to untangle your hair (not conditioner ;) )

Almost got rid of:
- A teapot with a cup underneath it. I wanted to give it to my sister but then I decided I wanted to keep it. BUT with one rule: I HAVE to use it!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 12, 2015, 12:51:27 PM
Another five eight garments to goodwill, and one book sold via marktplaats!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 12, 2015, 11:55:09 PM
Got rid of:
- Eye shadow of Chanel. Mega expensive and I've used it only 5 times :( I gave it to my sister, she was very happy with it
- Make-up remover (I never use make-up, so I don't need it anymore) Also gave this to my sister
- Hairstuff - don't know how it's called in English, but it is to untangle your hair (not conditioner ;) )

Almost got rid of:
- A teapot with a cup underneath it. I wanted to give it to my sister but then I decided I wanted to keep it. BUT with one rule: I HAVE to use it!!

Detangler? That's what I'd call it if it's a bottle of stuff you spray in your hair and comb through...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 12, 2015, 11:55:28 PM
Decluttered my desk! Much better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 13, 2015, 12:03:46 AM
Got rid of:
- Eye shadow of Chanel. Mega expensive and I've used it only 5 times :( I gave it to my sister, she was very happy with it
- Make-up remover (I never use make-up, so I don't need it anymore) Also gave this to my sister
- Hairstuff - don't know how it's called in English, but it is to untangle your hair (not conditioner ;) )

Almost got rid of:
- A teapot with a cup underneath it. I wanted to give it to my sister but then I decided I wanted to keep it. BUT with one rule: I HAVE to use it!!

Detangler? That's what I'd call it if it's a bottle of stuff you spray in your hair and comb through...

Yes, that's what I ment :) Thanks :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 13, 2015, 12:30:32 AM
Decluttered my desk! Much better.
Me too! I got a new computer at work to replace the two old computers I was using, and gave my desk and drawers a clean out at the same time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 13, 2015, 03:40:45 AM
Today I did a task I can only do when my husband is at home: the cutlery. My husband is very strict with the knives and he has a knife for every occasion ;) So I need to take it slow on him in this case.

Got rid of:
- One cooks knife (he has 3 of them)
- One meat knife (we are vegetarians, so we don't need those)
- 2 baby spoons (still got plenty of them!!)
- Thing to get the pizzaplate out of the oven without using oven mitts (completely useless)

It all went in the bag for recycling at the second hand shop
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on February 13, 2015, 08:34:33 AM
Today I did a task I can only do when my husband is at home: the cutlery. My husband is very strict with the knives and he has a knife for every occasion ;) So I need to take it slow on him in this case.

Got rid of:
- One cooks knife (he has 3 of them)
- One meat knife (we are vegetarians, so we don't need those)
- 2 baby spoons (still got plenty of them!!)
- Thing to get the pizzaplate out of the oven without using oven mitts (completely useless)

It all went in the bag for recycling at the second hand shop

Oh, we totally have multiples of some favorite knives we often use, so I'm with your husband on that one!  But what is it that gets a pizza stone out of the oven w/o mitts?  I can't even imagine this device.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 13, 2015, 09:56:15 AM
Today I did a task I can only do when my husband is at home: the cutlery. My husband is very strict with the knives and he has a knife for every occasion ;) So I need to take it slow on him in this case.

Got rid of:
- One cooks knife (he has 3 of them)
- One meat knife (we are vegetarians, so we don't need those)
- 2 baby spoons (still got plenty of them!!)
- Thing to get the pizzaplate out of the oven without using oven mitts (completely useless)

It all went in the bag for recycling at the second hand shop

Oh, we totally have multiples of some favorite knives we often use, so I'm with your husband on that one!  But what is it that gets a pizza stone out of the oven w/o mitts?  I can't even imagine this device.

We still have more then enough knives ;) Don't worry about my husband, he's fine, LOL ;)

I've tried to find a picture of the pizza - thing, but I can't find anything about it online.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 13, 2015, 12:51:13 PM
Can't wait for weekend to come - I'm setting my eyes on our tax documents. Will try yo get majority of our taxes done and paperwork completed. They are cluttering up my mental space. Does clearing mental clutter count?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on February 13, 2015, 01:12:42 PM
Can't wait for weekend to come - I'm setting my eyes on our tax documents. Will try yo get majority of our taxes done and paperwork completed. They are cluttering up my mental space. Does clearing mental clutter count?
YES!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RogueSqPewPew on February 13, 2015, 04:08:34 PM
This week has been a good week.

Gave away --

Extra baking items:  rolling pin, mixing bowls, tart pan that I used once 6 years ago
Holiday decorations:  I had TWO HUGE plastic tubs of decorations. I gave away an entire tub of lights, garland, and ribbon.


Tossed --
A crock pot that had a warped lid and cooked too hot. We have another old one (the pot isn't removable) that's better than the new one!  We kept that one.
A huge set of personalized cookie jar and mugs with lids my parents had made when they were stationed in Italy. I kept one mug and lid. I got them when my parents divorced and no one wanted to lug them around anymore. They're fairly ugly, have been in a deep back corner for years, and hold almost zero sentimental value.

Put up for sale or to give away --
Horseback riding boots, juicer (gift I've used twice)

Feels good, man.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on February 13, 2015, 09:51:33 PM
Midway through clearing out my old room. Old clothes/books are easy to toss, but looking through old school yearbooks/mementos sure bring back memories. No matter, they're all getting decluttered too!

Before throwing away some yearbooks last year, I took pics of several pages, but in the uploading process all the photos were all lost. I guess I didn't need them after all!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 13, 2015, 11:18:03 PM
Cleaned up our gift box and decluttered our coat box - donating our unused coats tomorrow. Also found a few gifts that others will enjoy. Will give them away tomorrow. Next on the list: taxes!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 15, 2015, 03:22:27 AM
Another 4 garments and a pair of shoes to goodwill, some random stuff in the bin, and 2 DVD's given away on fb group.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 15, 2015, 03:27:46 AM
Went through my clothes again and found another four or five things to donate!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on February 15, 2015, 04:15:39 AM
Yes! This!

We had about a dozen people come by the house yesterday to purchase stuff we listed on CL. We've sold 3,000 dollars worth of random furniture, bike stuff, electronics, etc. in the past month (and I would say we live pretty minimally!). Granted when we get to the other side of this move, we'll replace some of it, but man is our move going to be soooo much easier!



got rid of a carful of crap over the weekend. it's like peeling an onion -- i keep finding new levels of shit to get rid of.

all of this de-cluttering is making the process of packing for our upcoming move MUCH easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 15, 2015, 08:23:43 AM
Onemorebike , that's great! Selling items is the part of this process that I am the worst with! It goes from procrastination , to deciding (eventually) to donate or keep... Very inspiring to read about all the money you are making.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 15, 2015, 08:29:12 AM
On a side note, doing this major decluttering (again) has got me inspired to get back into a former side business helping others to organize & declutter. Business cards (cheap via vista print) are in the mail. Now its cosmetology, art shows, and this- three fun ways to build up my cushion ( and begin to invest shortly) after becoming debt free last year .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on February 15, 2015, 09:13:57 AM
This thread has inspired me to deal with my least favorite decluttering activities.

DH and I bought this house partially furnished. It had been the vacation rental of a family that lived a few states away. Since we moved in, I've been steadily getting rid of stuff. The previous homeowner's view of "partially furnished" involved about 3 times as much stuff as I like in my permanent home. Now, I'm down to things like the cleaning supplies and other consumables that the house came with. I've tried to use up what I could, because I hate throwing stuff away, but if it hasn't been used after several years it is time to go.

I'm not emotionally attached to this stuff, I just hate dealing with it because disposal is complicated. Stuff can be composted, thrown in the garbage, recycled curbside, recycled at a place where they take what the city won't, taken to hazmat/ewaste/prescription drug day at the dump, given to someone that I know will use it or even occasionally donated.

Life was much simpler when we just threw everything in the garbage without thinking of the consequences. :-/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks2 on February 15, 2015, 09:23:22 AM
I am working on cleaning… but also decluttering / putting things away, and also taxes this weekend.  I am loving it when a surface looks better than when I started!!!   My floor is clean of laundry, I straightened a dresser-top.  There are more surfaces to contend with for sure!

I am having a hard time figuring out how to get rid of things.  It is so putzy.  I have some things I could sell on Ebay but is it a good use of my time? 

Maybe I should do a little at a time, but then the stuff hangs around so much longer.  What do you think?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 15, 2015, 09:32:04 AM
@LadyDriver - have you considered giving those cleaning supplies to perhaps a mission or women's shelter that could possibly use them? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on February 15, 2015, 09:43:13 AM
@LadyDriver - have you considered giving those cleaning supplies to perhaps a mission or women's shelter that could possibly use them?

I have already separated and sent along the stuff they want. Nobody wants 1/3 full containers of 10 year old mystery brand fiberglass polisher. Old enough to be ineffective, young enough to be toxic.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 15, 2015, 10:10:52 AM
ahhh LadyDriver, I see what you mean.  The metro area we used to live in had a 'toxic dump' kind of day where you could bring in half cans of paint, oil, cleaning, pharmaceuticals, etc. to be disposed of properly.  Anything like that in a city near you?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on February 15, 2015, 11:30:45 AM
ahhh LadyDriver, I see what you mean.  The metro area we used to live in had a 'toxic dump' kind of day where you could bring in half cans of paint, oil, cleaning, pharmaceuticals, etc. to be disposed of properly.  Anything like that in a city near you?

Yep, we have a household hazmat day quarterly at the local transfer station. I've got a box full of lightbulbs, dead batteries, and other junk ready to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 15, 2015, 04:31:54 PM
Maybe use the blue recycling bags?  They are sort of see-through. To be even more careful, use the ones that tie for recycling, and the ones that have a drawstring for storage?  They are strong, I use mine for shredded paper and that gets quite heavy.

Problem -- not enough receptacles in which to store my give-away items!

I don't like using garbage bags because once, my ever so helpful husband threw away a full bag of beautiful sweaters that were like new.

Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 15, 2015, 04:40:47 PM
I've been on vacation so no decluttering.   I did manage to do very little shopping while away, and the few things I bought were all bought with purpose.  I also managed to not bring back all the paper that I accumulated on the week away.  Paperwork for the flights home (bookings, boarding passes) have been shredded and passport is in its regular place.  It feels good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on February 15, 2015, 04:59:52 PM
I got a nice free sweatshirt for opening a new bank account. (Because I wanted to use their coin counter without the 9% fee). I was prepared not to take it if it was ugly at least, lol, but that was sure not decluttering. But I hope this makes up for it- today I got two things taken by freecyclers; I donated a box of things and 2 paper bags of clothes last week. And filled a trash bag with trash at the same time I was filling the box of donatable things. I was sorting through my old stuff from my parents' house.

I am starting to really feel comfy getting rid of stuff now.  I think within six months I will be down to my favorite things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 16, 2015, 09:03:59 AM
KD,
"
Quote
After cleaning out my inlaw's home and my brother's home after they passed?  We BUMPED our donations up and our buying down so as to not have our children E.V.E.R. having to go thru so much stuff if something were to happen to us.

I know what you mean.  I went to a yard sale run by a 93 year old woman's 70 year old daughter.  The sheer volume was exhausting.  I didn't even want to consider what had to get tossed.  The mother had so much in the way of china, linens and books it blew my mind.  Her daughter was super organised and fortunately had friends who stepped in to help her.  I don;t want to be doing that at 70 hers old for anyone or have anyone have to do it for me.

My parents have been letting things go for years which makes our lives a lot easier I must say.  Even so we are about to embark on stage two of a major clean out before they move to assisted living or such like and it will take a lot of my energy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 16, 2015, 09:09:54 AM
onemorebike,

Quote
We've sold 3,000 dollars worth of random furniture, bike stuff, electronics, etc. in the past month

That is inspiring.  Not only have you decluttered but you have had the energy to deal with putting all that stuff on sale and dealing with the buyers…Congratulations!!!!
 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 16, 2015, 09:18:36 AM
So!  I needed up at a yard sale by mistake, sort of.  I was with friends who were going to a yard sale preview at a fancy house and I asked to join them to see the house.  Of course I was repulsed by the piles of stuff and simultaneously my eyes were looking, looking, looking for something for me amongst the high end china and doodads. Old habits die hard.

I bought an outdoor table and chairs for $20 that need some paint and that we can definitely use.  I also bought a needlepoint rug for $10 that will fit nowhere!  However it may be useful in staging my parents' house for sale so all is not lost.

When my DH took me to pick up the furniture I asked him about something else and he firmly said that perhaps we should repair all the broken stuff we have before bringing anything else into the house that needs mending.  Thank goodness for him!

I have had a pattern in the past of buying things that are cheap and damaged and I think that if I had saved that money and bought just one or two things of good quality I would be very happy. I am putting a list in my phone of the few things I am interested in acquiring to complete our house (curtains for one room, etc). 

No more yard sales!!!!  Now to get out the brass brush and the spray paint to make my new furniture ready for use!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 16, 2015, 09:24:48 AM
Yes wintersun on the 'broken stuff' - I'm a bit of a rehabber myself so I've enjoyed fixing things over the years.  However the wiser more prudent track is to need less, buy quality (at a discount if possible), take care of it, and leave the fixables to someone else just now.

Nice idea to keep a list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on February 16, 2015, 09:39:55 AM
I culled our winter gear today. Even with the mountains of snow we're getting, we can only wear one pair of gloves, one hat, and one neck warmer at a time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on February 16, 2015, 12:59:56 PM
onemorebike,

Quote
We've sold 3,000 dollars worth of random furniture, bike stuff, electronics, etc. in the past month

That is inspiring.  Not only have you decluttered but you have had the energy to deal with putting all that stuff on sale and dealing with the buyers…Congratulations!!!!
Wintersun, cl can be a hassle, but also can be real easy. I installed the cl app on my phone so when I walked by something and thought "we should get rid of that" I just pulled out my phone took a pic and quickly listed it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: onemorebike on February 16, 2015, 01:00:12 PM
onemorebike,

Quote
We've sold 3,000 dollars worth of random furniture, bike stuff, electronics, etc. in the past month

That is inspiring.  Not only have you decluttered but you have had the energy to deal with putting all that stuff on sale and dealing with the buyers…Congratulations!!!!
Wintersun, cl can be a hassle, but also can be real easy. I installed the cl app on my phone so when I walked by something and thought "we should get rid of that" I just pulled out my phone took a pic and quickly listed it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 16, 2015, 01:12:07 PM
Lol, this is funny:
Just recieved an email from IKEA with 'Your clothes don't fit in your cupboard anymore?' (and then inviting me to buy more not-so-cheap cheap furniture of course)
No thanks IKEA, I know a much better way!

1 shirt to charity, 3 books sold on marktplaats and got rid of some paperwork today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on February 16, 2015, 03:39:54 PM
onemorebike,

Quote
We've sold 3,000 dollars worth of random furniture, bike stuff, electronics, etc. in the past month

That is inspiring.  Not only have you decluttered but you have had the energy to deal with putting all that stuff on sale and dealing with the buyers…Congratulations!!!!
Wintersun, cl can be a hassle, but also can be real easy. I installed the cl app on my phone so when I walked by something and thought "we should get rid of that" I just pulled out my phone took a pic and quickly listed it.

I'm enjoying selling things online too. I hadn't done it before. I may be addicted now. Decluttering and extra income at the same time! I don't have nearly enough quality things to sell to make 3000 dollars, but I'm thrilled with 200 so far this month with minimal effort.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on February 16, 2015, 06:39:13 PM
Sold 1 "sortof" antique dining table and a true antique church pew I inherited from family.   Craigslist and patience equals $395 in my pocket.   Have maybe another $600 in other pieces to sell...   All funds go to paying down mortgage to pay me interest every year the rest of my life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 17, 2015, 04:07:38 AM
Today I brought 2 bags of stuff to the trift shop. Glad I am really rid of that stuff now, instead of leaving it in the shed.

Also I have inspired my mother and sister. Both are now trying to get rid of some stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on February 17, 2015, 10:11:44 AM
Selling some craft stuff I'm not ever going to use for $45. The important thing is to get it out of the house....I'm not really making money. I mean, I bought the stuff for $75 and am selling for $45. $30 of my cash (= life energy) down the tubes, but at least it won't be taking up physical and emotional space any more.

You all are an inspiration to me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 17, 2015, 10:29:07 AM
Stuff you don't use = sunk costs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunk_costs) anyway.
Don't let the sunk cost fallacy keep you from getting rid of stuff that clutters your life.

I bought the stuff for $75 and am selling for $45.
Recovering 60% of the purchase price for obsolete stuff is actually really good imo.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on February 17, 2015, 12:44:05 PM
Stuff you don't use = sunk costs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunk_costs) anyway.
Don't let the sunk cost fallacy keep you from getting rid of stuff that clutters your life.

I bought the stuff for $75 and am selling for $45.
Recovering 60% of the purchase price for obsolete stuff is actually really good imo.

I was going to say this too.  If you really want it gone, definitely sell it for under 50% and closer to 30%.  (Particularly as cost conscious people who do crafts like myself, would only buy from the craft stores with a 50% off coupon anyways!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on February 17, 2015, 01:10:07 PM
Went through a box of candles.  Discovered a candle that was almost gone, so I'm working on burning it done now.  Some candle holders to the donation bin as well.  I'll also be giving my mom some wax scraps for making candles when I see her tonight.

I've been trying to avoid buying new candles for a few years now so I can work down my pile, but have had more given to me by people culling their collections or given as a Christmas gift.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 18, 2015, 09:38:55 AM
I have a large box of books (fiction) that I bought a few months back hoping to read while my baby slept. However, now I'm back to work and hardly have time to read anything. I dont think I'll be able to read those books for atleast a year more. Wondering if I should resell them or keep them around? At one point I want to keep them so I can read them. At another, watching them on the book shelf reminds me of yet another thing to do and stresses me out :(

To add, we are moving in a few months and I'm trying to reduce clutter at home before the move.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 18, 2015, 10:07:40 AM
I would try to sell it. And with the "profit": maybe a library card? :) Since I became a mother I didn't have much time to read either, so I'm always glad I didn't have to buy the books I don't read ;) (Library is also a great trip with a toddler)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 18, 2015, 10:54:43 AM
Lesson for the future: never buy a new book before you've finished the previous one.

I'm in the process of getting rid of a lot of books, too. Easier than I thought. Keep the few that changed my life, ditch the rest.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 18, 2015, 11:47:15 AM
I helped my mom thin out her clothes/hats/purses/shoes yesterday. She has a lot of everything!! Im so proud of her. She got rid of about 50%! Many many donations that I dumped for her. Also many bags to potentially sell on consignment stores near by ( she has mostly really nice stuff). Next time we'll tackle books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on February 18, 2015, 03:54:53 PM
Gained 12 square feet of floor space and $100 by selling a piece of exercise equipment that was not being used. Turns out I like body-weight exercising at home it's more quiet and there is nothing to dust!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on February 18, 2015, 07:00:25 PM
Gained 12 square feet of floor space and $100 by selling a piece of exercise equipment that was not being used. Turns out I like body-weight exercising at home it's more quiet and there is nothing to dust!

Score one for body weight training!! Congrats!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on February 20, 2015, 12:09:51 AM
This week during decluttering I was wondering about one item in my closet: my weddingdress. I will never wear it again and it's a big impediment, so I am thinking about selling it. But on the other hand it has emotional value. I'm not sure about it, it's difficult. What would you do? I have many pictures of me in the dress and I won't wear it again with my after-pregnancy body that is very different then than when we got married......
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 20, 2015, 04:47:54 AM
This week during decluttering I was wondering about one item in my closet: my weddingdress. I will never wear it again and it's a big impediment, so I am thinking about selling it. But on the other hand it has emotional value. I'm not sure about it, it's difficult. What would you do? I have many pictures of me in the dress and I won't wear it again with my after-pregnancy body that is very different then than when we got married......

I was pretty unsentimental with my wedding dress and donated it last year, 2 1/2 years after we got married. My dress wasn't a traditional one and I'd only spent a few hundred dollars on it. And it had a small stain and I was never going to wear it again, so why keep it?

That said, I'm probably more ambivalent about my wedding day than most. Don't get me wrong - I'm super happy I married DH and have no regrets there. But ... I was deathly ill (in hindsight) around that time and had 9 days in hospital when we got back from our honeymoon. That's the super short version. The only momento I need from our wedding day is a handful of photos. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 20, 2015, 10:00:12 AM
This week during decluttering I was wondering about one item in my closet: my weddingdress. I will never wear it again and it's a big impediment, so I am thinking about selling it. But on the other hand it has emotional value. I'm not sure about it, it's difficult. What would you do? I have many pictures of me in the dress and I won't wear it again with my after-pregnancy body that is very different then than when we got married......

I donated mine to an organization that gives proms and wedding dresses to people who can't afford them.  My Mom's friend was closely tied to the organization, so she was able to tell me about the person who got my dress.  I could not be happier with my decision.  I did this a few months after the wedding.

I sometimes wonder if I should have kept it, or had it made into throw pillows, or a christening gown (except 10 years later we still don't have kids) but knowing how happy it made someone else, I do not regret my decision at all.

And I LOVED my wedding dress. It was the most beautiful dress I've ever seen, it was not inexpensive either- other than the husband part, it was the #1 favorite thing about my wedding. So I was pretty attached to the idea of it, but there was no need for me to keep it. I'd much rather someone else enjoy it as much as I did.

It's a pretty personal decision though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 20, 2015, 10:12:42 AM
Mine was a very beautiful beautiful dress . & I donated it a couple years after the divorce. I had thought about using it in my sewing projects, but finally decided it made more sense to donate for someone who needed an inexpensive wedding dress. Obviously, the divorce makes my story a bit different. I could see why a person would want to keep the dress also, but really only for (possibly tailored) use at a future renewal of vows, or as I had planned, a project. Of course, any decision is valid. If not sure, maybe makes more sense to hold onto it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on February 20, 2015, 10:42:17 AM
mine was recycled for the day from my godmother, and after the day I gave it back to her....did not cross my ming to hang on to it
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on February 20, 2015, 10:57:52 AM
I still have mine, 25 years later.  Typical <eye roll>
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on February 20, 2015, 02:45:15 PM
My mother still has mine nearly 25 years later. Typical <eye roll>.   I'm not sure what the issue is, I think she thinks I won't look after it….
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on February 20, 2015, 03:05:19 PM
I think she thinks I won't look after it….

:-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on February 20, 2015, 04:37:52 PM
My wedding dress was not traditional, and I still wear it from time to time.  So, I'll be keeping that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on February 20, 2015, 05:32:44 PM
My wedding dress was not traditional, and I still wear it from time to time.  So, I'll be keeping that!

+1

Me too. Vaguely wedding-ish but still wearable for many other occasions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 20, 2015, 07:59:47 PM
I threw out 3 old bras today. They weren't on high rotation but I still occasionally wore them. I was about to put one on today and realised the elastic was all hard and yukky, and there were slight stains on all of them, presumably from something perishing. So, into the bin they went. Normally I'd donate old clothes, but these weren't wearable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on February 21, 2015, 07:43:22 PM
Donated a box of books and three boxes of clothes today.  I think I'm pretty close to where I want to be with both categories.

But now I'm thinking I should dump my wedding dress.  It's non-traditional, and 3 sizes too big for me now, so not like I'm going to be wearing it again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 22, 2015, 06:07:49 PM
Astartine,
I dumped two bras today as well, for similar reasons. 

I hadn't thought about donating my wedding dress, what a great idea.  Or do I want to use the silk fabric to line lamp shades???? Hmmm.

I am keeping a list of things that enter our house that are either not consumable or will not be consumed soon.  I feel some delight in seeing how short it is.

I am making a list of things to use up that I am not willing to donate: food, supplements, fabric, craft supplies, etc.  I think I might benefit from setting goals in that area too.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on February 22, 2015, 08:26:35 PM
Donated some random items yesterday - a brita water filter, a pair of shoes, a belt (need to go through all of them), a cookie cooling rack that takes up way too much storage space...

Finished up a candle today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on February 23, 2015, 01:18:58 AM
2 old, yucky mattresses and 2 broken box springs are out on the curb for a special pickup by our trash pickup company. Each household is allowed to request this free service for up to 4 items per year. So happy to see them go!! Would have been $20 per item if we took them to the city dump ... crazy!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 23, 2015, 05:18:57 AM
More and more stuff gone. Excess towels, clothing, books sold, bike parts sold.
Books and DVD's traded for good local beers.

Can't say I've missed any of the stuff I got rid of yet. Even funnier: I don't even remember every item.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aj_yooper on February 23, 2015, 05:48:20 AM

Books and DVD's traded for good local beers.


+1 on the trades.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 23, 2015, 06:34:15 AM
When looking for last year's tax paperwork to check a number, we found a bag's worth of paper that we did not need to hang onto, so that went to the recycling.

Also tossed an old sound card and a pile of floppy disks.  Possibly we could have ebayed the floppy disks, but I'm not sure it would be worth the effort.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on February 23, 2015, 07:24:00 AM
Does it count that I have shredded loads of old documents recently?

Hell yes it does!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on February 23, 2015, 08:34:50 PM
Cleared out a four-drawer filing cabinet and consolidated down to one large and one small bin, between shredding, recycling and taking a few professional files to the office.

Although...I'm proud that I don't actually have a lot to weed out this time. The last two moves, I spent an enormous amount of time just getting rid of stuff. I have done a couple of small Goodwill trips over the last four years, did one for the move and one more to go. That should be it...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 24, 2015, 02:37:02 AM
Cleared out that drawer with orphan socks.

10 minutes of work, and one more drawer that can actually be used instead of just being there filled with clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 24, 2015, 02:59:09 AM
Throwing them all out and getting 30 pairs of identical black socks for the cheap.
I like my diamond pattern / Kermit / Homer Simpson / Mickey Mouse / Garfield socks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 24, 2015, 04:17:36 PM
Giving away our swing and bassinet to a friend for her baby. Those items get used more and we get back space. Win-win!

Now I just need to find a time for actually getting them out the door.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 24, 2015, 05:27:31 PM
So much success here!  Shredding paper is a huge success FliXfantatier, you are inspiring.

In the last few days, with help from a friend, I took three car loads of stuff out of here.  Two loads to charity and one to the dump.  What a luscious feeling.  It is better than getting a massage and cheaper too.  I am loving the clean tidy feeling that is left behind, in fact I am floating on it.

Cutenila, not getting things out the door can be maddening.  I am once again driving a car with several items in it which I also drove around two months ago but did not deliver.  This time I will get them to their owners.  Not borrowing anymore is part of my new creed, because dropping things off is complicated at times.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 25, 2015, 07:17:18 AM
Another load to the mission yesterday and another load home from the son's dumpster dive of perfectly usable clothing.  fOUR washer loads full.  Now washed and waiting to go donate next week.  The dumpster also included a bag of books and 2 working space heaters.  SIGH. 

Our own from the house was son had 3 old cell phones that wouldn't sell on Craigslist or garage sale.  I had a decorative jar, a candle holder, a wall decor item, 2 lamps that no longer worked w/o a possible repair (mission has a handy man) and an old plaque.  GONE.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 25, 2015, 10:24:33 AM
Didn't declutter anything today BUT yesterday I saw someone on a local giveaway fb group posting that she's looking for stuff for a flea market, so I have been thinking about which stuff to give to her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on February 25, 2015, 12:00:09 PM
Accidentally got rid of my rice cooker a couple days ago. By "accidentally" I mean I plugged it in and smoke and fire happened. Fortunately, I have a big pot and a little pot with lids, and those seem to be working well. It's nice having the counter space back as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 25, 2015, 12:40:52 PM
Zikoris, your post reminded me to claim counter space in my kitchen. I have the essentials that I use almost every day on the counter (toaster, food processor) but I also have a ton of baby bottle parts. We need it easily accessible and easily dryable but it is an eye sore on an otherwise clean counter. Any ideas as to how to store it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cross3700 on February 25, 2015, 12:55:08 PM
I've been selling a lot of books we'll never read again on Ebay.  I'm surprised at how much we've been able to sell.  We're not getting much for them, but we're getting them out of the house and putting a few bucks in our pocket so all is good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sandandsun on February 25, 2015, 12:58:43 PM
Zikoris, your post reminded me to claim counter space in my kitchen. I have the essentials that I use almost every day on the counter (toaster, food processor) but I also have a ton of baby bottle parts. We need it easily accessible and easily dryable but it is an eye sore on an otherwise clean counter. Any ideas as to how to store it?
hanging wire vegetable basket?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 26, 2015, 04:14:57 AM
Okay, it's getting harder now.
Currently going through stuff I used to tell myself I might use in the future.

Towels, why on earth do I own so many towels? (Not THAT hard to ditch though)

More difficult: my old spare cycling (I love cycling) shoes I've kept in case my fancy Sidi's would get wet or break.
But did I actually wear them since I got the fancy Sidi's over 3 years ago? Not even once.
What do I actually do when my Sidi's get wet? I dry them.
What will I actually do when the Sidi's break? I'll order spare parts or new ones straight away, and use my mountain bike pedals and shoes in the meantime.
Sure, I liked to think it's Pro to own spare shoes, but truth is, I am not a fucking pro cyclist, but a recreational rider with a preference for fair weather.
Actually they're just cluttering my closet, as they have been doing over the last 3 years.

How clarifying it is to write things down.
I'm selling them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on February 26, 2015, 03:44:18 PM
Update: put the cycling shoes, some vintage cycling jerseys and some bike parts for sale on marktplaats and facebook this afternoon, and got some serious biddings already!
Looks like the shoes will be going to a cycling mate looking for something affordable, just as I was hoping for. The vintage jerseys even seem to have some collector's value!
Totally stoked!
Some towels and garments to goodwill, too.

Also Spent some thought about WHY I'm decluttering so ferociously.
2 important things came up:
-Me being in control of my possessions, in stead of my possessions controlling me.
-Less stuff = possibility to live in a smaller home = less rent, less mortgage, less taxes, lower energy bills = more freedom to work parttime, or FIRE.

2 YT vids that inspired me to declutter:
Joshua Becker (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2qIRr51zBo)
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgBpyNsS-jU)


Decluttered my iPad and pc as well: deleted a number of apps, put all the Apple apps I don't use in one folder, and reduced the number of desktop icons on my pc too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on February 26, 2015, 07:46:01 PM
I continue to sell 1-7 items per week on eBay and am slogging through decades of paperwork. I must've scanned at least 10,000 pieces of paper by now. We have rental properties and loads of related documents and receipts, and I'm taking time to tape small receipts to a piece of paper, which I scan in a clear plastic cover. My burden gets lifted a little bit more with every scan. And soon I'll actually sell one of the rental houses, an even bigger burden lifted!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 26, 2015, 08:49:20 PM
I never knew how uplifting this would be.  I did not realise how the weight of all that STUFF was pressing me down and pinning me to the ground in paralysis.  When we got home tonight I cast my eye around the dining room and felt such pleasure in seeing clear surfaces.

I have three boxes of things to go through from my big clear out the other day but a quick glance at them shows me that I can deal with it in about 10 minutes.  I was busy hurling things out but part of me sensibly grabbed things that I would be able to use- duct tape, bandaids, four or five boxes of blank cards which can have a photo glued on the front ( a donation from a pal).  Now I need to put those things where they belong and get rid of the temporary mess of three cardboard boxes.

I am very into making sure that clutter does not begin to gather once more, especially paper, that dreaded monster.  I have started to spend a few minutes in the mornings tidying and putting things back which I find very soothing.  Are you guys enjoying the fruits of your labours?  Is anyone finding the paper piles growing again?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 26, 2015, 11:08:03 PM
I finally culled our book collection to a manageable size. For our textbooks, I was comparing between amazon trade in and eBay. Should I just send them for trade in and be done with it? Or should I put it on eBay and sell over a longer period of time? The difference is easily a couple of hundred dollars. My husband says we won't go through with the selling on eBay thing. But I think this would be a perfect way to dip our toes into eBay selling.

What would u suggest?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KD on February 27, 2015, 11:30:02 AM
Took a car load of stuff to the Salvation Army this a.m. gleaned from the dumpster by son...nothing he wanted to sell in his somewhat regular garage sales, but not needing to be thrown away either.  We were on our way to grocery anyway.

The garage sales he has nothing is priced under a $1 so he keeps no change on hand.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 27, 2015, 04:16:47 PM
This week it's clearing our tv cabinet. I want to sell our DVDs and husband finally said yes to selling Xbox (he doesn't play anymore but was reluctant to part with it). Will also check out the cabinet for more stuff to sell, donate, toss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 27, 2015, 04:26:22 PM
Just got a note from husband - the move for which we are decluttering might not happen after all. So I can take my time decluttering. I can either sell books on eBay (wait for a good time) or amazon trade in(stuff gone, money in hand but less profit). Now that we may not be moving, I'm not sure if I should declutter quickly. My husband is all for decluttering quickly even at a loss as long as the house becomes lighter.

Do you think I should declutter quickly or take my time selling stuff on eBay for more profit?
I can't seem to decide: money vs clean house immediately
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on February 27, 2015, 09:17:30 PM
Do you think I should declutter quickly or take my time selling stuff on eBay for more profit?
I can't seem to decide: money vs clean house immediately

I've sold a lot of stuff on eBay over the past year, but I don't seem to have any luck with books there. I took down my book auctions and put them up on Amazon; still not sold, so who knows. The prices could probably be lowered to make them sell. Do you only have books or are there other items you can sell?

A couple tips to make eBay more profitable for you as the seller and make sure you get paid:

* Go to: My eBay, Account, Seller Account and change Buyer Preferences to the strictest settings possible. Only accept buyers with Paypal, buyers with the least negative feedback and fewest non-payment strikes. Yes, you may get fewer bidders/buyers, but the ones you get will be better quality.

* Borrow or buy a cheap digital scale to weigh your own packages, pay for postage/print your shipping labels via eBay (after weighing and measuring). Ebay charges the same discounted online rate that USPS/stamps.com charges with no monthly fee. I print my labels on plain white paper and use clear packing tape to attach them to the packages. If you prepay postage & print your own labels, you can just drop off your packages on the post office counter or leave them for the mail carrier to pick up from home; you don't need to wait in line. (I love that!!)

* If a buyer doesn't pay you within 48 hours, click on the item and select Resolve a Problem and Buyer Hasn't Paid. This will open a case so that eBay will go after payment for you. If the buyer still doesn't pay, ebay will refund any fees you've been charged for the auction. It helps resolve the issue much quicker AND it causes deadbeat buyers to have non-payment strikes against them, which helps keep the system functioning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks2 on February 28, 2015, 07:08:37 AM
With your books, have you tried paperback swap?  It means you will get credits for more books (and you have to pay to ship them) so it is not ideal, but if you want to have different books to read, you could try it.  The software lets you develop wish lists too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks2 on February 28, 2015, 07:09:29 AM
I am thinking of getting rid of all our books and only buying copies 2nd hand when I need a specific book for a specific thing.  Once it's read it's outta here.  (Except for some reference books -- if I use them all the time! ). 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on February 28, 2015, 09:36:38 AM

Do you think I should declutter quickly or take my time selling stuff on eBay for more profit?
I can't seem to decide: money vs clean house immediately

Personally, I detest selling things online. In fact, it was my entry in the "small things you could do to save money, but don't" thread. My MIL runs a charity rummage sale for her church, so I give nearly everything that can be sold to her.

If you don't mind/enjoy the sales process, I would sell them to maximize cash. If the pile of items to be sold will simply be a source of guilt for months before you haul it to the thrift store, then cut out the middle man and donate now.

Re books: I live in a craftsman with built in bookcases. Those bookcases determine the quantity of books I own. The collection changes as books drift in and out of my life (I am a sucker for the 25 cent book pile) Thanks to the library, I rarely wish for something I can't have.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on February 28, 2015, 11:28:37 AM
I got rid of a good chunk of my books (except for a few reference ones), but due to some extra wood and free time, I thought about doing a little free library on my corner. Since I live in the ghetto, there isn't one near me, and it might even help with our stray kid problem. Give them a book, and they might read it as opposed to random acts of vandalism.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 28, 2015, 02:07:17 PM
Old copies of CDs - looking for suggestions.

Back when I was working I had copies of my music CDs at the office, so now I have a big set of duplicates.  So far my only idea is to glue them to clothespins, to keep the birds from landing on the clothesline (occasionally I have had to re-wash things thanks to them, not fun when they have been eating purple berries).

Any other ideas for recycling CDs?  Or do I just pop them in the recycling (or the trash)?

Note - I just read Marie Kondo's book  The Life-changing Magic of Tidying up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing, and am trying to declutter by category more than by room. Right now I am doing clothes, then it will be the CDs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 28, 2015, 04:59:30 PM
I got rid of a good chunk of my books (except for a few reference ones), but due to some extra wood and free time, I thought about doing a little free library on my corner. Since I live in the ghetto, there isn't one near me, and it might even help with our stray kid problem. Give them a book, and they might read it as opposed to random acts of vandalism.

Yes! This is a great idea. I live in the ghetto too. At my complex, we all put out all our donations for each other. And before the end of the day, its all been grabbed, every time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on March 01, 2015, 06:07:02 AM
I got rid of a good chunk of my books (except for a few reference ones), but due to some extra wood and free time, I thought about doing a little free library on my corner. Since I live in the ghetto, there isn't one near me, and it might even help with our stray kid problem. Give them a book, and they might read it as opposed to random acts of vandalism.

Yes! This is a great idea. I live in the ghetto too. At my complex, we all put out all our donations for each other. And before the end of the day, its all been grabbed, every time.

This is such a great way of sharing and getting rid of stuff.  Sort of like a swap.  People can get what they possibly need and nothing goes into the landfills.  I either take things to Goodwill, library or put it out on the curb.  It is 100% always picked up by someone. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 01, 2015, 06:31:54 AM
Just had one of the cycling jersey I was selling picked up: € 25 cash in hand!

A few weeks ago I posted some books on my own fb to give away. Some of them I gave to friends (in exchange for beer or dinners ;) ), but the ones no one was interested in I just put on a local giveaway fb page: within seconds someone sent me a message and within minutes he picked them up, in exchange for a nice bottle of prosecco and a specialty beer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 01, 2015, 08:15:24 AM
More decluttering: had 2 gift vouchers I got years ago. (mijnpluim.nl)

There was really nothing useful in the list of things I could trade them in for, (I could use things like wine or olive oil but one € 15 gift card for 1 bottle of wine or 2 tiny bottles of olive oil is quite ridiculous) so I chose the option to donate them to charities. One for WWF, one for Unicef.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 01, 2015, 05:39:18 PM
One sweater out the door, one dress dropped off to a friend who is thrilled.  Yes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 01, 2015, 06:28:34 PM
One sweater out the door, one dress dropped off to a friend who is thrilled.  Yes!

Yay! That is one of my favorite things about decluttering and giving away items or selling them: when the recipient is thrilled!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 01, 2015, 06:29:38 PM
Attacked the kitchen again this evening, in an angry therapeutic sort of way. So much junk. Anyone want a fondue set? What the hell was I thinking?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 01, 2015, 09:33:55 PM
Another sweater and pair of pants for my neighbors. Feels good to recognize now that there are items I have been holding onto that I don't really like. I am becoming much more discerning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SilveradoBojangles on March 01, 2015, 09:45:52 PM
I'm new, so maybe this has been said, but I have a de-cluttering strategy to share. My husband has trouble parting with things. So I created a box that serves as a staging area. If we aren't sure if we should keep something we put it in the box. If we end up needing it, it can be retrieved from the box. The box gets looked at once a year or so, and all things that have been in the box since the last clean out that haven't been needed get tossed/sold/donated. This two step process is easier, because usually once things are in the box we've completely forgotten they exist, indicating we probably don't really need them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on March 02, 2015, 05:45:32 AM
I'm new, so maybe this has been said, but I have a de-cluttering strategy to share. My husband has trouble parting with things. So I created a box that serves as a staging area. If we aren't sure if we should keep something we put it in the box. If we end up needing it, it can be retrieved from the box. The box gets looked at once a year or so, and all things that have been in the box since the last clean out that haven't been needed get tossed/sold/donated. This two step process is easier, because usually once things are in the box we've completely forgotten they exist, indicating we probably don't really need them.

I am trying this with DH's clothes. He has been the same size for the entire time I've known him, but still buys new clothes periodically. The problem is he won't get rid of anything unless it is worn out. Even if I have never seen him wear it. In 14 years. So, I packed everything that he doesn't wear in plastic totes. If he wants it, he can get it out. If he doesn't wear it by 2016, it is gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on March 02, 2015, 09:26:52 AM
Posting as a reminder to myself to stop hanging onto so much! Just because it's wearable doesn't mean I'm actually wearing it. I need to get more stuff out of the house (it helps that I'm feeling a little stretched and making a little money from clothes I don't need yet am inexplicably hanging onto). I feel like I need to accept that just because I am used to having clothes on hand to wear, when I then don't wear them, they should go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 03, 2015, 12:24:20 AM
Saw some things that my husband had cleaned out of our kids cupboards in the trash. This included a set of rubber stamps that I had used when they were really little and I pulled out 3 to keep for memories. But then I thought of this thread and .... I let them go!

Thanks for the ongoing encouragement, everyone. Its a slow and steady battle.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 03, 2015, 02:51:12 AM
Kitchen stuff (pan with crappy teflon layer) gone, more clothing (3 shirts and a pair of sandals) to goodwill, cycling shoes sold, coffe mug (with my first name on it) given away, 2 more books given away! Yeah baby!

Wondering if I should sell/give away my digital camera too. (€70 5 years ago, simple 8Mpix Olympus consumer camera)
I haven't used it since I got my current phone, just because I always carry my phone AND the pictures I take with my phone upload to Dropbox automatically.
Image quality IS better than my smartphone cam, but I'm not a photography geek at all, I just take snapshots.
Won't get much (if any) money for it, but chances I will ever use it will only decrease as my next smartphone will surely have a better camera than my current one.

Maybe I should prioritize decluttering my bicycles and bike parts first. Those are a LOT harder to part with, but they take a lot more space.

And, as I said before, I should help my parents declutter their home. It's been 7 years since I left my parents' house, but there's still a lot of my stuff left in my old bedroom, the shed and the attick. Anything I haven't used/missed in those 7 years should go. And that's a LOT.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on March 03, 2015, 05:35:07 AM
Saw some things that my husband had cleaned out of our kids cupboards in the trash. This included a set of rubber stamps that I had used when they were really little and I pulled out 3 to keep for memories. But then I thought of this thread and .... I let them go!

I had a hard time with mementos too. For most of them I took photos and organized them into a folder in my computer so I can look at them if I ever feel like taking a trip down memory lane. Since everything is digital and labeled in a folder, it kind of works out better too (more space efficient, less likely to lose it somewhere). There are still a few mementos that I can't part with, but having them physically makes me so much happier that I don't consider them as clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 03, 2015, 10:14:36 AM
Today I will visit with my mom & help her do ALOT more decluttering. Last time we did clothes,purses,etc. This time we will do books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on March 03, 2015, 10:52:08 AM
Today I will visit with my mom & help her do ALOT more decluttering. Last time we did clothes,purses,etc. This time we will do books.

I did this a few years ago with my mom. She wasn't really ready to get rid of much yet. She and my dad are now officially downsizing so I think she is ready to have another go. Now I will have to worry about fending off hand-me-downs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 03, 2015, 02:47:04 PM
I had some "found time" today due to a meeting getting canceled at the last minute, so spent about two hours going through everything in my cubicle.  I've been here >5 years and finally got rid of a bunch of stuff from the previous occupant, plus a bunch of hard copy stuff from past years. Filled a huge shredding bin about halfway.  Ahhh, drawer space and cleared off desks.  Now I want to go home and clean my own house too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on March 03, 2015, 05:52:39 PM
Since I moved to a slightly smaller apartment and am now on an upper floor, I'm finding I don't buy nearly as many heavy groceries or other Stuff that isn't so necessary. 

I tried to order a better/heavier winter coat online from Lands End and it was backordered/unavailable last week.  This week I tried ordering a different coat from another online retailer--also sold out.  I think these are signs! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 03, 2015, 10:02:17 PM
Saw some things that my husband had cleaned out of our kids cupboards in the trash. This included a set of rubber stamps that I had used when they were really little and I pulled out 3 to keep for memories. But then I thought of this thread and .... I let them go!

I had a hard time with mementos too. For most of them I took photos and organized them into a folder in my computer so I can look at them if I ever feel like taking a trip down memory lane. Since everything is digital and labeled in a folder, it kind of works out better too (more space efficient, less likely to lose it somewhere). There are still a few mementos that I can't part with, but having them physically makes me so much happier that I don't consider them as clutter.

I do something similar...I take photos of nostalgic items and add them to a Facebook album entitled Old Stuff, which is set for only me to see. I find that I'm actually able to enjoy the things more this way. I feel good knowing I'm honoring their memory, and I can view the album at any time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 05, 2015, 05:55:00 AM
Hi everyone,

Loving this thread! It caught my eye as I have been on a mission to get rid of stuff this year, and I ended up reading it end to end. Lots of motivation and useful tips, thank you.

I read online somewhere about a challenge to get rid of 2015 in 2015. I'm up to over 400 already, and the crazy thing is, I haven't missed any of it! My husband thought I was nuts, but watched on, and the strange thing is... after years of asking him to clear out drawers full of old useless crap, since watching me clear things, he has started doing it.

I really agree with someone upthread that if you mention the stuff, they become very attached, and it can feel like an attack. But just watching me do it seems to have motivated him, amazing!

I'm a, 'But what if I need it!' keeper of things. I've realised that a lot of the stuff I was keeping was easy to come by (eg, cardboard. Um, I can go in the kitchen and get some anytime I need it, there is no reason to keep an entire magazine holder filled with random sheets of it). I am allowing myself to keep things that cannot easily be replaced though, because we do fix up a lot of stuff around the house, and when you need something, you really need it.

So instead of whether I want to keep something, I ask myself, if I needed this, would I be able to procure it (from a shop, or online)? If the answer is yes, I let the shop store it for me. If I wouldn't be able to just buy it, then I can keep it.

An example, because I know this sounds vague, is that I make my own handbags. Finding something to make the base rigid is hard. The pro stuff is really expensive, for something that will never be seen. You can't use anything that will disintegrate over time or with damp (so cardboard is out). So when I was throwing away broken folders, keeping the plastic sides was allowed, because it will be absolutely perfect for that job, it is free, and I DO make bags.

Accepting that there are plenty of hobbies that I would like to do, but won't, has been freeing. I've got rid of so much jewellery making stuff. I have the time for hobbies, because I've got plenty. If I've never yet actually made any jewellery, I clearly don't want to do it that badly - it's the IDEA I like, not the actual craft.

I've also been using up toiletries I don't like and not buying any more. Most things I can do without, I just (again) like the idea of being the kind of person to use cleanser, when, in fact, I always reach for a face wipe (it's the perfectionist in me. I feel guilty using face-wipes because they are disposable and wasteful, but, you know what? It's more wasteful to buy products to replace them that I won't use!).

Keep the tips coming!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 05, 2015, 06:59:34 AM
I am re-inspired by you all once again, I love reading the stories on this thread.

Another storage area got whacked this week, the results are amazing.  I had help with this one and wow, the floor is visible for the first time in years!  We tossed loads of stuff and gave to charity which felt great.  I can now get into the room... and can reach things, a new concept.

Also, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, there are very few spaces left that have not been dealt with.  The feeling is one of such lightness and joy. 

Some of the accompanying things that are coming up are:
* Finding out what things are broken and fixing them ( furniture, jewellery, clothing, cushions)
* Putting together a list of what needs a coat of paint which sounds fun
* Figuring out new storage methods
* Making a list of supplies that need to be used up whether paper, notecards, food, cloth, wood or crafting stuff
* Making a list to have in a prominent place of cool things we already own which we could be enjoying instead of buying new things and experiences (music, movies, board games, crafting tools, popcorn, books with pictures of beautiful architecture and interiors, unread novels)

This experience is definitely an enriching one.  Yup, getting rid of things is enriching, whaddaya know?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 05, 2015, 07:36:33 AM
One thing that has been coming up a lot is noticing the money that we have spent on the things that we no longer use and how little use some of the things got.  It is a real message for me.  Things are exhausting: they get in my way so I cannot access the things I do use, their resale value deteriorates quickly in most instances and they remind me of the money that could have been saved but was wasted.

Broken things hang over me weighing me down even when out of sight.  The not-yet-done chores of repairing or painting or darning that we have allowed to build up over years are psychologically heavy.

De-cluttering is so much more than getting rid of things, it is taking me by the hand and leading me to a new way of living in the now which I am so excited to experience.  It is teaching me the value of doing things when they come up instead of putting them off.  I think that by the summer all repairs to objects, painting of furniture, darning of cloth bags and upholstery will be up to date and I can only imagine the feeling of lightness that will suffuse my being. 

No more:
* broken things stored out of sight. I will deal with them immediately by fixing them or letting them go.
* taking on other peoples' broken things
* storing things for friends who are downsizing
* stuffing ripped clothing or bags or cushions away out of sight and out of mind.
* buying several things at yard sales that are a bit tatty but a good price- instead I will buy things in good condition if at all
* keeping things that are completely unsalvageable, due to sentimental reasons

Quite frankly I cannot imagine how life will feel without all of this pressure on me.  I do know it will be freeing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SailorGirl on March 05, 2015, 08:14:42 AM
I am so in on this! I need to clear all the crap out of my house so we can get it ready to sell.  Whoever mentioned the "sunk money" aspect of it above someone voiced exactly what I needed to hear.  Instead of focusing on trying to sell stuff, I'll put it on our local online yard sale for a week and then haul it to Goodwill. The pic I use for the yard sale will serve me as record of the donation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on March 05, 2015, 10:32:15 AM
Quote
I've also been using up toiletries I don't like and not buying any more.

Me too! I just today finished up my second container of face cream since a move in August! I have so many moisturizers sitting around, and it's a goal of mine to start using them more regularly (especially since it's dry in winter), so I'm very proud of this small incremental thing. I have a whole little basket of extra moisturizer on top of my dresser that I've had for years without *using* it. Senseless to throw it out as it's contained space wise, but senseless to not use it up either. So now I'm slowly making my way through. Once it's all gone (so in...oh, four years), I'll buy a good daily SPF lotion and be done with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on March 05, 2015, 10:44:02 AM

Accepting that there are plenty of hobbies that I would like to do, but won't, has been freeing. I've got rid of so much jewellery making stuff. I have the time for hobbies, because I've got plenty. If I've never yet actually made any jewellery, I clearly don't want to do it that badly - it's the IDEA I like, not the actual craft.



Ooh, this is me. After years of practice, I've got it pretty under control. I keep the tools and let the raw materials go because the fabric/beads/yarn/etc are always available for a casual crafter who isn't too picky.

 The elephant in my crafting room is my sewing machine.

Pros: indestructible (1960's Singer featherweight)
        Sentimental. It was my mom's first sewing machine and the machine on which I learned to sew.
        Portable. It fits neatly into a box about 10" x 12" x 18"

Cons: can't do much of anything. It basically goes forward and backward. It won't even zigzag and I sew my button holes by hand because I've never found a buttonholer that fits.

I could buy a new machine that does more stuff, but that means I either have a giant sewing machine-shaped bookend or I get rid of one of the few things that truly has sentimental meaning for me.

I would like to sew more. My sewing machine is one of my excuses for not sewing. Being gone from home 3 out of every 4 weeks is another.

I suppose that I will keep things as they are until my schedule changes. If I sew more when I am working less I will revisit replacing my sewing machine.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on March 05, 2015, 12:44:03 PM
So I obviously didn't hit my goal of getting rid of my storage unit. That being said, I did just get the (i know, i know) 3rd vehicle prepped and ready for sale. The space that thing takes up is going to replace my $200/month storage unit. Once that happens, I will sell pretty much everything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on March 06, 2015, 03:57:08 PM
Quote
I've also been using up toiletries I don't like and not buying any more.

Me too! I just today finished up my second container of face cream since a move in August! I have so many moisturizers sitting around, and it's a goal of mine to start using them more regularly (especially since it's dry in winter), so I'm very proud of this small incremental thing. I have a whole little basket of extra moisturizer on top of my dresser that I've had for years without *using* it. Senseless to throw it out as it's contained space wise, but senseless to not use it up either. So now I'm slowly making my way through. Once it's all gone (so in...oh, four years), I'll buy a good daily SPF lotion and be done with it.
Ditto. I've been "using up" for 2 years now. Who'd have thought I had that much stuff to use?  My bathroom cabinet is much clearer now, just a few key products, some with duplicates bought on sale. But I'm starting to get to the bottom of it and will replace with simple natural products without chemicals wherever possible.  I tossed some products I was keeping just in case, but I never use those particular items so out they went.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 07, 2015, 02:05:55 PM
Wondering if I should sell/give away my digital camera too. (€70 5 years ago, simple 8Mpix Olympus consumer camera)

Gave it away.
Before I formatted the memory card, I found out the camera hadn't been used even ONCE since since I got my current smartphone in 2012.

Gave / threw away some other stuff, too, so I was able to get rid of one more cardboard storage box in my room.

The drawers under my desk are getting noticeably emptier, too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on March 07, 2015, 03:09:43 PM
I've made progress in the study. Its so messy I can hardly tell the difference, but I'm making progress. A box of paper off the floor and combined with another on the shelf - another bit of free floor space :). A little pile of stuff sorted to take into work.  A shelf cleared off the bookcase, now with some nicely arranged books.   2 ugly knick-knacks I hated, out!  And I've figured out a new system for papers which will reduce the piles decorating my desk chaotically….Just need to clear 1 more smallish draw of old papers and I can enact this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on March 07, 2015, 03:30:10 PM
Today we're going to take the following to the recycling shed at the local rubbish tip:
- as new cat scratching post (little buggers ignored it completely)
- bag of clothes (mix of mine and DH's)
- crappy clothes drying rack (it's not sturdy and is super annoying to use)
- plastic box for under the bed
- garden tools that aren't fit for purpose

I've made progress in the study. Its so messy I can hardly tell the difference, but I'm making progress. A box of paper off the floor and combined with another on the shelf - another bit of free floor space :). A little pile of stuff sorted to take into work.  A shelf cleared off the bookcase, now with some nicely arranged books.   2 ugly knick-knacks I hated, out!  And I've figured out a new system for papers which will reduce the piles decorating my desk chaotically….Just need to clear 1 more smallish draw of old papers and I can enact this.

Wow! Way to go, happy! That's awesome.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 09, 2015, 08:17:20 PM
Today: excess first aid supplies to an addict's support charity plus a sheet and a mattress cover.

Yesterday: 2 bags of trash to the dumpster from my mother's house.  There seems to be a theme of helping parents divest this week.  I also took on 4 small things from her house which may or may not stay.  Now to get the other things from her house to the thrift store.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 09, 2015, 10:17:49 PM
So I helped mom go through her books lastweek and she got rid of about 50% (that's 8 bags!) which is great  progress for her. She has TONS of everything, so we're going through a different category if stuff each time. Before, it was clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 10, 2015, 06:18:28 AM
There seems to be a theme of helping parents divest this week.

+1
I'm visiting my parents (who live 1.5 hrs away) this weekend, and I'm definitely going to do some decluttering there, as I did some weeks ago. I actually aim to do more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on March 10, 2015, 06:43:27 AM
The Onion, relevant as ever: http://www.theonion.com/articles/jumbled-nest-of-cords-makes-move-to-third-new-apar,38171/

I do have one of those nests, although I've gotten rid of all the chargers that fit things I no longer own.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 10, 2015, 02:05:40 PM
Cleaned up all my digital mail - went through years of mail and deleted most of them. So easy to use my mailbox again.

Also shipped off books for amazon trade in and am meeting a buyer tomorrow for the rest of the books. Planning to donate all novels to library since there were no takers :( note to self: don't buy novels as new - doesn't hold value.
Also gave away our infant swing to a friend. So good to get back space!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 10, 2015, 03:03:24 PM
Another box full of stuff gone (to someone who was collecting stuff for a flea market), yeah!

And remembering again WHY I'm doing this:
Less stuff = no need for big house and a car* = lower expenses = freedom to work part time and enjoy life NOW**

*I found out I'd rather live in a tiny apartment in an area I truly love than in a bigger one in an area I don't like.
*small house in cool area = easier to live car-free. It's been 7 weeks since I sold my car and I haven't missed it for one second.

**applied for a part time side job as a bike messenger! Secretly I'm totally stoked about this. Minimum wages but it is something I would love to do. If I had a fancy house and high mortgage I could never do something like this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 11, 2015, 01:09:31 AM
[quote author=DagobertDuck

And remembering again WHY I'm doing this:
Less stuff = no need for big house and a car* = lower expenses = freedom to work part time and enjoy life NOW**

*I found out I'd rather live in a tiny apartment in an area I truly love than in a bigger one in an area I don't like.
*small house in cool area = easier to live car-free. It's been 7 weeks since I sold my car and I haven't missed it for one second.

**applied for a part time side job as a bike messenger! Secretly I'm totally stoked about this. Minimum wages but it is something I would love to do. If I had a fancy house and high mortgage I could never do something like this.
[/quote]

Yes! My thoughts exactly. Less stuff, less rent to pay,more money making me money.
Also, that's great that you'll be doing something fun for part-time work:) . I've been getting more into that type lately as well- in addition to my regular work, I've been showing art for a couple years again- fun & extra money :) . plus I don't purchase any of the materials, its all recycled .  very mustachian ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on March 11, 2015, 04:16:10 AM
OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Long story short, when we got DH's stuff out of storage last year, there were 3 or 4 jars of coins, ie loose change. We've picked out all the high value coins and spent them, but now we're down to 5 and 10c coins - 3 jars worth. We can't use them up on parking, cos the meters are all restricted to a maximum number of coins (although we could probably get through a few 10c coings) plus they don't accept 5c coins these days. I'm guessing there's maybe $10 worth of shrapnel, give or take a bit.

What's the best way to get rid of it? I'm happy to give it away to charity. I've even considered dumping the coins on a footpath near a school for kids to find. I could possibly take it to a bank and see if they'll count it for us, but neither of us have done it in 6 months, so unlikely to happen any time soon - we just never go to a bank, and dunno which ones will accept piles of coins from non-business customers. (I've read that the US has Coinstar which would be awesome, but I don't think such a thing exists here)

Feels like such a stupid thing to be stuck on, but I just want them gone now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on March 11, 2015, 06:04:04 AM
Giggle, I just had an image of you trying to stuff hundreds of 5/10c coins into a little Salvation Army ladies box. And a surprised look on her face when it was too heavy to hold…..

Seriously though, why not give them to a charity collector ( of course there won't be any now you're looking), or take them into Vinnies or something?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LadyDriver on March 11, 2015, 07:00:08 AM
OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Any collectible coins in there? In the US, 10c coins used to be made of silver and you occasionally still find them in circulation. Maybe there are coins that are worth more than their face value in your jars.

If the idea of looking through coins makes you want to huddle in the corner and rock, then I second donation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on March 11, 2015, 07:14:08 AM
It's clothes donation day for me today.  Which means I have to quickly sift through it to make a list for tax deductions.  Ugh!  But it shall be done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 11, 2015, 08:23:29 AM
Another box full of stuff gone (to someone who was collecting stuff for a flea market), yeah!

And remembering again WHY I'm doing this:
Less stuff = no need for big house and a car* = lower expenses = freedom to work part time and enjoy life NOW**

*I found out I'd rather live in a tiny apartment in an area I truly love than in a bigger one in an area I don't like.
*small house in cool area = easier to live car-free. It's been 7 weeks since I sold my car and I haven't missed it for one second.

**applied for a part time side job as a bike messenger! Secretly I'm totally stoked about this. Minimum wages but it is something I would love to do. If I had a fancy house and high mortgage I could never do something like this.

Thank you, I really appreciated this post. Life took a crazy turn in the last few weeks and I haven't been doing much of anything except recovering. I moved the 'donate' pile out of sight for a bit and haven't been decluttering at all. I also haven't been cleaning much, but I did notice the other day when I finally swept the floor and tidied up the kitchen that it is much easier than it used to be with less stuff in the way.

I will get back at it in good time, but I appreciated the great reminder of why I am doing this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 11, 2015, 01:47:09 PM
OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Any collectible coins in there? In the US, 10c coins used to be made of silver and you occasionally still find them in circulation. Maybe there are coins that are worth more than their face value in your jars.

If the idea of looking through coins makes you want to huddle in the corner and rock, then I second donation.

A bank will give you wrappers.  Tally them up while watching a redbox or hulu/amazon movie.  And then drop them off at your bank.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kbeth07 on March 11, 2015, 02:54:20 PM
For the past year or so, I've been pretty obsessed with the idea of minimalism and decluttering. I've been slowly getting rid of most of my collection of stuff. I've cut my wardrobe down to about half of its size (still considering of reducing it further), realized I didn't need 5 pairs of jeans and like 10 different pairs of pajama pants or a drawer overflowing with socks. Down to 10 pairs of shoes, that I actually wear regularly. Got rid of all of my DVDs and CDs, all but one shelf of books, most of my random knick-knacks, most of my beauty stuff, art supplies I never used, etc.

I'm moving out of my parents' house in the fall, and I'd like to make the move as smooth as possible, by not lugging a lot of stuff with me. As much as I've already gotten rid of, I feel like there's still quite a bit more to go. I'm in the process of trying to sell this last bit of stuff through a mix of Ebay, Amazon, and local Facebook buy/sell groups. Kind of a slow process, and sometimes I think of just saying, "screw it" and tossing it all in a big bag to go to the Goodwill, but I could use the chunk of change for living expenses and such. I feel like I've come a long way in removing emotional attachments to physical possessions!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on March 12, 2015, 05:01:22 AM
Giggle, I just had an image of you trying to stuff hundreds of 5/10c coins into a little Salvation Army ladies box. And a surprised look on her face when it was too heavy to hold…..

Seriously though, why not give them to a charity collector ( of course there won't be any now you're looking), or take them into Vinnies or something?

LOL Hmmm. That's a good point. I could take the jars to Vinnies and see if they'll take them. Or I could be annoying and go to our local Maccas and stuff coins into the Ronald McDonald House collection box til the staff get sick of me. Thanks for the suggestions!

OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Any collectible coins in there? In the US, 10c coins used to be made of silver and you occasionally still find them in circulation. Maybe there are coins that are worth more than their face value in your jars.

If the idea of looking through coins makes you want to huddle in the corner and rock, then I second donation.

A bank will give you wrappers.  Tally them up while watching a redbox or hulu/amazon movie.  And then drop them off at your bank.  :)

LadyDriver - nah, highly unlikely to be collectible coins in our stash of shrapnel. And if there were, yeah, huddle in corner and rock would be my likely reaction :)

CommentCents - that's a possibility but will probably suffer from inertia/laziness that we've demonstrated superbly thus far (also not helped by the opening hours of the banks we have accounts with).

I think my conclusion is try to give it to charity in some way. Vinnies is probably easiest option (or the local op shop).

Thanks everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 12, 2015, 06:06:14 AM
5 big bags dropped off at the charity shop today! I can't even really remember what half of that stuff was, but I know I'm glad to be rid of it.

Wow, our bedroom is so much easier to vacuum now! There used to be stuff that 'lived' on the floor because there wasn't anywhere else to put it. Now I've cleaned off all shelves and drawers of stuff that was 'put away' but rarely / never used, I'm getting to the point where everything that is used regularly has a home.

I designated one of my dresser drawers for 'works in progress' for my dressmaking hobby. Fabrics that have been cut out have to lay flat to prevent anything stretching out of shape, and they were taking over. Now, they all lay flat in the drawer, ready for me to grab and sew. I tend to cut out lots at once as it's a faff for me to get the cutting board out.

I've been checking every item off my list - since the beginning of the year I have got rid of over 600 things. And I thought I'd didn't have much stuff...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 13, 2015, 04:56:30 AM
2 shirts and 1 pair of trousers to goodwill, 1 cycling hat given away.

Found out there's some kind of book trading/giveaway/takeaway store not far from here. Will surely bring some books there, too.


Decluttered my iPad and pc as well: deleted a number of apps, put all the Apple apps I don't use in one folder, and reduced the number of desktop icons on my pc too.
Smartphone homescreen decluttered as well: 8 less icons on my homescreen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 13, 2015, 07:33:54 AM
I always accumulate a stack of papers ( pamphlets, receipts, clippings, etc) to look at "later". Went thru and recycled 90%. Like to take care of papers when I get them to avoid the pile . donated a dress, nightgown, pants. Tossed several worn socks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 13, 2015, 09:28:57 AM
I always accumulate a stack of papers ( pamphlets, receipts, clippings, etc) to look at "later". Went thru and recycled 90%. Like to take care of papers when I get them to avoid the pile . donated a dress, nightgown, pants. Tossed several worn socks.

Riverffashion - this is a great insight - I'm going to try to remind myself that 'later' rarely comes. If I wanted to read it, I would do it there and then. I am not short of time, it's just a delaying tactic for me. Thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on March 13, 2015, 02:57:10 PM
I listed 5 old text books last week.  One sold today.  Mailed it out.  I should make about $20. 

I am going to sort through all of our paperback books this week.  I'll probably walk around our neighborhood and put books in all of the Free Little Libraries. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on March 13, 2015, 03:02:18 PM
Today is the day of The Great Shoe Roundup.

I knew we had a ton of shoes, but geez there were even more than I thought!  There's no reason for 2 people to have over 50 shoes between them, I mean really!

So once DH gets home we'll go through, I believe we can easily get rid of 20 pairs, maybe more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 13, 2015, 04:22:02 PM
Zaga, you reminded me of something I need to declutter: shoes!!

Will attack that this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on March 13, 2015, 05:00:58 PM
It was quite an undertaking.  1 trash bag is full of trash shoes, and about a half bag for donation.  Total of 18 pairs.  So we still have around 35 pairs for the 2 of us. 

We sort of suck at this, but it's a start.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: GoldenGrove on March 14, 2015, 10:45:09 AM
Posting here to keep motivated (y'all are awesome!). Over the past three years I've donated/sold two-thirds of my wardrobe (maybe 60 items?), close to 800 books (yeah, I used to have a HUGE used book buying problem), and scanned about 4,000 sheets of paper and 200 photos. So now all the obvious candidates for removal are gone, but I still feel that I have more stuff than my apartment can comfortably hold and that I don't need.

Incidentally, while clearing out some digital clutter, I found this quote I like from Shakespeare:

Those that much covet are with gain so fond
That what they have not, that which they possess,
They scatter and unloose it from their bond,
And so by hoping more they have but less,
Or, gaining more, the profit of excess
   Is but to surfeit and such griefs sustain
   That they prove bankrupt in this poor-rich gain.

Keep up the good fight!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 14, 2015, 11:56:28 AM
Gloriana you ROCK!!! What scanner did you use?  And how do you keep track of the info in your computer?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: GoldenGrove on March 14, 2015, 05:34:27 PM
Wintersun, I've used my ca. 2009 Canon MP620 flatbed scanner for the vast majority of the paper and photo scanning. It's rather slow (I just jam out to music while scanning), but the quality seems to still be pretty good.

Honestly I don't really keep track of all that in one location-- I just tallied it up for this thread because I was curious. When I record the money earned from selling books in my master income/expenses spreadsheet, I always note the number of books sold. For pages scanned, I counted PDF pages because obviously I have nothing better to do with my time. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 15, 2015, 11:59:46 AM
Went through the hall closet today. Cleaned out about half of it. Stuff I haven't used in .....ever, expired medicines, vacuum cleaner bags even though my vacuum is long gone! Looks so much nicer. I can actually see what's in there now.

Tackling my donate pile today too. It's getting too big, but after stuff sits in that pile for awhile it makes it easy to see it for what it is... junk.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 15, 2015, 03:10:58 PM
I've been finding random bags of "stuff" as I sort various rooms.  A lot of it is old paper - maybe 1% is keep, the rest is recycling or shredding.  I now have another blue recycling bag full of shredded paper to go out this week.  Plus my recycling bin is full every week, instead of half full.  Plus I am managing paper better as it enters the house, since it is easier to file what should be kept and recycle or shred what needs to go.  Lots of pluses   ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 15, 2015, 03:16:52 PM
Paper question - especially for Canadians (things vary by country).  Has anyone found a site that tells how long to keep documentation? 

Background: I figure I can start shredding old CC statements (unless I need one for proof of purchase) and things like that.  Fortunately a lot of my billing is online now,which has cut down on the paper.  But I am thinking of paperwork for houses I no longer own - how long do the major documents have to be kept?  Plus now that the divorce is done, I have put most of the paperwork in a box for storage - but I hope in a year or so to go back and shred 98% of it.  And is there anything that qualifies for "keep for almost forever" besides income taxes?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 15, 2015, 04:35:42 PM
Paper question - especially for Canadians (things vary by country).  Has anyone found a site that tells how long to keep documentation? 

Background: I figure I can start shredding old CC statements (unless I need one for proof of purchase) and things like that.  Fortunately a lot of my billing is online now,which has cut down on the paper.  But I am thinking of paperwork for houses I no longer own - how long do the major documents have to be kept?  Plus now that the divorce is done, I have put most of the paperwork in a box for storage - but I hope in a year or so to go back and shred 98% of it.  And is there anything that qualifies for "keep for almost forever" besides income taxes?

I'm curious about this also. I still need to attack the paperwork. I have credit card statements, utility bills and pay stubs that go back as far as 2008! I thought that you were supposed to keep income tax records for 7 years, but I just looked it up and CRA says 6 years. http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/tpcs/ncm-tx/kpng/menu-eng.html

Went through the greenhouse and a little bit of the garage today to tidy up and I threw out a few more junk things. Very excitedly, I found so many things in the garage that I can donate too. That's going to be a big project and I am quite looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on March 15, 2015, 06:39:34 PM
OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Commonwealth (and probably others) has machines you can dump your change into and they'll convert it to electronic money. You can look on your bank's website and see if they do it. Last time I took my bucket in, it was over $200!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on March 15, 2015, 07:22:19 PM
I'm just going to start reading this thread from the beginning...

But I have been doing a little decluttering of my own. I decided to deal with the "toiletry cupboard of shame" as its known. It was full of stuff people have given me (gift sets etc), hotel toiletries, stuff I 'had' to try and duplicates of stuff because I'd forgotten that I had them...

I've been working it down for 6 months and should be done soon. When its over, I will be trying to use far fewer products overall...

I also did the cupboard under the sink where I keep household cleaners. I've used up most of the products I had and now use just a few multi-purpose (more natural) ones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on March 15, 2015, 08:14:18 PM
Wish me luck: I'm planning a big weekend of decluttering.

Targets this weekend are the huge, heavy, horrible filing cabinet in the spare room - this is the BF's and holds only his stuff, so I will be spending a lot of time assisting him with that and offering emotional support (he finds decluttering difficult) - and our apartment's external storage unit, which is filled with who knows what. We need the storage unit to be more or less clear so that we can shift our remaining possessions into it as necessary while we're repainting, redoing the flooring, and then staging the place to sell.

I'm anticipating having a lot to throw out (including some broken / crap furniture to take to the tip), a lot of papers to take in for shredding, and hopefully by the end of the weekend another car load for charity.

At some point when the BF isn't around to get sentimental on my behalf, I'm going to photograph and then throw out some items from childhood which aren't in good enough condition to pass on to our hypothetical children or give to charity. I suspect I also have some half-finished craft projects that need to go.

I also have some laptops which are no longer at all useable / re-sellable, but which I've hung on to as I didn't know how to clear my personal information from them before recycling. I know I need to remove the hard drive, but how?? I have no computer knowledge at all. Suspect the BF has at least one old computer for which he needs to do the same. Maybe I should make friends with somebody with IT expertise (or even basic general IT knowledge...).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on March 16, 2015, 05:17:45 AM
OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Commonwealth (and probably others) has machines you can dump your change into and they'll convert it to electronic money. You can look on your bank's website and see if they do it. Last time I took my bucket in, it was over $200!

Ooooh. That might be a goer. We did take one jar of coins to the local op shop but they were closed. *sigh*
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 16, 2015, 06:12:31 AM
@HappierAtHome - sentimental stuff is the hardest.  I donated little china animal figurines a while ago, all from my childhood.  That was hard.  But they were sitting in a box and I never had them out, so why keep them?  So I kept the two I liked the most now, and have them out, and donated the rest.  And I don't miss the ones I donated.  Remembering that whole exercise helps when I go through sentimental things - is it truly something I want to keep, in which case why is it living in a box, or is it inertia?

The possibility that I might be putting the house on the market in the summer of 2016 and moving 4500 km away certainly gives me motivation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 16, 2015, 07:58:10 AM
I'm afraid my first piece of decluttering grief has reared its ugly head...

My friend gave me an sports bra which no longer fits her, because I was saying I needed a new one. I looked at it, realised it was totally the wrong size, and put it straight in the donate bag. Off it went...

She text me the other night... Whoops, that wasn't the sports bra I gave you! It was a nursing bra, can I have it back?

Uh oh.

(but also, don't let me put you off. I've got rid of over 600 things so far this year and I haven't missed a single one! Just maybe think twice when you are expecting something in your size and what you get is totally different... should have put two and two together).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 16, 2015, 10:02:30 AM
I also have some laptops which are no longer at all useable / re-sellable, but which I've hung on to as I didn't know how to clear my personal information from them before recycling. I know I need to remove the hard drive, but how?? I have no computer knowledge at all. Suspect the BF has at least one old computer for which he needs to do the same. Maybe I should make friends with somebody with IT expertise (or even basic general IT knowledge...).
Open laptop.
Remove HDD.
Smash HDD with sledge hammer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 16, 2015, 10:11:31 PM
I have just finished 3 weeks of arduous work painting and prepping a house for sale and it's now on the market as of today! It was a rental house for 9 years and finally the market was high enough to consider selling it. We still have several other rental houses though, so my burden is only slightly lessened. I have a garage full of supplies that *might* be used at one of the houses, and a couple of them are furnished, so besides building and painting supplies, I have decor items and tons of cleansers and such. It all feels so burdensome, but I hesitate to get rid of it for fear of needing it. Not quite sure how to deal with the situation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 16, 2015, 10:54:37 PM
Practical magic, maybe store it in craigslist?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on March 17, 2015, 03:33:43 AM
I started with decluttering our wardrobe today. Got rid of some old panties, bikinis and socks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 17, 2015, 12:20:46 PM
Practical magic, maybe store it in craigslist?

Haha, I'm thinking that's a good idea!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 17, 2015, 02:41:20 PM
MMM wrote about this (of course) (http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2011/08/11/get-rich-with-craigslist/)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldladystache on March 17, 2015, 07:41:18 PM
I did it. moved four months ago to a 560 sq ft place with carport from my 1300 ft house with double garage. I just took what I really needed, then for three months I went back for things I discovered I needed. There was a huge amount remaining.

I invited friends to come and take whatever they wanted. I took some things to donate, and I sold the few things of significant value. Then I had a huge sale. Didn't make much money but the stuff found a home. Everything left went out on the driveway with a free sign. Then I had the trash people pick up the rest. Had painters and handyman and carpet installers and cleaners spend a busy week.

Put it on the market and sold it in four days. Escrow closes April ten.

Hooray.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 17, 2015, 09:14:35 PM
I did it. moved four months ago to a 560 sq ft place with carport from my 1300 ft house with double garage. I just took what I really needed, then for three months I went back for things I discovered I needed. There was a huge amount remaining.

I invited friends to come and take whatever they wanted. I took some things to donate, and I sold the few things of significant value. Then I had a huge sale. Didn't make much money but the stuff found a home. Everything left went out on the driveway with a free sign. Then I had the trash people pick up the rest. Had painters and handyman and carpet installers and cleaners spend a busy week.

Put it on the market and sold it in four days. Escrow closes April ten.

Hooray.

This is so great! Great move, excellent inspiring decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on March 17, 2015, 11:38:03 PM
Brought some jewellery in (mostly presents from ex boyfriends!) to see if a jewellery-loving colleague would like it. She thinks some of it is worth actual money and has offered to list it on ebay and share the proceeds - even after I insisted that I was happy for her to just have it.

Let's see if I make a little cash :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 18, 2015, 11:41:19 AM
I am feeling pleased at how far I have gotten with this ...and just got given another piece of furniture.  It is free and means we will not be buying one of these as planned but it sort of sticks in my craw.  I keep a list of objects entering the house and I am realising that there is some conflict in me between saving money and de-cluttering.  They both feel good, but sometimes I acquire something for free or very cheap that is not really what I want and is a stop gap.It is not a great feeling.

Just writing this has convinced me to take it to the thrift store.  Phew.  Thank heavens for this thread!!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 18, 2015, 01:47:11 PM
MMM wrote about this (of course) (http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2011/08/11/get-rich-with-craigslist/)

Yes, and somehow I always still laugh when I "hear" it. ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 19, 2015, 05:26:24 AM
I did it. moved four months ago to a 560 sq ft place with carport from my 1300 ft house with double garage. I just took what I really needed, then for three months I went back for things I discovered I needed. There was a huge amount remaining.

I invited friends to come and take whatever they wanted. I took some things to donate, and I sold the few things of significant value. Then I had a huge sale. Didn't make much money but the stuff found a home. Everything left went out on the driveway with a free sign. Then I had the trash people pick up the rest. Had painters and handyman and carpet installers and cleaners spend a busy week.

Put it on the market and sold it in four days. Escrow closes April ten.

Hooray.
Awesome! You are inspiring us to do something similar though at a smaller scale. We are going from 1200+ sqft to 900 sqft. Your idea of moving the must haves and then decluttering is brilliant. Going to run it by the husband!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on March 19, 2015, 06:12:55 AM
OK, I'm pretty good at finding new homes for clothes and general household stuff, but I'm stuck on jars of 5 and 10c coins. Help!

Long story short, when we got DH's stuff out of storage last year, there were 3 or 4 jars of coins, ie loose change. We've picked out all the high value coins and spent them, but now we're down to 5 and 10c coins - 3 jars worth. We can't use them up on parking, cos the meters are all restricted to a maximum number of coins (although we could probably get through a few 10c coings) plus they don't accept 5c coins these days. I'm guessing there's maybe $10 worth of shrapnel, give or take a bit.

What's the best way to get rid of it? I'm happy to give it away to charity. I've even considered dumping the coins on a footpath near a school for kids to find. I could possibly take it to a bank and see if they'll count it for us, but neither of us have done it in 6 months, so unlikely to happen any time soon - we just never go to a bank, and dunno which ones will accept piles of coins from non-business customers. (I've read that the US has Coinstar which would be awesome, but I don't think such a thing exists here)

Feels like such a stupid thing to be stuck on, but I just want them gone now.

I take spare coins and put them in a coin purse. I dish them out to everyone. I am quick to count the coins though (and dont do massive transactions) so I dont piss off people behind me. Most shops are really pleased to get change actually and some will ask for more of it.

Another way to get rid of it is in train ticket machines? Or for small purchases like newspapers or a bar of chocolate. I kind of treat it as found money so I buy stuff with it that I might not normally.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on March 19, 2015, 08:44:44 PM
I got rid of a huge framed picture hanging.  It was gorgeous and I still liked it, but it sucks to move because it pops out of the frame.  Now I can hang other pretty pictures there instead.

I also sold my motorcycle.  Bam! But this doesn't count since I only sold it so I had cash for a new (to me, but cheaper and bigger engine) one.  Did NOT want to risk not being able to sell my first one and having two sitting in my garage stall.  I would cringe every time I saw the 'money' sitting there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 20, 2015, 12:38:47 AM
My husband offered our big old piano to someone at work. We have a new one gifted to us by my parents, so why was I keeping the old one? For one of the kids when they get married. Well, I thought about that old MMM article about using Craiglist and the library as a place to store your goods till you need them again. When you look on CL, there are free pianos popping up every day, so my kids will be able to get one that way and I will be free of this gigantic upright piano in my living room (across the room from the OTHER piano!). For a while, I thought I was emotionally attached to the piano since all of my kids learned to play on it, but if they're not attached to it, why should I be either?

Such a DUH moment when I realized we should do this. The fellow at work mentioned at the staff Christmas party that he would like to get his little girls a piano someday, so its a perfect situation! Everyone's happy!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 20, 2015, 06:35:05 AM
And in the meantime 1967 you've given some kid the gift of music! Lovely story where everyone benefits.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: driftwood on March 20, 2015, 08:07:15 AM
I've been getting rid of stuff for a few years now.  We're moving to the UK in a few months (military) so that's motivating both my wife (OK with getting rid of stuff we don't need), and I (obsessed about having as little as possible) to trim out more unecessary things before we move.  We don't know what size house will be available, so we've been trying to get set up to be able to fit in a much smaller house.

Biggest win:  We've been talking for a year or so about getting rid of our huge sectional.  We bought it new in 2004 for $2700 (more than my first car) and absolutely love it.  Still in good condition.  Of the three sides (think a U shape) we only use 2.  The biggest issue is that it usually only fits in one room one way in each place we've lived.  If we end up in a house that doesn't fit it well we're screwed.  My wife finally decided we should sell it (I've wanted to sell it for awhile).  She found a replacement (couch with chaise that can be switched from side to side) and a matching chair with ottoman for $200.  Then she sold the sectional for $500!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 20, 2015, 12:10:08 PM
What do you do with things you know u'll need in a year or two? We have a ton of baby stuff that we know we'll use for baby#2. We are also moving from a two bedroom apartment to a one bed one and have extra furniture. We are planning to move back to a two bed apartment next year. Should I keep them in storage or just sell and rebuy?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on March 20, 2015, 02:21:43 PM
What do you do with things you know u'll need in a year or two? We have a ton of baby stuff that we know we'll use for baby#2. We are also moving from a two bedroom apartment to a one bed one and have extra furniture. We are planning to move back to a two bed apartment next year. Should I keep them in storage or just sell and rebuy?

One year I'd keep - the effort of selling and the possible inability to buy/sell at prices I'd accept wouldn't be worth it to me.  Indefinite or really long time I'd sell.  I have friends that gave away their baby stuff planning on only one kid.  Then they changed their minds, but they had already given away all of the clothes and they're unhappy about that now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 20, 2015, 02:33:58 PM
What do you do with things you know u'll need in a year or two? We have a ton of baby stuff that we know we'll use for baby#2. We are also moving from a two bedroom apartment to a one bed one and have extra furniture. We are planning to move back to a two bed apartment next year. Should I keep them in storage or just sell and rebuy?

How much do you have to pay for storage?  If you have it in the apartment, absolutely keep it.  If you have to get external storage, I'd estimate how much you are actually paying for the storage vs paying to rebuy it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 20, 2015, 04:31:42 PM
Spring cleaning is making me pissed at the stuff that is sitting around requiring dusting, so I'm finding a whole new round of stuff to take to the thrift store - throw pillows, ramekins (wtf, I have 14 ramekins?!).  I'm even feeling less sentimental about some things that came from family and thinking I might be ready to get rid of them soon.  Combined some random partially filled toiletries - like, mixed the assorted conditioners together - and getting rid of bottles.  Tossed out a 15 year wine cork collection - I am never going to get around to making a bulletin board out of those.  Pared a few more items out of my wardrobe while switching out some of the winter and spring clothes.

Also decluttering the pantry via getting rid of stuff we just don't eat any more.  This is a giant savings because I like my kitchen better and no longer want to tear it out and replace it with one that has more storage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on March 21, 2015, 01:04:17 PM
I dropped off a little bag of odds and ends that had accumulated today, it was half a dozen or a dozen things.  Time to start another donation bag or box, I guess!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 21, 2015, 01:23:58 PM
Posted some things online for free on a Facebook group. Have had a few people show up to take away my things! Some of them are taking a look at the pile to find other things I haven't posted yet, that they might be able to use. Feeling lighter already.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 21, 2015, 04:24:35 PM
I've been from finding a lot of random things to donate, recycle , or toss just about everyday! Guess I'm on a roll now. So far today: sunglasses I never wear because are not polarized, cellphone holder I never use, various essential oils I found but do not like scents ( must be more discerning of what I bring in- not just take because free or found), extra nail clippers, tweezers, box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on March 22, 2015, 06:19:46 PM
Lugged three bags on foot to the nearest op-shop and donated everything inside. My bedroom floor is now completely clean!

Next stop, selling the stuff that's actually worth something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on March 22, 2015, 06:34:14 PM
Got rid of boxes and boxes of old papers on the weekend. Mostly uni-related - it's more than five years since I graduated now!

We cleared out our wine collection, by getting rid of some bottles kept for sentimental reasons, and giving away most of the rest.

Several more big bags have been filled with things for charity, including some good quality kitchen things that we'll just never use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 23, 2015, 04:24:20 AM
Love reading everyone's successes on this thread!

My cull rate is definitely slowing down. At first I was reluctant to let things go, and very picky. Then I realised how much better I felt and got ruthless! But now I've got rid of so much stuff most of what I have I regularly use. I think.

So this weekend I went through my wardrobe and turned all the hangers. I thought I didn't need to do this exercise because I know which things I don't wear but am holding onto for silly reasons (wore it on a special date, don't like how it fits but it was expensive etc). But I'm hoping it will make me see that I NEVER wear them, so there is no point keeping them 'just in case I need them'. We will see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 23, 2015, 06:31:45 AM
This is cool.

The other day I was going through my cupboards, and noticed I had plenty of empty space in them. Looked around the apartment, on the table, on my desk etc, and there just wasn't any stuff to store in the cupboards!
So next step: ditch a cupboard.?



(please forgive me if I use the wrong word for closet/cupboard/cabinet ;) )
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on March 23, 2015, 07:22:00 AM
We are getting a dumpster tomorrow to tear out the basement.  While it is here I'll be making sure it is full all the way to the brim!  I hope after the basement destruction that there is space for a good deal of other crap in the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ash7962 on March 23, 2015, 08:02:35 AM
This is cool.

The other day I was going through my cupboards, and noticed I had plenty of empty space in them. Looked around the apartment, on the table, on my desk etc, and there just wasn't any stuff to store in the cupboards!
So next step: ditch a cupboard.?



(please forgive me if I use the wrong word for closet/cupboard/cabinet ;) )

Kinda jealous of you, I'm still in the process of figuring out my kitchen haha, and its been kinda a goal for about a year.  I do little things here and there, but I'm nowhere close to having just empty cupboards.  This weekend I realized that I was not using my top shelves efficiently at all.  Instead of keeping rarely used things up there it was more like never used things, and rarely used things had migrated to a shelving unit in the dining area.  So, I threw out a bunch of old gross plastic tupaware that I replaced over a year ago with nicer glass tupaware, and plus relocated a couple things to their "proper" location.  Basically the top shelves in all of my cabinets were totally cleared out.  My kitchen exists on two walls, so my new strategy is to dedicate cabinets on one side as the "pantry" (I don't have a real pantry), and the other side to cookware/glassware/silverware.

I'm hoping this will be kinda a catalyst to the rest of my apartment.  The idea being that if I can get rid of the one shelving unit the dining table will fit better within the actual dining area, then the living room has more space.  This should hopefully work well with the plan of removing some of the other too large or unnecessary furniture in my apartment.   OK this was longer than I intended but I'm kinda excited about all this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 23, 2015, 11:09:40 AM
To all the declutterers on this thread, I am curious to know…with all of this de-cluttering are you finding that you are no longer bringing much into the house?  Is the act of getting rid of so much stuff that once cost money and now has no use to you causing you to shift your shopping mindset?

What habits have you changed since you started on this quest? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 23, 2015, 11:16:43 AM
To all the declutterers on this thread, I am curious to know…with all of this de-cluttering are you finding that you are no longer bringing much into the house?  Is the act of getting rid of so much stuff that once cost money and now has no use to you causing you to shift your shopping mindset?

What habits have you changed since you started on this quest?

Absolutely. I actually can't think of a single 'thing' that I've bought since I started at the beginning of the year that wasn't a consumable, like food or medicine, or something I've used immediately, like the screws to finish my deck steps. I'm even turning away free things that people want to give me. The only things I will accept are those that I know I will use, like food.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on March 23, 2015, 11:22:43 AM
Working hard at this, goal was to get rid of 100 things a week (yes, I have too much stuff).  This weekend i took a huge garbage bag to Goodwill, it was so large and so heavy i had to use the car as leverage to roll the bag into the back of my CRV!  Feels good, that was 2 weeks worth and i'm sure there was more than 200 items (clothing, shoes, household knick knacks, bits of yarn and other miscellaneous).

We're hoping to move from AZ to WY this summer and i need to move as little as possible, this is my chance to start fresh! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on March 23, 2015, 11:34:46 AM
To all the declutterers on this thread, I am curious to know…with all of this de-cluttering are you finding that you are no longer bringing much into the house?  Is the act of getting rid of so much stuff that once cost money and now has no use to you causing you to shift your shopping mindset?

What habits have you changed since you started on this quest?

I've never really brought much into my home, since I've always had smaller spaces. The problem is, my places have always had lots of storage space, which I would utilize unnecessarily.

My big habit that's changed is ignoring stuff that's out of sight. My desire to get rid of stuff used to end when things were out of sight in a closet, cupboard, or drawer. Now that the visual stuff is gone, I'm definitely noticing hidden clutter way more, and dealing with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 23, 2015, 11:44:19 AM
To all the declutterers on this thread, I am curious to know…with all of this de-cluttering are you finding that you are no longer bringing much into the house?  Is the act of getting rid of so much stuff that once cost money and now has no use to you causing you to shift your shopping mindset?

What habits have you changed since you started on this quest?

Definitely! Wait, actually, no, it was the other way around. I started using YNAB and stopped buying stuff because I was focussing on building net worth. Then I found MMM and cut back on purchasing things even more. Basically, if it's not consumable, I don't buy it. Very few exceptions for quality pieces that will last a long long time. But yes, key to seeing a difference in available space is not bringing anything in, for sure.

Whenever I 'want' something, I wait. And then I wait some more. And then if I really want it and can justify its use, I look to buy it used.

I would not have said I was a big shopper at all- I have never shopped for entertainment and avoided knick knacks etc. But I did like to try new things - toiletries, make up, foodstuffs. Forcing myself to use up every bottle of lotion and packet of wild rice has really made me stick to only buying things I know I like and will actually USE, instead of just wanting to be kind of person who has saffron in the cupboard, without any recipes to use it up in mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 23, 2015, 11:49:31 AM
What I failed to explain in my previous post is that when I stopped buying things, I realised how much of the joy was in the buying, not the using. And it made me see that these things I had weren't bringing me any pleasure, they were a burden. Acquiring them was fun, but in a weird way, that meant they had fulfilled their purpose. Using them up was not fun, and it has put me off buying anything else, and encouraged me to unload those things I don't use and want anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on March 23, 2015, 05:28:21 PM
Wonderful thread! I have been reading Francing Jay, too. We did a big cleanup over the weekend and took a pickup truck full of stuff to dump, and packed a box of household stuff and a bag of clothes for Goodwill. This morning I cleaned out 1 shelf in the linen closet. I set up a card table in the bathroom and put all the contents of the shelf on the table, sorted through what I really wanted, and made a beautifully organized shelf out of it. Cleaning one shelf per day should work great.

There's so much more cleaning to do, but, at the same time, a big challenge is to only acquire new things thoughtfully and sensibly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 23, 2015, 06:46:17 PM
I dropped off a box load of books and DVDs to the local used bookstore and got a grand total of….... $7! Books and DVDs hold the lowest value after use :( no more buying books or DVDs.

Not to mention, any more books or DVDs I find go to good will. So not worth the hassle!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on March 23, 2015, 07:09:46 PM
To all the declutterers on this thread, I am curious to know…with all of this de-cluttering are you finding that you are no longer bringing much into the house?  Is the act of getting rid of so much stuff that once cost money and now has no use to you causing you to shift your shopping mindset?

What habits have you changed since you started on this quest?

It's kind of a non-vicious circle.

I'd already started buying significantly less / bringing much less into the house. But yes, decluttering is definitely helping me to shift my mindset about 'enough' and to be a bit harsher in my decisions about what I allow in (almost all our Christmas presents were donated immediately, for example).

I think decluttering has changed my procrastination habit. I'm so grumpy at past-Happier for keeping all this crap for me to deal with, that I'm dealing with stuff NOW instead of leaving it for when we move house.

And it has shifted my understanding of what actually brings me joy. I'm not a very sentimental person, it turns out :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 23, 2015, 08:00:17 PM
Going out this week:

- air hockey table (HUGE)
- IKEA bar stool
- stereo speaker
- 6 kid dress up costumes
- 2 bags of clothes
- toddler bed

Its all sitting by the door waiting for a truck to come on Wednesday. Sadly, that doesn't even make a dent in what we yet have to get rid of! I was telling my husband MMM's theory of storing your goods at the library/thrift store/Craig's list and he thought that sounded very wise.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 24, 2015, 05:50:08 AM

I think decluttering has changed my procrastination habit.

This is true for me too. I realised a lot of my clutter was stuff I didn't know what to do with, or stuff I didn't want to throw away because I had to deal with it 'right' (eg recycling, giving away etc). I have been forcing myself to just MAKE A DECISION and it feels better. Someone upthread said 'clutter is delayed decisions' and for me that was and is very true.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 24, 2015, 07:44:21 AM
To all the declutterers on this thread, I am curious to know…with all of this de-cluttering are you finding that you are no longer bringing much into the house?  Is the act of getting rid of so much stuff that once cost money and now has no use to you causing you to shift your shopping mindset?

What habits have you changed since you started on this quest? 

It's been a slow process, but over the years I had already come to realize that maybe I don't need to buy and own that much stuff.
Various events, experiences, books, lectures etc have contributed to this idea.
So I hadn't been buying much anyway over the last few years.

Reading MMM, this thread and videos from Joshua Becker and Ryan Nicodemus & Joshua Fields Millburn just inspired me to take it a bit further.
So since I started decluttering plm 3 months ago I hardly bought anything apart from food, but I doubt I would have if I hadn't been decluttering.


Another stack of books (8 or so) given to charity today, by the way :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 24, 2015, 05:46:22 PM
Went through a garbage bag of teddy bears that my adult daughter had collected out of her little siblings bedrooms. Only kept out 3 for sentimental value. I should really start a box for each child with a few special things from their childhood. Does anyone else do this?

My mom has a box in the attic. Not going to argue with her since she's been de-cluttering a lot, and wants to get at the stuff in the attic next.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 24, 2015, 05:54:13 PM
One of those lumpy too-soft pillows that's so ancient I don't even know where it came from. And a mismatched pillowcase.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 24, 2015, 06:19:06 PM
Wow, there is some serious decluttering going on on this thread.  I do not have any to report per se, however the feeling of ease and enjoyment in our uncluttered spaces continues unabated.  My uncle came over the other day and could not stop talking about how beautifully we had fixed the house up and how great the new paint job looks.  Of course nothing has been painted, or fixed up, I simply decluttered and am keeping each room clutter-free. 

I still have a lot of papers in storage right now which need to be tossed/scanned/filed but they can wait until after Christmas.

I am working on how to declutter my Christmas preparation which still includes loads of presents, mailing cards and having a big messy wrapping station on the dining room table.  I have managed to use almost every gift in my gift drawer and do not plan to continue to have one.  I am using up all the old wrapping and ribbon and cards (I am ashamed to say that I am actually using some that someone else was tossing out).  I find the mess created by  having the wrapping stuff out for more than one day is messing with my serenity.  Note to self…not doing that next year.

Next year I want to cut back on the number of kids we give gifts to and put the Christmas card info into a database so I can print labels.  I know the card thing is outdated but it is an old fashioned thing I like and it is a way of keeping in touch with elderly friends abroad.

I aslo want to move more and more into baking gifts instead of buying them. 

One final part, we have always driven around delivering to houses, and it takes a lot of time and energy.  When we were younger it was like an all day party but now it is a slog.  I definitely want to examine this for next year.

Do any of you guys make this time of year too complicated?

I do Christmas cards. I have all the addresses in an excel file and just update it as needed. When I'm ready to do the labels, I do a mail merge in Word. Works great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on March 25, 2015, 08:51:18 AM
Two more bags of toys and clothes in the van. Stuffed animals I suspect are actually alive, because they keep multiplying...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on March 25, 2015, 09:08:10 AM
Does anyone else have "guilt" over donating?  I feel guilty giving away stuff that is still good, that could be sold for at least a little $ back.  Even though I know the items help others in need (well, it goes to a store, is sold and part of the profit goes toward helping others), it feels wasteful.  And hence why i have TOO MUCH STUFF.

I have been struggling with this.  For example, i have a plastic bin FULL of shoes of my daughters.  Some are new but most are lightly used (from infant to age 6).  It's a bin that if i donated them all, would give me an extra bin to used to pack the house for our (possible) move this summer.  And yet, i haven't been able to do it yet....

I know it's weird, in a rummage sale i MIGHT get .25 - $1.00 per pair.  It would likely add up to < $20 IF i sold every pair in the bin.  Lots of extra work for maybe $20 or a 2 minute decision to put them in the donate bag and reclaim that bin. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 25, 2015, 09:15:58 AM
Does anyone else have "guilt" over donating?  I feel guilty giving away stuff that is still good, that could be sold for at least a little $ back.  Even though I know the items help others in need (well, it goes to a store, is sold and part of the profit goes toward helping others), it feels wasteful.  And hence why i have TOO MUCH STUFF.

I have been struggling with this.  For example, i have a plastic bin FULL of shoes of my daughters.  Some are new but most are lightly used (from infant to age 6).  It's a bin that if i donated them all, would give me an extra bin to used to pack the house for our (possible) move this summer.  And yet, i haven't been able to do it yet....

I know it's weird, in a rummage sale i MIGHT get .25 - $1.00 per pair.  It would likely add up to < $20 IF i sold every pair in the bin.  Lots of extra work for maybe $20 or a 2 minute decision to put them in the donate bag and reclaim that bin.

I can totally empathize with this. I feel excited to get rid of stuff, but there is guilt that maybe I could have got a little money if I'd made more effort. I do sell some things that are worth a little more, but I think the best thing to do with items that are worth a minimal amount is to take a deep breath and let them go.

I thought of storing everything in the garage and having a sale in the summer too, but then I'm not really getting rid of stuff, just storing it. The guilt has sure helped me a lot in not accumulating new things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 25, 2015, 10:14:22 AM
With a LOT of time and effort you could make a tiny bit of money by selling them.

Just do the math and decide how much your time is worth to you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on March 25, 2015, 10:32:05 AM
With a LOT of time and effort you could make a tiny bit of money by selling them.

Just do the math and decide how much your time is worth to you.

I know, I know, the logical part of my brain thinks/believes this... the cheapo/frugal part of me thinks "i should sell that".  Of course, the thought of a garage sale here in phx where the temps are already hitting 90's makes me cringe.  Must. Donate. Little. Shoes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on March 25, 2015, 11:03:11 AM
You could try a consignment shop, like Turnstyle.  If they sell, you get money.  If they don't sell and you don't come pick them up, they'll donate them after a few months.  Win-win situation all around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 25, 2015, 11:26:18 AM
Years ago a friend and I had a yard sale - I sold almost nothing, and it was a lot of work.  Now I just donate to places I would like to benefit from the sales.  In Canada we cannot itemize donations for tax purposes, so it truly is a donation.  I benefit by getting the whatever out of my house, and knowing that the place I donated to will also benefit.  Plus it certainly cuts down on the stress.

When we moved (a few years after that yard sale) I didn't even try to sell things, I just took car loads to my favourite donation place.  That made for a much easier move.  No regrets.

Does anyone else have "guilt" over donating?  I feel guilty giving away stuff that is still good, that could be sold for at least a little $ back.  Even though I know the items help others in need (well, it goes to a store, is sold and part of the profit goes toward helping others), it feels wasteful.  And hence why i have TOO MUCH STUFF.

I have been struggling with this.  For example, i have a plastic bin FULL of shoes of my daughters.  Some are new but most are lightly used (from infant to age 6).  It's a bin that if i donated them all, would give me an extra bin to used to pack the house for our (possible) move this summer.  And yet, i haven't been able to do it yet....

I know it's weird, in a rummage sale i MIGHT get .25 - $1.00 per pair.  It would likely add up to < $20 IF i sold every pair in the bin.  Lots of extra work for maybe $20 or a 2 minute decision to put them in the donate bag and reclaim that bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 25, 2015, 11:54:11 AM
I did try selling books and DVDs... And ended up with $7. So not worth the effort. So now my new minimum is $20 per item. Lower than that, I prefer to donate and be done with it. Makes decluttering easier without guilt.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on March 25, 2015, 12:24:09 PM
My toddler is with the grandparents for most of this week so I've used my free time (and extreme boredom) to get my butt in gear and clean up.  We're moving in about two months and I officially have the first two boxes packed, of outgrown baby clothes which we'd like to keep for a second.  However, I also pulled out baby clothes to sell to a used baby stuff store, lots of items for a family member who's pregnant (but which isn't really decluttering since I'll get those back at some point), and several items for some friends whose baby will grow into them soon (don't want those back).  !!  It feels good to have done all of that.
Additionally, however, I identified several other items which can go to the charity shop, went through my closet yet again and pulled out some things I never wore but, strangely enough, kept out of a sense of guilt.  Last, I went through all of my and my husband's socks and underwear and cleared out anything with holes or in which the elastic was gone.  Sometimes I keep the holey socks to use to dust the house, then throw them away guilt-free, but I've got plenty of those so I tossed the rest.
Still looking for more to do.  Will probably start on the kitchen next, and start packing up some of the books.  I've already found some to get rid of but I found a few old textbooks lurking in the closet and have thought of a few more books which I don't mind parting with.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 25, 2015, 12:40:18 PM
Theadvicist,

What you said really resonates with me:

Quote
"these things I had weren't bringing me any pleasure, they were a burden. Acquiring them was fun, but in a weird way, that meant they had fulfilled their purpose. Using them up was not fun, and it has put me off buying anything else, and encouraged me to unload those things I don't use and want anymore."

I have heard of people who buy things and then return them the next day and also people who have dozens of brand new clothes in the closet with tags still on and I suspect that the fun was only in the shopping for those people as well.

Shopping can really bring my spirits up and can be an unhealthy way to fill a hole inside, and I am not even much of a shopper compared to the average Joe. 

After clearing out on and off over the last nine months I still feel weighed down by the burden of stuff. 

The other day I said to my dh:  Imagine living in a house where everything is in good working order, is easy to reach when you need it, where everything has its place and you know where it is; imagine having no huge list of chores involving tossing out, repairing, darning, cleaning things; imagine being in a house with every closet space neatly organised with lots of empty space; imagine going outside and all the tools for gardening are within reach and properly maintained; imagine only having clothes you use and love in your closet...

I realise that I have been overwhelmed by the excess of stuff for years.  I would love to move to a small house with a small garden and fewer things AND I still enjoy the beauty of where we live now, I just need to simplify a LOT more in order to enjoy it more fully, especially since my dh is not intending to move.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 25, 2015, 12:46:49 PM
Sibley,
That sounds good.  I did not send Christmas cards for years and am really enjoying the exchange.  I just need to make it simpler like you have.  I was going to take a photo and have cards made but I suspect that would be pretty pricey.  I was thinking of sending a picture to some website for that-does anyone know a good economical site for that?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 25, 2015, 12:52:41 PM
Dagobert Duck,

Quote
since I started decluttering plm 3 months ago I hardly bought anything apart from food, but I doubt I would have if I hadn't been decluttering

Congrats on reaching that place of not wanting to acquire.  I am still acquiring free things cast off by others or buying secondhand at yard sales.  The amount of stuff is not huge but it still weighs on me a great deal.  So avoiding shops is easy for me but avoiding sentimental cast offs from family is not so easy and I need to ban yard sale attendance. (sigh).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 25, 2015, 12:53:42 PM
Theadvicist,

What you said really resonates with me:

Quote
"these things I had weren't bringing me any pleasure, they were a burden. Acquiring them was fun, but in a weird way, that meant they had fulfilled their purpose. Using them up was not fun, and it has put me off buying anything else, and encouraged me to unload those things I don't use and want anymore."

I have heard of people who buy things and then return them the next day and also people who have dozens of brand new clothes in the closet with tags still on and I suspect that the fun was only in the shopping for those people as well.

Shopping can really bring my spirits up and can be an unhealthy way to fill a hole inside, and I am not even much of a shopper compared to the average Joe. 

After clearing out on and off over the last nine months I still feel weighed down by the burden of stuff. 

The other day I said to my dh:  Imagine living in a house where everything is in good working order, is easy to reach when you need it, where everything has its place and you know where it is; imagine having no huge list of chores involving tossing out, repairing, darning, cleaning things; imagine being in a house with every closet space neatly organised with lots of empty space; imagine going outside and all the tools for gardening are within reach and properly maintained; imagine only having clothes you use and love in your closet...

I realise that I have been overwhelmed by the excess of stuff for years.  I would love to move to a small house with a small garden and fewer things AND I still enjoy the beauty of where we live now, I just need to simplify a LOT more in order to enjoy it more fully, especially since my dh is not intending to move.

What you have both said has really impacted me! This morning, we had a truck pick up a bunch of bags of clothes (a free service, charity) but they wouldn't take a number of our large items. Husband is on 2 weeks holidays, so he just took a bunch more stuff to another thrift store that does take furniture, including: a functioning full sized air hockey table (inherited), an IKEA toddler bed, a large artificial plant and a functioning keyboard and stand.

So very glad to see some of this stuff go, but sadly, it doesn't even make a dent in what needs to go. It has really opened my eyes to see how much we have been bringing in over the years. Our garage is a disaster area, the closets in the house are full to overflowing with stuff, stuff, stuff. Do I need 5 throw cushions on my couch? They're always on the floor most of the time anyways. And SO. MANY. BOOKS! ugh!

@wintersun, I love your description of a house where everything is in good working order, etc. Just last night, we couldn't find one small item we had bought for our son's birthday today due to lack of organization.  I love the old adage, "A place for everything and everything in its place." Once I read a thing (sorry, no reference) that said, "If the power was out at night, could you find a pair of scissors?" For myself, I just laugh at that thought but I have two friends who answered, "Yes" without hesitation. Astounding!

Onward! I really want to make 2015 our year to clear out the clutter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 25, 2015, 12:58:18 PM
It seems that several things are interlinked for me.  Too much stuff, to do lists that are never tackled and involve said stuff, being drained by all the undone things, gaining and losing weight so that I have several wardrobes of clothes leading to more feelings of overwhelm, etc etc etc.

One day at a time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 25, 2015, 04:39:31 PM
The other day I said to my dh:  Imagine living in a house where everything is in good working order, is easy to reach when you need it, where everything has its place and you know where it is; imagine having no huge list of chores involving tossing out, repairing, darning, cleaning things; imagine being in a house with every closet space neatly organised with lots of empty space; imagine going outside and all the tools for gardening are within reach and properly maintained; imagine only having clothes you use and love in your closet...

Love this!

Once I read a thing (sorry, no reference) that said, "If the power was out at night, could you find a pair of scissors?" For myself, I just laugh at that thought but I have two friends who answered, "Yes" without hesitation. Astounding!

Scissors absolutely! I wish I could say that about everything else!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on March 25, 2015, 04:50:42 PM
It seems that several things are interlinked for me.  Too much stuff, to do lists that are never tackled and involve said stuff, being drained by all the undone things, gaining and losing weight so that I have several wardrobes of clothes leading to more feelings of overwhelm, etc etc etc.

One day at a time.

I hear that totally!  Same boat, but moving (again) in 6 weeks and need to get rid of stuff!  Thanks to the above people who just made me realize that I don't need to yard sale or craigslist or ebay anything!  If it is big, maybe, but all the little stuff, shoes, records clothes, who cares!  Just move it out already!  My time is worth more than $2.00/hour or whatever. 

Sounds bold but even as I type, I'm still thinking 'but a yard sale is just one day and you could make some money to help with moving expenses"  sigh...  I am a living example of penny-wise and pound-foolish...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on March 25, 2015, 08:49:13 PM
Ok, I did it.  Like ripping off a bandaid.  I gave 14 pair of shoes to a friend of ours (DH to deliver them tomorrow) and put 35 pair of shoes/flip flops/boots in the donate bag.  That's 6 years worth of hoarding my little girls shoes "just in case we had another".  Looks like no second baby so off they go. 

While doing that, I decided that 4 of the fancy dresses I was going to sell would have a good home with our friends daughter, so those went in her bag too.  I now have an empty tub... that I will pack up for our (possible) move this summer.  Thanks for the inspiration everyone!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 26, 2015, 07:21:48 AM
It seems that several things are interlinked for me.  Too much stuff, to do lists that are never tackled and involve said stuff, being drained by all the undone things, gaining and losing weight so that I have several wardrobes of clothes leading to more feelings of overwhelm, etc etc etc.

One day at a time.

Hi Wintersun, the not wanting to get rid of things and long to-do lists sounds like me. I had therapy recently (for something unrelated), and my particular problems came from procrastinating and putting off decisions, for fear of making the wrong decision. My course of cognitive behavioural therapy included working on throwing things out and tackling my to do list head on (or taking stuff I was never going to do off the list altogether). It was hard work, but it has made such a big difference to me.

Often, I would know I didn't want something, but I had to get rid of it in the 'best' way possible - by using it up, or donating it, or recycling it. Things that could not be donated (such as part used toiletries) gave me the most grief.

Just thought I would mention it. It's not the kind of thing I thought therapy really dealt with, but learning these techniques has helped me in many areas of my life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 26, 2015, 02:28:19 PM
Sibley,
That sounds good.  I did not send Christmas cards for years and am really enjoying the exchange.  I just need to make it simpler like you have.  I was going to take a photo and have cards made but I suspect that would be pretty pricey.  I was thinking of sending a picture to some website for that-does anyone know a good economical site for that?

I do Christmas cards because otherwise people never hear from me. I was late one year, and my mom actually got a phone call from some family asking if I was ok!

I don't do picture cards, and do not plan to. I buy Christmas cards after Christmas and save them for next year. I write a letter/note on the computer, print it on fancy paper (purchase after Christmas on deep discount), put it all together and call it good. The whole process is 2-4 hours depending on how much I'm distracted by other things. It's also when I buy my stamps for the entire following year.

My list is carefully managed. Family are permanent, except for the few who have disassociated themselves from the family. Friends - only people I want to stay in touch with are on the list. Last Christmas I think it was about 40 cards total (small family, small circle of friends).

I've considered emailing it out, but it's not enough for me to bother.  I also don't save cards that I receive - read them, keep for a few weeks to satisfy my roommate's need to display, then in the trash they go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 26, 2015, 10:43:33 PM
I still have this little corner filled with some things I'd like to sell. Obviously sellings not my thing,,, I wouldn't bother except these things are worth something. Ill need to ask a friend/family for help with this, as I've never done this before. I'm such a procrastinator jeez.. I think its a fear of getting ripped off, feeling like I messed up because I don't know any better. Of course if I ask for help & do research of values that would likely solve that .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on March 26, 2015, 10:54:12 PM

Often, I would know I didn't want something, but I had to get rid of it in the 'best' way possible - by using it up, or donating it, or recycling it. Things that could not be donated (such as part used toiletries) gave me the most grief.


Sounds like me.  I'm pretty good at going through the to-do list but theses little things just throw me off!  I don't want to waste!  things are worth something!  And so many websites just say "throw it out," but I feel bad.  I guess I feel bad either way, but sometimes the guilt is enough to motivate me to just use it up at a slightly accelerated rate.  advicist what did you end up doing with those toiletries, may I ask?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 27, 2015, 01:41:01 AM
Once we had 14+ baby blankets and my husband was having a hard time convincing me to put them in the give-away box. He said, "Think of all the cold babies..." That was all it took!

Sometimes, for me, picturing someone else finding usefulness in my discarded item (which still has plenty of good use left in it!) makes it easier to give it away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 27, 2015, 05:40:30 AM

Often, I would know I didn't want something, but I had to get rid of it in the 'best' way possible - by using it up, or donating it, or recycling it. Things that could not be donated (such as part used toiletries) gave me the most grief.




Sounds like me.  I'm pretty good at going through the to-do list but theses little things just throw me off!  I don't want to waste!  things are worth something!  And so many websites just say "throw it out," but I feel bad.  I guess I feel bad either way, but sometimes the guilt is enough to motivate me to just use it up at a slightly accelerated rate.  advicist what did you end up doing with those toiletries, may I ask?

Heartsnhearts it was a process for sure. When it first came up in therapy, my homeswork one week was to identify a toiletry I didn't like and throw it away. As in, just in the bin. Wow, that was hard (yes, I know I live a very wonderful sheltered life if I found that difficult). I actually couldn't bring myself to do it, so at my therapists suggestion, I took some items in and we did it together (wow I sound like a nutjob). I had to keep repeating it until the anxiety went down, to prove to myself that it would. And it did.

Stuff that was really fine (eg shampoo that I just didn't like the smell of) I actually gave to a friend of a friend. I was telling my friend about my therapy and she said, "oh, so and so loves toiletries of all kinds, and she's kind of struggling financially at the moment!", so I started putting things in a bag for her, and each time I saw my friend, I passed them on. On the one hand I wonder if I'm contributing to her toiletry problem, but hey, she might not have my issues, and the feedback is that she loves the surprise bundles.

Things that I just didn't prefer but were good, I used up. I asked myself, really, will I use this? And if not, I threw it out. I genuinely can now throw things away, although I still empty the bottle and put that in the recycling. But for example a 90% used lipstick that I was just forcing myself to use out of guilt, it's gone.

I'm basically down to only products I genuinely like and would repurchase, after using up odds and ends of lotions, conditioners etc. And when I recently bought an eyeshadow I decided I didn't love, I just gave it to friend of a friend straight away. No beating myself up over the wasted money, no moving it around from basket to basket for months, or using it when I have another one I'd rather use. I came to this realisation because I had been using up one I didn't like, and saving another one I did like and only using it occasionally. I finally gave myself permission to only use things I love, and realised that whilst I had been saving my favourite one, fashions had moved on, and I don't like it anymore. I never got to enjoy it, I just punished myself with the one I didn't like. So, no more. I use my favourites, I get rid of everything else.

Wow, that was an essay, sorry.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on March 27, 2015, 08:05:43 AM
That was great!  I'm ok with throwing away small or almost used up things if I'm not into them. But I have a hard time with the things  that are close to full and perfectly good. It sounds like I need to find a "friend of a friend" too!  I used to donate them to a shelter, but now I'm not sure if they would take them.

I totally hear you about "saving" a favorite and using a less favorite instead. I have done that with clothes so many times. I think, X clothing item is too nice/fancy/irreplaceable and I should "save" it for when I really "need" it. I mean really, clothing as irreplaceable, come on!  I was like this even as a girl. I think part of it stems from when I hit puberty and things didn't fit me well and it was the end of the 80's so fashion was horrible!  I always blamed my unperfect body, but now, even though my body is still not perfect, if something doesn't fit or look good it is on the clothing, not me. Most of the time:). And always when the "right" occasion would occur, said piece of clothing was out of date, out of repair from sitting too long, didn't fit me well anymore, etc. Now I try to wear what I like. I just need to get rid of the rest.

The other problem I have is sometimes I will like something after it has been lying about for years as styles, taste and body changes. Anyone else encounter that?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 27, 2015, 08:17:56 AM
Once we had 14+ baby blankets and my husband was having a hard time convincing me to put them in the give-away box. He said, "Think of all the cold babies..." That was all it took!

Sometimes, for me, picturing someone else finding usefulness in my discarded item (which still has plenty of good use left in it!) makes it easier to give it away.

I do that sometimes too.  Just got an InstantPot, and hesitated on getting rid of the rice cooker that is now redundant, but thought of how useful it might be to someone else and took it to Goodwill yesterday.

Also took two throw pillows and a throw blanket, plus a box of random kitchenware to Goodwill yesterday.  Working on culling some clothes that never got worn this winter. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 27, 2015, 08:24:27 AM
Heartsnhearts I am try to instigate it with my wardrobe too - interesting to hear someone else saving things for special occasions... only to find the items end up never being enjoyed. I like that we each have a story that says there is hope for the other of us to change!

The friend of a friend eased a lot of guilt for me! My mum also loves part used bottles of perfumes - you just need someone who's not that fussy, which is easier said than done because who wants to sound like a crazy person asking around.

One thing that still does help me with the eco-guilt is to tell myself the resources have already been used. The stuff that went into making that product is used up, committed, even if I never throw it away the result is the same. I feel better about washing 'perfectly good' cleanser or something down the sink when I think of this because I am freeing up the bottle to be recycled into something useful.

The money is gone, and there is no point crying over spilt milk. Instead, I remind myself that if getting rid of stuff is so hard for me the easiest thing is not to accumulate stuff in the first place. So now, if I am even slightly unsure or hesitant about a purchase the answer is always NO.

And back to my decluttering efforts - 3 more things sold on ebay this week! Enough money raised to cash out of Paypal without fees, AND it feels great to have less stuff everywhere.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on March 27, 2015, 08:52:18 AM
I love the friend of a friend idea!  I am also motivated to go thru my bin of lotions and potions this weekend.  I am a couponer and have tons of free/cheap stuff stocked up.  I think it's time to go thru them and send some down the way....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 27, 2015, 08:59:40 AM
I still have this little corner filled with some things I'd like to sell. Obviously sellings not my thing,,, I wouldn't bother except these things are worth something. Ill need to ask a friend/family for help with this, as I've never done this before. I'm such a procrastinator jeez.. I think its a fear of getting ripped off, feeling like I messed up because I don't know any better. Of course if I ask for help & do research of values that would likely solve that .

This was how I felt when I started too. I was afraid of screwing up, or getting ripped off because I'd never done it before. I still have a pile in the corner, but I'm working through it one at a time. The first time someone responded to my ad and came over and gave me money for something I just wanted to be rid of it was very exciting. I used that excitement to motivate me to put up more items for sale.

My advice is to just pick one thing in your pile that is likely to sell. Take a look and see what other people are selling it for in your area, or another city. Take some pics and post it for sale. One thing is not as overwhelming as an entire pile. You'll learn as you go and it'll get easier. If you are anything like me, you'll never learn by procrastinating.

That said, some things sell quickly, others take some time. If you don't get any responses right away don't worry about it, just move on to the next thing. I put up a few things over a month ago and stopped thinking about them. Just got an email today asking if one of them is still available.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 27, 2015, 09:01:29 AM
<SNIP>

Wow, that was an essay, sorry.

That's an awesome and inspiring story!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on March 27, 2015, 09:47:47 AM
I've been lurking here for a year or more.  Every time I think I'll post I have too much to say, so I stop.

I really understand what theadvicist is talking about.  good stuff.

As for lotions etc, a small group of friends and I have a swap every once in a while.  Some people are finicky about it being half used (I wouldn't buy it at goodwill! ugh!) but trading with friends has been easy for me.

The whole concept of not buying things in the first place is brilliant. I'm being a little facetious. It shouldn't be mind blowing, but it is, over and over again. Several years ago I stopped buying products (and even food) until they really were empty.  Perhaps I miss a bargain or two that way, but I don't have 3 or 4 extra bottles in the cupboard. I think I am better at rationing and using reasonable amounts (tooth paste/ dish soap) when I have enough vs. excess.

I've been meandering around the minimalist lifestyle since I was a teenager.  I wouldn't have called it minimalist then, and hesitate to call it such now.  It's a good life, that's what it is. 

Thanks for the daily inspiration to battle entropy. 




Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on March 27, 2015, 10:46:08 AM
It's dumpster week at our house.  We are clearing out the basement floors, walls, ceiling, and a good deal of junk from the basement and elsewhere.

It's wonderful seeing all that crap out of the house!  We have the dumpster until the 31st, it's almost half full now, and I anticipate we will have no problems (other than sore muscles) filling it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kmt88 on March 27, 2015, 11:04:22 AM
I love this thread.  I too feel "guilty" about getting rid of items not the "right way."  or I think "someday I will use it!!" so I still have school supplies from high school in a drawer... and I graduated almost ten years ago. 

ok y'all are inspiring me to get at it again this weekend.  wish me luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cougar on March 27, 2015, 11:25:50 AM

 I have gone thru the kitchen and bathroom. hard to believe i had multiples of things like windex because i just went and bought a new one rather than looking for it.

 still have the living room and bedroom closet to go thru.

 by the time i finish this, especially this closet; i imagine i'll come of with a couple hundred feet of space that has been holding junk that i thought i'd use or wear but realize i never will.

 it truly amazes me how much people buy, espeially myself; to fill up space or impress some one that didnt even notice. my dad came by for the first time in a year recently and said he didnt even notice the books of my bookshelf despite my putting that bookshelf up for my many books read.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on March 27, 2015, 11:38:10 AM
I love this thread.  I too feel "guilty" about getting rid of items not the "right way."  or I think "someday I will use it!!" so I still have school supplies from high school in a drawer... and I graduated almost ten years ago. 

ok y'all are inspiring me to get at it again this weekend.  wish me luck!

With school supplies, is there a university near you?  The library might take them, even if they're imperfect/partially used.  I just got rid of a bunch of pencils and pens (any that still work but which we don't use) by taking them to the library.  They have a stash for when patrons ask for a pen or pencil, ones that they don't mind the patrons "stealing".  They'd probably take paper, notebooks, or other school supplies as well, or at least know where on campus to direct you to donate those. 

Libraries will generally take USB thumb drives, too, if you have far too many, and some charging/power cables for the electronics they check out would probably also be useful, since those get lost or stolen frequently. 
Lastly, for those people who want to keep CDs and DVDs but don't want the cases, donate them to the library!  Theirs frequently get damaged in circulation and they might be really thankful to get some replacements.

I realized that our local library has a lot of potted plants, which the staff and faculty take care of on their own.  It creates a welcoming and nurturing atmosphere, particularly in the depths of winter when it's cold, dark, and snowy outside.  So I need to remember to take some potting soil and some old planter pots over there which I'm not going to move with us this summer.  I use the library frequently so I feel that anything I do to support them is a good thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 27, 2015, 11:43:01 AM
School supplies: once our neighbour gave us a big ziploc full of pens, pencils and pencil crayons. It was such a blessing to us at the time because we were homeschooling and quite broke with our young, large family. The kids were over the moon excited about getting that gift, so don't underestimate how valuable those school supplies might be to someone if you give them away! :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 27, 2015, 01:20:02 PM
Husband and son just left with a 15 passenger van full of  junk for the dump! Wahoo! A broken bumper! A flat tire! A broken shelf! A broken mirrored closet door! A broken bedframe! The list goes on and on and on
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on March 27, 2015, 04:32:07 PM
I still have this little corner filled with some things I'd like to sell. Obviously sellings not my thing,,, I wouldn't bother except these things are worth something. Ill need to ask a friend/family for help with this, as I've never done this before. I'm such a procrastinator jeez.. I think its a fear of getting ripped off, feeling like I messed up because I don't know any better. Of course if I ask for help & do research of values that would likely solve that .

This was how I felt when I started too. I was afraid of screwing up, or getting ripped off because I'd never done it before. I still have a pile in the corner, but I'm working through it one at a time. The first time someone responded to my ad and came over and gave me money for something I just wanted to be rid of it was very exciting. I used that excitement to motivate me to put up more items for sale.

My advice is to just pick one thing in your pile that is likely to sell. Take a look and see what other people are selling it for in your area, or another city. Take some pics and post it for sale. One thing is not as overwhelming as an entire pile. You'll learn as you go and it'll get easier. If you are anything like me, you'll never learn by procrastinating.

That said, some things sell quickly, others take some time. If you don't get any responses right away don't worry about it, just move on to the next thing. I put up a few things over a month ago and stopped thinking about them. Just got an email today asking if one of them is still available.

Cookie, that's a really inspiring and easy transition into selling stuff.  I love it!  I'm going to try it this weekend.  Thanks so much!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on March 27, 2015, 04:36:37 PM
One thing that still does help me with the eco-guilt is to tell myself the resources have already been used. The stuff that went into making that product is used up, committed, even if I never throw it away the result is the same. I feel better about washing 'perfectly good' cleanser or something down the sink when I think of this because I am freeing up the bottle to be recycled into something useful.

The money is gone, and there is no point crying over spilt milk. Instead, I remind myself that if getting rid of stuff is so hard for me the easiest thing is not to accumulate stuff in the first place. So now, if I am even slightly unsure or hesitant about a purchase the answer is always NO.

Definitely about not bringing as much into the house. It is the most helpful thing. 

I like the idea that the resources have already been used.  Actually I think I feel less bad about pouring it down the sink too and then recycling the container, I just never thought of that as an option!  Silly me!  I always think I have to throw it in the trash!  And i'm pretty particular about buying mostly natural products, so washing it down isn't a big deal. 

Today, we went to the zoo.  I have 2 old sunscreens that are now a bit chuncky (zinc oxide), but they still work fine.  I would rather use the brand new one, but I used the older ones.  I think however I will now start using the old ones on the body and the new one on the face.  That might be the best of both worlds.  Or should I just throw them out?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on March 27, 2015, 04:45:23 PM

Today, we went to the zoo.  I have 2 old sunscreens that are now a bit chuncky (zinc oxide), but they still work fine.  I would rather use the brand new one, but I used the older ones.  I think however I will now start using the old ones on the body and the new one on the face.  That might be the best of both worlds.  Or should I just throw them out?

You could try and melt them down, adding a little neutral carrier oil if you need to and reusing. When doing things like this, I reuse old glass jars to melt in as it will probably leave a film that is a royal PITA to clean out afterwards.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on March 27, 2015, 04:49:33 PM

Today, we went to the zoo.  I have 2 old sunscreens that are now a bit chuncky (zinc oxide), but they still work fine.  I would rather use the brand new one, but I used the older ones.  I think however I will now start using the old ones on the body and the new one on the face.  That might be the best of both worlds.  Or should I just throw them out?

You could try and melt them down, adding a little neutral carrier oil if you need to and reusing. When doing things like this, I reuse old glass jars to melt in as it will probably leave a film that is a royal PITA to clean out afterwards.

Great Idea!  They are natural anyway, no nothing weird, just oil and zinc basically.  and the zinc is precipitating out.  I love it and I'm gonna do it.  and if it fails, well I tried and can feel great about it. 

Now if I can just throw away the wax left over from the tea light candles...  I know, this sounds bad.  My house is not a hoarder house, I swear!  We do not have narrow pathways! I can see all surfaces completely.  ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on March 27, 2015, 05:43:35 PM
I got rid of a whole bunch of wax to someone who heats their house with a fire, the wax is great for them to make firestarters out of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 28, 2015, 09:20:26 AM
School supplies: once our neighbour gave us a big ziploc full of pens, pencils and pencil crayons. It was such a blessing to us at the time because we were homeschooling and quite broke with our young, large family. The kids were over the moon excited about getting that gift, so don't underestimate how valuable those school supplies might be to someone if you give them away! :-)

I can attest to this - I just took my 5 year old niece lots of coloured paper and cardboard I'd been saving for... I dunno, packing parcels? I figured if I need cardboard I can always go get a cereal box from the kitchen. She, on the other hand, thought all her Christmases had come at once!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 28, 2015, 03:53:02 PM
Now that I've decluttered quite a bit, it gave me the courage to face my clothes closet again and to ask (a la Marie Kondo) whether the items spark joy. Funny thing, I was hard pressed to find even one item that sparked joy! That realization was a little disturbing and I found myself wondering if maybe I'm depressed or if I just have a really dull set of clothes in my closet! I walked away and let it be for a few days. Maybe today I will go back and approach it again. (sigh)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on March 28, 2015, 04:11:37 PM
Yes it can be a confronting question! I realised an awful lot of my stuff I kept out of a sense of obligation or commitment to the item: "you bought it, so you have to use it", or the item had been gifted to me and somehow I was obligated to use it out of respect to the giver. "Waste not, want not" is also lingering around somewhere in my brain too.  With clothes, I do have a few favourites that spark joy, but an awful lot of dross. It did help me release quite a lot of clothes: ones that I actually actively disliked but kept because they were still good. Most of the ones I wear now I am at least neutral about.  I didn't want to throw everything out as I would have nothing left and am on the no buy clothes challenge. So I just shelled out the worst, and kept a smaller amount

edit typo
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on March 28, 2015, 08:49:35 PM
A friend told me today that they are  moving and already had 30 boxes packed, "but that's just books and movies!  We love books and movies!  That was over a thousand movies!"

I came home, opened my cupboard and looked for things to get rid of. 

Two photo albums (removed the photos to trash, empty albums to goodwill)
One textbook I couldn't resell
assorted recent junkmail
I also baked lemon bars from a mix that's been in the cupboard too long
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on March 29, 2015, 01:41:57 AM
I realised an awful to of my stuff I kept out of a sense of obligation or commitment to the item: "you bought it, so you have to use it", or the item had been gifted to me and somehow I was obligated to use it out of respect to the giver. "Waste not, want not" is also lingering around somewhere in my brain too. 

+1  These thoughts rattle around in my head too ... thank you for putting them into words for me!

With clothes, I do have a few favourites that spark joy, but an awful lot of dross. It did help me release quite a lot of clothes: ones that I actually actively disliked but kept because they were still good. Most of the ones I wear now I am at least neutral about.  I didn't want to throw everything out as I would have nothing left and am on the no buy clothes challenge. So I just shelled out the worst, and kept a smaller amount

I wonder about this too .. if I were to go through my closet with real intentionality, I'm not sure there would be much left! Then again, I only wear a few favourite pieces anyways. I just hate the thought of having to go out and spend more money on clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on March 29, 2015, 02:20:49 AM
I picked several soft toys to donate, a photo album that only had one photo in it (took that out first!) and chucked a bunch of tiny bits of paper and plastic. It's nice to be releasing the toys, I am quite a fan of soft toys! No, we have no kids, they were all mine! Fortunately the really important sentimental ones are unsuitable for donation, and the ones that don't spark joy are the ones that a kid would be happy to receive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 29, 2015, 06:41:08 AM
Two jackets and one lemongrass moisturizer out (never enjoyed the scent) that I brought home from a hotel in Vegas for some reason.. One of the jackets cost me around $70 new 5yrs ago and for mostly that reason was hard to let go of. Other jacket I picked out of a free clothing bin and never wore because the style is too unusual, even for me. Its cute though, so that's why I had picked it up in the first place. Its becoming easier certainly to let things go.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 29, 2015, 06:54:17 AM
I still have this little corner filled with some things I'd like to sell. Obviously sellings not my thing,,, I wouldn't bother except these things are worth something. Ill need to ask a friend/family for help with this, as I've never done this before. I'm such a procrastinator jeez.. I think its a fear of getting ripped off, feeling like I messed up because I don't know any better. Of course if I ask for help & do research of values that would likely solve that .

This was how I felt when I started too. I was afraid of screwing up, or getting ripped off because I'd never done it before. I still have a pile in the corner, but I'm working through it one at a time. The first time someone responded to my ad and came over and gave me money for something I just wanted to be rid of it was very exciting. I used that excitement to motivate me to put up more items for sale.

My advice is to just pick one thing in your pile that is likely to sell. Take a look and see what other people are selling it for in your area, or another city. Take some pics and post it for sale. One thing is not as overwhelming as an entire pile. You'll learn as you go and it'll get easier. If you are anything like me, you'll never learn by procrastinating.

That said, some things sell quickly, others take some time. If you don't get any responses right away don't worry about it, just move on to the next thing. I put up a few things over a month ago and stopped thinking about them. Just got an email today asking if one of them is still available.

This is a great idea, thank you:). It sounds much less stressful and more manageable. Next time I'm home I will go into the corner and select an item to begin with. Agree 100% on procrastination. It really does up the anxiety levels for me (and depending on what I am putting off can be actually potentially damaging...).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 29, 2015, 07:11:28 AM
This thread is inspiring. Cleaning out jackets, shoes and baby clothes today.

Also finally using up the last of free samples of soap - took six months to work thru my stash. I still have a small amount left but will keep it for camping. Way easier than lugging around bigger ones or buying new travel sized ones. Next on list is samples of moisturizers and body lotions. I also have too many big bottles of moisturizers.... And I don't even use them regularly. not sure what prompted me to buy such big ones for each room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on March 29, 2015, 08:07:17 AM
Our week with the dumpster is going well.  In fact, it's going amazingly well!  DH and I have both gotten rid of things that the other person didn't think they would.  In addition to the walls, floors, ceilings, and cabinets in the basement we've gotten rid of 2 glazed concrete half walls (one was the bar and one the kitchen peninsula framework), several lamps, several free standing cabinets made of particle board, and a ton of miscellaneous crap.

I am so stoked at how much we've done!  The dumpster (a 20 yard one) is getting close to full.  We may actually run out of space in the dumpster before we run out of things to discard!

Backup plan is to leave some of the furring strips and other wood things and burn them over the next few months.  We only have a tiny fire pit, so this option isn't a great one, but it will work.

Considering the 2 concrete walls we knocked down and put in the dumpster, we think it's possible we are overweight.  But that's okay, a few extra $$ is worth it to get our basement back!  It's been unusable for the past 2 years due to everything deteriorating with age.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on March 29, 2015, 10:31:07 AM
I wonder about this too .. if I were to go through my closet with real intentionality, I'm not sure there would be much left! Then again, I only wear a few favourite pieces anyways. I just hate the thought of having to go out and spend more money on clothes.


Brakes!!! Don't replace what you don't wear with more things you don't wear. Just bag up what you don't wear in a paper bag on the floor of your closet. In a few months it'll be full but you won't remember what's it in. That's when it's time to go. Just don't get more. You'll feel like you've got a ton to wear because you wear everything you see. That's how it's been working out for me anyway :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on March 29, 2015, 11:10:12 AM
In response to the wardrobe conversation:  I've done quite a bit of culling in the past year. I had a bit of a "doh!" moment this week when I finally decided to trash a couple pair of worn out shoes and give away a nearly new pair I loathed.  I caught myself thinking "what if I regret this?  What if I have too few shoes and wish I had more?  I guess I'll just buy new ones..."  Obviouisly I'll buy new when I need new. I suppose I knew it logically, but not emotionally.  There will always be clothing and shoes available.  This is not an emergency situation.  I choose to own a small amount. I choose to avoid buying at all right now.  I also choose to store my next pair of super cool shoes at the store until I actually need them.  If I suddely regret getting rid of bags of illfitting clothing there is a junk store in walking distance full of the same things.  (I'm certain that won't happen...)

Out:
worn out socks
cute homemade handkerchiefs (too thick for actual use)
1 pair cotton gloves
2 candle holders
small pile of receipts
extra bath and kitchen towels
1 new bottle of conditioner
planted lettuce seeds in little peat pots I've had for years and moved twice
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 29, 2015, 11:16:10 AM
What do you do with clothing which you know you'll get into but have no idea how it'll fit? I'm getting back into shape after pregnancy this year and still have some baby fat to burn off. I'm starting to fit into some of my old clothes but have a long way to go with the rest. Even before baby, I usually go from 130 to 150 and back pretty easily. As a result, my closet is a hodge podge of sizes :( though I wish I can be 130 and stick to it all the time, I know I'd gain weight again and need the larger clothes.

Now I have my maternity wear to consider too (we'll be having another kid in one-three years). 75% of my clothes don't spark any joy since they are not the right fit for my current size (can fit and give joy at another weight point of mine) or because they can't be worn daily (I have a lot of cultural dresses that are very beautiful but I won't wear them more than maybe once a year!).

As a result, my closet is a mess with so many clothes but nothing to wear :( any ideas how to tackle this issue?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on March 29, 2015, 12:06:57 PM
What do you do with clothing which you know you'll get into but have no idea how it'll fit? I'm getting back into shape after pregnancy this year and still have some baby fat to burn off. I'm starting to fit into some of my old clothes but have a long way to go with the rest. Even before baby, I usually go from 130 to 150 and back pretty easily. As a result, my closet is a hodge podge of sizes :( though I wish I can be 130 and stick to it all the time, I know I'd gain weight again and need the larger clothes.

Now I have my maternity wear to consider too (we'll be having another kid in one-three years). 75% of my clothes don't spark any joy since they are not the right fit for my current size (can fit and give joy at another weight point of mine) or because they can't be worn daily (I have a lot of cultural dresses that are very beautiful but I won't wear them more than maybe once a year!).

As a result, my closet is a mess with so many clothes but nothing to wear :( any ideas how to tackle this issue?

Mmmm, that sounds tough.  Can you set a max on the amount of clothes you have for each size?  Like, 1 or 2 cardboard boxes for 130 lbs, 1-2 for 140, and so on?  Then keep your current size in your closet and swap out as you change.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on March 29, 2015, 12:56:33 PM
We got rid of a ton of stuff yesterday. I finished off reading "the life-changing magic of tidying up" at work a couple of days ago, and got a start of some of the suggestions - a big one being not having off-season clothes in storage, i.e. getting rid of enough stuff so that everything you own can be in one place, seen at once. This was a little more difficult than it would be for some people since I share a closet with my boyfriend, but do-able.

I got rid of a big garbage bag full of clothes, old bathroom toiletries and crap, and a bunch of kitchen stuff that I hated (a few things were replaced with things I love, like a new metal colander and stainless steel measuring spoons).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 29, 2015, 01:31:41 PM
Most of the ones I wear now I am at least neutral about.  I didn't want to throw everything out as I would have nothing left and am on the no buy clothes challenge. So I just shelled out the worst, and kept a smaller amount

Happy, I like this approach! I'm a big fan of baby stepping it, so keeping clothes from the neutral or positive end of the spectrum and getting rid of the rest seems like a step in the right direction.

I just picked up The Life-Changing Habit of Tidying Up from the library for further inspiration. Great job, everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 29, 2015, 01:54:45 PM
What do you do with clothing which you know you'll get into but have no idea how it'll fit? I'm getting back into shape after pregnancy this year and still have some baby fat to burn off. I'm starting to fit into some of my old clothes but have a long way to go with the rest. Even before baby, I usually go from 130 to 150 and back pretty easily. As a result, my closet is a hodge podge of sizes :( though I wish I can be 130 and stick to it all the time, I know I'd gain weight again and need the larger clothes.

Now I have my maternity wear to consider too (we'll be having another kid in one-three years). 75% of my clothes don't spark any joy since they are not the right fit for my current size (can fit and give joy at another weight point of mine) or because they can't be worn daily (I have a lot of cultural dresses that are very beautiful but I won't wear them more than maybe once a year!).

As a result, my closet is a mess with so many clothes but nothing to wear :( any ideas how to tackle this issue?

I did something similar a few years ago when I was losing weight (pre-MMM). I went through my entire closet and tried everything on, just to estimate at what weight it would fit again. I made a box for 140,150,160, and 170 pounds and I filled them all up. Then, when I reached that weight I opened up the next box, like Christmas! It was motivational for the weight loss too. Lots of clothes brought happy memories, especially ones in the 140 box since I hadn't seen them in so long. Then I filled the boxes with the clothes that were now too big.

After I got to 130 I took all the boxes and donated everything. Never want to fit into those clothes again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 29, 2015, 04:07:46 PM
What do you do with clothing which you know you'll get into but have no idea how it'll fit? I'm getting back into shape after pregnancy this year and still have some baby fat to burn off. I'm starting to fit into some of my old clothes but have a long way to go with the rest. Even before baby, I usually go from 130 to 150 and back pretty easily. As a result, my closet is a hodge podge of sizes :( though I wish I can be 130 and stick to it all the time, I know I'd gain weight again and need the larger clothes.

Now I have my maternity wear to consider too (we'll be having another kid in one-three years). 75% of my clothes don't spark any joy since they are not the right fit for my current size (can fit and give joy at another weight point of mine) or because they can't be worn daily (I have a lot of cultural dresses that are very beautiful but I won't wear them more than maybe once a year!).

As a result, my closet is a mess with so many clothes but nothing to wear :( any ideas how to tackle this issue?

Mmmm, that sounds tough.  Can you set a max on the amount of clothes you have for each size?  Like, 1 or 2 cardboard boxes for 130 lbs, 1-2 for 140, and so on?  Then keep your current size in your closet and swap out as you change.

Aside from the pregnancy, consider what is causing your weight to fluctuate that much. My weight used to go up and down a lot, and it took me a while to realize there was a serious problem underlying it. Actually, it really took me getting multiple colds from being underweight and realizing that I wasn't remembering to eat because I didn't feel hungry. Now I've learned to manage the issue better so my weight is much more stable. If you can pin it down and stabilize, that'll help with clothes and probably be healthier for you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 29, 2015, 09:55:22 PM
After work today , I decided to rearrange the furniture ( all of which I will keep, there isn't much) . so , of course as I was moving everything around, and saw all my stuff in piles and disarray , I found more things to toss and donate :) . fabrics, 3 books, several CD's I don't like... And I'm tossing 2 lipsticks half used in colors I hate, random paperwork.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 29, 2015, 10:27:26 PM
Its interesting to me that several people have mentioned disliking most of what's in their wardrobe, because I feel the same way too . I don't have many clothes (certainly enough) , certain pieces I love and wear often. Others , i wear every couple months. Most of the items I never or almost never wear have been donated by now. Most, not all..... I open the closet to get dressed sometimes and think I would love to just get rid of most everything. Of course that is crazy and I would never do that.  Im really picky about pretty much everything- which has really helped me save a boatload of money- so many things I had acquired in the past ( because now I really almost never buy anything, esp clothing) were things I kind of liked or fit well or whatever, but I rarely actually love an item, esp clothing. Maybe it would make more sense to donate more of these clothes then. And add as needed ( usually castoffs from my girlfriends and coworkers) ,
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 30, 2015, 01:34:47 AM
Thanks everyone! Boxing up clothes based on weight it's a brilliant idea!! Will report back how it goes.

Sibley, the cause for my weight loss and gain are poor diet and exercise. When I'm busy, I tend to slack in diet and exercise and hit 150 quickly. When I have time, I concentrate in these two and my weight comes down to 130. Can't wait to fire so I have enough time to keep my weight at 130.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fullbeardandweird on March 30, 2015, 01:53:15 AM
Gave away one of my bicycles filling up my shed.  Now somebody has a new commuter bike :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 30, 2015, 02:43:06 AM
I open the closet to get dressed sometimes and think I would love to just get rid of most everything. Of course that is crazy and I would never do that. 

Not crazy at all! If you want to do it, go ahead. If you're worried you'll miss the clothes, do as suggested upthread and box / bag them up and put them somewhere you can get to them if you miss them enough, and after a certain number of weeks donate them.

I culled my clothes dramatically recently. I wear vests (as in, the British usage of underwear) near daily because I am always cold when other people are comfortable. So I had, hmmm, 15 vests? Most I didn't like, were grey instead of white, had straps that kept falling off etc. This morning I went to find a vest and panicked because I only had one white one clean. Then I thought, why panic? Yes, I only have one, but I only have one body, so I have everything I need today. Also... I then found a second one. So even having got rid of a lot of stuff, I am slowly learning I didn't need or want it in the first place.

I've also put some leather boots in the donate box. I bought them in my 'youth', they were very expensive italian leather yada yada yada, but the truth is, even if they come back into fashion (which they won't) the heels always feel like they are going to break so I am not comfortable walking in them, so, er, why am I keeping them? The layer of dust they had accumulated was the final push to donate. Bye boots, thanks for the memories.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on March 30, 2015, 04:17:51 AM
This thread is inspiring. Cleaning out jackets, shoes and baby clothes today.

Also finally using up the last of free samples of soap - took six months to work thru my stash. I still have a small amount left but will keep it for camping. Way easier than lugging around bigger ones or buying new travel sized ones. Next on list is samples of moisturizers and body lotions.

Just a thought since this seems to have come up in a few posts - Women's shelters and homeless shelters are always super, super grateful for any travel size or sample size hygiene/beauty products. Once I had a women literally break down into tears of gratitude because she got a sample of a lotion in her favorite scent  (left an abusive relationship and everything behind)

I have been making great progress, I am in fact typing from my desktop, which is in our office - which ended up being the collection room for all of our junk/ I have no idea where to put this storage since we moved in Dec.  The floor is clean, the surfaces are clear and much clutter has been removed. Several boxes are ready to be taken to the thrift store or sold on our local buy and sell. Sorting out the paperwork is an ongoing process, but now I have some room to do it :)

I am really enjoying hearing about every ones progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 30, 2015, 08:19:31 AM
This is such a great thread. Inspiring and motivating.

I tackled the garage this weekend. Well I started at least. There were so many things to get rid of that I will never miss. Why exactly was I keeping that second microwave? And the VERY old VERY beat up vacuum cleaner (I don't have another one, but I also don't have a carpet)?

I also finally posted online all of the things I had in my 'for sale' pile. Between those and the many things posted in the 'Free stuff' Facebook group I'm starting to get slightly overwhelmed with who is coming when to pick up which items! But it's great to see them all go out the door. The pile is certainly looking much more manageable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RunningWithScissors on March 30, 2015, 01:47:50 PM
Just a few suggestions on places which might accept your unwanted that you might not have thought of, and which will keep this stuff out of the landfill:

Women's emergency shelters:  mini-toiletries from hotels, cosmetics/lotions etc in 'nearly-new' condition. 

Youth shelters/Boys and Girls clubs:  anything school related including backpacks, school supplies or general art/craft supplies.  Socks and winter clothes are needed at most shelters.

Animal shelters:  old towels and blankets to make institutional steel cages a little more comfortable and less stressful, grocery bags for litter disposal.

Habitat for Humanity 'Restore' outlets:  building supplies in reusable condition such as lumber, drywall, plumbing or electrical fixtures and even furniture and artwork.

Most places have lists of needed 'donations in kind' right on their websites.  I had two boxes of random leftover skeins of wool that went to the YWCA.  The 'Y-Knit' program distributes it to knitting programs in senior's lodges, where the knitters make booties and caps to keep premature babies warm in hospital incubators.  Double win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Write Thyme on March 30, 2015, 03:24:28 PM
I've been on the waiting list for "The Life-Changing Habit of Tidying Up" since it came out! I think I'm in the 40's now.

I've attempted and failed the 30 Day Declutter Challenge a few times due to time constraints and a toddler. So on April 1st I'm going to get started again. This time instead of getting rid of 1 item that day I will get rid of as many as I can and mark that "day/number" off on the calender. I've been keeping a mental list of all the things I want to get rid of. The anticipation is exciting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on March 30, 2015, 04:34:08 PM
Another idea for hand lotion that is maybe not your favorite, but a decent scent, is to take it to work and set it in the restroom on the counter for communal use - best type for that is the pump dispensing kind. I also peeled the label off the plastic bottle, once everyone had had a chance to see what it was, and it makes it look a little more elegant than having visible writing on it. Even a plastic bottle looks quite fancy and apothecary style once the label is carefully peeled off (and de-glued :))
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 30, 2015, 06:43:18 PM
Thanks everyone! Boxing up clothes based on weight it's a brilliant idea!! Will report back how it goes.

Sibley, the cause for my weight loss and gain are poor diet and exercise. When I'm busy, I tend to slack in diet and exercise and hit 150 quickly. When I have time, I concentrate in these two and my weight comes down to 130. Can't wait to fire so I have enough time to keep my weight at 130.

Glad it's an "easy" problem! Good luck :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 31, 2015, 07:40:49 AM
Just a few suggestions on places which might accept your unwanted that you might not have thought of, and which will keep this stuff out of the landfill:

Women's emergency shelters:  mini-toiletries from hotels, cosmetics/lotions etc in 'nearly-new' condition. 

Youth shelters/Boys and Girls clubs:  anything school related including backpacks, school supplies or general art/craft supplies.  Socks and winter clothes are needed at most shelters.

Animal shelters:  old towels and blankets to make institutional steel cages a little more comfortable and less stressful, grocery bags for litter disposal.

Habitat for Humanity 'Restore' outlets:  building supplies in reusable condition such as lumber, drywall, plumbing or electrical fixtures and even furniture and artwork.

Most places have lists of needed 'donations in kind' right on their websites.  I had two boxes of random leftover skeins of wool that went to the YWCA.  The 'Y-Knit' program distributes it to knitting programs in senior's lodges, where the knitters make booties and caps to keep premature babies warm in hospital incubators.  Double win!

Good ideas!  We have a ReStore near us, and I've donated various light fixtures, a bathroom vanity we replaced, etc.  I have some tile I should probably haul down there.

I'm also doing the use up the toiletries thing, and making good progress.  I'm down to one kind of hair styling goo, and almost down to one body wash.  Cleaning supplies are getting consolidated too.  Last night I used up a bag of shrub fertilizer that I bought probably 7 years ago and never opened.  The space in all the shelves and cupboards is great - no digging around to find what's needed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mleigh on March 31, 2015, 02:35:43 PM
Took a carload to Habitat for Humanity Restore on Saturday---a screen door, lumber, window blinds, and an unused closet organizer, all gone!  With a receipt for taxes, too.  Just returned an item to Amazon for $14; thought I was going to need it and it came and doesn't work like I thought it would.  I considered just keeping it, but that seemed silly when I can get rid of the item AND get the money back! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on March 31, 2015, 03:57:55 PM
Over the weekend I went through my closet, which I thought I had pretty much been through a few months ago. I used the Konmari method of touching each item and seeing how I felt about it, along with thanking the items I chose to release. It was very easy and relaxing, and I have 3 big plastic bins full of things to let go of. I'm not set up to do her style of folding -- I don't have a dresser and all my shelves are above eye level, so I need to hang things and stack them flat rather than vertically -- but everything is very tidy in my closet right now.

I'm trying to organize a clothing swap with some of my pals. Hopefully we can do it in the month of April. My goal will be to bring almost nothing out of the swap though -- only if something is perfect and I love it (not just think it might be useful someday or something). We're moving this summer so I need to vastly reduce the size of my junkload, not add it to it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on March 31, 2015, 08:54:20 PM
Over the weekend I went through my closet, which I thought I had pretty much been through a few months ago. I used the Konmari method of touching each item and seeing how I felt about it, along with thanking the items I chose to release. It was very easy and relaxing, and I have 3 big plastic bins full of things to let go of. I'm not set up to do her style of folding -- I don't have a dresser and all my shelves are above eye level, so I need to hang things and stack them flat rather than vertically -- but everything is very tidy in my closet right now.

I'm trying to organize a clothing swap with some of my pals. Hopefully we can do it in the month of April. My goal will be to bring almost nothing out of the swap though -- only if something is perfect and I love it (not just think it might be useful someday or something). We're moving this summer so I need to vastly reduce the size of my junkload, not add it to it.

That's good to hear!  So did you do as she suggests, and put out ALL your clothes (on the floor or on the bed) to go through them all at once?  I haven't taken that big step yet, but I am close to doing it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on April 01, 2015, 04:24:52 AM
Found this article in an other thread. Pretty much nails it imo.

Another good article:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/boomers-unwanted-inheritance/2015/03/27/0e75ff6e-45c4-11e4-b437-1a7368204804_story.html

Stuff it:  Millenials nix their parents' treasures.

Millennials dont' want all the things their Baby Boomer parents want to pass down to them.  There is a lot of stuff now that nobody seems to want.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 01, 2015, 08:14:31 AM
Another good purge this morning, this time of wallets and small leather goods. I have listed everything I think has some value on ebay. A few bits set to go to the charity shop, and two item I forgot I had which I plan to use day to day!

I also went through shoes and boots, and got rid of 5 pairs. Now they all fit properly in their designated area with room to breathe, instead of all being squished and jumbled which made it hard and inconvenient to put my shoes away each day.

I'm also noticing how much easier life is with no stuff. Easy to clean - something I've always hated, but now I find myself doing bits here and there willingly when I notice it needs doing. It's a combination of not having to move or work around anything, and the fact that my cleaning products and cloths are not all shoved into too small a space meaning pulling one out results in a tumble I then have to struggle to cram back in.

I currently have 18 auctions going on ebay, including a pair of brand new jeans my husband pulled out the other day. I have been careful not to touch any of his stuff, or nag him to get rid of items. He just brought them to me when I was listing other stuff, and said, "I tried these on the other day and decided I'm never going to wear them", and that was that. It seems leading by example is working (this is a major thing for a guy who never gets rid of clothing. Though to be fair it's pretty hard to get him to buy anything either, which is an improvement on my 'buy it all, and STILL never get rid of anything' model).

I'm still tallying everything up for my 2015 things out of the house in 2015 personal challenge. Just broke 750 items! And still, I have not missed a single one!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on April 01, 2015, 08:23:32 AM
I'm still tallying everything up for my 2015 things out of the house in 2015 personal challenge. Just broke 750 items! And still, I have not missed a single one!

That's awesome! I'm around 310 items now, but same thing as you, haven't missed a single thing! I was amazed going through the garage this weekend at the stuff I found that I'd forgotten completely about.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on April 01, 2015, 08:32:11 AM
Just broke 750 items! And still, I have not missed a single one!
I didn't keep count, but I haven't missed one thing, too. (Not even my car)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 01, 2015, 08:45:56 AM

That's awesome! I'm around 310 items now, but same thing as you, haven't missed a single thing! I was amazed going through the garage this weekend at the stuff I found that I'd forgotten completely about.
Well done cookie!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 01, 2015, 08:48:27 AM

I didn't keep count, but I haven't missed one thing, too. (Not even my car)

Isn't it incredible? I would not have considered myself to have much unused stuff in the house... but I would have thought the house was nice and clean too, and getting to the back of every nook and cranny has shown me that isn't the case either!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 01, 2015, 09:59:03 AM
Found this article in an other thread. Pretty much nails it imo.

Another good article:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/boomers-unwanted-inheritance/2015/03/27/0e75ff6e-45c4-11e4-b437-1a7368204804_story.html

Stuff it:  Millenials nix their parents' treasures.

Millennials dont' want all the things their Baby Boomer parents want to pass down to them.  There is a lot of stuff now that nobody seems to want.


Yeah, I'll be dealing with this. My mom has a lot of things that were passed on by family, plus whatever else she's accumulated. Some things I want, I'm sure my sister wants some things, but the majority we do not want. Luckily, mom isn't a pack rat and is working on clearing out. I suspect that what will happen eventually is we'll offer things to family/friends, then sell or donate whatever's left.

Though the really hard part will be I know there's a few things that both my sister and I want!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on April 01, 2015, 08:45:04 PM
Sold a box of craft supplies for $45. Got rid of a bag of torn, stained clothes. Progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on April 01, 2015, 10:09:53 PM
Found this article in an other thread. Pretty much nails it imo.

Another good article:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/boomers-unwanted-inheritance/2015/03/27/0e75ff6e-45c4-11e4-b437-1a7368204804_story.html

Stuff it:  Millenials nix their parents' treasures.

Millennials dont' want all the things their Baby Boomer parents want to pass down to them.  There is a lot of stuff now that nobody seems to want.


Yeah, I'll be dealing with this. My mom has a lot of things that were passed on by family, plus whatever else she's accumulated. Some things I want, I'm sure my sister wants some things, but the majority we do not want. Luckily, mom isn't a pack rat and is working on clearing out. I suspect that what will happen eventually is we'll offer things to family/friends, then sell or donate whatever's left.

Though the really hard part will be I know there's a few things that both my sister and I want!

Great article! This was the mindset I had when I was decluttering. Deal with things now instead of 10/20/30 years later - I never want to be a situation where other people have to clean out massive piles of stuff on my behalf (upon death, etc). 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 02, 2015, 12:54:57 AM
@theadvicist, My son needs a wallet! Haha! Am I the only one here who reads other people's lists and thinks, "Oh my gosh, I totally would have taken that!"? (Not sure if I've punctuated that correctly, but you get my drift)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 02, 2015, 02:24:20 AM
@theadvicist, My son needs a wallet! Haha! Am I the only one here who reads other people's lists and thinks, "Oh my gosh, I totally would have taken that!"? (Not sure if I've punctuated that correctly, but you get my drift)

Yep, I do too! Don't worry though, he can go and pick it up at the charity shop now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 02, 2015, 03:00:03 AM
@theadvicist, My son needs a wallet! Haha! Am I the only one here who reads other people's lists and thinks, "Oh my gosh, I totally would have taken that!"? (Not sure if I've punctuated that correctly, but you get my drift)

Yep, I do too! Don't worry though, he can go and pick it up at the charity shop now!

You're right!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 02, 2015, 07:54:24 AM
@theadvicist, My son needs a wallet! Haha! Am I the only one here who reads other people's lists and thinks, "Oh my gosh, I totally would have taken that!"? (Not sure if I've punctuated that correctly, but you get my drift)

Yep, I do too! Don't worry though, he can go and pick it up at the charity shop now!

Maybe instead of just meet ups, we should have item swap meet ups?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 02, 2015, 07:57:14 AM
@theadvicist, My son needs a wallet! Haha! Am I the only one here who reads other people's lists and thinks, "Oh my gosh, I totally would have taken that!"? (Not sure if I've punctuated that correctly, but you get my drift)

Yep, I do too! Don't worry though, he can go and pick it up at the charity shop now!

Maybe instead of just meet ups, we should have item swap meet ups?

But that's my point, we have swap meet ups already - I drop stuff I don't need at a charity shop, you swing by and pick it up for pence on the pound, and charity benefits! It's exactly that, on a wider scale so there is more chance of people finding just what they need. Plus, you know, England is a long way for most of you to come for a used wallet :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 02, 2015, 09:19:14 AM
Found this article in an other thread. Pretty much nails it imo.

Another good article:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/boomers-unwanted-inheritance/2015/03/27/0e75ff6e-45c4-11e4-b437-1a7368204804_story.html

Stuff it:  Millenials nix their parents' treasures.

Millennials dont' want all the things their Baby Boomer parents want to pass down to them.  There is a lot of stuff now that nobody seems to want.


Yeah, I'll be dealing with this. My mom has a lot of things that were passed on by family, plus whatever else she's accumulated. Some things I want, I'm sure my sister wants some things, but the majority we do not want. Luckily, mom isn't a pack rat and is working on clearing out. I suspect that what will happen eventually is we'll offer things to family/friends, then sell or donate whatever's left.

Though the really hard part will be I know there's a few things that both my sister and I want!

Great article! This was the mindset I had when I was decluttering. Deal with things now instead of 10/20/30 years later - I never want to be a situation where other people have to clean out massive piles of stuff on my behalf (upon death, etc).

Can you convince my mom to get rid of the all the "family stuff" that we do not want? I don't care who owned it, I'm not taking it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on April 03, 2015, 08:45:39 AM
We are going through this now with my mom's estate.  My dad passed nearly 5 years ago, my mom 6 months ago.  She had a home in Wisconsin, I live in arizona and my one sibling is in NC.  40 years of stuff to go thru and we only get home for a few long weekends (4 days at a time) every other month or so?  It's going to take us until eternity. 

Note:  it would go MUCH faster if she hadn't had hidden money in EVERYTHING.  $1 here, $5 there, $100 every now and again.  We have to go thru EVERY.SINGLE.ITEM!  (the treasure hunt is fun but man alive, it's going to take a lifetime....)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 03, 2015, 09:06:44 AM
Hot_AZ, if you are doing trips to Wisconsin only for the decluttering, would it make sense to just do it in one shot and be done with it? Are the hidden $1s and $5s worth your multiple plane tickets? (Times two if your sibling is flying in every time too)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 03, 2015, 09:09:03 AM
Sold my first on eBay :) one less item as clutter and more money in my pocket. Now eyeing what else I can put on eBay and get a profit (I have a self imposed limit of $30 when I'm trying to sell on eBay. Otherwise its not worth the hassle.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: herisff on April 03, 2015, 10:59:13 AM
@Hot_AZ - when my mother moved to assisted living, my sister and I spent about 8-10 days (using vacation time) going through the entire house, sorting as we went. I drove in from Washington state and she came from Hawaii, and we dug in. It turned out that I did most of the house while she spent the entire week in the office! While it was exhausting but oddly companionable (there was a lot of "look at this!" and "why did s/he save this??!!", it all got done. At the end we scheduled a charity to come and pick up what family members didn't want. I had time to check pockets, ventilators (my dad was prone to putting jars of coins in them), and everywhere my mom or dad could stash cash. Would something like that work for you two? After my mom was in assisted living for awhile, we went ahead and sold the house (and put the costs towards her care). That way none of us had to deal with an empty house and possible vandalism, squatters, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on April 03, 2015, 11:11:07 AM
I should clarify, those $1 here and $1 there have added up to over 100k so far.  We don't feel comfortable having someone else come in and assist.  I only accrue 1 day of vacation a month and my brother and I both have families with children.  His wife is in the military, mine works a job that has hours some days starting at 5am, some days he ends at 8:30pm (depends on the day).  He can't really facilitate the daycare/school thing for very long without assistance.  Neither my brother or I have family in our respective states.

So for now, we're doing what we can on those 4 day weekends.  The first 2 trips home were for funerals (my mom's and then my godmothers) so part of the time home was spent for those services.  We will do a longer trip (hopefully) at the end of this summer/fall to finish out the estate. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 03, 2015, 12:21:00 PM
Hot AZ, that's a lot of cash. I can see why you don't want strangers coming in to help. Don't know if its practical, but would it make sense to rent a trunk and load everything in? You could then drive home, and go through things there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on April 03, 2015, 12:30:37 PM
@sibley, not sure that works.  We would have to split the stuff and get 2 trucks (one to AZ and one to NC).  My life is a mess right now, we're trying to finish this AND sell our house/move to Wyoming before school starts at the end of August.  I think I need to start thinking about quitting/taking a leave of absence to get it all done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 03, 2015, 12:50:18 PM
That's a lot on your plate. Good luck!

Note to self - don't stash cash all over the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on April 03, 2015, 01:57:47 PM
@sibley... my mom warned us for years.  She thought it was hilarious!  Not so funny for us now but it does give my brother and i bonding time when we're at her house since we both go sans families.  Loads to do but "i have a spreadsheet for that" (ugh, seriously Type A over here).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 04, 2015, 02:29:22 PM
Ok, how do I get over the fact that everytime I want to get rid of something, I think about "How could I sell this?".  I make a good income.  If I sold all this shit for top dollar (unlikely), it would be what, $500?  That is only less than 1/2 day of work.  It will take me far longer than that to sell it.  My time is in shortest supply, more than money.
Should I just donate it all and be free and happy?  Or try to wring some money out of these things that are owning me?  Is it ok to just let it go?
I know, I have problems...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 04, 2015, 03:43:18 PM

Should I just donate it all and be free and happy?  Or try to wring some money out of these things that are owning me?  Is it ok to just let it go?
I know, I have problems...

I have these very same problems. I have a box of about 8 really nice formal dresses from my past = expensive and would love to sell them. The local consignment store that takes higher end stuff wouldn't take them :-( I have never tried ebay, but I'm sure I could get around $400 for the whole lot.

I feel like I'm totally owned by these items ... I want them to GO! But it would feel so weird to give them away when I know what I paid for them! UGH!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on April 04, 2015, 03:54:19 PM
 I have to confess I am not good at selling and will endlessly avoid and procrastinate, so the objective to clear stuff out is at risk of never being achieved. So I donate. 

Last night I cleared out 4 extra backpacks ( all freebies) and a white-tailed spider lurking in there. Why did I think I needed 5 backpacks?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 04, 2015, 06:31:32 PM
Put everything you'd like to get rid of together. Give yourself a set time frame - a month or whatever in which to sell items. At the end of that time, anything you haven't sold (including stuff you haven't figured out how to sell) just donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 04, 2015, 09:55:37 PM
I cracked it open!  I used the techniques I gleaned from the Japanese Art of Tidying Up ( haven't read the book yet but did watch the movies and read the reviews ( I am 240 on the library wait list, maybe I should use my gift card to buy it). I listened for what made my heart sing and thanked the things that were moving on. It made it much easier to let them go. So 1 drawer down and a a closet and 3 more drawers to go. But it is a start. Once it got going , it got easier. Yeah!  I cleaned out my shirt drawer. I was able to let go of things that used to be me but are now too young, don't fit well, had worn out, or just didn't make me happy. I put some in the basket to make a T-shirt quilt, some in the refashion pile, and some in the giveaway/yard sale box. I'm still not sure if I'm having a yard sale, but either way, those things are not moving with me. I feel so much freer and more movement. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on April 04, 2015, 10:08:35 PM
That's good to hear!  So did you do as she suggests, and put out ALL your clothes (on the floor or on the bed) to go through them all at once?  I haven't taken that big step yet, but I am close to doing it!


Everything hanging in my closet, I shoved way to one side. Then I took each item off the bar, considered it, and either hung it back up in the empty part of the closet or said goodbye and put it in the bin.

Folded items, I took down and put on the bed, then made me decisions and chose what I wanted to keep and recorded each item. Some of the, went in tht bin, others went back on the shelf ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on April 05, 2015, 07:59:17 AM
Using the test of whether a thing "sparks joy" seems really effective for clothes.  I asked myself this question while reorganizing and hanging clothes last night, and let go of a couple tops that I thought I liked, but never wear because they never feel quite right when I put them on.  OTOH, it's surprising that some simple pieces like a gray v-neck t that fits me perfectly does spark joy, and obviously gets to stay.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 05, 2015, 08:32:09 AM
That's good to hear!  So did you do as she suggests, and put out ALL your clothes (on the floor or on the bed) to go through them all at once?  I haven't taken that big step yet, but I am close to doing it!


I just took everything out of one drawer and didn't let myself stop until I had gone through each item.  Many were maybes, so I tried them all on.  I realized that some shirts I was keeping because they 'fit' but they were mostly from a spending spree 3 years ago (at the beginning of my pregnancy) and they all had the elastic band at the bottom that was the style at the time.  Which BTW is the worst possible style for a pear shaped gal like myself.  But to really acknowledge the usefulness I had gained and respectfully thank the item before letting it go, really helped me let go of many more things.  I'm going to try and keep going today, but it is Easter too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 05, 2015, 12:40:23 PM
That's good to hear!  So did you do as she suggests, and put out ALL your clothes (on the floor or on the bed) to go through them all at once?  I haven't taken that big step yet, but I am close to doing it!


Everything hanging in my closet, I shoved way to one side. Then I took each item off the bar, considered it, and either hung it back up in the empty part of the closet or said goodbye and put it in the bin.

Folded items, I took down and put on the bed, then made me decisions and chose what I wanted to keep and recorded each item. Some of the, went in tht bin, others went back on the shelf ...

That's great, Miss Madge! Yesterday I decided to go for it, and started with tank/sleeveless tops. Placing them all on the bed, there were over 50! It got easier as I went along. Like Handsnhearts did, I held up the item or tried it on to decide if it sparked joy, then thanked the discards for their years of service. I would never have thought to do that and it was like free therapy! Marie Kondo points out that some items had served their purpose just by giving you excitement when you first saw them at the store, or by showing you what styles work and don't work for you. This was incredibly liberating for me. I did the KonMari fold on my tops and am enjoying the "crayons in a box" feeling of the drawers!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 05, 2015, 12:44:38 PM
OTOH, it's surprising that some simple pieces like a gray v-neck t that fits me perfectly does spark joy, and obviously gets to stay.

That's so true! It helps you let go of the things you think you're supposed to treasure and keep what you actually do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 05, 2015, 01:34:20 PM
That's good to hear!  So did you do as she suggests, and put out ALL your clothes (on the floor or on the bed) to go through them all at once?  I haven't taken that big step yet, but I am close to doing it!


Everything hanging in my closet, I shoved way to one side. Then I took each item off the bar, considered it, and either hung it back up in the empty part of the closet or said goodbye and put it in the bin.

Folded items, I took down and put on the bed, then made me decisions and chose what I wanted to keep and recorded each item. Some of the, went in tht bin, others went back on the shelf ...

That's great, Miss Madge! Yesterday I decided to go for it, and started with tank/sleeveless tops. Placing them all on the bed, there were over 50! It got easier as I went along. Like Handsnhearts did, I held up the item or tried it on to decide if it sparked joy, then thanked the discards for their years of service. I would never have thought to do that and it was like free therapy! Marie Kondo points out that some items had served their purpose just by giving you excitement when you first saw them at the store, or by showing you what styles work and don't work for you. This was incredibly liberating for me. I did the KonMari fold on my tops and am enjoying the "crayons in a box" feeling of the drawers!

Practical Magic That drawer is beautiful!  Does KonMari call it 'crayons in a box' or is that yours?  It is both beautiful and exciting like opening a fresh box of unused, brand-new crayons.  Oh the possibilities!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 05, 2015, 01:51:12 PM
That's good to hear!  So did you do as she suggests, and put out ALL your clothes (on the floor or on the bed) to go through them all at once?  I haven't taken that big step yet, but I am close to doing it!


Everything hanging in my closet, I shoved way to one side. Then I took each item off the bar, considered it, and either hung it back up in the empty part of the closet or said goodbye and put it in the bin.

Folded items, I took down and put on the bed, then made me decisions and chose what I wanted to keep and recorded each item. Some of the, went in tht bin, others went back on the shelf ...

That's great, Miss Madge! Yesterday I decided to go for it, and started with tank/sleeveless tops. Placing them all on the bed, there were over 50! It got easier as I went along. Like Handsnhearts did, I held up the item or tried it on to decide if it sparked joy, then thanked the discards for their years of service. I would never have thought to do that and it was like free therapy! Marie Kondo points out that some items had served their purpose just by giving you excitement when you first saw them at the store, or by showing you what styles work and don't work for you. This was incredibly liberating for me. I did the KonMari fold on my tops and am enjoying the "crayons in a box" feeling of the drawers!

Practical Magic That drawer is beautiful!  Does KonMari call it 'crayons in a box' or is that yours?  It is both beautiful and exciting like opening a fresh box of unused, brand-new crayons.  Oh the possibilities!

Thanks! I don't know if she calls it that, but that's the feeling I get every time I open a drawer. I'm going to try folding pants in a similar way and position them on a shelf, like this woman did. (Her cat was apparently helping). ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 05, 2015, 02:01:34 PM
Found this on a site called Karenkaminski. This is her final closet pic. I wouldn't have thought to organize pants that way (folded, sideways on a shelf), but it seems to work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 05, 2015, 02:06:34 PM
She has such beautiful clothes.  I want my closet to look like that.  That feels like me.  Not this drab, neutral boringness that my wardrobe has morphed into somehow.  I just realized that I have gone from bright clothes and neutral classic shoes (what she has) to boring clothes and bright shoes, which are unsustainable and need to be replaced often.  And I like quality shoes best, that last.  Great picture and great direction for me to head!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DragonSlayer on April 05, 2015, 02:29:49 PM
I'm a bit sad. I've been clearing out my parents' attic and found a lot of my old toys. Most of them aren't worth keeping or donating, and some are borderline. (As in, could be donated or maybe sold, but really likely not due to too much wear and tear.) But I'm just kind of sad to dump them in the trash. I mean, I'm 43 w/no kids, so it's not like I'm going to be playing with them, but it's still sad saying goodbye to things that were good friends when I was a kid (only child, so toys were kind of friends at times). I know I have no room or need for them, but it's just a tearjerker. I'm reminded again that growing up kind of sucks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 05, 2015, 03:41:29 PM
I'm a bit sad. I've been clearing out my parents' attic and found a lot of my old toys. Most of them aren't worth keeping or donating, and some are borderline. (As in, could be donated or maybe sold, but really likely not due to too much wear and tear.) But I'm just kind of sad to dump them in the trash. I mean, I'm 43 w/no kids, so it's not like I'm going to be playing with them, but it's still sad saying goodbye to things that were good friends when I was a kid (only child, so toys were kind of friends at times). I know I have no room or need for them, but it's just a tearjerker. I'm reminded again that growing up kind of sucks.

Do you have any friends with kids that might appreciate vintage toys?  I know I sure would, especially if they came from a friend. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 05, 2015, 03:52:52 PM
I just finished off a box of crackers...

It's been a very productive day.  Sorted, consolidated and gave away fabric.  Went from four boxes to 2.  Pulled out a few projects to finish and arranged things I know I need soon for easy access.

Filled a box for goodwill with a few articles of clothing and a few of my great grandmothers dishes.  I can't keep them all.  I have as many in circulation as I can and just a handful packed away. 

Gathered things to send to family with my brother when he visits next week.  A hammock I don't have a place to hang anymore.  Some recycling that isn't accepted here, but is there.  Sewing supplies and notions for my mom.

Salvaged several grocery bags and papertowels that had been used to pack things in.  I am always running out of trash bags! Now I've got enough for a month or two.  I used the already crummy looking paper towels to clean. 

Last week I emptied and gave away two photo albums.  I got three more out of my tub of journals and albums under the bed. Now that bin is only half full.  I don't think I'll actually go through them today, but I have them accessible, so that I can when I'm ready.

I'm parting with a few more photo frames.  I had a gallery wall at my old house, but decided not to put holes in this rental's walls.  It's taken me time to let go of all of those frames.   A friend just got her first place, so she's getting a lot of odds and ends from me, including picture frames,  an extra flashlight,  bath towel, paint, vases...

I've used up enough things out of the laundry room cupboard that I can put the soap and softener in the cupboard and have the counter clear!  I can't even remember what used to be in that cupboard space. 

The shelf above my hanging rod used to be full to the ceiling of tetris stacked boxes.  Now it has one (large) box of notions and my cooler and a cute basket of scarves.  Beneath the hanging clothes used to be tetris stacked as well, but now just hosts my shoes, my out of season fan and buckets of paint my landlord hasn't picked up yet.

That is evidence of a lot completing a lot of projects and just letting go of excess.  Whew.  I feel so close to where I want to be.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DragonSlayer on April 05, 2015, 04:17:26 PM
I'm a bit sad. I've been clearing out my parents' attic and found a lot of my old toys. Most of them aren't worth keeping or donating, and some are borderline. (As in, could be donated or maybe sold, but really likely not due to too much wear and tear.) But I'm just kind of sad to dump them in the trash. I mean, I'm 43 w/no kids, so it's not like I'm going to be playing with them, but it's still sad saying goodbye to things that were good friends when I was a kid (only child, so toys were kind of friends at times). I know I have no room or need for them, but it's just a tearjerker. I'm reminded again that growing up kind of sucks.

Do you have any friends with kids that might appreciate vintage toys?  I know I sure would, especially if they came from a friend.

I do have a friend who has young grandkids, but these things need a lot of work, and some things will never be right. Decals have fallen off and been torn and pieces are missing, so even if you glued them back on, they'd never be whole. They need a lot of cleaning and other cosmetic repair. That's why I say some are borderline. Technically, they still work and can be played with, but they're never going to be "right." I don't know if people want that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 05, 2015, 06:05:19 PM
DragonSlayer, when I dug out all my old toys from my mom's attic, I felt like I wasn't quite done with them either. I put several of the smaller ones on display in my built-in china cabinet and enjoyed them that way for a few years. Eventually I re-stored them and finally when I felt I'd experienced them as fully as I needed to, I sold them. I took photos also, so that if I want to remember one I can just pull up the pic. Btw, I was an only child too, and I understand about the toys being your friends.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MATSG on April 06, 2015, 11:25:27 AM
Seems like everyone is in that spring cleaning phase! Awesome to hear.  I have been taking stock of what I have, which is also not too much considering I live in a small carriage house I share with a roommate, but it is still too much.  I've had success listing some dresses on eBay, got a whole box of items to add to my sister's yard sale in a few weeks and am plotting a day or two to really go through all of the drawers where I just stuff the junk I don't want to deal with everyday.

A good book to put someone in the mind frame of decluttering is "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing."  Honestly, I found it a little cheesy at times, but the overall idea was really interesting, and if you're like me, even if you have not too much stuff, the act of going through it all can be daunting.  This book made it seem simple.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 06, 2015, 12:26:52 PM
Just got back from vacation.  A strap on a pair of heels broke, so (after duct taping it initially so I could wear it that evening), I left them behind.  My example inspired my husband to do the same with some clothing, which was great.  Unfortunately, while gone I got a message about donating to Belle of the Ball (gently used formal dresses for prom) too late to give up two dresses I've been meaning to donate to a similar program, but I might still try dropping them off tomorrow night.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 06, 2015, 01:04:25 PM
I have a couple of things listed in eBay. I started at a fairly low price and looks like it would sell for that price. However I have this mental block that I should be getting more money for that stuff. I listed at $60 and the electronic item is worth $200. I had earlier listed it at $100 and no one bid.

On one hand I just want it off my house. On the other, I know the actual value is higher and I feel bad for giving away the item. How do I convince myself its OK to let go of the (perceived) value of the item?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on April 06, 2015, 01:20:31 PM
We got rid of our space heater and standing fan that have been sitting in the closet for years. It was great reclaiming that closet space and moving a bunch of other things into that closet half - the rest of the apartment is much clearer now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 06, 2015, 04:42:16 PM
Well, I found out I'll need to move in 30 days so taking the opportunity to get rid of more stuff. A bookcase, shelf, some clothes in styles I no longer wear, random things like manicuring stuff and moisturizer samples so far..,...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on April 06, 2015, 05:47:09 PM
I have a couple of things listed in eBay. I started at a fairly low price and looks like it would sell for that price. However I have this mental block that I should be getting more money for that stuff. I listed at $60 and the electronic item is worth $200. I had earlier listed it at $100 and no one bid.

On one hand I just want it off my house. On the other, I know the actual value is higher and I feel bad for giving away the item. How do I convince myself its OK to let go of the (perceived) value of the item?
Stuff is worth what someone will pay.  Your marketing approach can influence that price, but you have to know the market ( best venue for selling, righ time of year, right key words, photos, etc.).  Some items I just list as Buy it Now on eBay and bide my time until someone buys.  Other items are always in demand and those work better for an auction format sale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 06, 2015, 06:09:54 PM
Ok, this is a double post, but I don't care!  I'm enjoying this immensely more than I thought and more than any of these objects would have brought me!

Returned 4 things to Costco.
$84.35 for 15 minutes of my time!

Good reminder too, you can return anything you have ever bought at Costco for any reason, except electronics which are 90 days.

A pair of pants and a pair of shorts that I was never going to wear because they made me feel too frumpy, and a World Cup soccer jersey my husband never wore, and the wrong kind of replacement heads for our toothbrushes. I will probably have to rebuy the toothbrush heads later, but I can do it after I move and that's one less thing to move. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 07, 2015, 01:56:03 AM
I have a couple of things listed in eBay. I started at a fairly low price and looks like it would sell for that price. However I have this mental block that I should be getting more money for that stuff. I listed at $60 and the electronic item is worth $200. I had earlier listed it at $100 and no one bid.

On one hand I just want it off my house. On the other, I know the actual value is higher and I feel bad for giving away the item. How do I convince myself its OK to let go of the (perceived) value of the item?
Stuff is worth what someone will pay.  Your marketing approach can influence that price, but you have to know the market ( best venue for selling, righ time of year, right key words, photos, etc.).  Some items I just list as Buy it Now on eBay and bide my time until someone buys.  Other items are always in demand and those work better for an auction format sale.

I agree with this - it's only worth what someone will pay. And I remind myself that yes, it was worth $100 to me, when I bought it, but the second I left the shop with it, the value likely halved. It helps to stop me from buying things new. I now let other people get the buyer's remorse and take the hit when they realise they don't want it, but it was worth half what it was. A hard lesson, but once learnt, you can use it to your advantage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on April 07, 2015, 08:26:41 AM
I started the 'minimalist game' of getting rid of 1 thing on April 1 ... 5 things on April 5, etc.  Doing good so far - haven't done anything today for day 7 but have some things in mind for when I get home.  I'm sort of out of nice things to sell but I'm trying eBay for one more thing that didn't sell at the consignment shop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on April 07, 2015, 01:29:49 PM
Made a little over $15 yesterday by selling some baby items.  It wasn't even all that much, so I'm rather pleased by the profit.
What the store wouldn't take I'll give to a friend, who works for a counseling and adoption agency.  They've got five clients (so far) who are going to have babies this summer and who will need these clothes very much.
Have a box parked in the living room in which I can deposit things as I find them and think, "WTH is this, where did it come from, and why do we still have it?"  It's getting pretty full, which is both sad and motivating.  Some items I've been hanging onto out of guilt (like the picture frame someone gave us for our wedding which is...not our style) and this thread is helping me to not feel guilty about passing it along.
Need to work on packing up my books so that I can sell the bookshelf we won't be moving.  Also need to list some modular shelving which we don't want anymore and still need to box up the "kitchen starter box" stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kmt88 on April 08, 2015, 09:19:06 AM
I just want to thank everyone that suggested "the life changing magic of tidying up."  I spent last Friday going through my drawers and I finally felt permission to chuck things out of my life ruthlessly.  The "does this spark joy" and "thank you for serving" routine really helped!  And I'm in love with the way my drawers looks with my clothing folded in the KonMari method.  I've already spread the word to several folks.  Y'all are the best.  I can't wait to finally achieve my minimalist dreams!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 08, 2015, 11:28:03 AM
I am enjoying the shifting of objects..sort of musical chairs. 

I saw a friend wearing my old jeans  plus my old scarf last week and she rocked them!  I am enjoying a donation of food from someone who was going away (in fact they supplied us with drinks to take to two parties) and I have been wearing some of my DH's winter clothes lately to keep warm.  I got half-used cleaning supplies from another friend and am donating a bag of winter clothes to the thrift shop today.  Perhaps I will see someone wearing one of my dresses soon?

I got some compost from the community compost heap..who knows whose leftovers have fuelled my garden?  it seems as though I am looking at a chess board and the pieces are all moving from side to side being used over and over again.

Meanwhile I am forcing myself to rein in the desire to fire out all my winter clothes because face it, I am going to need them for a little longer.  I was fingering a long sleeved top today ready to snatch it from its hanger and shove into the thrift store bag when the voice of reason said "Kiddo, it will be a long cold spring if you own nothing at all with sleeves by tomorrow".  True.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 08, 2015, 12:12:43 PM
Selling two of our lamps today. We used them in our previous homes but the current one has light fixtures already and our lamps are gathering dust. Also they are not child proof (from prekid days) and I dont see ourselves using them for a long time. So storing them in craigslist :)

Now thinking if I should sell our office chair too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Geostache on April 08, 2015, 01:13:04 PM
I mentioned to MIL that I'm in the process of decluttering the house. When she asks me what things I'm getting rid of, I mention things like the jewelry making supplies I bought and haven't used for years (letting go of my fantasy self). Her response? "Don't get rid of it! You may want to use it some day!" When I politely responded that no, I don't ever see myself as the jewelry making type, she said "Well then give it to me, and I'll keep it for you!"

There are so many things wrong with that statement, I don't even know where to begin. Not the least of which is the fact that she lives on the other side of the continent!

Anyway, I get an email from her today that's all about the Feng Shui of letting go of paper... So, paper is bad Feng Shui, but boxes full of supplies you're never going to use is good? The logic escapes me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mleigh on April 08, 2015, 01:39:23 PM
Work sent out a notice about their "office supply recycling program" where you direct unused office supplies to the program and they redistribute.  Took two reams of copy paper, a container of cardstock that I've had for 4 years, and a few other useful odds and ends in.  SO nice to have found a good home for those items! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 08, 2015, 02:49:50 PM
In a rare situation, I needed to put on a suit today for work.  I was in a hurry, so I didn't change when I realized it was tight on my thighs.  As I've been carefully bending down to pick up things and I can hear I've ripped my lining a few times...I am mentally filing this away as motivation, not only to get rid of this suit but to try on all of my suits and get rid of those that don't fit.  For some reason when I go through my closet, I never try suits on - just pants/skirts/shirts.

Sad though, it was my favorite suit!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 08, 2015, 03:02:31 PM
Realized today that although I love the look of colourful cushions on my beige sectional couch (hygge) http://www.visitdenmark.com/danish-meaning-hygge I can't STAND it when the kids chuck the cushions on the floor. All day long, I keep putting cushions back in their place. Today, I put the cushions away to try and remove this little messy frustration from my life.

They may/may not make a reappearance next winter!

OT: Can anyone instruct me in how to insert a link but just making the word highlighted? I love that feature but can't figure it out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 08, 2015, 03:15:58 PM
Now that I know I will be moving within the month, I am doing even better with decluttering. Nothing like moving to help with that!  Antique falling apart (REALLY falling apart) chandelier out. Old pillow I don't like (that was almost out before, but I TOOK OUT of the pile... tsk tsk.) . Several more clothes in a style I haven't been wearing for a couple years now. Went thru paperwork again.. its amazing how it seems to accumulate so quickly.. I thought I was getting better about discarding before it landed in the pile.. Will go through everything again before I move. Hoping to decrease a bit more. I don't hav much now, but the bulk of what I do have is actually fabric (and related sewing articles) and pieces I have created, as well as other art pieces. I show my work , so that will be kept for sure. Will review all sewing stuff again (as haven't been sewing for a while now) and reduce further.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 08, 2015, 03:27:36 PM
Write it out this way, removing the #:

[#url=http://www.visitdenmark.com/danish-meaning-hygge]link[/url]

Obviously, you can change the word link
[#url=http://www.visitdenmark.com/danish-meaning-hygge]see[/url]
see (http://www.visitdenmark.com/danish-meaning-hygge)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 08, 2015, 03:35:24 PM
Thanks! (http://content.mindmixercanada.com/Live/Projects/richmondpubliclibrary/files/72262/Thank-You.jpg?635611801257570000)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 08, 2015, 07:14:22 PM
:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on April 08, 2015, 07:25:16 PM
Took three large backs of clothes, books, and other miscellany to the Brown Elephant (local thrift store) Monday. Already have another bag of clothes ready to go (most of the clothes is either 10 years old or hand-me-downs from my mother or sister that I thought I would wear but don't).

I almost took a pair of rain boots, but they're Aigle and the are in great condition (they simply don't fit anymore) so I'm trying to recoup some of my cost via Craigslist. Fingers crossed!

Next project: BF's closet...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 08, 2015, 09:54:02 PM
Snuck my accumulated plastic wear into the cupboard in the lunch room at work.  Coworkers use and toss that stuff like crazy!  I forget to pack a utensil and have to use plastic more often than I like, but I can't handle throwing it out... So I take it home and wash it, but I had collected quite a pile.

Tossing a box I thought would be great to store something in...  Something?  What?? That's too vague. Out it goes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 09, 2015, 02:35:43 AM
Another 11 things out of the house yesterday. And 5 things sold on ebay (I had already counted them as decluttered, so it was just nice to see the money roll in).

I did buy some fabric at the weekend though, so I need to concentrate on making up some things before I buy any more. I worked on a top yesterday, but it's a finicky fabric and I wasn't enjoying myself. Hope to cut out a few more things at the weekend, concentrating on using up large scraps so they are out of my life once and for all. I see a few new tank tops in my future!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on April 09, 2015, 05:23:45 AM
Last night I scanned more of the endless genealogy files I inherited from my dad. My mom was going through some of her stuff and found 2 big accordion files of papers. I can recycle most of it without scanning but I have to look at each paper because sometimes I find photos or personal correspondence from my grandparents or aunt.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on April 09, 2015, 06:42:47 AM
My community posted a flyer for a garage sale next weekend.  Super excited, will put my stuff out in the driveway for 4 hours and if it doesn't sell, pack it up and head to goodwill.  Will curb my "it's worth something" mind and get more stuff out of the house.  And will probably be a good reminder that my stuff really isn't worth much and make future donations much easier! 

Love reading everyone's successes on here, it's been so motivating!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on April 10, 2015, 07:32:33 AM
Still trying to convince my wife and youngest 2 daughters to get on board with minimizing. My youngest is borderline Asperger's... she hangs on to every little piece of cardboard and junk.

Last night, wife told them "You either clean the room or I'm going to get a big bucket and do it myself!" which she's threatened numerous times, and never follows through on. I said "I have a big plastic tub available, would you like me to go get it right now??"
I'm going to bring the tub in today, and it's not moving from the center of the room till it's full. My girls are absolute hoarders, I won't even go in their room any more, my oldest daughter can't even stand it. My wife is so flustered with all the housework of cleaning up after the pack rats that she doesn't know what to do.

Plastic Tub is my new best friend. And he's hungry.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 10, 2015, 07:40:21 AM
Funkystickman, good luck with your new best friend! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 10, 2015, 09:20:48 AM
I did buy some fabric at the weekend though, so I need to concentrate on making up some things before I buy any more. I worked on a top yesterday, but it's a finicky fabric and I wasn't enjoying myself. Hope to cut out a few more things at the weekend, concentrating on using up large scraps so they are out of my life once and for all. I see a few new tank tops in my future!


This is a great idea- to use up fabric to minimize. I hadn't thought of this . periodicly I get way into my sewing ( only have to get started then I remember how much I love it) . so I still have been holding onto a fair amount of fabric and supplies. Best to use them up rather than keep holding onto  the stuff for more years to come!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 10, 2015, 09:57:11 AM
Still trying to convince my wife and youngest 2 daughters to get on board with minimizing. My youngest is borderline Asperger's... she hangs on to every little piece of cardboard and junk.

Last night, wife told them "You either clean the room or I'm going to get a big bucket and do it myself!" which she's threatened numerous times, and never follows through on. I said "I have a big plastic tub available, would you like me to go get it right now??"
I'm going to bring the tub in today, and it's not moving from the center of the room till it's full. My girls are absolute hoarders, I won't even go in their room any more, my oldest daughter can't even stand it. My wife is so flustered with all the housework of cleaning up after the pack rats that she doesn't know what to do.

Plastic Tub is my new best friend. And he's hungry.

Definitely nip the hording in the bud with the kids. I've been enjoying watching the Hoarder tv shows this week (train wreak tv - and my roommate can't do without cable) and some of them it started when they were kids.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 10, 2015, 09:58:23 AM
I am committed to weeding out my suits and wedgewood. Going to get rid of stuff I don't like.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 10, 2015, 10:06:36 AM
I just want to say a big thank you to everyone on this thread.  You keep me motivated to keep plugging away at areas and encourage me to revisit them after I think I'm "done" (when I'm really not!).  I read the book so many recommended above (Life Changing Art of Tidying Up), and it was great, giving some new ideas about how to treat things.  I won't start thanking my clothes anytime soon, but I am going to try more purging in the order she's recommended, bringing all items of a type together to see how big my collections really are, and to start with the blank slate and decide what to keep - rather than starting with everything and deciding what to throw away.

My home contains about 20% of what my sister's house has, and yet there is SO MUCH that I could get rid of without missing.  I admire those of you on here who have really purged down.  It helps to know my main preventers for getting rid of things are in order: my husband ("but are you sure?..."), emotional reasons ("that was grandma's"), practical reasons ("I might need it") and informational reasons "I might want to consult it later").  Step one will be not to show my husband things I'm getting rid of! 

The exercise of thinking about what I want to declutter is illuminating.  At first, I think I want to declutter to have a beautiful put-together and coordinated home like I see in magazines...but after thought, it's really that a cluttered home makes me feel like I have a to-do list that's never complete and thus home is stressful rather than relaxing.  It also takes time to keep up putting things away/cleaning.

And every time this thread pops up, it reminds me to keep on with it, helping me create habits of not just removing clutter but not letting it into my life.  I am pretty bad about seeing "deals" and picking up free stuff, and this helps me curb those instincts for only things I really want.  Free isn't really free.

So thank you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 10, 2015, 10:04:45 PM
I spendt about five minutes when I got home pulling clothes off their hangers. - the clothes ive been hating & avoiding everytime I go into my closet. and then of course, out go all those extra hangers I no longer need. and a set of pillowcases ive never used for good measure.
there is this skirt - really a nice looking skirt , rather interesting one actually- that I purchased at Macys for $75 like five years ago & back then I used to wear it regularly.  ive been holding onto it for those two reasons (cost and look of it ), and also because all my coworkers admire it when I wear it. maybe I should give it to one of them , thats a thought... the thing is that's its a size or 2 too big now (and ive been consistently smaller for 2 years now). another option is to alter , which im quite capable of. but I need to do something with it, because its another one of those items I refuse to ever wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 10, 2015, 10:22:53 PM
got rid of a few more shirts, but I had weeded through these recently.  Tomorrow is the big closet go through.  I am now done with my dresser, except undie/bra/sock drawer...that one is a beast!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 10, 2015, 10:32:37 PM
A garbage bag of clothes and a box of books ... GONE!

Was happy to drop another load at the thrift store ... did go back in and pick up a few much needed items in lieu of shopping retail. 1 skirt, 1 pair of pants, 2 summer tops
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on April 12, 2015, 02:41:41 PM
In the last couple of weeks, I cleared out several items of clothing I don't like.  Among other items, there lurked a huge tangle of hose that I haven't needed since I changed jobs 10 years ago (and probably couldn't fit in now anyway)--dealt with!  Shoes that I never wear are being donated, as are books that I haven't wanted to reread in the last couple of years.  I also put aside three boxes (and counting) of household items to donate.  Old paperwork is being shredded or recycled.  And I looked up local options for hard-to-recycle items like clothes that aren't in good enough shape to donate, paint cans, etc.

Thanks to reading this thread consistently, I'm getting past the, "what if I need it later," "what if I miss it," etc.  So thank you all for the inspiration to get (and keep) going on this project. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on April 12, 2015, 03:53:46 PM
I have a couple of things listed in eBay. I started at a fairly low price and looks like it would sell for that price. However I have this mental block that I should be getting more money for that stuff. I listed at $60 and the electronic item is worth $200. I had earlier listed it at $100 and no one bid.

On one hand I just want it off my house. On the other, I know the actual value is higher and I feel bad for giving away the item. How do I convince myself its OK to let go of the (perceived) value of the item?
It's only actually worth what someone will pay you for it. Regardless of what you think it is worth. If it is worth more, find someone to pay more. If said person is not to be found, they don't exist. :) it's OK to let it go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 13, 2015, 04:04:49 AM
So my list is around 800 items I've got out of house so far this year (I think. Somewhere around that number). My husband is by turns amused (I threw out an inelastic rubber band yesterday, and he said 'Are you checking that off your list?!') and amazed, because every so often I ask, 'Have you missed anything' and the answer is always NO.

How is it possible to get rid of so many things, and yet never once think, 'Where is that? Oh I threw it out and regret it'? Seriously, I haven't looked for / missed a single thing. It's mind-blowing.

It's getting harder though. I've picked all the low-hanging fruit. At first, it was hard. Then, when I realised I didn't miss anything it was liberating, and I got rid of loads of stuff! Things I wouldn't even had considered at the beginning. But now I am getting down to stuff I really -don't want to get rid of-.

If the reasons were "I like it and I use it" that would be fine. My aim is a house that only contains things I enjoy (and by that I mean enjoy seeing and/or using). But those aren't the reasons. The main ones seem to be 'That cost me a lot of money!', yet I have researched Ebay and now know it to be basically worthless. I need to let this stuff go. The money is gone. Holding onto the item when I don't use it is just a kind of punishment.

I don't want to give it to friends/family because that just feels like giving them a burden. And in the UK, charity shops don't sell electricals. I think Freecycle is my next stop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 13, 2015, 07:31:53 AM
If the reasons were "I like it and I use it" that would be fine. My aim is a house that only contains things I enjoy (and by that I mean enjoy seeing and/or using). But those aren't the reasons. The main ones seem to be 'That cost me a lot of money!', yet I have researched Ebay and now know it to be basically worthless. I need to let this stuff go. The money is gone. Holding onto the item when I don't use it is just a kind of punishment.

I don't want to give it to friends/family because that just feels like giving them a burden. And in the UK, charity shops don't sell electricals. I think Freecycle is my next stop.

So true.
I like the concept with Freecycle, but I have a problem with people not picking things up as agreed.  I was trying to give away binders and after several people wanted them and then flaked on me, I gave up and took them away to the dump instead.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MoustacheKnittah on April 13, 2015, 10:14:42 AM
We are finally, FINALLY getting rid of our storage unit. It hasn't had much in it for a year, and is just a waste of money. We got it three years ago when we were redoing the flooring in much of the house and did not have room for all of the furniture. We will be out by the end of the month. We went out this weekend and took the last of the boxes - half a dozen or so. Mr. MoustacheKnittah made me sort through the boxes out on the patio to ensure there were no critters or other disgusting delights after the boxes have languished in the out-of-doors for so long. Immediately put half of the items in boxes for charity shop. Set a chair and a lamp out of the curb. Thought about selling these, but we had more important stuff to do this weekend. They were taken immediately - I figure I am repaying the curb furniture gods for a few good finds over the years.

At any rate, we still have an old mattress (donate/trash), two chairs that need upholstery (will go home) and a tool box (donate). Friend has some stuff and we told him it just needs to be out by the end of the month. Victory over storage unit is so close!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RMD on April 13, 2015, 10:32:39 AM
Get rid of the phone book for good by opting out. Saves you time by never having to recycle it again and is environmentally friendly. https://www.yellowpagesoptout.com/

THANK YOU!  Phone books are my nemesis and I have no idea the last time we've used them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on April 13, 2015, 01:46:26 PM
in the UK, charity shops don't sell electricals. I think Freecycle is my next stop.

British Heart Foundation.  They have some shops which are clothes etc. but others which are furniture and electricals.

You may also have a local auction which sells electricals (usually the auctions at the lower end of the market, which also means cheaper - I have a reasonably local one that charges £1 per item plus commission, so I can give something one go pretty cheaply ), although they will need a safety check before hand (the auction may do this for you).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rollin on April 13, 2015, 02:21:51 PM
I'm a bit sad. I've been clearing out my parents' attic and found a lot of my old toys. Most of them aren't worth keeping or donating, and some are borderline. (As in, could be donated or maybe sold, but really likely not due to too much wear and tear.) But I'm just kind of sad to dump them in the trash. I mean, I'm 43 w/no kids, so it's not like I'm going to be playing with them, but it's still sad saying goodbye to things that were good friends when I was a kid (only child, so toys were kind of friends at times). I know I have no room or need for them, but it's just a tearjerker. I'm reminded again that growing up kind of sucks.

Can I recommend that you pick one or two of your favorites and keep them?  That works for me, as I have a small box with my high school letters (for my jacket), my baseball mitt, and a few small wrestling medals.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rollin on April 13, 2015, 02:32:14 PM
I have a couple of things listed in eBay. I started at a fairly low price and looks like it would sell for that price. However I have this mental block that I should be getting more money for that stuff. I listed at $60 and the electronic item is worth $200. I had earlier listed it at $100 and no one bid.

On one hand I just want it off my house. On the other, I know the actual value is higher and I feel bad for giving away the item. How do I convince myself its OK to let go of the (perceived) value of the item?

My DW has a lot of this "perceived" value going on.  She'll estimate what something is worth based on what she has seen it go for ina shop, but I remind her that she doesn't have a  shop (and doesn't want one!), doesn't have the overhead to pay, etc., but does have to pay for storage (both physical and mental) while it sits there waiting for that market price!  If you factor all that in it can be disappointing, but a dose of reality.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 13, 2015, 09:11:56 PM
A lot more items out now. Getting more ruthless. More clothes I was attached to but did not enjoy anymore out. Went thru all my artwork & downsized ( took some photos ) . some dishes/kitchen stuff I don't like or use out. I have 4 more library books to read, then I will read what's on my shelves & likely discard more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on April 13, 2015, 11:44:11 PM
If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".  I finally cleared out all of the stuff we don't need or want to move and it's taking up half the dining room table.  Trying to sell it, but if no one wants it we'll give it to the charity shop and see if they can find any takers. 
Our kitchen now is not only cleaner, it's downright spacious!  Who knew?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 13, 2015, 11:51:10 PM
If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".

I would so read that book!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 14, 2015, 01:32:45 AM

So true.
I like the concept with Freecycle, but I have a problem with people not picking things up as agreed.  I was trying to give away binders and after several people wanted them and then flaked on me, I gave up and took them away to the dump instead.

CommonCents, you had reminded me exactly why I let my group membership lapse... when people are picking things up for free they seem less committed to turning up. I wish the dump had a room you could just leave interesting stuff for others to look through and take for free. Each bay could be dated with a week commencing date when it will just be landfilled if no-one has taken it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 14, 2015, 01:34:38 AM
in the UK, charity shops don't sell electricals. I think Freecycle is my next stop.

British Heart Foundation.  They have some shops which are clothes etc. but others which are furniture and electricals.

You may also have a local auction which sells electricals (usually the auctions at the lower end of the market, which also means cheaper - I have a reasonably local one that charges £1 per item plus commission, so I can give something one go pretty cheaply ), although they will need a safety check before hand (the auction may do this for you).

Thank you former player, I will look into BHF and our local auction house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on April 14, 2015, 08:28:19 AM
If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".  I finally cleared out all of the stuff we don't need or want to move and it's taking up half the dining room table.  Trying to sell it, but if no one wants it we'll give it to the charity shop and see if they can find any takers. 
Our kitchen now is not only cleaner, it's downright spacious!  Who knew?

I feel this way about my garage, and I've only just begun! :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 14, 2015, 09:13:17 AM
I'm finding that keeping a space completely clean is critical to clutter busting.  Once it gets that first sheet of paper or other clutter on it, it becomes a clutter magnet.  It's amazing how that works...


So true.
I like the concept with Freecycle, but I have a problem with people not picking things up as agreed.  I was trying to give away binders and after several people wanted them and then flaked on me, I gave up and took them away to the dump instead.

CommonCents, you had reminded me exactly why I let my group membership lapse... when people are picking things up for free they seem less committed to turning up. I wish the dump had a room you could just leave interesting stuff for others to look through and take for free. Each bay could be dated with a week commencing date when it will just be landfilled if no-one has taken it.

We actually have that, but it seems to be just one giant outdoor bay.  So it works great for the plastic toy-pile-of-crap, but things that need to be protected from rain don't do as well.  It also only seems to operate during the summer months and it suffers from the lack of fridge-dating that you mention.  But, better than nothing!  I've avoided looking at it too closely though, for fear the part of my brain that lights up when it sees "free!" will go crazy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 14, 2015, 09:43:23 AM
Out:

3 pair socks I don't like wearing

2 half empty special occasion make up

1 unopened eyeshadow


Edited to add:

Scanned 60 or so photos during down time at work. Came home and sorted more photos. Have an envelope full in my bag waiting for my next opportunity to scan.

Dropped the boxes at goodwill... Ripped it off like a bandaid.  Refused to think about the dress and vest and other things I used to love that no longer fit my lifestyle...  Gone.  I won't miss them.

Sold a set of three shelves I made out of scrap lumber and used in my old house.  They've been in my trunk for 6 months.... Now I have $20.  Will give a couple extra curtain rods to the couple who bought the shelves. Wooh!  Gonna put them in the car right now so that I have them when I see them next.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 14, 2015, 11:31:14 AM
Used up most of the foundation makeup instead of buying new ones. Nowadays, I shop my makeup drawer more than shopping outside.

Resisted buying peanut butter - I wasn't sure we had one at home or not. The old me would've bought it 'just in case'. New me resisted the temptation and came home to find a big bottle of peanut butter sitting around unopened in my pantry
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 14, 2015, 12:57:18 PM
Sorted thru my once treasure highheel collection (mostly spike heels). I had 20 pairs. I rarely wear heels anymore, opting for still stylish but more comfortable foot wear. I am keeping 5 pairs that I really love . I was quite attached to this "collection" up until a couple years back, and I did think of it as a collection. Theyre so pretty (most are a little different and interesting) but im over it! Saving some space as well!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 14, 2015, 05:02:26 PM
If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".  I finally cleared out all of the stuff we don't need or want to move and it's taking up half the dining room table.  Trying to sell it, but if no one wants it we'll give it to the charity shop and see if they can find any takers. 
Our kitchen now is not only cleaner, it's downright spacious!  Who knew?

I feel this way about my garage, and I've only just begun! :D
I'm looking forward to the chapter in my book titled " In Which The Craft Room Can Be Used Again"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on April 14, 2015, 06:44:54 PM
If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".  I finally cleared out all of the stuff we don't need or want to move and it's taking up half the dining room table.  Trying to sell it, but if no one wants it we'll give it to the charity shop and see if they can find any takers. 
Our kitchen now is not only cleaner, it's downright spacious!  Who knew?

I feel this way about my garage, and I've only just begun! :D
I'm looking forward to the chapter in my book titled " In Which The Craft Room Can Be Used Again"

I quite enjoyed my own 'Hey I Can Actually Enter The Spare Bedroom Without Tripping Over".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Firefly on April 14, 2015, 08:34:25 PM
Donated a lot of clothes for the family last year and saved the receipts - we just did our taxes and were able to claim $800 charitable tax deduction. Not bad!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 15, 2015, 03:55:40 AM
I am wavering on paper, it seems overwhelming to tackle.  I already went through it all and this is the stuff I chose to keep.  Now what to do with it?  Most of it needs scanning.   Scanning cannot be that hard right?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 15, 2015, 04:59:39 AM
I am wavering on paper, it seems overwhelming to tackle.  I already went through it all and this is the stuff I chose to keep.  Now what to do with it?  Most of it needs scanning.   Scanning cannot be that hard right?

The scanning can be monotonous. Music or an audio book can help. I feel weight fall off my shoulders everytime I scan.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on April 15, 2015, 02:14:45 PM
My daughter is looking forward to "In Which The Bedroom Is No Longer A Fiber Storage Room".

If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".  I finally cleared out all of the stuff we don't need or want to move and it's taking up half the dining room table.  Trying to sell it, but if no one wants it we'll give it to the charity shop and see if they can find any takers. 
Our kitchen now is not only cleaner, it's downright spacious!  Who knew?

I feel this way about my garage, and I've only just begun! :D
I'm looking forward to the chapter in my book titled " In Which The Craft Room Can Be Used Again"

I quite enjoyed my own 'Hey I Can Actually Enter The Spare Bedroom Without Tripping Over".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sarnia Saver on April 15, 2015, 05:56:36 PM
Sold my PS4 (was being used only as a blu-ray player), two autographed hockey jerseys which had been sitting in a box, several appliances, a large massaging chair, some old unused toys and a mass of baby clothes which we were holding in case someone in our family has a baby(we held onto one large container worth).  All told about 1300$ added to my boys RESP accounts by getting rid of some items which we will not even notice has left the house. 

The purge continues....

(For those in Ontario, make sure you check out the Varage Sale website and app since Craigslist is not as popular north of the border.) 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 15, 2015, 08:00:23 PM
Sold my PS4 (was being used only as a blu-ray player), two autographed hockey jerseys which had been sitting in a box, several appliances, a large massaging chair, some old unused toys and a mass of baby clothes which we were holding in case someone in our family has a baby(we held onto one large container worth).  All told about 1300$ added to my boys RESP accounts by getting rid of some items which we will not even notice has left the house.

Wow, that's a lot of money and a lot of stuff out of the house! Very inspiring. I still need to sell a few things, some of which are worth quite a bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 16, 2015, 03:05:50 AM
I think I have a declutterers version of hedonic adaptation (is that the right phrase? MMM is always going on about things / bigger houses not making you any happier because you get used to them).

Well, a few weeks ago, my house felt amazing! So much less stuff! Nothing on the floor under the shelves, just space, and the shelves themselves no longer crammed full! Chests of drawers that closed all the way and nothing living on top of them! Just gorgeous empty space!

Well, I've clearly got used to it. I was doing a double take every time I saw an empty surface. Now I just see all the other stuff I haven't got rid of.

I need to redouble my efforts, and hope that, eventually, I will appreciate the space permanently, and not just see what's wrong with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 16, 2015, 03:12:46 PM
Gave away all our board games (we used to play them prebaby, don't think we'd play for another two or three years) and decluttered our TV cabinet. Got a junk drawer in it to clean but the rest is gone.

I also finally decided to give away some old clothes after three years and two moves. Sigh! Better now than never.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 16, 2015, 03:14:43 PM
I think we've reached a point where it's no longer a lack of space that's driving me to declutter but more the need to have a lighter house. Seeing my baby's toys everywhere is also contributing to it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 16, 2015, 06:56:10 PM

Well, a few weeks ago, my house felt amazing! So much less stuff! Nothing on the floor under the shelves, just space, and the shelves themselves no longer crammed full! Chests of drawers that closed all the way and nothing living on top of them! Just gorgeous empty space!

Well, I've clearly got used to it. I was doing a double take every time I saw an empty surface. Now I just see all the other stuff I haven't got rid of.

I need to redouble my efforts, and hope that, eventually, I will appreciate the space permanently, and not just see what's wrong with it.

I feel exactly the same way! After I moved in to my place 1 year ago, I decluttered half of my things. Now , so far this year I have probably reduced by about 50% again, and it still feels like I have too much stuff! Logically I know that I don't. actually I think it part the current illusion is due to the somewhat messy state of things not in their proper places due to mass decluttering- piles here and there...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 17, 2015, 10:40:42 AM
Visited a state park this morning and returned the map they have us to the guard shack when we left.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on April 17, 2015, 06:45:17 PM
I donated a bag of food for a food drive a coworker was organizing for his community. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 18, 2015, 01:15:08 PM
My brother visited and commented on the odd noise from the fridge.  It was an ice machine that isnt hooked up, and I couldnt figure out how to turn it off.  It came with the rental, so I don't want to permanently turn it off.  Brother showed me that if I wedged an empter container under the "floater bar" so that it always registers as full then it won't run!  I am so happy.  I keep pausing and noticing how quiet the fridge is.  It was not constant noise, but every half hour or so it would growl.  It sure felt like clutter, and now it's gone!  Maybe it will use less electricity when it's not constantly trying to make ice?

I also gave a rug I made and an extra tooth brush to that brother. Then tossed an old mascarra, and took care of my pile of mending.   

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on April 18, 2015, 01:43:07 PM
I have a TON of fabric I want to use up, and figured I could use a bunch of it to make camisoles/tank tops for summer and to wear under things. Anyone have any super simple sewing patterns for that?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 18, 2015, 02:14:22 PM
I have a TON of fabric I want to use up, and figured I could use a bunch of it to make camisoles/tank tops for summer and to wear under things. Anyone have any super simple sewing patterns for that?

Google search and you'll find many with tutorials or search burdastyle. Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheRabbit on April 19, 2015, 05:36:51 AM
I did the Minimalist Challenge in January (get rid of 1 item on the 1st of the month, 2 on the 2nd, 3 on the 3rd, etc.) and we ended up ridding ourselves of 520 items when all was said and done.

Then, I read about getting rid of 2015 things in 2015!  It seems like a lot but at the same time, it would be a good lesson is what is Enough. Anyone interested in taking up this challenge with me?

We have a toddler who is the only grandchild on either side of the family. Also, my husband is an only child on his side of the family with divorced parents, so there is lots of competition over gifts between his mother, step-mom, aunt, and grandma.  So much plastic crap! I even wrote "no gifts please" on the invite to this bday party but no one seemed to notice.

Any item trashed, donated, recycled, sold, or upcycled (made some old t-shirts into reusable baby wipes) counts as an item.

Takers?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on April 19, 2015, 06:14:40 AM
Cleared out the linen cupboard of the single bedsheets and random pillowcases who have lost their friends. Also took out the bedding which I kind of hate and never use. It will be getting donated next week!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 19, 2015, 12:24:52 PM
House is beginning to look a bit more spartan now which I quite enjoy.
Have realized I need to get back into donating my things to the Goodwill again ( rather than my complex) , because I need the receipts for tax purposes. ( I always pay , so this will help reduce what I pay next year) .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 19, 2015, 01:50:36 PM
Sorted a pile of photo albums. Reduced 1 cubic foot of possessions down to 1x4x6 inches. 1000 photos. 950 tossed. 50 kept.  Will scan and toss the 50.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 19, 2015, 02:47:55 PM
Have gone through closet a little bit, and I have 4 bags full of things to donate.  And I just noticed another shirt that I will add to that today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 19, 2015, 09:25:16 PM
I took my last load to the consignment shop to sell, and the guest bedroom which holds all my eBay items is getting emptier! Tomorrow 11 eBay items will ship out. I've been hitting it on all fronts, so my file cabinet is just about empty after a big scanning bout, and I'm donating a big pile of file folders tomorrow. After all these months of efforts I'm starting to really see and feel a difference. The next items to go are a collector car and a rental house...Let It Be So!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on April 20, 2015, 05:39:33 AM
Love the idea of a rental house as "clutter".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on April 20, 2015, 06:30:01 AM
Purged older son's room of the clothes that are now too small for him - have a giant mound (like 20 pairs of pants, every single long sleeved shirt he had, etc.) in the hallway. Will purge young son's clothing and then sort out what will fit him of the bigger clothes.

This weekend cleaned out the garage - lots of broken toys, junk, etc. that is out. Swept and reorganized and made it pretty (for a  garage). Got the younger kid help me purge some downstairs todays (mostly broken plastic junk). Decided to sell my rice cooker and cleaned it up and found the manual and made it look all nice and "like new!"

Community garage sale coming up and I am looking forward to getting a little money from all this stuff. I have been piling things in the guest room and it is getting to be a substantial collection.

Thinking about a big purge of my bookshelf.....

Feeling good!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: katstache92 on April 20, 2015, 07:26:34 AM
This weekend was a big weekend for me.  I freecycled an old sewing cabinet and a big bag of bubble wrap plus a box of packing materials.  I donated an old suitcase plus a duffel bag to a foster home.  I was also able to donate 28 pairs of shoes.  I got rid of a broken electronic scale plus some old cell phone batteries and chargers at work as a part of the e-recycling that is available this week.  I also recycled about 8 bags of plastic bags, it's amazing how they pile up.

I'm on the last stretch of moving and it feels great to get rid of this stuff!  I can't wait to go through everything again to really get down to just what I *actually* need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 20, 2015, 07:31:29 AM
This weekend was a big weekend for me.  I freecycled an old sewing cabinet and a big bag of bubble wrap plus a box of packing materials.  I donated an old suitcase plus a duffel bag to a foster home.  I was also able to donate 28 pairs of shoes.  I got rid of a broken electronic scale plus some old cell phone batteries and chargers at work as a part of the e-recycling that is available this week.  I also recycled about 8 bags of plastic bags, it's amazing how they pile up.

I'm on the last stretch of moving and it feels great to get rid of this stuff!  I can't wait to go through everything again to really get down to just what I *actually* need.

Whoa!  28 pairs of shoes!  Isn't it amazing!  I need to go through my shoes too. I don't think I will get rid of 28 pairs, but you never can tell. My decluttering has totally ground to a halt. I am stuck on the fact that things still are useful and have some life in them, but no one will see that and I don't want to be wasteful. Also stuck on whether or not to have a garage sale. Any suggestions anyone?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: katstache92 on April 20, 2015, 07:43:46 AM
I had never really decluttered before, so things were really piling up!  It feels so great getting rid of things.

One thing that worked for me was freecycle.com - you post what you have and its condition and if someone is interested they will come pick it up.  Since my goal right now is just to get rid of things it has worked out really well.  Plus, I feel like the stuff I am getting rid of would make next to nothing on craigslist and this keep it out of the landfill.

Garage sales can work, if things are priced right.  Meaning that you need to decide if you want to make money or get rid of as much as possible.  But they take a lot of time and if the weather doesn't cooperate it can be a total bust.  It helps if you live in a neighborhood that has a large sale all on the same day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 20, 2015, 07:52:34 AM
I have a TON of fabric I want to use up, and figured I could use a bunch of it to make camisoles/tank tops for summer and to wear under things. Anyone have any super simple sewing patterns for that?

The Sami Cami is a free downloadable pattern from Iconic Patterns, it works very well for me. The straps are a bit fiddly but by my second go round I had them worked out. The first one - which I made kind of a mess of - I replaced the straps with some of those removable bra straps that come with convertible bras. I seemed to have more straps than bras (story of my not-throwing-stuff-away life). That made the straps easier, but if you go slow, the straps as instructed are fine. Best to start with a thicker fabric - my trouble was a thin knit.

I've also lengthened the pattern to make a knit slip. For a normal slip I found a pattern in a Vogue dress pattern I had, so if you have any commercial patterns, see if any include one as an extra.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on April 20, 2015, 08:08:40 AM
rummage sale this weekend was a success.  Made $301 for a few hours work and got rid of a ton.  The majority of what was left was donated the same day!  I feel like we've made a small dent.

And... confession... I've been holding on to some "smaller" clothes for years now with the hopes of getting back in them.  Post cancer (tamoxifen) i gained 30lbs and then i had a baby on top of that.   I'm not getting in those clothes.  As hard as it was, I put all of them in the donate bag last night.  Will be making another pickup load donation this weekend. 

41 days until I figure we need to have the house ready to go.  We're getting our bathroom cabinets refinished on 6/1.  They will be done by 6/12 so I think we will list the house on 6/15.   In between, we need to declutter, pack, have the interior of the house painted, put in new fixtures in the bathrooms, do some small landscaping jobs and have the cabinets refinished.  Whew, i'm tired just typing that...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 20, 2015, 06:07:57 PM
Have gone through closet a little bit, and I have 4 bags full of things to donate.  And I just noticed another shirt that I will add to that today.
Success, having things bagged up feels good, but actually finding a good local charity and dropping them off feels great!  I added 3 more shirts and also grabbed a big box of things from my brother's house that his kids had outgrown and took that in as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 21, 2015, 05:54:12 PM
Cleaned up plastic containers and threw away a bunch. Also found our old phones while decluttering something else. Time to put them on eBay!

Also found a bunch of stuff to put on craigslist. I can see the house is becoming lighter. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 21, 2015, 06:58:40 PM
Love the idea of a rental house as "clutter".

Hee hee, not only the rental house but all the extra supplies we keep in our garage for possible repairs. Clutter city!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: veronica mars rover on April 22, 2015, 02:15:28 PM
I "declutter" every six months or so but after finishing The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up this weekend, I felt itchy to take another pass at it. 

Whoa. 

There really is something to the idea of putting all like items in a pile and then determining which ones really matter.  Things look different when they aren't on a shelf.  I boxed up 72 volumes!  (Would have boxed up many, many more except that the SO is not on board with decluttering, so I could only donate books that are 100% mine.)  I was so excited that I tackled the craft closet and gathered two big bags of miscellany that were meant to be projects "someday."  It didn't hurt as much as I thought it would. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 22, 2015, 08:59:50 PM
I "declutter" every six months or so but after finishing The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up this weekend, I felt itchy to take another pass at it. 

Wow! Very inspiring. I agree with your thoughts on the "Konmarie" method - putting everything in piles really helps !

Whoa. 

There really is something to the idea of putting all like items in a pile and then determining which ones really matter.  Things look different when they aren't on a shelf.  I boxed up 72 volumes!  (Would have boxed up many, many more except that the SO is not on board with decluttering, so I could only donate books that are 100% mine.)  I was so excited that I tackled the craft closet and gathered two big bags of miscellany that were meant to be projects "someday."  It didn't hurt as much as I thought it would.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on April 24, 2015, 11:27:04 AM
We made more progress at home this past weekend. I spent a lot of time talking with the wife about the growing clutter in our house, most of which is from our three youngest kids leaving stuff everywhere.

She basically had a nervous breakdown because of the clutter, so we sat and discussed.

I basically described how our kids have unlimited stuff and free time (to them). When you have unlimited money, it doesn't matter how you spend it... and our kids have more stuff and time than they know how to manage. Just like giving a 13-year-old a million dollars, they waste it and don't manage it well. They have to start with nothing and work their way up. They don't work as a team, and are constantly sloughing off responsibilities, too.

I suggested we remove everything that's not essential to their school (and my wife's sanity) and as they learn to manage, slowly give some of it back. They would have to show us they can manage small things before they moved on to bigger and better things.

I'm not sure we're out of the woods yet, but I will push it some more and see what I can get away with. As far as I'm concerned, they can ditch everything and it wouldn't hurt my feelings.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 24, 2015, 02:09:00 PM
We made more progress at home this past weekend. I spent a lot of time talking with the wife about the growing clutter in our house, most of which is from our three youngest kids leaving stuff everywhere.

She basically had a nervous breakdown because of the clutter, so we sat and discussed.

I basically described how our kids have unlimited stuff and free time (to them). When you have unlimited money, it doesn't matter how you spend it... and our kids have more stuff and time than they know how to manage. Just like giving a 13-year-old a million dollars, they waste it and don't manage it well. They have to start with nothing and work their way up. They don't work as a team, and are constantly sloughing off responsibilities, too.

I suggested we remove everything that's not essential to their school (and my wife's sanity) and as they learn to manage, slowly give some of it back. They would have to show us they can manage small things before they moved on to bigger and better things.

I'm not sure we're out of the woods yet, but I will push it some more and see what I can get away with. As far as I'm concerned, they can ditch everything and it wouldn't hurt my feelings.

This is so inspiring, but I need to do it for me.  DD stuff is still pretty manageable, but it could be cut back.  If people would stop giving her the damn stuffed animals!  If it is special, great, but factory made from polyester in China by little kids fingers is not special IMO. 

I just read this blog post

http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2012/09/14/why-i-took-all-my-kids-toys-away-why-they-wont-get-them-back/ (http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2012/09/14/why-i-took-all-my-kids-toys-away-why-they-wont-get-them-back/)

(and this one) about getting rid of kids stuff

http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2013/09/13/why-i-took-my-kids-toys-away-one-year-later/ (http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2013/09/13/why-i-took-my-kids-toys-away-one-year-later/)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on April 24, 2015, 02:13:36 PM

This is so inspiring, but I need to do it for me.  DD stuff is still pretty manageable, but it could be cut back.  If people would stop giving her the damn stuffed animals!  If it is special, great, but factory made from polyester in China by little kids fingers is not special IMO. 

I hate stuffed animals!!! They're EVERYWHERE! I have 3 daughters...

I just read this blog post

http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2012/09/14/why-i-took-all-my-kids-toys-away-why-they-wont-get-them-back/ (http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2012/09/14/why-i-took-all-my-kids-toys-away-why-they-wont-get-them-back/)

(and this one) about getting rid of kids stuff

http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2013/09/13/why-i-took-my-kids-toys-away-one-year-later/ (http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2013/09/13/why-i-took-my-kids-toys-away-one-year-later/)

I've read those. It's very inspiring... those kids are pretty young, though. I have teenagers, and they don't like cooperating about anything, especially when you're talking about taking away their indulgent lifestyle. I expect resistance. But it needs to be done for my wife's sanity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on April 24, 2015, 02:45:39 PM
I also declutter regularly & didn't think I had anything to get rid of until I read the Tidying book. In 2 days filled my car with thrift store stuff, the huge recycling bin  & our huge garbage bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on April 24, 2015, 07:24:57 PM
Speaking of The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, the hosts of this podcast talk about it in this episode.  I love their podcast so much and really liked this episode - probably because I'm right there, too, with the toys.

http://www.girlnextdoorpodcast.com/2015/04/simplifying-lawnmower-shrapnel.html

I actually used them as inspiration today and culled a bunch of my babe's toys.  Little by little we will get there . . .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 25, 2015, 11:38:37 AM
Today we are (finally) getting rid of the 1970 era pepsi machine in the garage.  Called one of those people who junks old appliances for free.  Yes, I know he's making money off of the machine, and I'm glad that someone can do so and get it out of my garage!

We've also been tearing out the basement, and I've held aside metal things instead of throwing them in the dumpster.  So the junk man is having a lucky day!  He also gets aluminum molding, some copper pipes, and a really old and ugly (and broken) stainless steel range hood.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on April 26, 2015, 02:38:43 AM
Tomorrow it's kingsday, a day that the Dutch people celebrate the birthday of our king. At this day it's allowed to sell your clutter in parks. So I have collected al my clutter.... Let's hope it will find a new owner tomorrow ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 26, 2015, 12:43:48 PM
Tomorrow it's kingsday, a day that the Dutch people celebrate the birthday of our king. At this day it's allowed to sell your clutter in parks. So I have collected al my clutter.... Let's hope it will find a new owner tomorrow ;)

That's a fun thing to know about, Kander. Hope you do well at your King's Day sale!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 27, 2015, 07:15:45 AM
My daughter is looking forward to "In Which The Bedroom Is No Longer A Fiber Storage Room".

If my life was an old-fashioned novel this chapter would be entitled, "In Which They Discover That the Kitchen is Not Too Small".  I finally cleared out all of the stuff we don't need or want to move and it's taking up half the dining room table.  Trying to sell it, but if no one wants it we'll give it to the charity shop and see if they can find any takers. 
Our kitchen now is not only cleaner, it's downright spacious!  Who knew?

I feel this way about my garage, and I've only just begun! :D
I'm looking forward to the chapter in my book titled " In Which The Craft Room Can Be Used Again"

I quite enjoyed my own 'Hey I Can Actually Enter The Spare Bedroom Without Tripping Over".
I haven't reached the craft room but this weekend we got through the chapter "In which they discover their house has a gym". It was lovely when the floor was clear and the recycling bin was full. Now my mat's on the floor and I don't have to move it! Exercise equipment can now live next to it as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on April 27, 2015, 08:33:05 AM
Tomorrow it's kingsday, a day that the Dutch people celebrate the birthday of our king. At this day it's allowed to sell your clutter in parks. So I have collected al my clutter.... Let's hope it will find a new owner tomorrow ;)

That's a fun thing to know about, Kander. Hope you do well at your King's Day sale!!

Yes, it went well :) We have sold a lot of things for a little money, but that is no problem. It's better than nothing, right? ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BananaPants on April 27, 2015, 11:07:49 AM
And... confession... I've been holding on to some "smaller" clothes for years now with the hopes of getting back in them.  Post cancer (tamoxifen) i gained 30lbs and then i had a baby on top of that.   I'm not getting in those clothes.  As hard as it was, I put all of them in the donate bag last night.  Will be making another pickup load donation this weekend. 

I did this and found it very freeing.  I was hanging onto "skinny" clothes from 10 years ago, several sizes smaller than I've worn in the last 8 years (and definitely the last 5+).  I've had two babies and even if I did get back down to that weight, my body shape has changed enough that I don't know if they'd fit the same, and the styles were already outdated.  They weren't even high-end or high quality brands - we're talking Old Navy, here!   So I finally let go of them and donated them all.  I still have a goal to lose the weight but my reward will be to buy myself a new wardrobe! 

I'm going through my maternity clothes soon.  We're 50/50 on having another baby, but around 1/3 of my maternity clothes were given to me by a friend who lives in a different climate and has a more casual work dress code.  I never even wore most of the clothes that were given to me, and it's highly unlikely that I would at this point!  I also found that after wearing some items through two pregnancies they're starting to look worn, so even if I am pregnant again I'll still need to buy some new maternity clothes.  So my goal is to pare down the maternity wardrobe substantially and get the unwanted stuff out of our house. 

Clothing is our family's big issue in general.  We were the last in his large extended family to have children and our younger child is the youngest in the family with everyone else being decidedly DONE with childbearing, so we're constantly getting hand-me-downs dumped on us.  We recently started sorting those hand me downs and immediately donating 90% of them (often the items are not a style we'd choose for our kids, wrong size/season, or are worn or permanently-stained).  Plus my mother was a bit of a shopping maniac for our older daughter and bought us huge wardrobes in each size from 3 months - 3T, ostensibly so we wouldn't have to do laundry more than once a week.  Right now my husband and I are sorting through our kids' clothes and paring them what we're keeping in storage, selling what we can at the local children's consignment store and then just donating the rest that we don't keep.   We're keeping a basic wardrobe in each size in case we have a third child (and it's another girl) but we are not keeping ALL of this kids' clothing! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 27, 2015, 04:08:54 PM
So I did a huge KonMari style purge all last week and was so happy thru the process. I mean, like, giddy with joy at getting rid of all that stuff I don't need.

But now....I'm sad. I can't really explain it other than, I just feel kinda sad. Not specifically about my stuff, and not in any way that makes me want my decluttered possessions back. I just feel rather empty, like maybe I was looking for more life changing and what I got was....just a tidier house? Or maybe it's just a natural comedown after the mission-like focus of the decluttering? I don't know.

Has anyone else ever experience post-tidying melancholy? Is this a normal thing?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on April 27, 2015, 04:36:51 PM
@Erica, Maybe the "Life Changing Joy" will come in a few days when you don't have a messy house to cleanup? I would love to be have a non-messy house <sigh>.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 27, 2015, 05:53:51 PM
@Erica, Maybe the "Life Changing Joy" will come in a few days when you don't have a messy house to cleanup? I would love to be have a non-messy house <sigh>.
I don't know....the promise is a house decluttered, and the book delivers on that 110%. But as I was mopping and vacuuming last night I was kinda facing that less stuff =/= less cleaning. Maybe less dusting with knick-nacks and things, but I didn't have so many of those anyway. But my home still has the same square footage to wipe, scrub, vacuum, mop and dust. We will use and dirty the same number of pots and they will have to be washed. I don't want to suggest it's a letdown....because this book made an incredible impact on me, but it's almost one of those, "wherever you go, there you are" kind of realizations. Living vibrantly is messy. Less stuff only marginally changes that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 27, 2015, 06:01:43 PM
@Erica, Maybe the "Life Changing Joy" will come in a few days when you don't have a messy house to cleanup? I would love to be have a non-messy house <sigh>.
I don't know....the promise is a house decluttered, and the book delivers on that 110%. But as I was mopping and vacuuming last night I was kinda facing that less stuff =/= less cleaning. Maybe less dusting with knick-nacks and things, but I didn't have so many of those anyway. But my home still has the same square footage to wipe, scrub, vacuum, mop and dust. We will use and dirty the same number of pots and they will have to be washed. I don't want to suggest it's a letdown....because this book made an incredible impact on me, but it's almost one of those, "wherever you go, there you are" kind of realizations. Living vibrantly is messy. Less stuff only marginally changes that.

Where I'm noticing a big difference is with clothes, shoes and jewelry. I feel actual joy when I open a drawer or closet now. I can see what is there and I appreciate all of it. I wear all of it, I clean it and put it away with mindfulness. Meanwhile, its discarded brethren are earning me money at a consignment shop or through tax deductions from being donated. There are no more piles of drawer-musty items whose identity I can't really make out. Ahhh, I really love it. But then again, I saw myself in Marie Kondo's OCD description of herself as a young girl, lol. ~Maybe it is elsewhere in your home where tidying would make a bigger impact, Erica? Like a garage or office or...?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 27, 2015, 06:15:41 PM
An add-on to Erica's comment about feeling a letdown post decluttering...What I have felt is an incredulousness, like 'WTH, there is still more stuff??" I've felt this mostly in the areas of decorative, paperwork, and sentimental items. It's unbelievable how much stuff there still is, after all my efforts! So when I discover more stuff, I take a deep breath, let it out and then tackle it. More papers to scan, items to list on ebay or amazon? Well okay, here we go. I will not let the stuff beat me. Grrrr
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 27, 2015, 06:56:55 PM
So I did a huge KonMari style purge all last week and was so happy thru the process. I mean, like, giddy with joy at getting rid of all that stuff I don't need.

But now....I'm sad. I can't really explain it other than, I just feel kinda sad. Not specifically about my stuff, and not in any way that makes me want my decluttered possessions back. I just feel rather empty, like maybe I was looking for more life changing and what I got was....just a tidier house? Or maybe it's just a natural comedown after the mission-like focus of the decluttering? I don't know.

Has anyone else ever experience post-tidying melancholy? Is this a normal thing?


Theres an excersize maybe half way through her book where she has you list the top 5 reasons why you wish to declutter. Then she asks you to ask why you wish for the thing that is the reason - an example to clarify - one reason one might wish to declutter is for a more peaceful home environment- one might want a more peaceful home so they have a clearer mind- one might want the clearer mind so they will make better decisions- one might wish for better decision making so they can move forward toward a stifled dream , etc.. she asks us to break down each reason four or five times. for me, the five reasons ended up ultimately leading to two root issues I have been avoiding facing..
She also writes of how when we seek to begin working through these things in our lives,  we unconsciously are compelled to tidy first, then we are able to face these things..
so, I don't know if that's applicable to you, but it made sense in a way when I read it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 27, 2015, 06:59:32 PM
An add-on to Erica's comment about feeling a letdown post decluttering...What I have felt is an incredulousness, like 'WTH, there is still more stuff??" I've felt this mostly in the areas of decorative, paperwork, and sentimental items. It's unbelievable how much stuff there still is, after all my efforts! So when I discover more stuff, I take a deep breath, let it out and then tackle it. More papers to scan, items to list on ebay or amazon? Well okay, here we go. I will not let the stuff beat me. Grrrr
For sure. I have that too. "I got rid of all this and ALL THIS is still here?" And once you start the letting go process you realize how little of the stuff actually brings value to you.

But with a few more hours to process this feeling, I think where I am is the conflicting feeling that our home is more than we need. It's just too much. I love my home. We built it, it's in the (to me) perfect location, and it's (most importantly) attached to my garden. But the house itself is 30% too large. I can't ignore that now. The many now-empty drawers, shelves, storage areas, etc. are witness to a life designed to a scale larger than I need.

I don't know how to deal with that. It's an internal conflict. Eventually, I will make peace with it, but for now the in-between space is uncomfortable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Emilyngh on April 27, 2015, 07:11:27 PM
An add-on to Erica's comment about feeling a letdown post decluttering...What I have felt is an incredulousness, like 'WTH, there is still more stuff??" I've felt this mostly in the areas of decorative, paperwork, and sentimental items. It's unbelievable how much stuff there still is, after all my efforts! So when I discover more stuff, I take a deep breath, let it out and then tackle it. More papers to scan, items to list on ebay or amazon? Well okay, here we go. I will not let the stuff beat me. Grrrr
For sure. I have that too. "I got rid of all this and ALL THIS is still here?" And once you start the letting go process you realize how little of the stuff actually brings value to you.

But with a few more hours to process this feeling, I think where I am is the conflicting feeling that our home is more than we need. It's just too much. I love my home. We built it, it's in the (to me) perfect location, and it's (most importantly) attached to my garden. But the house itself is 30% too large. I can't ignore that now. The many now-empty drawers, shelves, storage areas, etc. are witness to a life designed to a scale larger than I need.

I don't know how to deal with that. It's an internal conflict. Eventually, I will make peace with it, but for now the in-between space is uncomfortable.

Yup, me too.   Our house is at least 30%, possibly 50%, too big.   I am mad decluttering, but then I just have empty space that reminds me that we have too much space.

We're planning on down-sizing in the next couple of years.   And while I don't love the location of our house too much (rural farm house in fields), we've really fixed the inside up to a point I love, it has character, it's in very good condition, and it's still really not expensive.   We could probably save a little by down-sizing, but especially considering the risk of the unknown problems of a new house, I think the margin's too small to probably shave off much.   

So, I'm torn between wanting the efficiency of smaller and hating the excess of bigger, but not looking forward to all of the work and hassle of moving with little financial benefit and added new risk.

But, in the mean-time I can't stand the clutter, so it's going anyway.   Maybe I'll grow to love the empty space (just in time to down size and not have it anymore ;) )

BTW, I love your blog.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 27, 2015, 07:31:16 PM
Yup, me too.   Our house is at least 30%, possibly 50%, too big.   I am mad decluttering, but then I just have empty space that reminds me that we have too much space.

We're planning on down-sizing in the next couple of years.   And while I don't love the location of our house too much (rural farm house in fields), we've really fixed the inside up to a point I love, it has character, it's in very good condition, and it's still really not expensive.   We could probably save a little by down-sizing, but especially considering the risk of the unknown problems of a new house, I think the margin's too small to probably shave off much.   

So, I'm torn between wanting the efficiency of smaller and hating the excess of bigger, but not looking forward to all of the work and hassle of moving with little financial benefit and added new risk.

But, in the mean-time I can't stand the clutter, so it's going anyway.   Maybe I'll grow to love the empty space (just in time to down size and not have it anymore ;) )

BTW, I love your blog.
Hey, thanks!

It's actually really valuable to hear other MMM folks in this conflict. It's like, we're supposed to go for the BIG WINS, right? And housing is the biggest win there is. But for me at least, our house is, for the deep joy and value it gives us, not so expensive on an ongoing basis. I feel this deep emotional connection to my place and space, and there's the practical aspect of moving being a pain in the ass. So I doubt I'd be actively happier in any other space.

And yet I'm aware that in mustachian terms, I am not optimized. So that's this nagging irritating burr in my side - that I could do better. At the end of the day, I just need to make peace with being under-optimized. Basically, I think I need to tell the perfectionist in me to shut the hell up.

Thanks for letting me talk this out. I can't even tell you how valuable it is. One thing about that KonMari method is it DOES lead to some introspection. Whether you want it to or not. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Emilyngh on April 27, 2015, 08:31:42 PM
Yup, me too.   Our house is at least 30%, possibly 50%, too big.   I am mad decluttering, but then I just have empty space that reminds me that we have too much space.

We're planning on down-sizing in the next couple of years.   And while I don't love the location of our house too much (rural farm house in fields), we've really fixed the inside up to a point I love, it has character, it's in very good condition, and it's still really not expensive.   We could probably save a little by down-sizing, but especially considering the risk of the unknown problems of a new house, I think the margin's too small to probably shave off much.   

So, I'm torn between wanting the efficiency of smaller and hating the excess of bigger, but not looking forward to all of the work and hassle of moving with little financial benefit and added new risk.

But, in the mean-time I can't stand the clutter, so it's going anyway.   Maybe I'll grow to love the empty space (just in time to down size and not have it anymore ;) )

BTW, I love your blog.
Hey, thanks!

It's actually really valuable to hear other MMM folks in this conflict. It's like, we're supposed to go for the BIG WINS, right? And housing is the biggest win there is. But for me at least, our house is, for the deep joy and value it gives us, not so expensive on an ongoing basis. I feel this deep emotional connection to my place and space, and there's the practical aspect of moving being a pain in the ass. So I doubt I'd be actively happier in any other space.

And yet I'm aware that in mustachian terms, I am not optimized. So that's this nagging irritating burr in my side - that I could do better. At the end of the day, I just need to make peace with being under-optimized. Basically, I think I need to tell the perfectionist in me to shut the hell up.

Thanks for letting me talk this out. I can't even tell you how valuable it is. One thing about that KonMari method is it DOES lead to some introspection. Whether you want it to or not. :D

Yup, yup and yup :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on April 27, 2015, 10:34:33 PM
Quote
Our house is at least 30%, possibly 50%, too big.

Yes I'm in the same boat

Quote
Hey, thanks!

It's actually really valuable to hear other MMM folks in this conflict. It's like, we're supposed to go for the BIG WINS, right? And housing is the biggest win there is. But for me at least, our house is, for the deep joy and value it gives us, not so expensive on an ongoing basis. I feel this deep emotional connection to my place and space, and there's the practical aspect of moving being a pain in the ass. So I doubt I'd be actively happier in any other space.

And yet I'm aware that in mustachian terms, I am not optimized. So that's this nagging irritating burr in my side - that I could do better. At the end of the day, I just need to make peace with being under-optimized. Basically, I think I need to tell the perfectionist in me to shut the hell up.

Thanks for letting me talk this out. I can't even tell you how valuable it is. One thing about that KonMari method is it DOES lead to some introspection. Whether you want it to or not. :D

And I'm here also.  I love my place and space deeply, but its excessive, and with the joy comes a burden to care for. And I'm still scarred from  the stress of my last house move.. …. and actually I'm not sure where else to go.

She does say the process helps define your identity, values etc….I'm still a work in progress I guess.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on April 27, 2015, 11:33:58 PM
I took two bags of old clothes to H & M for recycling and got two 15% off vouchers. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 28, 2015, 03:05:22 AM
She does say the process helps define your identity, values etc….I'm still a work in progress I guess.
Aren't we all! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 28, 2015, 04:41:08 AM
I have had a combo of the joy of less clutter with the sadness of realising I have signed on for more than I want in the way of house size.  The feeling of clearing the clutter is incredible, I still feel such a lift when I look into certain rooms and see clear space instead of piles, but, now that I do not have that hanging over me, I realise that underneath all of it was an overwhelm at maintaining too much house.  It is as though I have glimpsed freedom and it is still beyond my reach.

Without the stress of stuff to occupy a chunk of my mind the stark reality of extra cleaning, repairs, etc is more apparent.  I think that is why decluttering is such a big deal, because once you have done it you are left with what is left, and it may not be what you want.

When people talk about shopping and acquiring being an addiction to fill an empty hole inside us it is partly about this.  If we are paring down in every way, that can mean paring down rental houses that require too much time spent repairing, etc, it can mean losing extra weight and the clothes that went with it, it can mean clearing out toxic relationships or people, it can mean clearing calendars and diaries and, suddenly, coming face to face with ourselves and our real values.  And it can be raw.

I am finding this.  What do I want in life?  If I am not overwhelmed by a never ending list of things to do (such as decluttering that never gets done) then my mind opens and there is space ahead, and that can mean change. 

As Mary Oliver says  'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on April 28, 2015, 04:54:59 AM
Over the weekend I hosted a clothing swap with 3 of my friends who are around the same size, and I tell you it was perfect. We all brought huge bags of stuff, and left with much smaller piles of new-to-us stuff. One of the participants even offered to take all the leftovers to the donation center -- 5 big contractor garbage bags worth!

My closet is very tidy! And I also culled my makeup and accessories and shoes. Where I'm struggling is letting go of (awesome) vintage fabric, and letting go of a couple of semi-expensive items ($100 boots, a $300 necklace that I can easily resell but need to send back to the maker for a small repair first).

I don't just want to give this stuff away, but so far I have been a little too lazy to do the work needed to sell things. Maybe I can be a little less perfectionist about it -- sell the fabric in a lot on Craigslist or eBay instead of listing each piece separately on Etsy, sell the necklace as-is ... It will mean less money but I will actually DO these things, whereas taking pictures and measuring and listing and describing dozens of pieces of fabric I will likely never get around to ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 28, 2015, 05:10:14 AM
As I put into effect some MMM style changes I am finding there was mental clutter in places I was unaware of.  Each of the following has cleared a section of my brain:

Tracking our spending rather than stressing about the unknown and being freaked by unexpected bills
Losing weight and therefore getting rid of clothes and also working to accomplish an old, old goal
Getting rid of piles of paper (still recurring but getting there)
Emptying 90% of my computer files, emptying my email folders, having an empty email inbox most of the time, unsubscribing from email lists
No longer receiving junk mail and credit card offers, in fact rarely getting mail now
Changing to online bills instead of physical mail
Choosing to not engage with toxic folk
Belonging to fewer organisations which require attendance at regular functions
Keeping less food on hand, fewer clothes, fewer books, fewer cleaning supplies, fewer crafting things, fewer tools, fewer shoes

Unconscious Living:
Living without attention to the details of my life was stressful. 
Living with constant clutter is mentally enervating and can numb me to the rest of my life, sort of like an addiction.
Things that stay on the To Do list for years suck me dry.

Conscious Living:
Awareness ( I know where our money goes and what is in the house and where things are and what state my health is in)
Choosing rather than reacting
Keeping things clear and simple with nothing hanging over me for more than a brief time
Clearing out the tumbleweeds of years means I can get on with actual living and conscious decisions in every area.

And even though I am not there yet, and still have areas to deal with, the question is arising:  'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'

Who knew that the simple act of committing to clearing some papers would lead to this?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 28, 2015, 05:25:22 AM
I have had a combo of the joy of less clutter with the sadness of realising I have signed on for more than I want in the way of house size.  The feeling of clearing the clutter is incredible, I still feel such a lift when I look into certain rooms and see clear space instead of piles, but, now that I do not have that hanging over me, I realise that underneath all of it was an overwhelm at maintaining too much house.  It is as though I have glimpsed freedom and it is still beyond my reach.

Without the stress of stuff to occupy a chunk of my mind the stark reality of extra cleaning, repairs, etc is more apparent.  I think that is why decluttering is such a big deal, because once you have done it you are left with what is left, and it may not be what you want.

When people talk about shopping and acquiring being an addiction to fill an empty hole inside us it is partly about this.  If we are paring down in every way, that can mean paring down rental houses that require too much time spent repairing, etc, it can mean losing extra weight and the clothes that went with it, it can mean clearing out toxic relationships or people, it can mean clearing calendars and diaries and, suddenly, coming face to face with ourselves and our real values.  And it can be raw.

I am finding this.  What do I want in life?  If I am not overwhelmed by a never ending list of things to do (such as decluttering that never gets done) then my mind opens and there is space ahead, and that can mean change. 

As Mary Oliver says  'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'

This is a beautiful piece of writing, and so true. "Who am I if I'm not the person who...had these things, had this career, had this education with these books, had these trappings of success?" And to sit in the vacuum of that quietude is certainly raw.

Thank you for the Mary Oliver quote, too - I'm going to check out some of her books of poems at the library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 28, 2015, 05:34:51 AM
As I put into effect some MMM style changes I am finding there was mental clutter in places I was unaware of.  Each of the following has cleared a section of my brain:

Tracking our spending rather than stressing about the unknown and being freaked by unexpected bills
Losing weight and therefore getting rid of clothes and also working to accomplish an old, old goal
Getting rid of piles of paper (still recurring but getting there)
Emptying 90% of my computer files, emptying my email folders, having an empty email inbox most of the time, unsubscribing from email lists
No longer receiving junk mail and credit card offers, in fact rarely getting mail now
Changing to online bills instead of physical mail
Choosing to not engage with toxic folk
Belonging to fewer organisations which require attendance at regular functions
Keeping less food on hand, fewer clothes, fewer books, fewer cleaning supplies, fewer crafting things, fewer tools, fewer shoes

Unconscious Living:
Living without attention to the details of my life was stressful. 
Living with constant clutter is mentally enervating and can numb me to the rest of my life, sort of like an addiction.
Things that stay on the To Do list for years suck me dry.

Conscious Living:
Awareness ( I know where our money goes and what is in the house and where things are and what state my health is in)
Choosing rather than reacting
Keeping things clear and simple with nothing hanging over me for more than a brief time
Clearing out the tumbleweeds of years means I can get on with actual living and conscious decisions in every area.

And even though I am not there yet, and still have areas to deal with, the question is arising:  'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'

Who knew that the simple act of committing to clearing some papers would lead to this?
You are inspiring! The point about the To Do List is well, well taken. I tell people "it's on my list, but it's a long list."

I don't want to live like that. I want time with the few in-person people I love, my family and friends. I want to take my kids to the beach for a whole day without feeling pressure to "do" other stuff.

The final frontier for me is, I think, the digital clutter and there is huge amount of fear that goes with that for me ("Who am I if I'm not nwedible.com.....").

Ohmygod. I might need to declutter my smartphone. Heresy. Gotta think about that one.

Hey, this service is really cool! I used it yesterday and un-enrolled from 124 subscriptions: https://unroll.me/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 28, 2015, 05:40:19 AM
As Erica said, writing about this is helping me to see some things, thank-you Erica for this discussion.

De-cluttering for me brings to light the broken, the undone, the never used, the abandoned, the things that were purchased but were not quite right. It brings to light the years of depression and overwhelm when everything was too much.

The main thing that is evident to me now is that clutter in the form of physical objects, unmanaged finances, longterm unaddressed goals, broken things staying broken, no longer needed computer files, etc. seems to fill the conscious part of my mind 24/7 and stops me from being aware of or addressing the real issues in my life.

What will my life be:
Without a million household repairs and jewellery repairs and clothes darnings and more hanging over me? 
Without every surface heaving with yet to be attacked clutter?
Without all that unused fabric shouting at me?
Without the decades old goal of losing weight and all the attendant anxiety and drama? 
Without invisible stress as I see piles and files and miles of the great undone at every turn?
Without feeling guilty about not doing the things I promised?
Without feeling bad about never getting things done?
Without the self recriminations this all brings?

What will it be when my future is clear and...?  I started to add to that sentence but it felt to scary. A work in progress.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 28, 2015, 05:54:09 AM
As Erica said, writing about this is helping me to see some things, thank-you Erica for this discussion.

De-cluttering for me brings to light the broken, the undone, the never used, the abandoned, the things that were purchased but were not quite right. It brings to light the years of depression and overwhelm when everything was too much.

The main thing that is evident to me now is that clutter in the form of physical objects, unmanaged finances, longterm unaddressed goals, broken things staying broken, no longer needed computer files, etc. seems to fill the conscious part of my mind 24/7 and stops me from being aware of or addressing the real issues in my life.

What will my life be:
Without a million household repairs and jewellery repairs and clothes darnings and more hanging over me? 
Without every surface heaving with yet to be attacked clutter?
Without all that unused fabric shouting at me?
Without the decades old goal of losing weight and all the attendant anxiety and drama? 
Without invisible stress as I see piles and files and miles of the great undone at every turn?
Without feeling guilty about not doing the things I promised?
Without feeling bad about never getting things done?
Without the self recriminations this all brings?

What will it be when my future is clear and...?  I started to add to that sentence but it felt to scary. A work in progress.

I'll take a stab at it.

...truly yours.
...free.
...lighter.
...open.
...filled with love and not fear, regret and guilt.

I know about depression and overwhelm; you have my warm understanding. I stare daily at a gouge in a cabinet door from when it was all too much and I lost my shit and threw a fork across the kitchen.

You know, I think I'll have that gauge professionally repaired now. It's time.

You might really like the Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up if you haven't already read it. I felt this book made it FAR easier to let go of guilt things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 28, 2015, 05:56:46 AM
Hi Erica, your replies came through while I was writing.  Thank-you for the compliment about my writing, that feels good to read.

You are so right, if I am not these things, then who am I?  To what do I attach my identity and what happens when that thing is gone?  Do I try to get it back or do I step forward into the unknown?

You will, I think, love Mary Oliver.  She writes a lot about nature and self.

Thanks for the unroll me link.  What a wonderful service. 

I see myself de-cluttering in waves.  I do a big chunk, and love it, and then need to pause and assimilate.  And sometimes clutter will return to a particular spot, showing me that I do not have a system in place yet for that type of clutter (can you say paper?).  I am losing weight in the same way, in stages rather than one long even path ( And... sometimes fat will return to a particular spot, showing me….).  There are so many emotions hidden in this web that when I reach each stage I need to just be with the enormity of the shifts thus far.

Wow, I have written a lot this morning. Food for thought for me.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on April 28, 2015, 05:59:41 AM
Quote
...truly yours.
...free.
...lighter.
...open.
...filled with love and not fear, regret and guilt.

It is painful to read that.  And wonderful. 

I will read that book, it seems to be helping so many on here.

Repairing the gouge sounds like letting go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 28, 2015, 06:05:35 AM
Wow, I have written a lot this morning. Food for thought for me.

Thank you for the side conversation. (I hope our thread hosts don't mind!) :) It is really rewarding to hear that other folks are working through the emotional side of letting go of stuff, too.

Good luck with it all, to us both! I think I will go for a walk now. I have a little fat that's returned of late, too. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on April 28, 2015, 06:17:10 AM
Erica, I had the same epiphany about my house the other night while reading the book. My house is just way too big.  I have two large rooms that I never use, two more that I seldom use, and another one that could be half the size. Selling and moving is a depressing prospect as I hadn't planned on doing that for at least a half dozen more years.

And another thing struck me that I had to really pause and process: I do not want most of the furniture in my house. Pretty much all furniture I own falls into three categories:
1) My ex- got to pick it after a drawn out disagreement about what style to get in which I finally gave up (in one case it took us an entire year to finally purchase a kitchen table and chairs.) All of this furniture is large and was extremely expensive; not just something I should haul down to the junk yard, although part of me wishes I had the truck and manpower to do just that.
2) Family gave it to me (old, not in very good condition) with the stipulation that I can never get rid of it or sell it, or
3) I needed something after the divorce (couch, chairs), so I just got whatever I could get that week on Craigslist.

I really don't like the style at all of any of the furniture.  I never have. It seems like such a minor, petty thing, but now it is really bothering me.  The divorce was years ago, but I still have these things I don't want for lack of an easy substitute. I do know what I would like instead, but the thrifty in me resists spending the money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ender on April 28, 2015, 06:18:26 AM
This thread is SO AWESOME to read.

We have a 1BR apartment, hard to have too much clutter there ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 28, 2015, 08:25:21 AM
Erica, I had the same epiphany about my house the other night while reading the book. My house is just way too big.  I have two large rooms that I never use, two more that I seldom use, and another one that could be half the size. Selling and moving is a depressing prospect as I hadn't planned on doing that for at least a half dozen more years.

And another thing struck me that I had to really pause and process: I do not want most of the furniture in my house. Pretty much all furniture I own falls into three categories:
1) My ex- got to pick it after a drawn out disagreement about what style to get in which I finally gave up (in one case it took us an entire year to finally purchase a kitchen table and chairs.) All of this furniture is large and was extremely expensive; not just something I should haul down to the junk yard, although part of me wishes I had the truck and manpower to do just that.
2) Family gave it to me (old, not in very good condition) with the stipulation that I can never get rid of it or sell it, or
3) I needed something after the divorce (couch, chairs), so I just got whatever I could get that week on Craigslist.

I really don't like the style at all of any of the furniture.  I never have. It seems like such a minor, petty thing, but now it is really bothering me.  The divorce was years ago, but I still have these things I don't want for lack of an easy substitute. I do know what I would like instead, but the thrifty in me resists spending the money.

My responses to your furniture problem:
1. Sell the ex-purchased furniture. Replace as needed with furniture you like.
2. If you like it, fix it up. If you don't like it, tell the family that unless they take it back by x date, you will dispose of it as you see fit. You're not keeping it.
3. Sell on Craigslist, replace as needed with furniture you like.

Take money earned from selling said furniture and use it to buy stuff that you like and need.

I also deal with the family piece. In my case, I don't take anything from family that I don't actually want, so I head it off at the beginning. However, eventually my sister and I will be stuck with a lot of stuff from our parent's house that neither wants. Family will have an opportunity to take what they want. The rest will be disposed of in some manner.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 28, 2015, 08:26:31 AM
The side conversations were enlightening. I'm still in the process of decluttering (and still can't see the light at the end of the tunnel) but I'm glad to have a peek at the next stage of decluttering.
Btw we have a two bed apartment and that feels big since we use the second bedroom more for guests (and junk!! Ugh!) than for everyday use. When I'm done, I'm hoping it just remains a guest room and not a junk room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on April 28, 2015, 08:33:59 AM
The side conversations were enlightening. I'm still in the process of decluttering (and still can't see the light at the end of the tunnel) but I'm glad to have a peek at the next stage of decluttering.
Btw we have a two bed apartment and that feels big since we use the second bedroom more for guests (and junk!! Ugh!) than for everyday use. When I'm done, I'm hoping it just remains a guest room and not a junk room.

I have the same problem with my second room. Right now it's a junk/craft/storage/computer room. It's getting better a little bit at a time, but it's easily the most cluttered room in my house currently, the garage being a close second. Some day I hope I can either rent it out, or use it as a guest room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 28, 2015, 08:57:41 AM
How do you deal with sentimental things, from relatives?  I have a lot of random items like delicate handkerchiefs from my deceased grandmother (or great grandmother), which I've had since I was about 10, but never use.  I find it very hard to purge sentimental items so those are the things that tend to clutter up my drawers, cabinets and closets.

Erica, I had the same epiphany about my house the other night while reading the book. My house is just way too big.  I have two large rooms that I never use, two more that I seldom use, and another one that could be half the size. Selling and moving is a depressing prospect as I hadn't planned on doing that for at least a half dozen more years.

And another thing struck me that I had to really pause and process: I do not want most of the furniture in my house. Pretty much all furniture I own falls into three categories:
1) My ex- got to pick it after a drawn out disagreement about what style to get in which I finally gave up (in one case it took us an entire year to finally purchase a kitchen table and chairs.) All of this furniture is large and was extremely expensive; not just something I should haul down to the junk yard, although part of me wishes I had the truck and manpower to do just that.
2) Family gave it to me (old, not in very good condition) with the stipulation that I can never get rid of it or sell it, or
3) I needed something after the divorce (couch, chairs), so I just got whatever I could get that week on Craigslist.

I really don't like the style at all of any of the furniture.  I never have. It seems like such a minor, petty thing, but now it is really bothering me.  The divorce was years ago, but I still have these things I don't want for lack of an easy substitute. I do know what I would like instead, but the thrifty in me resists spending the money.

My responses to your furniture problem:
1. Sell the ex-purchased furniture. Replace as needed with furniture you like.
2. If you like it, fix it up. If you don't like it, tell the family that unless they take it back by x date, you will dispose of it as you see fit. You're not keeping it.
3. Sell on Craigslist, replace as needed with furniture you like.

Take money earned from selling said furniture and use it to buy stuff that you like and need.

I also deal with the family piece. In my case, I don't take anything from family that I don't actually want, so I head it off at the beginning. However, eventually my sister and I will be stuck with a lot of stuff from our parent's house that neither wants. Family will have an opportunity to take what they want. The rest will be disposed of in some manner.

I have this as well.  I had a bad breakup about 8 years ago where the bad feelings came alive again last year when a friend had his life damaged by the ex as well and reached out to me.  Although I've since met and married my husband, it was in buying a new dining room table set a few weeks ago that I realized how much I need these pieces - particularly those I never liked - out of the house.  4 years ago I gave a friend the coffee table and side table.  A year ago, I threw away most of the bookcase.  And yesterday, I listed the kitchen table for sale on craigslist.  Once I find a spot to store or get rid of the stuff on it currently, the bath cabinet hanging out in the basement goes on craigslist too.  So yes, sell the furniture you don't like!  Bad memories create bad energy in the house every time you see it.  Sell one item at a time, starting with the most hated, and see how much happier you are.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on April 28, 2015, 09:27:47 AM
How do you deal with sentimental things, from relatives?  I have a lot of random items like delicate handkerchiefs from my deceased grandmother (or great grandmother), which I've had since I was about 10, but never use.  I find it very hard to purge sentimental items so those are the things that tend to clutter up my drawers, cabinets and closets.

I'm struggling with this one too, as I'm currently clearing out my late mother and aunt's house, which contains their things plus things inherited from my father, grandparents (and earlier ancestors) and two predeceased aunts.  I'm going to keep the few things I can use or keep with love, and the rest will be donated/sold.

Could your some of your handkerchiefs be beautifully arranged, framed in a case and hung on the wall?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 28, 2015, 09:40:47 AM
How do you deal with sentimental things, from relatives?  I have a lot of random items like delicate handkerchiefs from my deceased grandmother (or great grandmother), which I've had since I was about 10, but never use.  I find it very hard to purge sentimental items so those are the things that tend to clutter up my drawers, cabinets and closets.

I'm struggling with this one too, as I'm currently clearing out my late mother and aunt's house, which contains their things plus things inherited from my father, grandparents (and earlier ancestors) and two predeceased aunts.  I'm going to keep the few things I can use or keep with love, and the rest will be donated/sold.

Could your some of your handkerchiefs be beautifully arranged, framed in a case and hung on the wall?

That's actually not a bad idea.  I'll look into it... 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 28, 2015, 10:24:13 AM
Erica, I had the same epiphany about my house the other night while reading the book. My house is just way too big.  I have two large rooms that I never use, two more that I seldom use, and another one that could be half the size. Selling and moving is a depressing prospect as I hadn't planned on doing that for at least a half dozen more years.

And another thing struck me that I had to really pause and process: I do not want most of the furniture in my house. Pretty much all furniture I own falls into three categories:
1) My ex- got to pick it after a drawn out disagreement about what style to get in which I finally gave up (in one case it took us an entire year to finally purchase a kitchen table and chairs.) All of this furniture is large and was extremely expensive; not just something I should haul down to the junk yard, although part of me wishes I had the truck and manpower to do just that.
2) Family gave it to me (old, not in very good condition) with the stipulation that I can never get rid of it or sell it, or
3) I needed something after the divorce (couch, chairs), so I just got whatever I could get that week on Craigslist.

I really don't like the style at all of any of the furniture.  I never have. It seems like such a minor, petty thing, but now it is really bothering me.  The divorce was years ago, but I still have these things I don't want for lack of an easy substitute. I do know what I would like instead, but the thrifty in me resists spending the money.

My responses to your furniture problem:
1. Sell the ex-purchased furniture. Replace as needed with furniture you like.
2. If you like it, fix it up. If you don't like it, tell the family that unless they take it back by x date, you will dispose of it as you see fit. You're not keeping it.
3. Sell on Craigslist, replace as needed with furniture you like.

Take money earned from selling said furniture and use it to buy stuff that you like and need.

I also deal with the family piece. In my case, I don't take anything from family that I don't actually want, so I head it off at the beginning. However, eventually my sister and I will be stuck with a lot of stuff from our parent's house that neither wants. Family will have an opportunity to take what they want. The rest will be disposed of in some manner.


Yes , I agree. this is an excellent solution . its a much better feeling to have items you really enjoy . when I divorced, I only took the furniture I really love - all of which is stuff I had picked out and purchased (or had been handed down from family) pre-marriage. the stuff we purchased together was always more his style (and his idea in the first place. e.g. 2 leather sofas -really nice actually but totally extravagant IMO totaling $7000 , and we paid off in PAYMENTS! , plus so much interest. bad idea). Anyway, its great to have only pieces I love :) .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 28, 2015, 10:32:31 AM
How do you deal with sentimental things, from relatives?  I have a lot of random items like delicate handkerchiefs from my deceased grandmother (or great grandmother), which I've had since I was about 10, but never use.  I find it very hard to purge sentimental items so those are the things that tend to clutter up my drawers, cabinets and closets.


Common Cents- I have received SO many things from relatives, I only brought home those which I love. It can be hard tp let go of items that have sentimental value, but knowing that their memory lives on in you, not the item is helpful- or maybe keeping one small item from each relative (something special).
I do a lot of sewing , so I use all the lace, needlepoint, embroideries that I especially love , in my quilting and other projects . That way they are saved and in new form :) .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on April 28, 2015, 11:40:42 AM
Thanks, all, for the selling suggestion. That is what I need to do with the stuff from the ex. It will be a hassle, but it needs to happen. The Craigslist stuff probably just needs to be donated or free-cycled.

The family stuff is another can of worms entirely. My aunt foisted some of this on me and she is the one who has this "it has to stay in the family" mentality.  She stored it in her garage for years. She convinced me to take some of it, mostly because we had the room and it "matched" the other gigantic dark antique-looking stuff my ex had picked out. I paid to have these things moved several states and restored (fixed, refinished, reupholstered, etc.) Now I'm realizing it's all just too big, impractical, and not my style. One of the reasons that I have such a big house now is that I had to find a house that had a big enough dining area for the enormous table, for example.

Last year I tried at a family reunion to get one of her sons, or anyone in the family, to take the large dining room table and chairs.  Nobody wanted anything to do with it. I said to her that I am moving to a smaller place and just really won't have room for it. I'm happy to keep the stuff in the family, but no one wants any of it. With great exasperation she said "Well I supposed I can take back that table, chairs and the serving dishes and all of the table linens of various sizes that go with it." Those linens were nasty, threadbare, yellowed and stained with at least a hundred years of gravy stains when she gave them to me, and she seriously thinks that I still have them? In any event, she's four states away.  I'm not paying to move this stuff back to her. Sibley, I might have to take your advice, but it will not go over well.

Please let this be a lesson to all of us not to put the strings of guilt on items we gift to people. If you really don't want someone to ever sell or dispose of something you give them, then just keep it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on April 28, 2015, 01:08:20 PM
Reading the comments from Erica and others has been eye-opening.  I rent an 800 sq. ft. apartment so I don't have the problem of feeling like we have too much space, but it is helping me to realize how little space we need as a family to be happy, when we do finally settle in one place.  When we look to buy a house, I will know how much space we realistically want and that is a great feeling.
You've also been helping me to realize why I've been getting happier and feeling lighter as I declutter.  In many ways, I'm letting go of my aspirational self.  Am I the kind of person who wears clothes like that?  No, I'm not, and I'm just fine with it.  I like to knit and crochet, and I've been doing them since I was 9 so I feel like that's part of my personality, to be a crafter.  But do I actually make enough time for it to justify all the half-finished projects and the yarns and fabrics waiting for me to get around to them?  No, I don't.  It's so freeing to let go of those projects which, realistically, I will never get around to.  I've given myself permission to let go, and the lightness I feel is the weight of my own self-expectations dropping away.
Because I packed up to give away the projects I realized I'd never do, or the yarn with no specific project in mind to begin with, I actually completed one small project.  I turned two stained, ripped old t-shirts into nightgowns for my daughter.  :)  Non-useful items were turned into useful items, and now I don't need to buy summer jammies for my daughter.  Additional bonus: midnight diaper changes are ridiculously easy.

We've reached the chapter entitled "In which we can reach the baby's closet".  A couple of items will be headed to the dump next time I need to drive somewhere, but some of the cleaning was simply because I packed up items from that closet.  People who brew beer, where do you keep all the stuff?  My husband does and he really enjoys it but I'm finding that it's really not a space-efficient hobby.  So many bottles need to be kept, and in a small space like ours, it's been taking up most of the space in my daughter's closet.  Even with the clearing out of our kitchen, we don't have space there to keep it, nor do we have the right size of shelves for the giant pot and whatnot.  So where do you keep your beer-making supplies?  I'd like to come up with a better solution for wherever we end up.

Am trying to decide if I should try to get Marie Kondo's book here (we leave the state in about a month, and might be leaving our town before that) or wait until we get to where we're moving.  Apply her principles so that we don't move as much, or realize that I probably won't have time to get through the book before we go?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 28, 2015, 01:38:29 PM
And another thing struck me that I had to really pause and process: I do not want most of the furniture in my house. Pretty much all furniture I own falls into three categories:
1) My ex- got to pick it after a drawn out disagreement about what style to get in which I finally gave up (in one case it took us an entire year to finally purchase a kitchen table and chairs.) All of this furniture is large and was extremely expensive; not just something I should haul down to the junk yard, although part of me wishes I had the truck and manpower to do just that.
2) Family gave it to me (old, not in very good condition) with the stipulation that I can never get rid of it or sell it, or
3) I needed something after the divorce (couch, chairs), so I just got whatever I could get that week on Craigslist.
I agree with the other suggestions to just sell/donate/toss these huge, bulky items that surround you. You do not need them. Like, literally, you could sit on the floor until you find something you love at a price you are comfortable with. If people think that's weird, they can take you shopping on their dime. Screw 'em.

Quote from: Zamboni
Last year I tried at a family reunion to get one of her sons, or anyone in the family, to take the large dining room table and chairs.  Nobody wanted anything to do with it. I...Please let this be a lesson to all of us not to put the strings of guilt on items we gift to people. If you really don't want someone to ever sell or dispose of something you give them, then just keep it.
Your aunt is being unreasonable. She is coercing you with guilt to be her free storage unit so she doesn't have to deal with the guilt over letting these items go. Honestly? Not your problem. I'd give her a deadline to pick the items up, have them packed and delivered to her (on her dime) or have them transferred to a storage unit she pays for. It's unreasonable for these ghosts of family guilt past to take up residence in your home. Time to evict them. Bon courage!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 28, 2015, 02:34:27 PM
And another thing struck me that I had to really pause and process: I do not want most of the furniture in my house. Pretty much all furniture I own falls into three categories:
1) My ex- got to pick it after a drawn out disagreement about what style to get in which I finally gave up (in one case it took us an entire year to finally purchase a kitchen table and chairs.) All of this furniture is large and was extremely expensive; not just something I should haul down to the junk yard, although part of me wishes I had the truck and manpower to do just that.
2) Family gave it to me (old, not in very good condition) with the stipulation that I can never get rid of it or sell it, or
3) I needed something after the divorce (couch, chairs), so I just got whatever I could get that week on Craigslist.
I agree with the other suggestions to just sell/donate/toss these huge, bulky items that surround you. You do not need them. Like, literally, you could sit on the floor until you find something you love at a price you are comfortable with. If people think that's weird, they can take you shopping on their dime. Screw 'em.

Quote from: Zamboni
Last year I tried at a family reunion to get one of her sons, or anyone in the family, to take the large dining room table and chairs.  Nobody wanted anything to do with it. I...Please let this be a lesson to all of us not to put the strings of guilt on items we gift to people. If you really don't want someone to ever sell or dispose of something you give them, then just keep it.
Your aunt is being unreasonable. She is coercing you with guilt to be her free storage unit so she doesn't have to deal with the guilt over letting these items go. Honestly? Not your problem. I'd give her a deadline to pick the items up, have them packed and delivered to her (on her dime) or have them transferred to a storage unit she pays for. It's unreasonable for these ghosts of family guilt past to take up residence in your home. Time to evict them. Bon courage!!!


Great advice on both IMO.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 28, 2015, 02:55:53 PM
Thanks, all, for the selling suggestion. That is what I need to do with the stuff from the ex. It will be a hassle, but it needs to happen. The Craigslist stuff probably just needs to be donated or free-cycled.

The family stuff is another can of worms entirely. My aunt foisted some of this on me and she is the one who has this "it has to stay in the family" mentality.  She stored it in her garage for years. She convinced me to take some of it, mostly because we had the room and it "matched" the other gigantic dark antique-looking stuff my ex had picked out. I paid to have these things moved several states and restored (fixed, refinished, reupholstered, etc.) Now I'm realizing it's all just too big, impractical, and not my style. One of the reasons that I have such a big house now is that I had to find a house that had a big enough dining area for the enormous table, for example.

Last year I tried at a family reunion to get one of her sons, or anyone in the family, to take the large dining room table and chairs.  Nobody wanted anything to do with it. I said to her that I am moving to a smaller place and just really won't have room for it. I'm happy to keep the stuff in the family, but no one wants any of it. With great exasperation she said "Well I supposed I can take back that table, chairs and the serving dishes and all of the table linens of various sizes that go with it." Those linens were nasty, threadbare, yellowed and stained with at least a hundred years of gravy stains when she gave them to me, and she seriously thinks that I still have them? In any event, she's four states away.  I'm not paying to move this stuff back to her. Sibley, I might have to take your advice, but it will not go over well.

Please let this be a lesson to all of us not to put the strings of guilt on items we gift to people. If you really don't want someone to ever sell or dispose of something you give them, then just keep it.

And I think we can have a takeaway too, not to accept items that come with strings.  The aforementioned ex items?  After he left me to move to London in a 3 week time period, we originally discussed and agreed upon a "short term" and "long term" loan items.  These were things I'd hold onto for a short bit till he came back from London in less than a year versus much longer.  After he went crazy and got pissed that I gave away a few empty boxes we jointly had to a friend who was moving, that friend pointed out that this was a really bad idea to remain connected like this, particularly if something happened to my ex's stuff.  [At the time, I just knew he moved to London to be with the girl he met on the business trip, which was enough reason not to stay connected.  I didn't know then he had lied about basic life details such as the houses he showed me he grew up in or the high school he attended or how he did.  And he hadn't yet cheated on his wife with the wife of his best man.]  I ended up buying a bunch of the furniture from him instead.  Strings in any format are not good.  I've now turned down other items that have come with strings, and I've done better on giving away items string-free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 28, 2015, 08:51:25 PM
I think it is very telling that so many of us have such emotional issues with getting rid of things.  There are lots of layers attached to items.  It is freeing to let them go, but it is not always easy.  Some people are naturally less attached to objects or don't feel the guilt and the weight of these things.  I'm so glad we are talking about it on this thread. 

I also have about 3 huge boxes of linens and hand embroidered hankies from my grandma and great grandma.  I like these things, but I am not caring for them appropriately because I have too much of my own unfinished business lying about. 

On the plus side, I finished going through my closet today.  I got rid of a pile, with my non-sentimental sister's help.  She will keep helping me once I move too, so that will help overall.  I still need to go through the craft stuff, and papers, never ending less than there used to be papers...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 29, 2015, 08:53:23 AM
Reading the comments from Erica and others has been eye-opening.  I rent an 800 sq. ft. apartment so I don't have the problem of feeling like we have too much space, but it is helping me to realize how little space we need as a family to be happy, when we do finally settle in one place.  When we look to buy a house, I will know how much space we realistically want and that is a great feeling.
You've also been helping me to realize why I've been getting happier and feeling lighter as I declutter.  In many ways, I'm letting go of my aspirational self.  Am I the kind of person who wears clothes like that?  No, I'm not, and I'm just fine with it.  I like to knit and crochet, and I've been doing them since I was 9 so I feel like that's part of my personality, to be a crafter.  But do I actually make enough time for it to justify all the half-finished projects and the yarns and fabrics waiting for me to get around to them?  No, I don't.  It's so freeing to let go of those projects which, realistically, I will never get around to.  I've given myself permission to let go, and the lightness I feel is the weight of my own self-expectations dropping away.
Because I packed up to give away the projects I realized I'd never do, or the yarn with no specific project in mind to begin with, I actually completed one small project.  I turned two stained, ripped old t-shirts into nightgowns for my daughter.  :)  Non-useful items were turned into useful items, and now I don't need to buy summer jammies for my daughter.  Additional bonus: midnight diaper changes are ridiculously easy.

We've reached the chapter entitled "In which we can reach the baby's closet".  A couple of items will be headed to the dump next time I need to drive somewhere, but some of the cleaning was simply because I packed up items from that closet.  People who brew beer, where do you keep all the stuff?  My husband does and he really enjoys it but I'm finding that it's really not a space-efficient hobby.  So many bottles need to be kept, and in a small space like ours, it's been taking up most of the space in my daughter's closet.  Even with the clearing out of our kitchen, we don't have space there to keep it, nor do we have the right size of shelves for the giant pot and whatnot.  So where do you keep your beer-making supplies?  I'd like to come up with a better solution for wherever we end up.

Am trying to decide if I should try to get Marie Kondo's book here (we leave the state in about a month, and might be leaving our town before that) or wait until we get to where we're moving.  Apply her principles so that we don't move as much, or realize that I probably won't have time to get through the book before we go?
We homebrew too, but wine.  It does take up a good bit of space.  We have a fruit cellar in the basement and about half of the shelves are full of empty bottles and other supplies.  Then the current brewing space is under my sewing table next to the heating vent to keep the yeast warm and happy (for winter only of course).  Other than that we have 1 drawer full of things like corks and labels.

If we were in an apartment I could easily see how an entire closet would be taken up with brewing equipment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 29, 2015, 08:55:59 AM
Okay, I have a question for those who've been there.  I stupidly saved almost all of my college textbooks, and at this point not only do I not need them but they are badly out of date.  I graduated in 2001 in science, lots of things have changed in the biological sciences since then, so these books are for the most part worth nothing.

So, what can I do with them?  They are too heavy for the trash bags, I don't think our recycling center takes them...

Ideas please?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on April 29, 2015, 09:04:46 AM
They're still probably worth a couple bucks each. Idk if you could compost them but if you brought everything to half-price books you could walk out with $20 or so.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on April 29, 2015, 09:13:17 AM
I'm going through decluttering withdrawal! I've been doing so great the first 3 months of the year and stopped in April to deal with the remainder of the donate pile in the middle of the living room. Now I'm going on vacation in a couple days, so I haven't posted anything new on kijiji or started going through any new areas of the house.

I am looking forward to coming home from vacation so I can start decluttering again!

Also I found out there is a clothing swap coming up soon after I get back. I used to be excited to find some cute, new, and free clothing to wear. Now I'm just excited to have an reason to clean out my closet a little more and get rid of more things!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on April 29, 2015, 09:16:11 AM
Okay, I have a question for those who've been there.  I stupidly saved almost all of my college textbooks, and at this point not only do I not need them but they are badly out of date.  I graduated in 2001 in science, lots of things have changed in the biological sciences since then, so these books are for the most part worth nothing.

So, what can I do with them?  They are too heavy for the trash bags, I don't think our recycling center takes them...

Ideas please?

I donated to a local organization.  Look around and you should be able to find someone that will take it.  I also gave away a few.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 29, 2015, 09:21:50 AM
Last year I tried at a family reunion to get one of her sons, or anyone in the family, to take the large dining room table and chairs.  Nobody wanted anything to do with it. I said to her that I am moving to a smaller place and just really won't have room for it. I'm happy to keep the stuff in the family, but no one wants any of it. With great exasperation she said "Well I supposed I can take back that table, chairs and the serving dishes and all of the table linens of various sizes that go with it." Those linens were nasty, threadbare, yellowed and stained with at least a hundred years of gravy stains when she gave them to me, and she seriously thinks that I still have them? In any event, she's four states away.  I'm not paying to move this stuff back to her. Sibley, I might have to take your advice, but it will not go over well.

Please let this be a lesson to all of us not to put the strings of guilt on items we gift to people. If you really don't want someone to ever sell or dispose of something you give them, then just keep it.

If she wants it, then she can pay to ship it. If no one else in the family wants it, then dispose of it in whatever way you choose and just don't mention it. What she doesn't know won't hurt her. If you live 4 states away, I'm guessing she doesn't ever visit your house. And, good luck to whoever gets to deal with her belongings when she passes.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on April 29, 2015, 09:27:49 AM
They're still probably worth a couple bucks each. Idk if you could compost them but if you brought everything to half-price books you could walk out with $20 or so.
The closest one to me is about 45 minutes, but it's near a friend's house so the next time I go see her I'll try taking in the books.  I don't really care at this point, just want them out of my house!

CommonCents, I'll also look into local organizations or perhaps homeschool groups.  At least the chemistry books should be useful for something like that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 29, 2015, 09:30:52 AM
They're still probably worth a couple bucks each. Idk if you could compost them but if you brought everything to half-price books you could walk out with $20 or so.
The closest one to me is about 45 minutes, but it's near a friend's house so the next time I go see her I'll try taking in the books.  I don't really care at this point, just want them out of my house!

CommonCents, I'll also look into local organizations or perhaps homeschool groups.  At least the chemistry books should be useful for something like that.

If you remove the binding, the recycling may take them. You'd have to ask. But outdated technical books aren't wanted often.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on April 29, 2015, 11:15:07 AM
EricaNW's sub thread really hit home.  This house is too big for me, and I knew it when I bought it, but it was the best out of a limited choice when I left my ex.  Now I am retired I don't need the 3rd bedroom that is my office, and DD's bedroom is storage more than bedroom.  Yet I love my gardens and the space for the dog to run. And the neighbourhood. And the stuff in the house?  A lot is hand-me-downs - some I love, some I don't, and the rest is from garage sales when I had literally almost no money after I split.  If I were to move a long distance, I could send 90% of it to an estate sale auction and not miss it.

There are times I feel like parts of my life are still on hold.  I can't declare this house as my principal residence (so no capital gains when I sell it) in the same calendar year as I sell the matrimonial home, so am tied to this house until 2016 (assuming the matrimonial home sells, if you believe in prayer please pray for me).  And then I have to figure out what I want (what I don't want has become pretty clear) and go for it.

I did MarieKono's declutter on clothes and it did make a difference - if only in that it is a lot easier to put clean clothes away now.  Lots more to do, and of course now that gardening season is starting I don't want to be inside, I want to be out decluttering weeds and volunteer trees in the wrong place and doing planting and things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 29, 2015, 11:51:49 AM
To provide hope, despair, and entertainment, I found this blog online about a couple who bought a hoarder's home and their cleanup/renovations. It's a view into a world that is foreign to me, and I find it fascinating. I'm hoping that no one here is dealing with this amount of stuff, so remember, this could be your house!

http://brickhouse319.com/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on April 29, 2015, 12:21:47 PM

We homebrew too, but wine.  It does take up a good bit of space.  We have a fruit cellar in the basement and about half of the shelves are full of empty bottles and other supplies.  Then the current brewing space is under my sewing table next to the heating vent to keep the yeast warm and happy (for winter only of course).  Other than that we have 1 drawer full of things like corks and labels.

If we were in an apartment I could easily see how an entire closet would be taken up with brewing equipment.

Thanks for the reply!  I was looking in the closet again and realized that we actually would have plenty of room if my husband would finally clear out the "keepsake" boxes he filled up after high school and hasn't looked at since.  99% of what's in those boxes will be tossed, I'm sure, before we move.
Also, one whole box of beer bottles will either be recycled or given to a friend who brews, and we do have a box of homebrew which my husband set aside to gift to people.  So, more bottles that we won't actually be keeping, thus more space.
Last night my husband, after having been away for almost a week, noted that our apartment seemed cleaner and so much bigger, but said that other than my packed up books, he couldn't really tell what I'd done.  I said, "Isn't that sad?  We had so much stuff that we didn't really notice or care about it!"  That thought has made me re-think my book strategy, too.  Until now I've thought, of course I'll keep all my books!  They're books, they're wonderful!  But...some of them were good to read once but I'll never read them again.  Others I've kept not because I even enjoyed them, but because I studied them in school and it reminds me of that and how much I learned.  Others I've kept because they're "smart" books, frankly.  (That makes me cringe to admit!)  So, the ones I don't love are going to be culled.  No sense in dragging them across the continent if I didn't truly connect with their stories.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on April 29, 2015, 12:28:12 PM
To provide hope, despair, and entertainment, I found this blog online about a couple who bought a hoarder's home and their cleanup/renovations. It's a view into a world that is foreign to me, and I find it fascinating. I'm hoping that no one here is dealing with this amount of stuff, so remember, this could be your house!

http://brickhouse319.com/

That is insane!

When I was buying my first house I looked at one that was similar, though not as bad and it hadn't expanded outdoors yet. I just assumed whoever was selling the house would take all their stuff. Now I wonder. I didn't buy it for many reasons, but one of them was because I couldn't actually see much of the house due to boxes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on April 29, 2015, 02:06:13 PM
To provide hope, despair, and entertainment, I found this blog online about a couple who bought a hoarder's home and their cleanup/renovations. It's a view into a world that is foreign to me, and I find it fascinating. I'm hoping that no one here is dealing with this amount of stuff, so remember, this could be your house!

http://brickhouse319.com/

That is insane!

When I was buying my first house I looked at one that was similar, though not as bad and it hadn't expanded outdoors yet. I just assumed whoever was selling the house would take all their stuff. Now I wonder. I didn't buy it for many reasons, but one of them was because I couldn't actually see much of the house due to boxes.

It's like a train wreck. I'm horrified, but I'll also be watching with morbid fascination as the story progresses...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 29, 2015, 02:54:35 PM
I empathize with those of you dealing with family guilt. My parents are in their 70s and both are hoarders. Even worse, they're divorced so there will be two properties to clean up at some point. At least I've already sold the excess "heirlooms" which had been given to me over the years. I finally decided I didn't want to be a museum curator for my aunt and grandma's dolls which I've been responsible for since I was a kid. Enough already.

Has anyone seen the movie Clutter (on Amazon Prime)? It's exactly the scenario we're taking about... the family home overloaded with stuff and no one's allowed to throw anything away. Funny film.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on April 29, 2015, 03:11:34 PM
To provide hope, despair, and entertainment, I found this blog online about a couple who bought a hoarder's home and their cleanup/renovations. It's a view into a world that is foreign to me, and I find it fascinating. I'm hoping that no one here is dealing with this amount of stuff, so remember, this could be your house!

http://brickhouse319.com/
Ho-leeeeeee shit, man.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on April 29, 2015, 03:58:19 PM
Ha ha, I feel better already just looking at the bins in the yard.  I haven't even had to scroll down to read about what they found inside the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on April 29, 2015, 05:32:49 PM
It sure makes me never want to buy another Rubbermaid bin! It's no wonder our oceans are full of plastic, if there are people like this out there causing a false demand for its manufacture. And as I said, my own parents (dad in particular) are hoarders. My mom would call herself a collector. ~Did you read that the hoarder in the brick house wasn't even living there? He's been living in another house for the past four years and just periodically goes there to get his mail. I guess after you've filled up a house, basement and bunker, it's time to move.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 29, 2015, 06:26:07 PM
That house is crazy!!!!  Wow!  Just wow!  I have a clutterbug tendency, but I would never get to that.  There are 2 hoarders on my street, well there were.  They were 2 old guys (80's) and they lived across the street from each other for 40+ years.  One was obvious because he hoards in the front yard now.  But one day I saw him hanging out with the guy across the street, and his garage was open, and I realized he hoarded too!  Then I saw them walking the neighborhood, scrounging in the trashcans on trash day, and carrying stuff out of a pickup truck into the stuffed garage.  Sadly, the one with the garage died a couple months ago from mold intoxication.  The police couldn't get in the house and he was dead for several days before anyone knew.  I have since spoken to his SIL and she said he lived there with his mother until she died 25 years ago, and it got really bad after that.  I know the other guy has a son in the area who comes by every once in a while, but he seems like a jerk.  I guess if people get to live how they want, but really I don't think people want to live like that, it just becomes normalized after a while.  Very sad. 

The master composter in me just kept thinking of all the worm bins those Rubbermaid bins could be...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on April 29, 2015, 06:33:47 PM
Oh! 
Finished going through my closet!  (Except jackets, but there are only a few and I'm keeping them as I am moving to a climate that needs a jacket.  I'll go through them next spring).  My sis, who was an organizer and declutterer as a child!, helped me get rid of some work clothes that fit, but just don't make me happy or feel comfortable.  I have a hard time getting rid of something useful like that, and MMM has made this worse, not better, because now I feel like I shouldn't buy a new one if I got rid of a perfectly good one.  I do shop at thrift stores, and have for most of my life, but now I find new clothes are easier to buy because of fit issues.  And lack of time to browse.  And a desire to be more fashionable and current, which can be hit or miss in thrifting.  And I hate the fast fashion industry and what it does to the environment and the people who make it, and the people who buy it (something is wrong with you that can only be fixed by buying this thing that will make you different and socially acceptable), and our environment too!

I like to sew, and that comes back to the time/effort issue too...and it is not always super affordable.

But I finished my closet!  Yeah!  And I got rid of a bunch of things.  I think I might go count them for scale!

Now if I could just put things away...And do the shoes.

I've decided I'm having a yard sale in 2 weeks. 

Oh and I pulled the leftover wax from the tealight candles I was saving and put it in my wax jar and recycled the aluminum cases.  About 20.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on April 29, 2015, 07:59:07 PM
I read the whole thing.  The pictures . . . .

I looked at the bins and thought - composters, worm bins, bins for washing fleeces, so many uses.  At least they put stuff out and it was well disposed of.

The master composter in me just kept thinking of all the worm bins those Rubbermaid bins could be...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on April 30, 2015, 07:14:35 AM
Rubbermaid containers are the source of my issues lately, but learning to let go is quite powerful. I'm still well on the way with decluttering and cleaning stuff up. Managed to get rid a lot of stuff so far, and only really have stuff that I use. Cords are still my biggest issue, along with the crap in my Storage Unit (which will be gone within a month or two, now that I freed up some driveway space).

Great comments from just about everyone so far. Keep it up!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on April 30, 2015, 10:57:09 PM
Two more bags of tatty clothes ready to go to H & M for recycling. A bag of bed linen went out the door (to charity) earlier this week.

The good thing about living in a developing country like the Philippines is that it super easy to get rid of anything. There is always such a need for household goods and clothes that you can have them sent to a worthy cause pretty much immediately.

Seeing all this need around me has also lessened my attachment to Stuff. It is hard to justify keeping things just in case I need them one day, when there are so many people who could use them TODAY.

Plus people recycle pretty much anything, which is helping me be a bit more mindful about casually throwing stuff out, that still has a useful life somewhere.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 30, 2015, 11:39:51 PM
There is this pair of purple pants. Many people have told me they love these pants. They are still in perfect condition even thougth ive had them for a few years, because they are a quality pair. But I cannot stand these pants!!! I loath them and avoid them when I get dressed each morning. So I donated them yesterday:) . I feel better & someone will appreciate them at last.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 01, 2015, 05:28:06 AM
@Erica, Maybe the "Life Changing Joy" will come in a few days when you don't have a messy house to cleanup? I would love to be have a non-messy house <sigh>.
I don't know....the promise is a house decluttered, and the book delivers on that 110%. But as I was mopping and vacuuming last night I was kinda facing that less stuff =/= less cleaning. Maybe less dusting with knick-nacks and things, but I didn't have so many of those anyway. But my home still has the same square footage to wipe, scrub, vacuum, mop and dust. We will use and dirty the same number of pots and they will have to be washed. I don't want to suggest it's a letdown....because this book made an incredible impact on me, but it's almost one of those, "wherever you go, there you are" kind of realizations. Living vibrantly is messy. Less stuff only marginally changes that.

I'm surprised by this actually - I think probably you didn't have as much stuff as me! I had piles of things under furniture (it was always a temporary solution, but I decided to just get rid of the stuff rather than create more storage), and now they are gone, wow, so much easier to clean. I suppose I'm actually vacuuming more space, but I don't have to wiggle round things, and get the cord caught, or move / lift / shift things all the time. Same with countertops now I can just wipe side to side, instead of either around stuff, or moving it off and on again.

Sold a handbag on ebay. I had grown to dislike it, but it had happy memories attached because I purchased it on holiday. However, I still have the holiday memories, so I decided to get over it and let it go. And now I have money too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on May 01, 2015, 08:23:55 AM
CHICAGO PEOPLE!

I just got a notification from Uber this morning that Uber drivers will pick up clothing and take it to Goodwill free of charge this Saturday (5/2) between 10am-4pm. If you have the Uber app, there will be a "Give" option at the bottom of the app to have a driver come pick up your clothes (and only clothes). If you're carless, like me, and take your clutter out in small doses, this is a great way to get your clothes out of the house in one fell swoop!

(Most of my clutter at this point is books that I'm slowly working through, but I thought this might be a nice motivator for someone to go through their closet tonight!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 01, 2015, 10:38:37 PM
Dudes. Husband just sold a thing that was literally NEVER USED at our house on ebay for $400. I set up the garage sale stuff and made $30 from people coming by the day before the garage sale.

Will post total Sunday night or Monday AM, but my guess is this "Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" shit will net us at least $1000 before we are done selling our "tidying."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 01, 2015, 11:15:29 PM
Dudes. Husband just sold a thing that was literally NEVER USED at our house on ebay for $400. I set up the garage sale stuff and made $30 from people coming by the day before the garage sale.

Will post total Sunday night or Monday AM, but my guess is this "Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" shit will net us at least $1000 before we are done selling our "tidying."


This is freaking awesome. And inspiring. I have things in my "to sell" pile that are worth a hefty chunk of change. yet I STILL haven't put any effort into taking care of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 02, 2015, 01:27:32 AM
How do you decide whether to sell or donate? I have a bunch of stuff I don't need, but have been hanging onto because I intend to sell it. Except, obviously, I haven't. It would feel like a waste of money to just donate it, but listing on eBay or craigslist...well, I'm procrastinating, is all. It's not hard or time-consuming.

I did take outgrown kids' and maternity clothes to a consignment shop last week. I also have some baby gear on craigslist right now (though no bites yet), and some cloth diaper covers on eBay. The clothes that the consignment place didn't want, I could sort into lots and put on eBay, but I kind of don't know if I ever will.

I also have old skinny clothes. I have a dress I bought for $125 (most I've ever paid for a dress other than my wedding dress) that needed an alteration. Never got it altered, never wore it, and it's too small now. I've had a 2nd baby since, so who knows if it'll fit even when I do lose the weight. And it'll still need the alteration. I could probably get $20-30 for it on craigslist, but I hate to think of that compared to what I paid. UGH. I need to learn to think of it as a sunk cost, price of a lesson learned.

So this week's assignment is to get stuff sold. Anything not listed/gone by next Saturday will go to the thrift shop.

I also have a stupid collection of samples of shampoo, etc. I follow a couple of coupon blogs and can't resist signing up for the free samples they link to. So I have a pretty good-size makeup bag full of probably a hundred little packets of things I'll never use. I use them when I travel, but I don't travel enough to make a dent. Those are going to the homeless shelter.

We have a couple hundred DVD's that no one watches. They're mostly my husband's, and he won't get rid of them for a variety of reasons. Obviously I can't sell or donate them, but I am going to box them up, put them in a closet, and see how long it takes for him to miss them. $5 says at least a month.

Here's another silly thing I do: I have 2 library books right now that are way overdue. I read half of one, haven't touched the other. But I have very very good intentions of reading them, so I'm racking up fines while I put off returning them. Stupid, huh?

I think I see a theme here: intentions. I have a lot of intentions of doing various things, so I hang onto objects...and then I never do what I planned, which costs me more in the long run.

Hmmm.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 02, 2015, 01:03:42 PM
I have a $50 threshold for eBay and $30 for craigslist. Below that its too much work to list items, talk to potential buyers, show them stuff, etc. Figure out your minimums and go from there.

This approach let me clear up way more from my sell-someday pile. Further I donate almost everything I don't sell immediately and have been good about getting receipts for it. Next year's tax time should be fun!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 02, 2015, 01:06:12 PM
Also I figured its OK to not make a profit (or even get back some of the cost) if it will give me mental peace. I gave away my old PS3 after no one bought it on eBay. Didn't even try craigslist but it felt good to get the console and games out of my house.... Before I changed my mind and they remained in my house unplayed for another year! So clutter out of house is the best solution for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on May 02, 2015, 03:41:02 PM
Also I figured its OK to not make a profit (or even get back some of the cost) if it will give me mental peace. I gave away my old PS3 after no one bought it on eBay. Didn't even try craigslist but it felt good to get the console and games out of my house.... Before I changed my mind and they remained in my house unplayed for another year! So clutter out of house is the best solution for me.

I've been meaning to comment in here again to update. I'm definitely moving towards a more spartan way of living, so selling stuff is not even on my radar. I just want as much gone as possible. I do enjoy reading everyone else's journeys here.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 02, 2015, 03:45:00 PM
Several more items into the garage sale box. I used the KonMari method because when I picked up the items, even though they are perfectly serviceable and fine, I felt "ick" about them. So I just let them go with thanks!  This is going better than I hoped and still there is so much stuff. Garage sale is 1 week from today, so I need to keep going through stuff now. I'm going to call a charity for a pickup early next week, hopefully Saturday or Monday. Otherwise I'll load it up and drop it off.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 02, 2015, 04:22:58 PM
$433 $463 (found an extra $30 in pockets and quarters that was not originally counted) made at today's garage sale! I'm exhausted, but I've worked harder for less money in my life, so yippie! And most importantly - that shit is OUT OF MY HOUSE.

Current KonMari "Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" Get-Rid-O-My-Shit Sales Numbers

Garage Sale - $463
Cleared Ebay Sales - $574 (cleared, after selling fees, etc.)
2nd Hand Bookstore - $22
Amazon Rebate Book Credits - $55 (Amazon gift card credit)
CLEARED SALES: $1114 ($1059 in cash, $55 in Amzn credit)

Pending Ebay Sales - $36 (in flight, likely to go higher.)
TOTAL PENDING SALES: >$36

Listed Amazon Used Book Sales $545 (includes several rare and collectable books)
Listed Ebay Items, $350 (including items with reserve not yet met)
Still to list: ~$400 - ~$500 worth of furniture, housewares and musical instruments.
POSSIBLE FUTURE SALES: $1295-$1395

So, all told, asking myself if items I was holding onto "sparked joy" has led to AT LEAST $1150 in sales in the past week, with future sales reasonably likely to double that. Some of the items listed for sale are specialty items that may take some time to sell, but will be valuable to the right collector. And if they don't sell, that's ok too! The goal was to give our home breathing room, and we have! It feels wonderful.

And guys? I don't miss or regret any of it. I've got religion on this. Clear out your shit! Let it go - sell it, gift it, donate it. Life is better with less crap (and more money doesn't hurt, either.) Do it. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 02, 2015, 04:30:02 PM
How do you decide whether to sell or donate? I have a bunch of stuff I don't need, but have been hanging onto because I intend to sell it. Except, obviously, I haven't. It would feel like a waste of money to just donate it, but listing on eBay or craigslist...well, I'm procrastinating, is all. It's not hard or time-consuming.
Usually, I just donate. But because this was a top to bottom purge, we had enough that it was worth it to do the garage sale thing. As we culled books, my husband checked Amazon's buyback price to set aside any that were worth it to trade in. He has a pretty good idea what of his stuff is semi-collectible.

Selling stuff as a one off that isn't quite valuable - like $50ish bucks or more, used - is a pain in the ass. I would never have tried to sell my old wine glasses and dishware through craigslist. Too much work. But in a big garage sale setting, if I can sell enough $1 and 50-cent items, it's worth it.

I only mentally compare what we get for resale to $0, because mostly I just donate stuff. I try not to compare - ever - to the full value new price. That way lies madness.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 02, 2015, 08:34:03 PM
Holy cow, Erica, that's fantastic! My numbers are not nearly as impressive. I got $22 from one consignment shop, $13 from another, and I have one item on eBay right now with a bid of $10. So I'm at $45 so far. I have 2 things on craigslist for a total of $75, but no takers yet, and I've already lowered the prices once. If they don't sell over the weekend I'm going to take them in to the consignment shop (it's baby gear - a swing and a cosleeper). I'll get a lot less that way, but it's something, and they'll be out of the way.

My to-do list for next week (starting Monday; I work all weekend):
1. take baby gear to consignment
2. sort baby & maternity clothes into lots, post on eBay
3. sort kids' books, sell or donate the ones they don't read
4. take samples to shelter

Goal is to have it all done by the end of Wednesday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 02, 2015, 09:09:00 PM
Holy cow, Erica, that's fantastic! My numbers are not nearly as impressive. I got $22 from one consignment shop, $13 from another, and I have one item on eBay right now with a bid of $10. So I'm at $45 so far. I have 2 things on craigslist for a total of $75, but no takers yet, and I've already lowered the prices once. If they don't sell over the weekend I'm going to take them in to the consignment shop (it's baby gear - a swing and a cosleeper). I'll get a lot less that way, but it's something, and they'll be out of the way.

My to-do list for next week (starting Monday; I work all weekend):
1. take baby gear to consignment
2. sort baby & maternity clothes into lots, post on eBay
3. sort kids' books, sell or donate the ones they don't read
4. take samples to shelter

Goal is to have it all done by the end of Wednesday.
It's not that impressive when you think about how much shit I didn't need I was hanging onto from "past lives" of catering, abandoned hobbies, etc. It's, to me, cautionary. Like, I never again want to have so many things surrounding me that I can make almost $500 at a garage sale on a weeks notice. You know what I mean? I'm thrilled to recoup whatever I can of course, but more than that I'm thrilled to just enjoy life with less to maintain, consider, store and worry about.

That said, don't give up! Get it out, one way or another. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 03, 2015, 04:25:58 PM
Oh, and I forgot to mention, we donated our beater car.  The power steering was going, and it is rusted out from the Midwest, and some a$$hole swiped it when it was parked on the street.  So, charitible donation it is.  I would have sold it cheap, but DH was really happy to donate it, so great!  A huge weight lifted off of me as it rolled away.  We are down to 1 car (except DH has a company car, but it has a lot of restrictions on it).  But moving close to the in-laws and can borrow their second car, if walking, public transport or sharing doesn't work.  Or zipcar. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 03, 2015, 09:27:06 PM
Sorted through my woodworking bin to get supplies to make the missing pieces to a thrifted game. Did it, then got inspired to build a shoe shelf out of scrap quarter round, 1x and fabric. It's light weight. Simple. Free. Easy to take apart and lay flat to move or give away when I move in August.  I had been using a duct tape together plastic one that fell over constantly.  It goes to trash in the morning.

Cleaned and organized the entire woodworking bin. Found a few things to thrift and a whole lot of empty space!  Fit my collection of spray paint in the bin and created empty space in the laundry cupboard! 

Volunteered to supply the gift bag, tissue paper and card for a group gift.  I already had the wrappings and I made the card.  Inexpensive way to contribute and get rid of something at the same time.

Tossed worn out garden supplies.

Finished a rag rug and prepped it to mail to my bestie for her birthday.  It's huge and takes up a surprising amount of space.

Working on several sewing orders that use up supplies I already have and bring in a little money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 04, 2015, 12:16:29 AM
We are moving in a few months and are trying to declutter. I've culled the low hanging fruit and am now starting to reach into closets. However sometimes I wonder if reducing our stuff by one or two boxes is worth the effort. We'd anyway have to haul the furniture - what difference would an extra two boxes make? I know I need to declutter to have less unused stuff but I also am trying to cop out :( major reason: I dont want to spend time indoors decluttering when the weather outside is gorgeous. How do you motivate yourself?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 04, 2015, 12:59:47 AM
Holy cow, Erica, that's fantastic! My numbers are not nearly as impressive. I got $22 from one consignment shop, $13 from another, and I have one item on eBay right now with a bid of $10. So I'm at $45 so far. I have 2 things on craigslist for a total of $75, but no takers yet, and I've already lowered the prices once. If they don't sell over the weekend I'm going to take them in to the consignment shop (it's baby gear - a swing and a cosleeper). I'll get a lot less that way, but it's something, and they'll be out of the way.

My to-do list for next week (starting Monday; I work all weekend):
1. take baby gear to consignment
2. sort baby & maternity clothes into lots, post on eBay
3. sort kids' books, sell or donate the ones they don't read
4. take samples to shelter

Goal is to have it all done by the end of Wednesday.
It's not that impressive when you think about how much shit I didn't need I was hanging onto from "past lives" of catering, abandoned hobbies, etc. It's, to me, cautionary. Like, I never again want to have so many things surrounding me that I can make almost $500 at a garage sale on a weeks notice. You know what I mean? I'm thrilled to recoup whatever I can of course, but more than that I'm thrilled to just enjoy life with less to maintain, consider, store and worry about.

That said, don't give up! Get it out, one way or another. :)

Ah, good point; I hadn't thought of it that way. I am in the very early stages of paying off a ridiculous amount of debt, so the prospect of bringing in some cash is very appealing. That's my motivation for selling instead of donating, even for the lesser-value items. At the end of the day, though, you're right, it just needs to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 04, 2015, 01:05:49 AM
We are moving in a few months and are trying to declutter. I've culled the low hanging fruit and am now starting to reach into closets. However sometimes I wonder if reducing our stuff by one or two boxes is worth the effort. We'd anyway have to haul the furniture - what difference would an extra two boxes make? I know I need to declutter to have less unused stuff but I also am trying to cop out :( major reason: I dont want to spend time indoors decluttering when the weather outside is gorgeous. How do you motivate yourself?

This has totally been my issue too.  However, I have had some success with looking at it this way.  Everytime I declutter, I am enjoying my house and my things more.  Happier me is a good thing.  But I go in little spurts, and I often spend time outside (or on the computer) when I should be sorting.  Its ok, every bit I do is good and one more thing I don't have to pack, unpack, clean, find a home for, feel burdened by.  I guess what I am trying to say is that doing some is fine, it isn't all or nothing.  And when I am motivated, it is amazing how much I can do in a short period of time.  The I take a break or the rest of the day off.  There is no finish line with this.  But there is progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 04, 2015, 08:37:40 AM
We are moving in a few months and are trying to declutter. I've culled the low hanging fruit and am now starting to reach into closets. However sometimes I wonder if reducing our stuff by one or two boxes is worth the effort. We'd anyway have to haul the furniture - what difference would an extra two boxes make? I know I need to declutter to have less unused stuff but I also am trying to cop out :( major reason: I dont want to spend time indoors decluttering when the weather outside is gorgeous. How do you motivate yourself?

This has totally been my issue too.  However, I have had some success with looking at it this way.  Everytime I declutter, I am enjoying my house and my things more.  Happier me is a good thing.  But I go in little spurts, and I often spend time outside (or on the computer) when I should be sorting.  Its ok, every bit I do is good and one more thing I don't have to pack, unpack, clean, find a home for, feel burdened by.  I guess what I am trying to say is that doing some is fine, it isn't all or nothing.  And when I am motivated, it is amazing how much I can do in a short period of time.  The I take a break or the rest of the day off.  There is no finish line with this.  But there is progress.

Also, once you declutter all the boxed stuff, what's to say you can't declutter a piece of furniture or two? I went from 4 bookcases to 2. Wouldn't have been possible if I hadn't decluttered the books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 04, 2015, 08:53:38 AM
We are moving in a few months and are trying to declutter. I've culled the low hanging fruit and am now starting to reach into closets. However sometimes I wonder if reducing our stuff by one or two boxes is worth the effort. We'd anyway have to haul the furniture - what difference would an extra two boxes make? I know I need to declutter to have less unused stuff but I also am trying to cop out :( major reason: I dont want to spend time indoors decluttering when the weather outside is gorgeous. How do you motivate yourself?

This has totally been my issue too.  However, I have had some success with looking at it this way.  Everytime I declutter, I am enjoying my house and my things more.  Happier me is a good thing.  But I go in little spurts, and I often spend time outside (or on the computer) when I should be sorting.  Its ok, every bit I do is good and one more thing I don't have to pack, unpack, clean, find a home for, feel burdened by.  I guess what I am trying to say is that doing some is fine, it isn't all or nothing.  And when I am motivated, it is amazing how much I can do in a short period of time.  The I take a break or the rest of the day off.  There is no finish line with this.  But there is progress.

Also, once you declutter all the boxed stuff, what's to say you can't declutter a piece of furniture or two? I went from 4 bookcases to 2. Wouldn't have been possible if I hadn't decluttered the books.

Good points.  Additional thoughts:
1) This is weight you carry around for future moves, if you don't clear it out now.  So if you anticipate moving frequently (I did 6 places in 7 years once and 7 place in 10 years), you're paying a lot over time for the extra boxes.
2) Most people find themselves reducing stuff by more than one or two boxes.  I daresay for some, particularly if you've never moved before or been fairly sedentary, it's more likely 10-20+.
3) Moving provides an excellent deadline so that your stuff doesn't cost you extra, however, many declutter for other reasons than just money - remove items with negative energy (e.g. the gift you never like and feel guilty you don't use), less to clean, less "stuff" around weighting you down, etc.
4) If you sell or donate your items, the money (immediately or in your taxes) is a great "windfall" of sunk cost money otherwise, which can help pay for the move.

So I declutter in stages.  I don't try to do it all at once.  A little here or there whittles it down.  At this point, I aim for a problem area once a week.  It's much slower than many on here - and slower than I've done in the past, but it's sustainable.  And a great reward after doing an area is to go out into the yard!

For the best bang for your buck given your upcoming move, as you've already done the "easy" items, I'd suggest that you tackle the bulky or heavy items next.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 04, 2015, 01:54:17 PM
I've been really enjoying catching up on this thread (especially Erica's posts). I've been waiting for Life Changing Magic at my library since January. Just realized I could get it through another library, requested it today, and will pick it up in a few days!

This weekend I purged another two bags of books, and it was easy for the first time in my life. We also donated a bag full of DVDs. We are DVD free now. Woot! I also brought my plastic bags for plastic bag recycling (not allowed in single stream where I live) to the grocery store. Even though I haven't gotten plastic grocery bags in years, plastic film from shipping boxes and cereal boxes really add up. I feel a lot lighter, but my tiny apartment is still overflowing with sh*&*e that I don't need and don't use. Can't wait for the book. Keep up the great work all!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on May 04, 2015, 09:39:03 PM
Add me to the list of people praising The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.

I recently read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo, and I followed the process to purge my home of unloved items. I live in a small Korean one-bedroom apartment with limited storage space, so I was already starting with far fewer items than the average American. I also declutter at least twice a year and abhor visual clutter. I was dealing almost entirely with things stored in drawers and closets.

Still, I managed to find two bags of clothes that didn't bring me joy, a 5" stack of papers, a few plastic kitchen items, and a few other random bits and bobs. I did it all in one day as Kondo suggests, and according to her, I will never have to tidy up again because I will never keep unwanted items in my home again. I doubt this is true because I have a packrat husband, but it's a nice positive thought.

To echo the summary others have shared, here's the process in a nutshell: pull each item out of its storage, handle each one individually, ask "Does this spark joy?", keep it if so, discard it if not. Before discarding unwanted items, thank them for their service: "Thank you for keeping my feet warm, socks." This addresses the energy Kondo believes resides in each object, but on a pragmatic level for people who don't believe in that, it reduces guilt for discarding perfectly functional items.

I got rid of clothing items I would wear, but not joyfully. Or maybe I felt guilt seeing them in the closet because I didn't wear them enough. There's no need to surround ourselves with items charged with intentions--just surround yourself with happiness, joy, and positivity.

That's the idea.

But the other good idea is that you do it ALL AT ONCE. I can't imagine dragging decluttering on for months like some of the frequent posters here. I'd rather rip the bandaid off and carry on with open space and lightness as soon as possible.

Like I said, though, I must have less items to begin with. That surely makes a difference, but it might also just be an excuse for prolonging the decision-making process.

What do you think about the time it takes to declutter?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 04, 2015, 09:41:05 PM
We are moving in a few months and are trying to declutter. I've culled the low hanging fruit and am now starting to reach into closets. However sometimes I wonder if reducing our stuff by one or two boxes is worth the effort. We'd anyway have to haul the furniture - what difference would an extra two boxes make? I know I need to declutter to have less unused stuff but I also am trying to cop out :( major reason: I dont want to spend time indoors decluttering when the weather outside is gorgeous. How do you motivate yourself?

have you tried the "konmari" method - from "the life changing art of tidying up" by marie kondo.... excellent way to get a massive declutter (most likely) even if you think it'll only be a box or two:). I recommend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 05, 2015, 05:06:33 AM
Now that we have nice weather I have started on the garage.  I donated a car load yesterday.  Tomorrow will be a car load of books and office supplies (left from work, still useful) going to new homes.  DD will be home for Mother's Day so that will be a "declutter house projects that need 4 hands" and "DD will sort and donate her stuff" day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on May 05, 2015, 05:11:13 AM
Sadly, we've had 4 trash bags of clothes and stuffed animals in the back of my van for over a month. Just haven't gotten around to dropping them off. Wife says she's about to throw it all in the dumpster. I said "Go for it."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 05, 2015, 06:28:17 AM
My husband has obviously noticed all the changes (I haven't been trying to get him on board at all, just been focussed on my stuff) - he just decided on Saturday morning to completely clear out his closet and get rid of LOADS of clothes! Whenever I've mentioned it in the past he's hated the idea and really resisted.

So team, leading by example is the way forward if you have a reluctant spouse. Don't let their reluctance put you off starting - just get on clearing out YOUR stuff, and perhaps, like my husband, they will notice how much easier / better / happier your life is, and follow suit. I'm very happy right now!

(Also, I sold my expensive handbag, which no longer sparks joy for £120 on ebay. It cost me £143 - two years of service for £23 isn't bad in the scheme of things, and I did enjoy owning it at first. It's just after I found MMM that that joy turned to 'WTF?!')
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 05, 2015, 07:23:31 AM
There's no need to surround ourselves with items charged with intentions...

Thanks for the synopsis! This is me in a nutshell! I don't have sentimental attachment to things, but I have so many unfinished projects (good intentions). Thanks to this thread, I've gotten over the guilt of donating/recycling things that are still or could be functional (the items will/can be for someone else), which was my other big issue.

What do you think about the time it takes to declutter?

I've been one of the slow declutterers on the forum, getting rid of things sporadically for years. I decluttered my bathroom in one day, and it's been wonderful. It hasn't cluttered back up. I want to do that with the trickier rooms/items (looking at you sewing stash). I'm hoping the book will help with this when I get it. Decluttering my tiny apartment in one day sounds exhausting, and I'm afraid I'll end up with unfinished huge piles, but obviously it's worked for many people, so I know I can do it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 05, 2015, 08:43:41 AM
Another slow de-clutterer here. I'd love to do it quickly, a la KonMari, but I have a 5-month-old who doesn't give me big blocks of uninterrupted time. ;) So I do a little here and there, as I can, and it adds up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on May 05, 2015, 08:50:40 AM
Spent a 4 day weekend in Wisconsin clearing out my mom's estate.  This is the first trip back we didn't have to also attend a funeral so much more got done.  Had 2 friends come and assist (OMG, thank you!) and we did 8 trips to Goodwill, 2 trailer fulls to the dump, 1 trip to hazardous waste.  Then my friend took 2 carloads of stuff home to sell at her garage sale.  My brothers friend took 2 trailers of gardening and shelving units home for himself. 

all in all, a very productive weekend.  We can see the light.  At the end of the weekend we hit the Christmas decorations from our childhood and the millions of family pictures.  That was the point we "tapped out" and went for drinks.  OMG, that part is going to be hard....

Love keeping up with everyone's progress, it's SO motivating.  Now that i'm back "home" (Arizona), it's back to decluttering my own house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 05, 2015, 09:01:15 AM
But the other good idea is that you do it ALL AT ONCE. I can't imagine dragging decluttering on for months like some of the frequent posters here. I'd rather rip the bandaid off and carry on with open space and lightness as soon as possible.

Like I said, though, I must have less items to begin with. That surely makes a difference, but it might also just be an excuse for prolonging the decision-making process.

What do you think about the time it takes to declutter?

I don't think she meant to try to do it all in one day.  Rather, to do it over a few months, but don't prolong for a year or two.  As with everything, I think YMMV.  She readily confesses to strategies that don't work for her, but do for others.  I think the speed of decluttering is one that is an individual approach.

I am decluttering slowly.  I have more stuff than you (both in terms of not being particularly minimal before, but also in having a house not a 1-bed apartment), I met my husband a bit later in life so we have more duplicates than people who met at younger ages, and I don't have oodles of free time.  My mom suddenly dropped a bunch of my stuff I hadn't even known about on my doorstep when I bought a house, which added to the stuff to go through.  (At some point we need to finish bringing my husband's stuff from his childhood home to our house.)  I also find decluttering to be tiring, so spending a whole weekend trying to do a marathon session doesn't work for me. 

What I do follow is the idea to do one area/type of item at a time.  I think she's definitely onto something about bringing all like items together and making a decision at once about them, rather than going room by room through things.  It probably would be better to do it in a somewhat shorter time frame, but I find this way helps me to always keep things from coming into the house.  And I feel like it's a never ending project already in some ways - areas I thought I decluttered I look back at and wonder why I didn't get rid of X Y or Z so I make another pass.  A gradual approach allows me to relinquish items more gracefully than an all at once approach, where I might have more regrets.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on May 05, 2015, 09:20:36 AM
They're still probably worth a couple bucks each. Idk if you could compost them but if you brought everything to half-price books you could walk out with $20 or so.
The closest one to me is about 45 minutes, but it's near a friend's house so the next time I go see her I'll try taking in the books.  I don't really care at this point, just want them out of my house!

CommonCents, I'll also look into local organizations or perhaps homeschool groups.  At least the chemistry books should be useful for something like that.

Or, next time you are in the Burgh, drop them off at Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse. There are a lot of artists out there who like to cut up books for collage and alter them into art journals. Just make sure you call ahead.

You could also leave them at Red, White, and Blue thrift store (I go to the one right outside the Liberty Tubes but there's one on 65, too).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 05, 2015, 10:21:46 AM
Thanks everyone. I'm on waiting list for the book in library. I've moved my decluttering to after sun goes down. So I declutter late in the night and don't miss out on the lovely weather we've been having. Win-win!!

Threw away a bunch of papers yesterday. Also found a set of magazines - I'm going to read through them and throw one a day. Also found a couple of things to list on eBay. The donate pile is growing too.

I have a few more things to sell on craigslist and eBay - the total is now at $250 and will hit $500 soon.

I like the idea of decluttering furniture. We have ample space in this apartment and I realized I can sell one of our storage cupboards and not miss it terribly. I can always rebuy from craigslist if I need one in a future apartment. So target is to clean up that storage cupboard and put it on sale. Good to have a target. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on May 05, 2015, 10:51:15 AM
Nikki,  As one of the people who is doing it over time, I would love to do it all at once but that would take several weeks of non-stop action and I do not have the energy for that.  I find de-cluttering to be rewarding and exhausting.  I am so looking forward to the time when each space is tidy and each thing is accessible and a regular, once a year  attack of de-cluttering will take less than a day.

You are inspiring me to get back to it.   There are very few spaces left now, so I am on the home run.  Also, I am ready to go over some previously de-cluttered spots to go deeper but want to get everything completed once first.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 05, 2015, 12:59:49 PM
Another slow de-clutterer here. I'd love to do it quickly, a la KonMari, but I have a 5-month-old who doesn't give me big blocks of uninterrupted time. ;) So I do a little here and there, as I can, and it adds up.

Yeah, my toddler is my big excuse for not de-cluttering quickly.  I have to do it all when she's asleep or she ends up running off with the things I wanted to get rid of, and if I don't chase her immediately she hides things in unusual places.  Best to do it after she goes to sleep.
As someone else mentioned, too, this helps me avoid regret.  Not that I've actually done so yet, but if I found myself wanting something I'd put into a box to get rid of, I could always pull it out again.
Finally, I don't drive much at all, and the stuff I have to donate or take to the dump or the recycling center (damn you, lack of curbside recycling!) is far bigger than I can take in the bike trailer.  So I'm decluttering by putting things in boxes off to the side, and once we feel like we've gone through all our stuff I'll have one day in which I load up the car and take everything to where it should go.  I consider it decluttered, even though it's not technically out of my place.

In case anyone is interested, here's a picture of the nightgown I made for BabyX out of an old t-shirt.  It's on top of one of my shirts, for scale, and to show how I did it.  Super easy.  A couple of cuts (I used a onesie to figure out the sizing), turn it inside out and sew two seams.  I'll hem the bottom and sleeves when I have access to my mother's sewing machine next month, but that's probably not even necessary.
If you have a boy, you could turn it into "shortlets" by cutting out a small space for the crotch and adding buttons there.
It was a really good way to re-use some shirts which couldn't be donated (there were holes in the fabric) and which had sentimental value.  (Not the pictured one, but the other I made has a logo from my husband's high school and main sport.)  The scrap fabric that I cut off was turned into rags for cleaning.

My win of the week: went over my books again, and BabyX's books, and identified quite a few to get rid of.  Have those set aside, boxed up the books I want to keep and sold one of my bookshelves.  $100!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 05, 2015, 06:57:47 PM
I love the nightgown idea! I might have to make one or two for my daughter.

I haven't made it to the consignment shop yet. Our one car has been in the shop and we just got it back this afternoon. It might be a good thing, though, bc I finally got a response from the craigslist ad for the swing, and I think I might have a buyer. If so, that'll be $60 instead of the $20 (at most) the consignment shop would have given me.

The eBay auction of diaper covers ends in less than 30 minutes, and it's at $15.50. I started the bidding low - at $10 - because I figured they would definitely sell that way. They were given to me, so it's 100% profit no matter what.

Baby is sleeping on my lap; if I can put her down without waking her up, I'll take pics of some baby clothes to put on eBay.

ETA: Covers sold for $26! Assuming the buyer pays right away, they'll go in the mail tomorrow. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on May 05, 2015, 07:04:26 PM
As Mary Oliver says  'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'

Thank you for this, wintersun. Your posts resonate with me, and today I read Evidence by Mary Oliver...love her!! How did I get through life thus far not having read her?  Wishing you motivation on your continued decluttering. I am down to some movie memorabilia from days of working in Hollywood, and I'm hitting a wall. Not because I want to keep the stuff, but because it must have a psychological heaviness which keeps me from dealing with it. The minute I pick up one of the items, I go into zombie mode. I'm pretty sure that's the opposite of sparking joy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 05, 2015, 07:41:00 PM
I've really enjoyed some of the recent conversation on this thread.  It's motivating.  For me there are layers and layers to the process.  Sometimes I'll be laying in bed and think "Hmm.. I think I can let go of that jacket now..." When just a week before I had to keep it.  It takes me a little time to think it through.   At work I might think of something at home.  I often write those things down and then when I have time a week later I find them and let them go. 

I grew up with hoarders and I keep discovering layers of complexity in my relationship with things.  Things were always feast or famine in our house.  When mom had money she stockpiled staples. 6 or 7 partial bottles of laundry soap was a good thing.  It meant we had enough to last through the inevitable money drought when she discovered Dad had signed up for another credit card in her name.  The same goes with food and clothing.  I am slowly identifying those responses in myself.  I've been on my own for years, but have had some serious transitions in the past couple that have brought out those stock piling tendencies. I'm finally beginning to convince myself that I will always take care of  myself.  I might have transitions, and money might be tight, but I will always find a solution, a new job, and there will always be great sales and coupons and discounts when I actually need the item.

 I have always kept less than my parents. I have flirted with minimalism since I was a teenager, but I am also a maker and artist. I cook. I sew and garden, so I have a few more accessories than those "travel the world with a backpack minimalists."

I currently work part time and am in school full time.  I am moving to a new city in August. I anticipate moving several times in the next 3 years.  When I moved to this house last fall I brought garden tools and canning supplies.  As I look at my plans for the next several years I realize that while I value those things they are not realistic for this stage in my life. That was a huge realization for me.  I've been able to let a lot of those things go.  When/if I again live where I can garden, then I'll need those things again, but it doesn't make sense for me to store them. It was easy to find someone to take the canning supplies, she was so happy to recieve them that it made it easier for me to give them.

Out today:
2 scarves
1 pair shoes
1 scrap book - scanned and ready to trash
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on May 05, 2015, 07:42:31 PM
They're still probably worth a couple bucks each. Idk if you could compost them but if you brought everything to half-price books you could walk out with $20 or so.
The closest one to me is about 45 minutes, but it's near a friend's house so the next time I go see her I'll try taking in the books.  I don't really care at this point, just want them out of my house!

CommonCents, I'll also look into local organizations or perhaps homeschool groups.  At least the chemistry books should be useful for something like that.

Or, next time you are in the Burgh, drop them off at Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse. There are a lot of artists out there who like to cut up books for collage and alter them into art journals. Just make sure you call ahead.

You could also leave them at Red, White, and Blue thrift store (I go to the one right outside the Liberty Tubes but there's one on 65, too).
Thanks, I'll look into both of those!

Today I took several things from my closet to a consignment store, hoping to get a few bucks for things I don't wear any longer.  And if they don't sell, the owner donates them, so it's good either way!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on May 06, 2015, 02:01:02 AM
But the other good idea is that you do it ALL AT ONCE. I can't imagine dragging decluttering on for months like some of the frequent posters here. I'd rather rip the bandaid off and carry on with open space and lightness as soon as possible.

Like I said, though, I must have less items to begin with. That surely makes a difference, but it might also just be an excuse for prolonging the decision-making process.

What do you think about the time it takes to declutter?

I don't think she meant to try to do it all in one day.  Rather, to do it over a few months, but don't prolong for a year or two.  As with everything, I think YMMV.  She readily confesses to strategies that don't work for her, but do for others.  I think the speed of decluttering is one that is an individual approach. ...

Oh yes--that's one of the things I like about her writing. She's anecdotal and highlights her quirkiness, acknowledging that not everyone is like her.

But I really did think she means to do it all at once! I got the sense that if it's not in one day, maybe one weekend. She says her clients are not repeat clients because there's no reason--there's no rebound. And she's working in Japan, where apartments are my place's size or smaller.

The thing is, she just doesn't address time as far as I remember. It's an interesting oversight, or my memory's just failing me. Lots of people in this thread are reading or have read it, so maybe someone will find the passage.

I can see where the culture difference of America (for example) vs. Japan might make applying her method more challenging for people who *do* have four bedrooms, a two-car garage, a shed, an attic, a basement, and so on to deal with. I wonder if she has worked with any hoarders before.

Also babies. She doesn't mention babies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on May 06, 2015, 03:47:36 AM
Thus far I've been a slow declutterer. Half and hour here, an hour there… and feeling like I've been just picking at it. And then poking again another few weeks later. Progress is slow but I am making progress, although I  often fail to notice.  I thought my troublesome study showed no noticeable sign of progress, but yesterday DS walked in and remarked I'd been cleaning up.

Recently after reading the KonMari method, I'd been wondering what would happen if I cleared the dairy and scheduled in a half day marathon.  Due to the size of the house, it would take me a couple of weeks if I went at it full-time, which I cannot do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on May 06, 2015, 06:09:49 AM
But the other good idea is that you do it ALL AT ONCE. I can't imagine dragging decluttering on for months like some of the frequent posters here. I'd rather rip the bandaid off and carry on with open space and lightness as soon as possible.

Like I said, though, I must have less items to begin with. That surely makes a difference, but it might also just be an excuse for prolonging the decision-making process.

What do you think about the time it takes to declutter?

I don't think she meant to try to do it all in one day.  Rather, to do it over a few months, but don't prolong for a year or two.  As with everything, I think YMMV.  She readily confesses to strategies that don't work for her, but do for others.  I think the speed of decluttering is one that is an individual approach. ...

Oh yes--that's one of the things I like about her writing. She's anecdotal and highlights her quirkiness, acknowledging that not everyone is like her.

But I really did think she means to do it all at once! I got the sense that if it's not in one day, maybe one weekend. She says her clients are not repeat clients because there's no reason--there's no rebound. And she's working in Japan, where apartments are my place's size or smaller.

The thing is, she just doesn't address time as far as I remember. It's an interesting oversight, or my memory's just failing me. Lots of people in this thread are reading or have read it, so maybe someone will find the passage.

I can see where the culture difference of America (for example) vs. Japan might make applying her method more challenging for people who *do* have four bedrooms, a two-car garage, a shed, an attic, a basement, and so on to deal with. I wonder if she has worked with any hoarders before.

Also babies. She doesn't mention babies.

I have this on Kindle and I can't seem to find a page number, but she does say that "From my experience with private individual lessons, "quickly" means about half a year." when she's talking about doing your entire house quickly.  It's location 410/2181 I think for my fellow Kindle users.

So holy speediness, batman, if you can do your stuff in a day!! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on May 06, 2015, 06:20:14 AM

I have this on Kindle and I can't seem to find a page number, but she does say that "From my experience with private individual lessons, "quickly" means about half a year." when she's talking about doing your entire house quickly.  It's location 410/2181 I think for my fellow Kindle users.

So holy speediness, batman, if you can do your stuff in a day!!

Yesssss! Thank you. This is helpful for my pitch to family and friends hahah! Six months is MUCH more realistic than what I was thinking.

But ya--one day was enough for me because I'm weird and live in a small space. Mostly the weird part. But if you're on this forum, you're probably weird, too ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on May 06, 2015, 07:47:57 AM
SisterX, this tickled my funny bone:

Quote
she ends up running off with the things I wanted to get rid of, and if I don't chase her immediately she hides things in unusual places.

Thanks for the laugh.  I could see a toddler nefariously stealing bits and bobs and concealing them in secret spots!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on May 06, 2015, 08:23:07 AM
Practical Magic,

I am glad my posts are resonating with you.  It is nice to know we are not alone isn't it?  So much of this in the end seems psychological: why we bought these things, why we hold onto them, how we feel once they are gone.  I can see why the KonMari method includes talking to the items, almost as a way of consciously closing out a segment of our lives that no longer serves us.

Quote
it must have a psychological heaviness which keeps me from dealing with it. The minute I pick up one of the items, I go into zombie mode. I'm pretty sure that's the opposite of sparking joy.

Zombie mode is fascinating to me, the way our minds shut down in response to certain things, and the way our limbs become heavy and too tired to deal.  I wonder whether de-cluttering can be a way to access our core issues?  The next best seller will be "Journal while you de-clutter- a guide to finding your inner self by peeling back layers of materialism".

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on May 06, 2015, 01:41:39 PM
I have the Marie Kondo Kindle edition too and from one paragraph I happened to have open:

"Make tidying a special event, not a daily chore [...] tidying should be done just once. Or, to put it more accurately, the work of tidying should be completed once and for all within a single period of time.[...] the purpose of this book is to inspire you to tackle the 'special event' of putting your house in order as soon as possible."

I have read the whole book, and I definitely have experienced the realization that while before my place was organized, it wasn't tidy. Organized meaning lots of things I didn't need or care for any more were neatly stacked, boxed and sorted.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 06, 2015, 02:08:14 PM
I have the Marie Kondo Kindle edition too and from one paragraph I happened to have open:

"Make tidying a special event, not a daily chore [...] tidying should be done just once. Or, to put it more accurately, the work of tidying should be completed once and for all within a single period of time.[...] the purpose of this book is to inspire you to tackle the 'special event' of putting your house in order as soon as possible."

I have read the whole book, and I definitely have experienced the realization that while before my place was organized, it wasn't tidy. Organized meaning lots of things I didn't need or care for any more were neatly stacked, boxed and sorted.
How do you make tidying a special event that is done only once? I haven't read the book yet but for daily tidying up (every night after dinner - putting away daily use things like toys, shoes, etc) I see it happening every day. Or does she mean decluttering?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on May 06, 2015, 02:43:04 PM
I can see why the KonMari method includes talking to the items, almost as a way of consciously closing out a segment of our lives that no longer serves us.

Quote
it must have a psychological heaviness which keeps me from dealing with it. The minute I pick up one of the items, I go into zombie mode. I'm pretty sure that's the opposite of sparking joy.

Zombie mode is fascinating to me, the way our minds shut down in response to certain things, and the way our limbs become heavy and too tired to deal.  I wonder whether de-cluttering can be a way to access our core issues?  The next best seller will be "Journal while you de-clutter- a guide to finding your inner self by peeling back layers of materialism".

There's the solution...I need to have a talk with these old items before I prep and list them on eBay!  As wacky as it sounds to some, thanking the item for its service or role it played in your life can be helpful. It is a way to thank--and in many cases forgive--your younger self who acquired these items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 06, 2015, 04:59:37 PM
SisterX, this tickled my funny bone:

Quote
she ends up running off with the things I wanted to get rid of, and if I don't chase her immediately she hides things in unusual places.

Thanks for the laugh.  I could see a toddler nefariously stealing bits and bobs and concealing them in secret spots!

Yeah, we've been getting lots of laughs over this new phase too.  My husband went to pull a pot out to cook the other night and pulled a clean diaper out of our wok.  "Umm, what's this doing in here?"  "Oh yeah, I wondered what the munchkin was doing in the kitchen earlier."
I've moved our piles of stuff to get rid of into the garage, where Baby can't get to them.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 06, 2015, 11:41:52 PM
Why do you declutter?
Because everything you own owns a tiny piece of you back.
Because I want to worry less about STUFF and more about people and ducks and great food.
Because it can go to someone who will be blessed by it and be grateful to have it.
Because dusting is a pain in the ass.
Because the sense of calm that comes from a certain space in your home is not unlike the sense of calm that comes from a well laid out book with the proper balance of text and white space.
Because I'm making a statement about what I value based on what I surround myself with.
Because life is too short to be surrounded by things, people or stressors I just don't care about.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on May 07, 2015, 06:14:38 AM
Why do you declutter?

because i'm moving this summer.

because i don't like dragging a bunch of shit around with me.

because a lot of things i own are actually owned by a person i used to be, not by who i am now ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 07, 2015, 06:26:16 AM
Out:

Bag of clothing and shoes
1 vegetable pealer
1 can high heat paint
1 bag of organic fertilizer
Notes from this semester scanned and recycled
1 box books - I packed the small box I want to keep. The rest are out and accessible so I can read the this summer, they will all be donated before I move whether I read them or not.

2 sewing projects complete and ready for pickup.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on May 07, 2015, 06:45:45 AM
Why do you declutter?

I want everything I own to be relevant to my life and to make me happy; no clutter for the sake of having "stuff."
Being conscious about consumption is good for the environment; decluttering helps me realize just how much unnecessary crap I've consumed.
I want to focus my energy toward people and relationships, not the things I own.
I live in 800 sq ft; if I don't declutter I'll be over-run.
^ Relevant for being a good role model for any future progeny I have.

Also:
I like a (relatively) minimalist aesthetic.
I hate cleaning, and not having as much crap means I can clean less frequently and it takes less time.
We'll be moving eventually (2-3 years), and the less stuff to haul, the better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 07, 2015, 07:29:29 AM
Why do you declutter?

I live in a tiny apartment with limited storage space, so extra stuff=cramped living.
I also want cleaning to be a lot easier without having to move boxes/stuff around that I don't use.
I want the things that I do use to be accessible.
Stuff weighs me down. I have a lot of unfinished projects that sort of hang over me as constant "to dos." I want to cut those loose and free myself of them, only keeping the projects that I'm happy to complete.
I'd rather someone get use out of an item, otherwise it's being wasted by me (part of my enviro/usefulness bent).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 07, 2015, 07:35:20 AM
What would everyone here answer to this

Why do you declutter?

My SO just doesn't really understand why I'm doing it.
I told her that I want to concentrate on things that make me happy or give my life value.
DVDs that I will never watch again give me no pleasure and just stand there in the shelf (admittedly not hurting anyone).
Things I haven't used in ages and know I wont be using again any time soon or even ever are all on their way out.
She seems to think we have the space for them so why not keep them‽
She is still of the mindset that her bookshelf looks nice even though she will never again touch 99% of the books in it.
I told her if it makes her happy by all means keep them but I won't be keeping mine.
Because I hate seeing stuff go to waste. If someone can use it, great!!

Because I hate cleaning!

Because I like open airy spaces.

Because I love the lightness having less stuff brings to mind - less to worry about, less to maintain and definitely less to hold on to!

Because if I have less, I find I enjoy the ones I have more. I recently went from 500+ books to 20. Guess which books get read and reread and give joy every time? Heck! I get joy just seeing all my favorites stacked in my book shelf instead of dreading the boxes of books stored in my storage.

Because it makes me badass!! Decluttering had taught me how much less I need to live a happy, full life! (And I'm barely scratching the surface... I'm sure I can live on 10% of what I have and still be happy - 50% would still be a decadent life)

Because it makes life easy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 07, 2015, 07:35:45 AM
What would everyone here answer to this

Why do you declutter?

My SO just doesn't really understand why I'm doing it.
I told her that I want to concentrate on things that make me happy or give my life value.
DVDs that I will never watch again give me no pleasure and just stand there in the shelf (admittedly not hurting anyone).
Things I haven't used in ages and know I wont be using again any time soon or even ever are all on their way out.
She seems to think we have the space for them so why not keep them‽
She is still of the mindset that her bookshelf looks nice even though she will never again touch 99% of the books in it.
I told her if it makes her happy by all means keep them but I won't be keeping mine.
Because I hate seeing stuff go to waste. If someone can use it, great!!

Because I hate cleaning!

Because I like open airy spaces.

Because I love the lightness having less stuff brings to mind - less to worry about, less to maintain and definitely less to hold on to!

Because if I have less, I find I enjoy the ones I have more. I recently went from 500+ books to 20. Guess which books get read and reread and give joy every time? Heck! I get joy just seeing all my favorites stacked in my book shelf instead of dreading the boxes of books stored in my storage.

Because it makes me badass!! Decluttering had taught me how much less I need to live a happy, full life! (And I'm barely scratching the surface... I'm sure I can live on 10% of what I have and still be happy - 50% would still be a decadent life)

Because it makes life easy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 07, 2015, 07:44:22 AM
Why do you declutter?

Because too much stuff sets off OCD
Because I hate having to move things in order to vacuum
Because I've seen what a horder-in-training looks like and it repulses me
Because I don't like to dust
Because I know that when I buy a house it'll be small
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 07, 2015, 07:52:35 AM
Decluttering my house is resulting in some life decluttering too! I decided all the books I have been waiting to read must be read, or donated. Well, I started one, and I hate it. But my ex-literature student ego makes me want to plough on and finish it, just so I can know I have read it.

What?! Yeah, I'm going to get over myself and donate it. I don't know why I feel that reading should be hard work. It's fine to read easy novels just for fun! I don't have to have read every classic before I die just to know that I have.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on May 07, 2015, 10:42:35 AM
Why do you declutter?
I don't want to work 5 days 9-5.
I don't want to work 'till I'm 67.
I don't want to live enslaved by a mortgage to live in a huge home.
My tolerance for chaos and stress is limited.
Therefore I must live a frugal and modest life, and decluttering/minimalism seems the way to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 07, 2015, 11:03:59 AM
Why do you declutter?

I just hate seeing stuff everywhere. It makes me feel stressed. I prefer the look of a clean space without a lot of clutter - or a lot of storage containers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on May 07, 2015, 11:20:32 AM
Why do you declutter?

I just hate seeing stuff everywhere. It makes me feel stressed. I prefer the look of a clean space without a lot of clutter - or a lot of storage containers.
YES!  This is my problem.  Messes and clutter stress me out. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on May 07, 2015, 04:45:18 PM
I feel motivated to clean out tools today. I have two rollarounds and a bunch of other stuff - I want to pull a car out of the garage and empty both tool chests on the floor, then sort everything in a logical manner (and get rid of what I don't need).

Wish me luck. :P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 07, 2015, 04:53:28 PM
Why do you declutter?
I don't handle chaos very well so when all the flat surfaces are clear I'm much calmer and more at peace.

As others have said, clutter is generally a pile of to-do's; shirts that need a new button, books that need read, an item that needs repaired, etc. And that mental clutter can cause a lot of stress. When you let it go and say "I don't need to do this it reduces that continuous mental to-do list and lets you focus on the the stuff that you actually want or need to do which makes me a happier person

This!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on May 07, 2015, 05:21:41 PM
I feel motivated to clean out tools today. I have two rollarounds and a bunch of other stuff - I want to pull a car out of the garage and empty both tool chests on the floor, then sort everything in a logical manner (and get rid of what I don't need).

Wish me luck. :P

Tools, the one thing I will never get rid of or pare down. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on May 07, 2015, 05:41:39 PM
I feel motivated to clean out tools today. I have two rollarounds and a bunch of other stuff - I want to pull a car out of the garage and empty both tool chests on the floor, then sort everything in a logical manner (and get rid of what I don't need).

Wish me luck. :P

Tools, the one thing I will never get rid of or pare down.

I bought a rollaround that was full of tools for super cheap, but I already had one full - I have some that should probably be thrown away, and many that need to be better organized as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 07, 2015, 11:31:59 PM
Why do you declutter?
I don't handle chaos very well so when all the flat surfaces are clear I'm much calmer and more at peace.

As others have said, clutter is generally a pile of to-do's; shirts that need a new button, books that need read, an item that needs repaired, etc. And that mental clutter can cause a lot of stress. When you let it go and say "I don't need to do this it reduces that continuous mental to-do list and lets you focus on the the stuff that you actually want or need to do which makes me a happier person

This!!!!



yes totally!! i didn't realize until i read this! so many "potential projects" , so so many. and these are the things i haven't let go of (mostly). because i am a crafty/artistic person so i think, o when i am inspired, when i feel like working on something... i tell you though, it hasn't been too often in the past few years....
it resonates with me what you said about when we declutter "lets you focus on the things you actually want or need to do."
This is what i have been avoiding. but slowly , i am getting closer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on May 08, 2015, 01:37:27 AM
Decluttering my house is resulting in some life decluttering too! I decided all the books I have been waiting to read must be read, or donated. Well, I started one, and I hate it. But my ex-literature student ego makes me want to plough on and finish it, just so I can know I have read it.

What?! Yeah, I'm going to get over myself and donate it. I don't know why I feel that reading should be hard work. It's fine to read easy novels just for fun! I don't have to have read every classic before I die just to know that I have.

Books are hard, but a couple of years ago I decided to only keep the ones that I would be likely to reread or lend out. Still struggling with some that were given to me. At one stage I found an author I liked and a pile of books secondhand. I will admit to starting a couple and not liking them, setting them aside and reading something else instead. But they were still in my "to finish" pile. Eventually I decided not to, googled reviews / how the book finished for the fiction so I wasn't left wondering and then donated them. I felt much better for doing this. YMMV
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 08, 2015, 02:51:28 PM
It never ceases to amaze me how clutter continually enters our lives. I have purged many times over the past few years after DH and I moved our 2 households together into 1 condo, whittling our possessions down to what will comfortably fit in 800 sq ft (1 adults, 1 cat). I consider ourselves to be fairly minimalist.

And yet, I still found about 15 more books to get rid of today, as well as a box of assorted dishes / knick knacks. I think my criteria for "should i keep it" is getting stricter and stricter.

HAHA!! Are you or DH "the cat"?  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 08, 2015, 04:39:24 PM
Now my count is two carloads of stuff, plus a bunch of old paint, all gone!!

House and garage are still cluttered.  It will be a lot better when all the plant starting supplies and baby outdoor plants are actually outside.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on May 08, 2015, 05:21:54 PM
I took 5 more things to the consignment shop, including a sundress that just felt too bare for my age; I had an $11. check waiting for me from a prior drop off.  Then took a large bag of books to the library to donate for their sale and another to Goodwill, mostly T shirts I simply don't need.  Do you do this-- save every old shirt to paint or garden?  Then I find I have more "work" clothes than other things, but I tend to wear the same 2 shirts to work outdoors.  So, gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Davin on May 08, 2015, 05:39:34 PM

...

I have a lot of cosmetics that I haven't used. Should I just throw them all out? Or donate? I don't know if anyone would really appreciate lotions and body washes, makeup, etc.

Maybe a battered women's shelter, or some group that serves the homeless. Also, my ex sold a surprising quantity of this kind of stuff at a yard sale one time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on May 08, 2015, 07:39:04 PM
I feel motivated to clean out tools today. I have two rollarounds and a bunch of other stuff - I want to pull a car out of the garage and empty both tool chests on the floor, then sort everything in a logical manner (and get rid of what I don't need).

Wish me luck. :P

Tools, the one thing I will never get rid of or pare down.

I bought a rollaround that was full of tools for super cheap, but I already had one full - I have some that should probably be thrown away, and many that need to be better organized as well.

Ah, I can understand that.  If I had a bunch of rusty Harbor Freight specials they would be gone. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on May 10, 2015, 06:56:06 AM
Why do I declutter?

So many reasons most of which have been addressed by other posters already.  The overwhelming umbrella reason is peace of mind.  I find clutter to be stressful.  I also find organised excess to be stressful.  So even when things are tidy I am overwhelmed by cleaning the excess, thinking about the excess, moving the excess to access things. 

I get peace of mind when a space is cleared and maintained that way.
I get peace of mind from no longer having unfinished and unstarted projects hanging over me
I get peace of mind when I can find what I need when I need it
I get peace of mind seeing clear surfaces

I see objects as carrying emotional baggage.  I have tended to hang onto things because that is easier and because it did not occur to me to consider keeping them or not.  Now, no longer owning a video player but having 15 videos on the shelf weighs me down.  It always did but I was not aware of it.  Now I want to clear my life of heavy stuff in all ways.

I am finding a delightful spaciousness within as the piles disappear and the car carts the excess away.  I am not complete with the turfing out yet but each sally into de-cluttering brings relief, such relief!

Since objects can weigh me down i want to only have that which lifts me up in my environment.   I am finding that this process is multilayered: after one go through of a room I feel complete and then months later realise I have shifted and am ready to let more go.  I yearn, really yearn, for the clarity and ease that is unfolding as each room is cleared.

I think another profound question is why do we so firmly hang onto things which no longer serve us?



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 10, 2015, 07:20:17 AM
Why?

When I have one sharpie I can always find my sharpie.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on May 10, 2015, 07:31:56 AM
I know the thread has taken a philosophical turn but I've got the why straight and am all up into the  execution now. Hope no one minds me talking logistics for a minute!

So after months of stalling, I finally went through my fabric and listed it on Craigslist.

I also listed some knitting gear, and one of my Facebook friends bought it for $50! Listed some other art supplies and a hair straightener I bought after I liked how a stylist did my hair, but then never took out of the box.

Guess I will just keep re-listing this stuff until either it sells, or it's time to move (will donate it then).

I think I also decided to sell my sewing machine and serger. I don't use them that much and I can always get new ones in the future if I want to. Or I can lend them to a friend until we get settled ...

Feels good to be clearing so much shit out! My shelves are looking so tidy -- I only have a couple bins of well-loved stuff left.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on May 10, 2015, 09:18:46 AM
I am having a rough time with this.  I did clear out my cupboard of expired food, threw some boxes away, and listed 4 things on Craigslist.  Going to keep trying.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 10, 2015, 01:44:08 PM
Nice work, Madge!

You as well, Zamboni! Sounds like progress is being made. What are you finding difficult?

I just got rid of a lot of papers that I wrote in college (!). They were printed copies with prof feedback. I can't believe I've carted them around with me. I know why I kept them: I have a terrible memory, so I know that I will never remember what I wrote/once knew if I no longer have copies. I'm okay with that. As I reread some of them, I realized that I've assimilated the most profound ideas into how I live my life/who I am. I don't need the source document anymore. And for all the other information that I'll forget, that is okay. All things pass. Perhaps I'll learn it again in the future. Perhaps I'll learn and forget something new entirely.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 10, 2015, 02:18:10 PM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 10, 2015, 02:22:12 PM
Just sold one of my bikes and a trailer for $260. That has been on my to do list for two years! I posted and sold the same day. Crazypants!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 10, 2015, 03:08:34 PM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?
Do you EVER go back and reread them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on May 10, 2015, 04:02:32 PM
Purged more from my closest. Making a journey towards a sort of capsule wardrobe / work uniform sort of thing. I've taken now about 80% of the stuff out of my previously very overfull closet. Still seems that there is a lot in there. I purchased a few items today (e.g. another pair of black pants, a white shirt, tan sweater) that go with the "uniform" plan (basic dress pants, white shirt, a sweater, cute shoes - with slight variation). I took about 4 large bags of clothing today, and a pair of dress boots. My nanny is the same size as me and she takes just about everything (and either uses it herself or gives it to others).

There are still a few items that I love - but don't really fit w/ the theme ( theme being basic preppy/business) - and they are still in my closet. I am making progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 10, 2015, 05:28:54 PM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?

Rip out the pages of things you are interested in keeping.  Throw away the rest.  Later, go through the pile of pages, and realize you don't need any of it :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nikki on May 10, 2015, 05:38:54 PM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?

You might be able to trick yourself into getting rid of them if you think they're going to a better after-your-home-life than the dump or recycling center. Do you know any teachers who could use them in class activities? I teach university and still have some activities that require magazines :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 11, 2015, 03:16:35 AM
15 more items purged over the weekend. I'm still on target to get rid of 2015 in 2015 though my pace is slowing.

This time it was the medicine cabinet. I don't generally throw away expired medicines, because we live in the country, and I take the view (don't listen to me, it's just what I do!) that having a medicine that is a bit out of date is better than not having quick access to it at all. But I was ruthless and got rid of any duplicates, so we only have one of each item now.

My house is continuing to feel lighter and brighter, enjoying this so much more than I thought I was going to when I started!

ETA: When I said medicines, I mean things like savlon which I would use to disinfect a surface skin wound. I likely wouldn't run out to buy it if we didn't have any, but I do think it's good practise to disinfect a scrape (we do lots of diy and gardening, these things aren't uncommon). I'm not talking about prescription medications, just general first aid items, which I don't believe 'go off'.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 11, 2015, 07:51:37 PM
I am having a rough time with this.  I did clear out my cupboard of expired food, threw some boxes away, and listed 4 things on Craigslist.  Going to keep trying.

That's great! Any progress is progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 11, 2015, 08:53:36 PM
My facebook feed today had two unconnected friends tagging me in posts about their KonMari clutter-busting. Like, back to back in my feed, TWO people saying: "Hey Erica, here's what I'm getting rid of! Thanks for the suggestion!"

So much awesome feeling. Keep going guys! You never know if your bravery to let go of YOUR stuff will be the pebble that ripples into change in someone else's pond!

I mean, this isn't just about decluttering - this is a shift in mindset to resist a mindless consumerist lifestyle, and it's spreading. This is kinda radical.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 12, 2015, 12:08:14 AM
Had my marginally successful yard sale on Sat.  Unfortunately it was cold and cloudy, and not that many people came by.  Oh well.
Disabled veterans scheduled to come for a pickup on Wed.  6 boxes, 5 pieces of furniture including a couch, end table, cabinet, and patio set, all going!  Some will be replaced, like in-laws are giving us their old couch, and the patio set is too old and rusty to feel safe with the little one these days.  Out new yard is so much smaller anyway, it wouldn't work.  I will get something smaller, but that I like better, and will enjoy for the long haul.  I can't complain though, it was free originally.  Anyone have issues with Step 1 of Your Money or Your Life and the part saying that if you give it away, you can't count it as part of you net worth, but if you still have it, you can?  This is problematic for me right now. 

But out it goes!  My living room is wonderful and restful now, without the extra couch.  It makes me want to keep getting rid of stuff. 

And also this amazing article I read about organized people.  It is changing my life!!!  I talk about this more in my journal...

here it is if anyone is interested in it...
http://www.bakadesuyo.com/2014/08/most-organized-people/ (http://www.bakadesuyo.com/2014/08/most-organized-people/)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 12, 2015, 12:41:57 AM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?

You might be able to trick yourself into getting rid of them if you think they're going to a better after-your-home-life than the dump or recycling center. Do you know any teachers who could use them in class activities? I teach university and still have some activities that require magazines :-)

I did some soul searching and felt the magazines were too pretty to be discarded. But I didn't want to hold on to them either. So I took pictures of the pages I liked seeing (those that gave me the thrills) and gave the magazines to a teacher friend of mine for her class. I'm pretty sure I won't ever look at those photos again but they are there..... if I need them. Thanks everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 12, 2015, 12:44:00 AM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?

You might be able to trick yourself into getting rid of them if you think they're going to a better after-your-home-life than the dump or recycling center. Do you know any teachers who could use them in class activities? I teach university and still have some activities that require magazines :-)

Way to go, letting them go!

I did some soul searching and felt the magazines were too pretty to be discarded. But I didn't want to hold on to them either. So I took pictures of the pages I liked seeing (those that gave me the thrills) and gave the magazines to a teacher friend of mine for her class. I'm pretty sure I won't ever look at those photos again but they are there..... if I need them. Thanks everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 12, 2015, 07:26:51 AM
Anyone have issues with Step 1 of Your Money or Your Life and the part saying that if you give it away, you can't count it as part of you net worth, but if you still have it, you can?  This is problematic for me right now. 
http://www.bakadesuyo.com/2014/08/most-organized-people/ (http://www.bakadesuyo.com/2014/08/most-organized-people/)

I don't remember that part well, but my take is only the current value of items can be included in net worth.  And current value means what you can get for them - not what you paid for them.  If you can't get anything for them (at say, a garage sale), then it's a fat zero for the net worth.  (That said, I don't like to calculate my net worth using my household goods or even cars.  I only consider investable assets and real estate.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 12, 2015, 07:55:33 AM
I have not posted on this thread before but I do want to say that you are all an inspiration to me.  I have been following this thread for a couple of months now and have made really good headway in dealing with my clutter and unneeded possessions.  Especially my clothes!  As a matter of fact, I have another large batch of clothing in the car going to a consignment store today.

I love reading your reports of decluttering but the discussions on the psychology of clutter and getting rid of things, dealing with your feelings towards your material possessions, etc. are really fascinating and helpful in recognizing and dealing with my own thoughts and feelings.

So keep it up and thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: katesilvergirl on May 12, 2015, 08:20:02 AM
After months of reading the Project 333 blog, Miss Minimalist, and other minimalism/capsule wardrobe blogs, I had whittled down my clothes to a manageable and enjoyable amount. My housemates (DH and two friends) started to get interested the more I talked about it and they kept seeing me drag bags of stuff through the house. So last week we held a house "wardrobe audit." I scheduled it formally and sent an email with a bunch of instructions for thinking about de-cluttering clothes (like "does this fit my lifestyle right now?"). I think that helps people take it seriously and there is some accountability when de-cluttering in a group.

Everyone brought their entire wardrobe into the living room/dining room and dumped it in a pile. Then we went through each category of clothes (pants, shorts, dress shirts, tops, winter coats), each person going through their own clothes. It was such a fun way to go through stuff! It is way easier to part with things when they are in a pile on your couch then stuffed in the back of a closet. It is also easier to part with things when you stack like things together and realize that you have 5 winter coats, and perhaps that is a bit much. It is also easier and more fun to do a big de-cluttering push together (dance music, cookies, etc.) and you can ask advice on things you are on the edge about. It took about 3 hours, but we ended up donating almost 100 items to Goodwill.

Even though I basically forced my house to participate in de-cluttering with me, they seemed to enjoy it. Afterwards one housemate said, "maybe we can do this again next month in the kitchen!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 12, 2015, 08:32:34 AM
I have not posted on this thread before but I do want to say that you are all an inspiration to me.  I have been following this thread for a couple of months now and have made really good headway in dealing with my clutter and unneeded possessions.  Especially my clothes!  As a matter of fact, I have another large batch of clothing in the car going to a consignment store today.

I love reading your reports of decluttering but the discussions on the psychology of clutter and getting rid of things, dealing with your feelings towards your material possessions, etc. are really fascinating and helpful in recognizing and dealing with my own thoughts and feelings.

So keep it up and thank you!


Excellent- I'm glad you've been getting ninto it. Its all very liberating :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 12, 2015, 10:54:55 AM
After months of reading the Project 333 blog, Miss Minimalist, and other minimalism/capsule wardrobe blogs, I had whittled down my clothes to a manageable and enjoyable amount. My housemates (DH and two friends) started to get interested the more I talked about it and they kept seeing me drag bags of stuff through the house. So last week we held a house "wardrobe audit." I scheduled it formally and sent an email with a bunch of instructions for thinking about de-cluttering clothes (like "does this fit my lifestyle right now?"). I think that helps people take it seriously and there is some accountability when de-cluttering in a group.

Everyone brought their entire wardrobe into the living room/dining room and dumped it in a pile. Then we went through each category of clothes (pants, shorts, dress shirts, tops, winter coats), each person going through their own clothes. It was such a fun way to go through stuff! It is way easier to part with things when they are in a pile on your couch then stuffed in the back of a closet. It is also easier to part with things when you stack like things together and realize that you have 5 winter coats, and perhaps that is a bit much. It is also easier and more fun to do a big de-cluttering push together (dance music, cookies, etc.) and you can ask advice on things you are on the edge about. It took about 3 hours, but we ended up donating almost 100 items to Goodwill.

Even though I basically forced my house to participate in de-cluttering with me, they seemed to enjoy it. Afterwards one housemate said, "maybe we can do this again next month in the kitchen!"
  sounds so fun!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 12, 2015, 11:56:41 AM
For Mother's Day my MIL sent me $25 to treat myself, which is awesome because I recently went down a pant size and needed new jeans.  So I went to Value Village, and I actually drove instead of biked so that I could take the pile of stuff in the garage that I'd set out to get rid of.  It feels so nice to have gotten rid of all of that!  And I got two pairs of jeans that make me feel super hot and a lovely green shirt (gives me lots of joy! wearing it today for the second time) for under $20.
Gave our box of unneeded kitchen items to a friend who is moving.  Didn't get any money for it like we'd hoped, but it's gone to a good home so that makes me happy.
My husband has finished school now (wheee!) so yesterday he began going through his stuff to figure out what to keep and what to get rid of.  I finally persuaded him that doing a little bit each day would suit him better than doing it all at once.  He'd get frustrated and tired doing it all in a day or two and cut corners, generally by erring on the side of caution and keeping things.  So he'll do a small amount most days over the next couple of weeks until we move.
Still more to get rid of, but it's amazing how SLOWLY we're filling up the trailer with stuff to move.  People keep asking how packing is going and seem shocked when I say that it's actually fine.  I feel like I need to justify our lack of stuff to them, it's crazy.  Well, only to older people who ask, like coworkers.  My friends are in the same place we are, with lots of crappy (free) furniture that they'll get rid of when they eventually move and happy about it.  A friend was just mentioning last night that her mother offered to buy her a new bedroom set for her birthday and she turned it down because she's planning to move in the next year and doesn't want to deal with the hassle.  "The furniture I have now was free, so I can just take it to the free section at the transfer station when I move."  Other friend, "Yeah, when I move [later this summer] I'm getting rid of my dresser that way.  Hopefully someone else will make use of it."
I finally got a (free!) copy of "The Life-Changing Magic..." and I'm loving it.  Will pass it along to one friend when I'm done and have recommended it to several others, including my dad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 12, 2015, 12:05:03 PM
SisterX - I totally hear you about the nice furniture thing.  Also now with a child, it is so nice to not care if they spill milk or pee on the couch.  My FIL, bless his heart, is making us night stands right now.  I am thankful for the gift, but it is a burden, to know I have to care for it and lug it around in our next 34 moves...(hopefully not that many, but who knows).  He already made us a bed, but they have been keeping it for the last 18 months, knowing we we moving close to them then.  It is so lovely, but heavy literally and figuratively!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 12, 2015, 01:31:15 PM
SisterX - I totally hear you about the nice furniture thing.  Also now with a child, it is so nice to not care if they spill milk or pee on the couch.  My FIL, bless his heart, is making us night stands right now.  I am thankful for the gift, but it is a burden, to know I have to care for it and lug it around in our next 34 moves...(hopefully not that many, but who knows).  He already made us a bed, but they have been keeping it for the last 18 months, knowing we we moving close to them then.  It is so lovely, but heavy literally and figuratively!

I don't mind moving a few nice things.  My in-laws have made some furniture for us, including a bedside table and BabyX's highchair.  But yeah, it is really nice to, for the most part, not care if our furniture gets damaged.
Also, the furniture they made is not particularly heavy, nor do they take up tons of space.  That helps.  I'll start collecting/creating more nice furniture in the future, but this is also the only big move we have planned.  I can definitely understand why you'd want to not have nice stuff if you're going to be moving around a lot.  If we were military?  Forget it, we'd have crappy free furniture until that was all done.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sarnia Saver on May 12, 2015, 01:41:45 PM
My wife and I were sat on the couch after kids in bed after a long day at the park on the hottest day so far this year.  We couldn't decide on anything to watch and I asked her if she wanted to pick out a movie, so she instantly went to Netflix to find something.  I asked her when the last time she looked in our DVD cabinet and she responded that she hadn't been in there for a year, I responded neither have I.  Since we are in the middle of a house purge we both realized that we should sell the contents of our DVD cabinet (saving some kids movies).  During the inspection and inventory of the DVDs/Blurays, we discovered more than a dozen cases had never been opened!!!  What a tragic waste of our stash.  Over a hundred DVDs, dozens of Blurays and a few old video games (which I no longer have the system for) have since been posted and several hundred dollars are now expected to be returned to our stash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on May 12, 2015, 03:16:35 PM
I was feeling very sad leaving a loved one at the airport and wandered into a bookstore once I'd passed through security. I have had "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" out of the library three times and haven't been able to read it due to life crises/busy-ness. I decided that if I saw it at the bookstore I would buy it -- yes, it was there and I read through a good chunk of it on the plane ride home.
That was 2 days ago.

Today, it arrived at the library for me AGAIN! grrr! Oh well, I still feel glad that I have the book to read and refer back to it. I'm hoping that I can get this accomplished and then pass the book on to someone else.

I have soooooo far to go in my decluttering process but feel encouraged by others who have done a gigantic purge. We have a large family and SO. MUCH. STUFF.

When you are a recovering spendthrift, I wonder if you tend to hold onto stuff now that you aren't planning to just buy, buy, buy all the time. I keep thinking, "Maybe I could use this in the future?" or "Maybe the next child down the line will wear this in a few years?"

Hmmmm.....

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 12, 2015, 03:53:05 PM
We finally sold our old home theater system. After two tries, I was planning to donate it later today if no one was interested. And bingo! Someone pinged they wanted it and half an hour later, it's gone leaving me with a ton of space and $50!! I also have someone coming to buy lamps today. All going soon!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 12, 2015, 03:56:04 PM
I also convinced my mom to take back clothes she bought for me. They were not my size but she said I can alter it and use it sometime. I told her she would fit better in them right now and gave them back to her. A first victory for me!!

Sadly I couldn't convince her to not gift my husband or baby anything. Sigh! I'm thinking to regift them if possible. We have way too much stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BZB on May 12, 2015, 07:30:33 PM
We are decluttering and packing for an upcoming move. This weekend we dropped off a car hatchback full of stuff to Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on May 12, 2015, 07:48:26 PM
I have been doing a closet purge for a while now - and tonight I got rid of a ton of hangers. I'd been putting them in the guest room and the rack was full, and I still had excess hangers in my bedroom. ZTonight I tossed them in a bag for Goodwill. I am determined that I won't be needing more hangers for myself - so off they go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cornelia on May 12, 2015, 07:55:31 PM
Finally finished the family's clothes today (a 'Life changing magic..' convert too!) and am on to books tomorrow. Clothes took so much time because I went through all the kiddos' 0-4 year stuff, and plan to sell what I can this weekend at a yard sale, and the rest is getting picked up by the Diabetes folks next week. A few vintage things will go on ebay too.

Looking forward to zipping through books as I only buy books if they 'spark joy' otherwise I heart my library. 

Now, if I could only get these pesky kijiji people to buy my chicken tractor and stop asking me if it'll fit in their minivan, or if I could deliver it a three hour drive from here...

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 12, 2015, 10:21:23 PM
Some big things gone - sold the cosleeper on craigslist and the swing to the consignment shop. $40 total. I listed a bunch of baby clothes on eBay...no bids yet and the auctions end tmrw, so I don't think they'll sell. To Goodwill, then! I also listed an insulated lunch bag, not thinking it would sell, but it's at $10.50 with 7 bids and 3 watchers, so who knows!

Cheers to everyone else decluttering! It's really motivating to read about everyone's progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 13, 2015, 09:42:39 AM
My closet is starting to look very spacious! 

I took another large batch of clothing to the consignment store yesterday and collected a check for $55 for some items that sold previously.  I was hanging on to skirts and dresses that have not fit me and have not been worn for 2-3 years now and I finally let go of them!  I also sold 5 bags through consignment and got over $250 for them.  I had such a hard time letting them go at the time but now I don't miss them at all and really enjoy using just one bag.  I still kept 3 or 4 others but I may sell them as well.  I really don't know why I ever thought I needed 10 different purses!!!

It is truly liberating to let go of all that stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 13, 2015, 10:52:33 AM
I don't know if this would help anyone else, but I went through all of my/our papers years ago and got them all into one accordion file by type.  One section holds the most important things: marriage and birth certificates, passports when not in use, that type of thing.  Another section for pet papers and info.  Another section for tax stuff.  Another section for rental leases/housing papers.  Another section for automotive stuff.  Last section for miscellany.  It's been super helpful to me over the years because everything I need is available at a glance and if I didn't make a section for it before, it's obviously not important enough to keep.  It's just one file folder so it doesn't take up a lot of space.  (All together it's about an inch and a half thick.)  I never have to think about, "Where's this?" when it comes to my papers, they're not cluttering up a drawer in my desk...it's bliss, to have well-filed papers.
Now if only I could keep the rest of my desk as tidy as I always keep that drawer!  Working toward that goal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 13, 2015, 10:21:23 PM
I had been waiting for the man to be out by the goodwill donation trucks so I could get a receipt  for my stuff. - rather than drop the things curbside ( as everyone does in our complex ) for anyone to pick through. Reason being I am self-employed and need all the write offs I can get . $700. These are  many items of low value that wouldn't possibly hav sold for muxh, if at all individually so well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 14, 2015, 02:21:13 AM
Even more stuff out!

I purged the bathroom cabinets (err, again). I concentrated on what I wanted to KEEP, and said, 'Whatever fits in this drawer is what I can have'. Previously it was in baskets and bins in a cupboard as well. That really focussed my mind on what I would use, versus what I was keeping 'just in case' and out of guilt for spending the money.

More space and a proper view of what I had made me realise 1) I needed more face cream and 2) i had all the ingredients and tools right there. Because it was no hassle and I didn't have to dig through cabinets to find the coconut oil right at the back, I just whipped up a batch straight away. I usually think of it as a 'Saturday' kind of project that takes up most of the day.

It was done and the jars neatly arranged in the drawer within an hour, including cooling time when I got lots of other things done. Less stuff is definitely equalling more time for me! (And I did get a kick out of finishing a bottle of sweet almond oil and putting it in the recycling! I had FOUR bottles because I kept thinking I didn't have any and buying more - because I couldn't see it in the crammed space. Oh the irony)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on May 14, 2015, 03:51:33 AM
I am enjoying reading all the stories on here.  Yesterday I got rid of two shirts, two dresses and a fancy skirt and reorganised my closet again. 

With the capsule wardrobe are there a winter and summer set of clothes or 33 pieces total?

SisterX, how did you get it down to one accordion file of paper?  Do you keep any bills, etc? 

MonkeyJenga, you are an inspiration. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 14, 2015, 05:06:02 AM
I also have one accordion type paper filing system. I don't get paper bills-they are all paperless and available on the internuts. I only keep passports/birth/wedding certificates and tax documents for the last seven years.  All else is scanned and saved to the cloud/hard drive or recycled.

Awesome job, advicist! Would love your face cream recipe. Sounds delicious!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 14, 2015, 05:46:37 AM

Awesome job, advicist! Would love your face cream recipe. Sounds delicious!

Sure, it's really easy. Excuse how I've mixed up weights and volumes, it's cobbled together from various recipes and I keep meaning to convert it by working out a volume for the beeswax.

Melt together in a double boiler:
10g beeswax
2 tablespoons each: Coconut oil, sweet almond oil
A few drops rose essential oil
2 Vit e capsules (squeeze the contents out, discard the outer)

(the EO and Vit e capsules are optional really. It was an investment buying these so I didn't use them until I was sure I was going to keep making my own, and everything turned out fine. I use Rose because I have dry skin, you could change for whatever suits yours).

Allow to cool. As soon as you start to see beeswax solidifying at the sides of the bowl start whisking (by hand). This is to evenly distribute the beeswax, otherwise it will form lumps.

When the mixture is fairly cool, but still a little warm to the touch, whisk in (in stages):
1/2 cup Aloe Vera Gel.

You do need the gel. It was easy to buy online and I've seen it at health food stores. Do not mix it in while the oil mixture is hot, or later on it will separate out. But if the oil mixture is totally cold the shock of the cold Aloe will make the beeswax solidify in clumps. You want the oil slightly warm, the aloe at room temperature.

Whisk together until cool. Doesn't take long. Makes two decent sized jars, probably 1 1/2 cups.

Hope you like it! It's quite rich, but not greasy. The aloe was the magic ingredient for me. Every other recipe I tried was so greasy I had to wash my hair after applying it! The aloe vera gel makes the greasiness evaporate away somehow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on May 14, 2015, 06:36:25 AM
I'm trying to let go of some old beauty magazines and am surprisingly having a hard time. They've gone back and forth from throwaway to consider pile. I'm not sure what is making me keep them.... definitely not joy, since once they are in consider pile, I put them out again. But when I see them in clutter pile, I pull them back. :( does anyone else have this issue with anything else? How did you tackle it?

Rip out the pages of things you are interested in keeping.  Throw away the rest.  Later, go through the pile of pages, and realize you don't need any of it :)

I used to do this, but managing binders of ripped out pages was a PITA. Now when there's something I want to refer back to in a magazine, I take a picture of it with my phone and upload it to Pinterest. Or I find the article on the magazine website and add THAT to my pinterest board.

I've also stopped subscribing to magazines...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Emilyngh on May 14, 2015, 06:51:14 AM
I am enjoying reading all the stories on here.  Yesterday I got rid of two shirts, two dresses and a fancy skirt and reorganised my closet again. 

With the capsule wardrobe are there a winter and summer set of clothes or 33 pieces total?


Up to 4 sets of 33 pieces (33 pieces that you can switch out every 3 months).   Most people probably repeat most items, so they don't have nearly that many, but one could.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 14, 2015, 07:21:38 AM

Awesome job, advicist! Would love your face cream recipe. Sounds delicious!

Hope you like it! It's quite rich, but not greasy. The aloe was the magic ingredient for me. Every other recipe I tried was so greasy I had to wash my hair after applying it! The aloe vera gel makes the greasiness evaporate away somehow.

Awesome! Thanks so much for sharing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on May 14, 2015, 07:27:27 AM
With the capsule wardrobe are there a winter and summer set of clothes or 33 pieces total?

For the capsule, it would probably depend on your weather and personal tolerance for washing.  AFAIK the original 33 pieces was from the 333 wardrobe - 33 pieces for 3 months.  Technically that would be 4 sets, but you're probably going to reuse some pieces in all your capsules.  If I was following this to the letter, I'd probably have two core capsule wardrobes with moderate overlap, and mix&match for the two transition seasons.

You'll also find when you dig into this that some people include shoes, others do not.  Some include workout gear, others not.  To a certain extent to me it's like the discussions here about whether or not you include your house in your net worth calculation. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 14, 2015, 07:36:28 AM
Got rid of my "fancy" dresses that I don't wear anymore:
- one I wore to my brother's wedding in 2006 and never again
- one I wore to my masters in bioethics graduation in 2007 and never again
- one I wore to my *cough, don't laugh* law school prom in 2007 and a wedding a few months later and...you guessed it, never again.  Tried this one on last night and it still fits, but it doesn't look as good on me now.  I also noticed it has a stain or yellowing mark on the front somehow that I doubt I'm going to be able get out at this point. 

All of these were hidden away in a giant zip up bag to keep away moths.  Out of sight, out of mind apparently.

Note to self: Don't buy formal gowns or at least only have one at a time.  My only consolation was the last two were fairly cheap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 14, 2015, 07:37:44 AM
For my papers, I have a file box with hanging folders. About once a year I go through and clean it out, but since even when it's "full" the box is only half full, I don't care that much.

I do need to go through clothes. I ran out of hangers after a shopping trip (Goodwill!), and while I need the stuff I bought, I don't need other things that I've had for years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 14, 2015, 07:38:33 AM
Thanks. This is a wonderful recipe. Does it turn out fluffy like whipped cream?  I just bought some new face cream to replace my old one and I tried something cheaper. I don't like  it as much. Your recipe sounds much nicer.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 14, 2015, 07:41:18 AM
So I picked two areas of my house to declutter last weekend. They were possibly the smallest areas I could have picked, but I got them done: the hallway closet and my makeup drawer.

Makeup drawer: I now own NO makeup. I did not have any makeup that I had purchased in the last year. I had some that was purchased in the mid 90s!!!!   It is all gone, and the things left in the drawer (nail polish, nail clippers, hair ties, combs) are all neatly organized.

Hall closet: We got rid of 5 old coats/jackets (well, they are in a Goodwill box, but we have enough storage space that we will hold onto that in a specific location until it is nearer to the season where Goodwill needs coats.).  We moved a few sentimental items to a different storage location that makes more sense.  I threw out an old vacuum that is broken. We broke down 12 cardboard boxes (mostly empty) and put them out for recycling.

Small progress, but I'm pleased.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 14, 2015, 08:12:56 AM
Got rid of my "fancy" dresses that I don't wear anymore:
- one I wore to my brother's wedding in 2006 and never again
- one I wore to my masters in bioethics graduation in 2007 and never again
- one I wore to my *cough, don't laugh* law school prom in 2007 and a wedding a few months later and...you guessed it, never again.  Tried this one on last night and it still fits, but it doesn't look as good on me now.  I also noticed it has a stain or yellowing mark on the front somehow that I doubt I'm going to be able get out at this point. 

All of these were hidden away in a giant zip up bag to keep away moths.  Out of sight, out of mind apparently.

Note to self: Don't buy formal gowns or at least only have one at a time.  My only consolation was the last two were fairly cheap.

Your post just gave me an idea... We get invited to a lot of charity dos that are black tie. I live in fear of needing a formal dress at short notice, and keep a few on hand, but as we often go with the same people, I try not to repeat too much. Well, reading what you read, I checked on ebay, and sure enough... I'm watching a couple of GORGEOUS dresses I might be able to pick up for 99p plus postage! I will get one to have 'on hand' and watch for more. I'm never paying full price again! I don't know why I didn't think of this, I've been buying all handbags, shoes, boots, and work suits from ebay for ages. Thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 14, 2015, 08:19:12 AM
Thanks. This is a wonderful recipe. Does it turn out fluffy like whipped cream?  I just bought some new face cream to replace my old one and I tried something cheaper. I don't like  it as much. Your recipe sounds much nicer.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Whipped cream is an excellent description of the consistency. I like my cream fairly thick as I have dry skin. I think it's one of those things where you have to try it, and then adjust to your liking. So more beeswax = more balm like. More oil = greasier (or slippier, depending on how you look at it!). More aloe = more soothing and evaporates more quickly.

Try half the recipe first and go from there. I had a lot of trial and error at the beginning. I had one big batch that separated, so after a few days water started pooling on top of the oils. Gross. That's why I avoid any recipe with water.

Also, this is very important - write down (or make a computer document) what you use and what you do. Especially if you are substituting things, or altering quantities. I then go back and add my thoughts on how well it turned out. I have a document that says things like:

November 2014 - lists full recipe - too greasy.
February 2015 - full recipe - amazing! Love it! But up next time EO as smell is faint.

When the next time comes I copy and paste the recipe but up the EO amount, as I know I'll forget whether I did it and by how much. This is the only way I made improvements, before each batch was different than the last but unrepeatable, whether it turned out good or bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 14, 2015, 08:30:36 AM
Thanks. This is a wonderful recipe. Does it turn out fluffy like whipped cream?  I just bought some new face cream to replace my old one and I tried something cheaper. I don't like  it as much. Your recipe sounds much nicer.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Whipped cream is an excellent description of the consistency. I like my cream fairly thick as I have dry skin. I think it's one of those things where you have to try it, and then adjust to your liking. So more beeswax = more balm like. More oil = greasier (or slippier, depending on how you look at it!). More aloe = more soothing and evaporates more quickly.

Try half the recipe first and go from there. I had a lot of trial and error at the beginning. I had one big batch that separated, so after a few days water started pooling on top of the oils. Gross. That's why I avoid any recipe with water.

Also, this is very important - write down (or make a computer document) what you use and what you do. Especially if you are substituting things, or altering quantities. I then go back and add my thoughts on how well it turned out. I have a document that says things like:

November 2014 - lists full recipe - too greasy.
February 2015 - full recipe - amazing! Love it! But up next time EO as smell is faint.

When the next time comes I copy and paste the recipe but up the EO amount, as I know I'll forget whether I did it and by how much. This is the only way I made improvements, before each batch was different than the last but unrepeatable, whether it turned out good or bad.

Yes, this is good advice (from the advicist:)  I always ( or most always) track what I'm doing with stuff like this.  I even did it when I was making yogurt. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 14, 2015, 08:53:46 AM
handsnhearts I've learnt to start doing it with recipes too! Sometimes something that seems so obvious at the time (of course I'll halve the salt!) isn't obvious when you try to recreate something. I have a batch of lipbalms I made from one internet recipe or another, assuming I'd be able to find it in my bookmarks. I have no idea which one it is... and now, without a lot of trial and error, I won't be able to make it again :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 3Mer on May 14, 2015, 11:14:17 AM
After a little bit of a stall out in Feb and Apr (no items recorded on my purge log), I am back in the game.  I am a little more than 1/3 way there to get to 365.  Though I neglected to record some incoming items. 

I'm trying to look at this as being a slow and steady initiative versus doing it all at once.  Slowly but surely, I am getting rid of some unneeded stuff (mostly clothes - it is amazing how much one can accumulate through the years. I'm going to blame my job)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 14, 2015, 11:31:03 AM
SisterX, how did you get it down to one accordion file of paper?  Do you keep any bills, etc? 

No, I don't keep any bills.  All of those are online only.  I have all my bills set to auto-pay, with the statements coming to my email so I see how much it is, then double-check the amount paid with my credit card statement, also online.  It takes far less time to do that than it did to deal with paper bills, and now I don't have all that paper cluttering up my house, nor do I have to take it to work to shred so it saves me even more time/effort.
I don't keep any receipts, either, because I check it all online.  My parents asked me a while ago how I can possibly keep track of all my spending that way and my first thought was to ask, how much do you think we spend?  Beyond bills and groceries, we don't spend much, so it's easy to remember what we spent and where.  When you only go out to eat once every couple of months, it sticks in your mind.  When you only go shopping when enough of your clothes are falling apart to make (thrift) shopping worthwhile, it sticks in your mind.  Receipts are unnecessary.


On Marie Kondo's advice I went through my second folder, the one full of manuals, and got rid of almost all of them.  I kept just a few which I thought might come in handy at some point, but I could probably get rid of those, as well, and be just fine.  I'm ok with keeping 3 manuals around, though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 3Mer on May 14, 2015, 05:32:29 PM
Every spring and fall, my city has a "clean-up" week.  Residents can bring all kinds of stuff to dump for free. They even unload for you.  Got rid of a few more bulky items today.  This really is a nice benefit.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 15, 2015, 04:49:22 AM
Any quilters/crafters have tips for decluttering patterns, unfinished projects, and fabric/materials? Sorry if this has already been covered. My issue is a quilt I started for a nephew, who is now nearing 2 years old. I keep saying I'm going to get to it, but I haven't sewn in about two years (other than patching). I just don't want to do it, and I'm not sure if I'm even able to do it, but I feel bad not making him a quilt. Also, I'm hesitant to give away all my other supplies because I have a cyclical pattern with hobbies where I'll do something for years then take a few years off then do it again for years. Anyone else in this boat?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on May 15, 2015, 05:02:17 AM
sooo...a MAJOR stumbling block to my cleaning up and getting rid of crap plan was that we had to consolidate two offices and a hobby room when we moved. So I have been stumbling over boxes and random electronic hobby parts, butchered computers, spare parts and having no idea how to organize them or what is important.

Mr. Swick came into the office last night and said" I want to get this space cleaned up so we can use it!" This is not like him, he is more comfortable in clutter the I am. I JUMPED on the chance and we have at least three boxes of e-waste that we can dispose of! Once I find a place that takes it that is. Soo happy! It's a GOOD day!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 15, 2015, 08:46:28 AM
Any quilters/crafters have tips for decluttering patterns, unfinished projects, and fabric/materials? Sorry if this has already been covered. My issue is a quilt I started for a nephew, who is now nearing 2 years old. I keep saying I'm going to get to it, but I haven't sewn in about two years (other than patching). I just don't want to do it, and I'm not sure if I'm even able to do it, but I feel bad not making him a quilt. Also, I'm hesitant to give away all my other supplies because I have a cyclical pattern with hobbies where I'll do something for years then take a few years off then do it again for years. Anyone else in this boat?

I do needlepoint, as does my mom. I specifically plan projects to use materials I (or my mom) already have. This is mostly yarn. I also don't buy canvases in advance. My mom is the only one who would buy me a canvas, which helps. Mom has also been trying to use up some of her yarn supply. Between the two of us, we've reduced it by about a third in the past several years (we still have 2 garbage bag-sized cloth bags full of yarn). This is a work in progress clearly.

The next step we need to take is to weed out the yarn that has degraded and isn't usable. Mom is not going to go for this, so I'm just leaving it. It's in her house. I have a huge bag of odds and ends at my house that I'm using for a project, so will get rid of the really small/bad stuff before I give the rest back.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 15, 2015, 09:10:41 AM
Any quilters/crafters have tips for decluttering patterns, unfinished projects, and fabric/materials? Sorry if this has already been covered. My issue is a quilt I started for a nephew, who is now nearing 2 years old. I keep saying I'm going to get to it, but I haven't sewn in about two years (other than patching). I just don't want to do it, and I'm not sure if I'm even able to do it, but I feel bad not making him a quilt. Also, I'm hesitant to give away all my other supplies because I have a cyclical pattern with hobbies where I'll do something for years then take a few years off then do it again for years. Anyone else in this boat?

1) Recognize what you won't complete for whatever reason.  Sometimes I start a project I think will be interesting, but isn't and I lose interest and it's hard to finish.  If you almost done you can soldier on, but if you're not, consider confessing to  your sister or brother and offering it to them if they want to finish it.  Otherwise, you can give away to a quilting group that donates quilts.  e.g. my mom makes quilts for her church that they give away to those in need of comfort (just had major surgery, etc.) or in need (they donate to Lutheran World Relief).

2) Cull out scraps not really good for anything (too small or unsuitable).  Cull out fabric you no longer like.  Give away on craigslist or to a friend.

3) Set a project for what's left and slowly work through it.  It should be more enjoyable because it's material and projects you're more interested in and enthused about.

4) Impose a moratorium on new materials coming in until you've worked down what's left.

I find I go in cycles of working on projects.  So I'm ok taking a lengthy break (it's been a few years since I've done cross-stitch, but I've made 3 quilts during that time), but I don't allow myself to buy anything new in the meantime then until I've finished the old projects.  This helps cut down on the stockpiles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 15, 2015, 05:54:30 PM
Thank you! This is exactly what I needed. I didn't know people would finish partially completed quilts. I feel better knowing the beautiful fabric will get used up and will potentially go to someone in need. Also, it's liberating to think about allowing myself to give up on the quilt, to say that I don't always have to be a super duper producer if it doesn't match what I want to be doing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on May 17, 2015, 04:53:34 AM
I read the Kondo book too. :) I followed a lot of her ideas and my house is far less cluttered. I am thinking about moving house so we have packed some stuff into boxes ready to move and everything feels a lot more organised. I love her samosa carrier bag idea!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 17, 2015, 05:14:51 AM
New to the thread.

We've got an international move coming up in less than 4 months, and another one 8 months later, and I'm trying to really organize and purge. 

Every week day, I do at least one area--costume jewelry or one shelf in the linen closet or my warm weather sweaters.  Sometimes I'll end up doing 2 or 3, but committing to one area keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. 

The pile of "donate" is growing faster than I can haul it out.  Still tons of progress needed, but this feels a little different than past efforts where I end up getting rid of a few sweaters with holes and a kitchen gadget I've never used. It's less of a struggle for some reason, and I don't feel like I'm sacrificing or forcing myself to get rid of stuff.  I look at a thing and feel nothing as a toss it. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 17, 2015, 08:32:32 AM
Sold a wireless keyboard today and listed a bunch of other stuff to sell and donate. I didn't realize how many individual items we had until I started listing stuff for sale and on freecycle. I also noticed that a lot of the posts on Freecycle are offers as opposed to wants, and I'm not getting as many responses as I used to for excellent items. Perchance a sea change in consumption habits? One can hope.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on May 17, 2015, 10:26:27 AM
I did a bit more purging yesterday.  We just got home from two weeks in Peru, and like the previous poster living in the Philippines said, seeing people who have little to nothing really makes you realize your excess.  For some reason I had a box of 5-year old Lowe's receipts and the random keys that came with our house and don't fit any locks. Getting rid of more clothes and shoes, magazines, and a small hydration backpack that I used once when training for a long-distance race.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on May 17, 2015, 10:52:59 AM
I have been enjoying the "life changing art" but there is still stuff that doesn't spark joy that we need to keep - and there is stuff that does that really, I don't need and would probably spark joy for someone else too. I have been using that plus the 80/20 rule as my litmus and it seems to be working really good so far.

Ina  nutshell, we use 20% of our things about 80% of the time. It might not be a perfect 80/20 split, but that isn't really the point. The more I look at using things, the more true I find this, from spices and kitchen utensils, to board games and books. The flip side of this is about 80% of what we own does not spark joy or is not being used.  I have found that using both concepts cuts down on the grey areas and makes purging easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 17, 2015, 11:38:40 AM
I froze an inch of water in the bottom of a cottage cheese container.  I sewed up a useless decorative linen "dishtowel" my mom got for me, just made it into a pouch.  I placed the disk of ice inside, smacked it a few times with my kitchen hammer then made myself an iced coffee with my cold brewed coffee and some homemade rum vanilla.  My foodie brother tells me that my ice smashing bag is called a "Lewis bag".  I'm pleased to use what I had on hand and not buy and store and move and throw out another item.  I don't use much ice, but I do love iced coffee.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 17, 2015, 07:51:48 PM
out:

lipstick (yuck)
jewelry cleaner (I used it once, 10 years ago)
eye make up remover (i'll use coconut oil)
throat spray (expired)
emptied and tossed another spool of thread.

Cleaned out the car, loaded it for goodwill. Bags and cooler ready for greocery run. Prepped for trash day.

shew.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on May 17, 2015, 09:47:09 PM
Another big load of stuff to the thrift store + another giant trash bag finished the garage cleanup. The garage is our dumping ground, but also one of the biggest workhorse rooms in the house for garden and productive home storage. So when it becomes a complete disaster, there is this knock-on effect. All the unsold crap from the garage sale plus even more purged items have been sitting there for 2 weeks. After a good afternoon of cleaning and tidying, our garage is now, like, a place I'd hang out and spend time. Is that weird?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 18, 2015, 05:28:53 AM
Any quilters/crafters have tips for decluttering patterns, unfinished projects, and fabric/materials? Sorry if this has already been covered. My issue is a quilt I started for a nephew, who is now nearing 2 years old. I keep saying I'm going to get to it, but I haven't sewn in about two years (other than patching). I just don't want to do it, and I'm not sure if I'm even able to do it, but I feel bad not making him a quilt. Also, I'm hesitant to give away all my other supplies because I have a cyclical pattern with hobbies where I'll do something for years then take a few years off then do it again for years. Anyone else in this boat?

Yep. I have an elaborate embroidery I started when a niece was born... she turns 4 soon. I don't know WHY I don't like it and want to give it to her, I just don't. It's really almost finished, but I just cannot bring myself to finish it off and send it. Maybe I'm worried she won't appreciate it? That would be a ridiculous reason. And even more ridiculous to throw it in the bin because it might not be appreciated - it definitely won't get that at the dump.

Anyway, the point is it makes me feel bad - to look at it, to think of finishing it and giving it to her. So I am going to get rid of it. Thank you for making me think about it.

As for my craft stash, I am getting much better at only buying stuff I *love*. I don't buy stuff because it's cheap, or useful, or whatever. But I have given myself permission to buy ANY fabric I absolutely love. And that has (strangely) made me buy much much less. Because I know if I can buy anything I want, I don't need to get this 'just in case'. I can wait, and as soon as I see something I absolutely adore (rarer than I thought), I get it.

I've been concentrating on using up the fabric stash. For me, that meant pulling out fabric, a pattern, and cutting it out NOW. I don't have to sew it up now, but having it all cut out (and in my new 'work in progress drawer') feels so good. It also means when I want to sew I can get straight to it (I generally dislike cutting out).

I've also been through the stash and sold (on ebay) anything that 1) I bought when I was new to this and didn't understand what I liked / what was good fabric 2) anything I bought online which wasn't what I thought. I recovered about half the cost, and a lot of peace of mind, it was definitely worth it. Good luck taming the craft monster!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tmac on May 18, 2015, 07:10:49 AM
I witnessed a clutter trainwreck this weekend that I thought I'd share. Maybe it'll be inspiring to someone.

My mother's friend, an artist, is moving -- downsizing from a fairly large townhouse into a small apartment.  So far, so good.

The sale of the townhouse closed on Saturday morning. She needed to be out by the following Friday, which I thought was pretty generous of the new owner. I went over that morning to pick up a drafting table she was giving away. We'd been looking for one for my daughter. All good.

I walked into the seemingly empty house, and turned the corner to see that the floor of her art studio was still covered with stuff -- frames, paint, finished canvases, easels, etc. No place to walk. And the three large closets were full to the ceiling.

Her husband is 90 years old and not able to help, and I couldn't bear to leave my mom and her friend there to deal with it alone, so I stayed. Six hours later, we'd cleared the closets and a 10 x 5 foot space on the floor. I had a load in my car for the Goodwill. My mom's car was full of art supplies.

At 5pm, the new owner called and says she's changed her mind. She needs to be out by the very next day. Much stress. It'll never happen.

As we left, my mom offered to take her painting bag to her house, so she could still paint while getting her own studio set up. The woman turned to me and said, "This'll be great! As long as I have that bag, I'm all set! That's all I need!"

I just slowly turned around and looked at the rest of the stuff in the room. My mom laughed and said, "Oh, you're going to regret saying that! Now she's going to make you get rid of everything else!"

I'd already pushed her enough and the clock was ticking, so I didn't, but it was ridiculous. She could be doing just fine with just that bag and a much smaller stash of supplies. Instead, she has this hugely stressful situation. She was going to have to rent a truck, kill herself to get it loaded and unloaded, then pay for a storage unit because the new place is too small for all of it.

I told my mom later that she is on notice. When she and my dad are ready to downsize, she better have decluttered first. I'll even help. But there's no excuse for this kind of silliness.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 18, 2015, 08:56:04 AM
Someone's brain waves hit me yesterday! Out of the blue, I sat down and went through my file box. Shredded about 3 inches of paper, threw out another 3 inches.

Then I finally got around to swapping winter for summer clothes (been meaning to do this for several weeks). While I was at it, started setting aside everything that I haven't worn, and knew I wouldn't wear for whatever reason. 3 bags of stuff ready to go to Goodwill, just gotta get them into the car and drop them off.

Hopefully this will continue - spending Memorial Day weekend at my parent's house. My sister will be there too, which is excellent because we're planning on going through the attic and helping to declutter. I'm sure there will be a ton of stuff that will not be eligible to go, but even a car load will help.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 18, 2015, 09:14:25 AM
Small steps...  I went through my underwear and culled out the uncomfortable (but free) Victoria's Secret items that are too small.  (Why they can't have consistent sizing, I do not know.)  Also culled old items.  Went through my socks and removed a few pairs that were getting threadbare or had holes.  Started going through our closet, and put away tools that were still lingering up there from a project.  Convinced DH to get rid of flip flops given at a wedding.  A very nice idea, but somehow the sizing got terribly off between what the guests told the bride and what we received.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 18, 2015, 10:01:23 AM
Worked on the basement today.  I tossed a bunch of old gift bags.  I reuse them, but living away from family, I mail all our presents.  So I've been hauling this bags around for 3 countries and 5 years.  Out!  A few other odds and ends either tossed or added to Mt. Donate, which is quickly becoming quite the landmark in our basement. 

Maybe it's counter-intuitive (or even counter-mustachian), but I find that if I remind myself, "you can always buy another one", it makes it much easier.  If I need a wall clock to replace the one I donated today, and which I've had since college and haven't used in 2 years and probably cost $9.99 at target, I can buy one.  *When I actually need and will use it.*  And that frees me from the "but what if I need it someday?  I'll have wasted $9.99" mentality that causes me to hold on to stuff. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on May 18, 2015, 09:43:47 PM
I read the Life Changing Magic of Tidying up book and went to work on my own closet since that is where she says to start. Clothes seem like the least of my problems so it was really easy to sack up and donate about 2/3 of my wardrobe this morning. I did keep most of the shoes. Now I just have to get what is left here completely put away . . .

Hooray I also sold 3 old bikes!  One is already boomer-ranging back (made a separate thread about that), but it felt good to unload them.

Books are next on the chopping block.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 19, 2015, 03:57:24 AM
Worked on the basement today.  I tossed a bunch of old gift bags.  I reuse them, but living away from family, I mail all our presents.  So I've been hauling this bags around for 3 countries and 5 years.  Out!  A few other odds and ends either tossed or added to Mt. Donate, which is quickly becoming quite the landmark in our basement. 

Maybe it's counter-intuitive (or even counter-mustachian), but I find that if I remind myself, "you can always buy another one", it makes it much easier. If I need a wall clock to replace the one I donated today, and which I've had since college and haven't used in 2 years and probably cost $9.99 at target, I can buy one.  *When I actually need and will use it.*  And that frees me from the "but what if I need it someday?  I'll have wasted $9.99" mentality that causes me to hold on to stuff.

I think it's very mustacian! Wasn't it MMM who said, "Let Craigslist store it", or some version of that?

If you keep stuff in your house 'in case' you are paying in mortgage / maintenance / opportunity cost for the space that is holding the stuff. Less stuff = smaller housing costs = mustacian. And since we mustacians only buy used anyway, the cost to rebuy would likely be small (and therefore smaller than the cost of having unused assets sitting around).

All that to say, I find that very liberating too. I also read on a great blog (A Slob Comes Clean), that if you wouldn't know you had one, or where to look for it, get rid, since you'd only buy one when you needed it anyway. A tip from there that has REALLY helped me is, when you want to give something a home, don't ask, "Where should I keep this", but ask "Where would I look for this if I needed it".

I don't know why this was such a breakthrough for me, but I always know where I would LOOK for something, but I struggled over where to put things. No more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 19, 2015, 07:48:21 AM
I reads slob comes clean too!  Good stuff, but I'm finding this thread and KonMari more useful right now. But I like Noni's perspective on things.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 19, 2015, 08:40:39 AM
Thanks, advicist! I feel the same way about my unfinished projects as you! Feels good not to be the only one. I love your stash busting ideas: cutting out and reserving is an excellent idea, since it's also my least favorite part. Thanks for turning me on to A Slob Comes Clean. She's funny!

I've been trying to give away fabric for free, but no one will take it (is everyone decluttering?). I didn't list out specifics, just big bag of fabric, which probably isn't helping. I'm going to try and sell it on ebay since it's nice stuff.

I sold a backpacking backpack that I had for nearly a decade and used once. Feels so good to be rid of it. It's too large, and if I ever do become a camper/vagabonder, I'd want a smaller pack. Goodbye aspirational self!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 19, 2015, 09:01:42 AM
Glad you liked A Slob Comes Clean nancy. I was put off at first by the terrible (sorry, Dana) web design, but in the end read it start to finish because we have the same brain! I seriously get so excited when she posts! Nearly as excited as when new MMMnew posts come out.

And thanks for the kind words, I love all the back and forth on this thread, it's helping me so much.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 19, 2015, 10:14:52 AM
Today's progress is barely noticeable, but every little bit counts.  I have 2 cases (like a tackle box) of old makeup.  Nothing wrong with it.  Colors I ended up not liking, products I didn't care for, etc. I threw out probably 80% of it. 


Less than 4 months until the move, and there's lots to be done, but I love that every day I know I am closer--either a little or a bit more--to being where I want to be. 

I continue to struggle with small appliances.  Currently, we live in Germany so we bought (used) 220v appliances for the stuff we use regularly (microwave, fans, crock pot, water kettle).  All our 110v stuff is in a pile in the basement.  It will go into storage (government paid) while we are in the States for 8 months, and once we get to Japan, it will get used.  But for now, I have all these appliances.  In this case, I don't think it makes sense to sell and re-buy, but it is a damn lot of stuff to store.  Similarly, we have all the 110v extension cords, adaptors, power strips, etc.  Just sitting in a pile, taking up space.  It would be silly to purge them, as they have a concrete use in a set amount of time, but it's a pain to work around them.

In about 3.5 months, I can start selling the 220v stuff.  I'm willing to take a hit on price if I can find someone willing to take all or most of it, rather than having to deal with a couple dozen $10 sales, people flaking, etc.  I'll give away stuff like the lightbulbs (new and used), but some of the rest of it has a decent amount of value. 

And I'm off to check out A Slob Comes Clean!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on May 19, 2015, 12:02:25 PM
We got a reminder phone call today that TOMORROW the truck is coming to pick up our clothing, bedding, toys, books, dvds, small appliances and small electronics for the thrift store. Such a good kick in the pants to get me going on decluttering! I have each of the kids in their bedrooms with a garbage bag and will do mine after my morning cup of tea.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 20, 2015, 10:44:11 AM
Decluttering has crawled to a stop due to work and other commitments. But I'm trying to throw away one thing a day. With that strategy, I've cleared up our magazine rack completely. 20 items thrown that would be cluttering my home otherwise.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 22, 2015, 02:51:32 AM
Got rid of two eyeliners. I was still using them, but they are the pencil kind and when sharpened the wood was leaving splinters. Not a good idea near eyes, I didn't think! Will not replace them for the time being - I have another one which I will use up.

Finished making a dress for a wedding this weekend, I'm quite pleased with it. I'm mostly pleased that it means I can move onto other projects - I've got three dresses finished except for hemming but I didn't have room to do it before this one was finished. Love getting stuff out of the sewing drawer and into the wardrobe.

I've been doing the 'hang the hangers back to front' thing and realised I had a lot of stuff I wasn't wearing, so out it has gone to make room!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on May 22, 2015, 04:00:42 AM
Got rid of two eyeliners. I was still using them, but they are the pencil kind and when sharpened the wood was leaving splinters. Not a good idea near eyes, I didn't think! Will not replace them for the time being - I have another one which I will use up.



I have exactly the same problem with mine, it's really annoying. Terrible design!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on May 22, 2015, 09:04:48 AM
I have four days off, so I'm laying out a couple challenges for myself:

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 23, 2015, 08:13:27 AM
I picked a smaller movable box for filing papers that we have to keep, and am scanning&shredding paper as I move each folder across. Great way to keep track of where I'm up to, and the smaller box should mean we don't have the option of overfilling it too much! I love my doxie scanner and giant shredder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 23, 2015, 08:33:33 PM
This weekend I'm attacking my T-shirt collection. I have two big boxes of t-shirts, mostly ones I used to wear and ones I've gotten free at work events and meetups. 80% of them should be discards with almost all the remaining ones can be used inside home or for puttering around. But the boxes intimidate me and I'm determined to conquer them this weekend. Wish me luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on May 23, 2015, 11:54:55 PM
Holy crap, we're moving in the next week.
I took one rather large load of give-away items to Value Village a couple of weeks ago, but of course we've got more.  Some items will go to the homeless shelter.
Have discovered that our blankets are, apparently, breeding in the closets.  It's the only explanation for why we have so frickin' many.  Packed up a bunch, am already regretting one that got packed (it was found under some other items, completely forgotten about for how many years now?) and considering opening that tote to pull it back out and add to the donate pile.  It's a nice down blanket, I'm sure someone at the homeless shelter would love it. 
Will be giving away our electric blanket to a friend, since we won't need that in the place we're moving to. 
Went through the bathroom and got rid of a whole bunch of shit, did the same in our fridge.  I found condiments that had expired in 2009!!!  Realized that they were left here by an old roommate and we just never bothered to clean them out.  *Facepalm*
Have also gone through magazines, pulled out the two recipes I still thought looked good and added them to my own recipe book.  Dumped the magazines.
Still need to go through my music, but that shouldn't take too long, since I'm going to be keeping pretty much all of it.  :)
Can't wait to start taking furniture to the transfer station.  There's actually a "free" section, so almost all of what we have will be unloaded there.  People will pick through it and whatever's not taken will eventually go to the dump.

I feel truly awful about the amount of garbage we've been creating lately.  Usually we only have to take the garbage out once every 2 weeks or so, lately it's been more like 1 1/2-2 bags per week.  And that's with us donating/freecycling as much as possible!  Blech.  Even more incentive not to be this stupidly wasteful in the future, although I'm realizing that a lot of the stuff we're getting rid of were gifts from people.  Cute set of cards from a friend which I liked, but never remembered to use.  Things like that.  Or, they were things we bought for a single use but had to buy in a large pack because there was no other option.  It's irritating.  Glad I'm moving to a place with more choices, actually, so that I can get single use items in single use quantities.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 24, 2015, 11:35:09 AM
Nice work SisterX! I'm reading an academic book on food waste that gets into the  infrastructure of proivision, specifically this issue where consumers aren't able to choose quantities, so a lot of  food gets wasted or is perceived to have spoiled before it can get used.  I think it translates to other shopping areas (giant packs of monochrome socks come to mind).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 24, 2015, 02:01:02 PM
My mother, who lives several states away, is spending the next couple months working at a summer camp 40 minutes from me.  In order to help her pack lighter I told her I would supply her with toiletries. I've been an experiencing a glut of toiletries.  I cant seem to use them up as fast as I am gifted them. I don't want to throw them away, they are nice and organic and lovely... but  I'm bored and ridiculously excited to give what I've been using to Mom  and start into something new that's been sitting in my cupboard, gathering dust and taking up space!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on May 24, 2015, 02:36:36 PM
I am reading the Konmari book right now.  She says that de-cluttering all at once means taking about 6 months which sounds reasonable to me.  I go in and out of feeling overwhelmed by stuff and right now I feel overwhelmed.  It is not so much the stuff but the doing things to the stuff that enervates me. It is the scanning, repairing, sewing… I think I am going to reduce the fabric extensively and be ruthless with the paper and perhaps toss a bunch of unrepaired stuff (lamps, tables, etc.)  The wear and tear on my wellbeing is getting too much.  And face it, once that stuff is repaired where is it supposed to go?  Into my almost cleared out house?  I don't think so!

Watch this space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on May 25, 2015, 10:53:42 AM
My efforts last night to declutter were a failure. Round 2 might be harder than I expected, or maybe I just wasn't in a decluttering headspace. I found 3 baby blankets I made about 15 years ago for future babies. Never had kids, and I don't need more blankets, but they are nice and unused and hard to just donate randomly. My brothers are likely done having children. I could wait for some friends to have kids and give to them, but that might be awhile. Or I could just suck it up and donate them, along with half a dozen other small blankets I have taking up space in the closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 25, 2015, 01:52:46 PM
Depending on the fiber, could you donate them to a maternity hospital? Or children's hospital?  Some do take blankets to send home with the baby/small child.

My efforts last night to declutter were a failure. Round 2 might be harder than I expected, or maybe I just wasn't in a decluttering headspace. I found 3 baby blankets I made about 15 years ago for future babies. Never had kids, and I don't need more blankets, but they are nice and unused and hard to just donate randomly. My brothers are likely done having children. I could wait for some friends to have kids and give to them, but that might be awhile. Or I could just suck it up and donate them, along with half a dozen other small blankets I have taking up space in the closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 25, 2015, 01:58:21 PM
I had to put some knitting away a while ago because the pattern had disappeared.  I found it last night while I was decluttering an area.  Not only is the area decluttered, but I can get this project restarted.  And my past self was nice to my present self, I could see exactly where I had stopped (marked on the pattern) so I can start without any difficulties.  Win.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on May 25, 2015, 02:48:43 PM
wintersun, I hear ya! The way I see it: if I did without the unrepaired item for a dog's age, then I don't need it. It's lived its life with me. Now it can move on or be recycled into something else by someone else. Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 25, 2015, 04:35:15 PM
Visited my parents over the weekend. My sister and I dragged mom upstairs into the attic. The goal was to clean it out some.

We know what's in the attic! We know what mom won't get rid of. We also know what either my sister or I actually want.

There's various (large) items that could go away immediately, except for the fact that they're just too big for us to get them out of the house. This is annoying, but at least we know they can just go. Two large metal kitchen cabinets, 2 full size metal filing cabinets, a formal sideboard from the dining room, 2 houses (and 25 years) ago, two miscellaneous chairs.

Then there's all the stuff that mom won't get rid of. 3 sets of good dishes, at least 2 sets of crystal. Various items of furniture that have been in the attic for 20 years, some of which have been ruined by it. 15ish boxes of books that should be cut down to at most 5. A very heavy box of old dress-up clothes and halloween costumes. A large box of puzzles that no one is going to do again.

Tossed out some ancient window screens that we doubt even went to that house, and some other random crap that was in the attic.

On the bright side, we did go through a ton of old papers. They still had tax returns going back to the 1970s! In the end there was a box of paper to be shredded (literally, a box of paper), plus a bunch that was just tossed. All in all, about 300 pounds of paper cleaned out. I somehow avoided papercuts too.

Basically, my sister and I had a chance to evaluate the future pain of clearing out the house, and to rough out a plan for our parent's future care. Now to continue laying the groundwork so we're ready when the SHTF. And it will - dad is early stages of dementia, so it's just a matter of time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on May 25, 2015, 08:49:24 PM
Sibley, what a bummer :|  It's great that you have a road map now, though -- it will be that much easier in the future.

I spent some time on the corner in my office of stuff I was deliberately ignoring going through for a month or four, that was left over from the last time I had gone through a bunch of childhood stuff boxes.  Tossed some, will recycle some, and actually had a less left than I thought I did.  I use the UFMH method on stuff like that and only commit to 20 minutes, and almost got it all done! woo.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 26, 2015, 07:27:53 AM
I brought another large bag of clothes, shoes and bed linens to Goodwill along with a lamp and a magazine holder.  It was around noon on Sunday.  The guy accepting the donations told me they got so much stuff that they were running out of room and were planning to stop accepting donations in the afternoon!

I guess we are not the only ones cleaning and tidying up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 26, 2015, 07:49:03 AM
2 bags of clothes going to the consignment store today. 

I'm not sure if they will take them, as they are super picky and this isn't high brands, but if not, they just go to Goodwill and I stop trying to consign things at all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 26, 2015, 08:05:52 AM
2 bags of clothes going to the consignment store today. 

I'm not sure if they will take them, as they are super picky and this isn't high brands, but if not, they just go to Goodwill and I stop trying to consign things at all.

I find consignments stores so strangely picky. Mine says "designer only", but I took some Versace jeans (from old spendy days) and she said, "Jeans don't really sell, I'm going to pass on these", and some Boden tops, which she was really pleased with and took straight away. Mail order is not designer to me... but what do I know. I had about £50 waiting for collection last I checked, so she obviously knows what sells and what doesn't, I guess. Good luck with your trip!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 26, 2015, 08:56:16 AM
Three plastic grocery bags stuff full of outgoing shirts today.  Probably 20 items.  I think I'm mostly done with shirt purging.

I'm hanging on to slightly more than I otherwise might, because my life is changing so much.  For example, I've worn one pair of shorts one time in the last 3 years, which suggests all the shorts, or certainly all but one or two, can go. However, I'm moving to a totally different climate and a somewhat different lifestyle.  So I'm having on to some stuff because I'm just not sure.  But overall, I'm pleased with my progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 26, 2015, 02:43:00 PM
Selling a few pairs of shoes as a lot through craigslist. Such a pain. Had someone who was interested a few weeks ago who then flaked out after a few emails. Then she emailed again last week asking about it and haggled from $50 to $30. I was so tempted to ignore her since she flaked out last time but well maybe she'll show up this time. At least she's picking it up from my place and I'm not wasting time meeting her somewhere. Next time, think I'll just stick to ebay/goodwill, I feel like there are some many flakes and ridiculous hagglers on craigslist.
+1 I've stopped selling on Craigslist except for furniture/really large items I can't take to Goodwill without help due to the LARGE number of flakes and the ridiculous bargains they ask for... I get it you want a good deal but asking it for next to nothing when its practically new is a shame.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Lian on May 26, 2015, 02:54:12 PM
I brought another large bag of clothes, shoes and bed linens to Goodwill along with a lamp and a magazine holder.  It was around noon on Sunday.  The guy accepting the donations told me they got so much stuff that they were running out of room and were planning to stop accepting donations in the afternoon!

I guess we are not the only ones cleaning and tidying up!

I brought 2 carloads of stuff to Goodwill this weekend - 1 load on Saturday, the other on Sunday. There were so many people donating on Saturday, I had to park on the street to wait for a place in line!  It was nuts! I wonder if Memorial Day weekend is just a convenient time for spring cleaning and decluttering. The donation area had mountains of stuff. I added to the piles and bins and left wondering just how big is the second-hand/used goods retail sector.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on May 26, 2015, 03:06:54 PM
I brought another large bag of clothes, shoes and bed linens to Goodwill along with a lamp and a magazine holder.  It was around noon on Sunday.  The guy accepting the donations told me they got so much stuff that they were running out of room and were planning to stop accepting donations in the afternoon!

I guess we are not the only ones cleaning and tidying up!

I brought 2 carloads of stuff to Goodwill this weekend - 1 load on Saturday, the other on Sunday. There were so many people donating on Saturday, I had to park on the street to wait for a place in line!  It was nuts! I wonder if Memorial Day weekend is just a convenient time for spring cleaning and decluttering. The donation area had mountains of stuff. I added to the piles and bins and left wondering just how big is the second-hand/used goods retail sector.
I went to our local Goodwill this past Saturday too, and the employee taking the donations said he had expected it to be a slow weekend but instead they were swamped with donations. I live in a small town but there were 3 others donating at the same time as me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gumbo1978 on May 27, 2015, 09:33:26 AM
We have a facebook page for our section of the city (charlotte, NC) which acts kind of like facebook.  I like it better b/c the posts are tied to a facebook account and you have to meet in a public area (within a 5 mile radius).  We've started taking pictures of clutter and then selling it that way.  Made $600 in the past 2 weeks cleaning out our garage/attic.  Have really enjoyed decluttering.  Gives a similar rush to purchasing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 27, 2015, 09:42:51 AM
Took 2 bags to the consignment shop tomorrow.  I don't know if they accepted anything. But I signed for them to just donate it if they don't, so either way, it is out of my house.  I rarely itemize this type of deduction anyway, so doesn't matter to me if they get the write off instead of me.

But if they do accept stuff, and I get some money- I know where all my bags are going in the future!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mikhial on May 27, 2015, 09:53:19 AM
I went through the kitchen yesterday. I ended up with a small pile to toss. I'm not sure if that means I'm in a decent spot with how much stuff is in the kitchen, or if I'm too attached with what we have.

Part of the problem is I know my boyfriend won't be completely down with pairing down too much. He saw the pile I set aside and half-jokingly said we can't throw anything out. For each thing he didn't want to throw out, I asked him when the last time he used that item and when the next time he was going to use it. He put up a fight, but when I asked him what he wanted to keep only a couple of items made it back. To be fair, what he put back aren't mine to throw away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on May 27, 2015, 11:00:20 AM
60+ books/DVDs/random things are getting donated. $295 writeoff plus I now no longer need a DVD rack, and I also have a shelf or two free that didn't used to be. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 27, 2015, 11:42:55 AM
I went through the kitchen yesterday. I ended up with a small pile to toss. I'm not sure if that means I'm in a decent spot with how much stuff is in the kitchen, or if I'm too attached with what we have.

Part of the problem is I know my boyfriend won't be completely down with pairing down too much. He saw the pile I set aside and half-jokingly said we can't throw anything out. For each thing he didn't want to throw out, I asked him when the last time he used that item and when the next time he was going to use it. He put up a fight, but when I asked him what he wanted to keep only a couple of items made it back. To be fair, what he put back aren't mine to throw away.

Partners are tricky waters to navigate.  I generally leave his stuff alone, hoping I'm setting a good example, and then after a while when I suggest he clear out his things, he's more willing.  But he's got a complete blind spot for books - and this coming from someone who is reluctant in her own right to get rid of many.  As far as he's concerned, one should never release books back into the wild.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 27, 2015, 01:34:22 PM
I went through the kitchen yesterday. I ended up with a small pile to toss. I'm not sure if that means I'm in a decent spot with how much stuff is in the kitchen, or if I'm too attached with what we have.

Part of the problem is I know my boyfriend won't be completely down with pairing down too much. He saw the pile I set aside and half-jokingly said we can't throw anything out. For each thing he didn't want to throw out, I asked him when the last time he used that item and when the next time he was going to use it. He put up a fight, but when I asked him what he wanted to keep only a couple of items made it back. To be fair, what he put back aren't mine to throw away.

Partners are tricky waters to navigate.  I generally leave his stuff alone, hoping I'm setting a good example, and then after a while when I suggest he clear out his things, he's more willing.  But he's got a complete blind spot for books - and this coming from someone who is reluctant in her own right to get rid of many.  As far as he's concerned, one should never release books back into the wild.
Hahaha!  I need to have your sense of humor about my husband's book "hoarding" tendencies. 

I'm also struggling with getting our possessions down because most items aren't mine or ours.  I moved here in a car.  He moved an entire 3,000 sq ft house.  While I'm thankful for all of the things we didn't have to buy, I'm also resentful because our 1,000 sq ft house and garage are bursting at the seams.  I still have a bit more whittling to do with my clothing, but my husband has at least 4 times the amount of clothing that I have. 

Any tips for getting your partner to give up his things?

It's a tough one.  As they say, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink.

There are a variety of successful strategies, which vary based on personality:
Asking.  Spouse complies with a simple request.  We are all jealous.
Logic.  You explain to the spouse (see below for an example) of why decluttering makes sense.
Modeling.  Spouse sees the joy of decluttering and free space.  Spouse has their "own idea" to also declutter.  You never contradict spouse on this point.
Emotional.  Spouse is happy to make you happy once you explain how very important it is.  Tears may be involved.
Bargaining.  You agree to get rid of your ugly broken item if he agrees to get rid of his ugly broken item.
Bribes.  You offer favors (chores?  NSFW favors?  Get out of visiting a mother-in-law card?  Remote control privileges?) in exchange for going through and culling items.
Sneak.  Desperate, much like you might with children, you hide away unused items and gradually they "disappear" or are "lost" after a time passes with no one noticing.
Threats.  You inform your spouse it's you or the [ugly broken item].
Professional.  You call in professional help.  Optional: Blast issue on a reality tv show.

As you can tell, the list devolves as you go down it.  Let's call it the "CommonCents Hierarchy of Decluttering Your Partner"

Logic:
Pick one area (e.g. clothes).
Ask him how much he thinks would be an acceptable amount of clothes (or space to take up).  If he won't say, ask if he would agree it is reasonable that you share the closet space for example, 50/50.
Then tell him how much he has.  e.g. Did you know you have 104 t-shirts? 
Ask him whether you can set aside time on a weekend to go through them together to decide what is too old, worn, stained etc.  (Don't phrase it as "culling".)
During this time, make piles of keep, get rid, maybe.  (When going through the maybe pile for final disposition, accept he'll keep some for unreasonable sentimental reasons.)
Key to success: Asking questions, getting agreement
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on May 27, 2015, 01:39:23 PM
I went through the kitchen yesterday. I ended up with a small pile to toss. I'm not sure if that means I'm in a decent spot with how much stuff is in the kitchen, or if I'm too attached with what we have.

Part of the problem is I know my boyfriend won't be completely down with pairing down too much. He saw the pile I set aside and half-jokingly said we can't throw anything out. For each thing he didn't want to throw out, I asked him when the last time he used that item and when the next time he was going to use it. He put up a fight, but when I asked him what he wanted to keep only a couple of items made it back. To be fair, what he put back aren't mine to throw away.

Partners are tricky waters to navigate.  I generally leave his stuff alone, hoping I'm setting a good example, and then after a while when I suggest he clear out his things, he's more willing.  But he's got a complete blind spot for books - and this coming from someone who is reluctant in her own right to get rid of many.  As far as he's concerned, one should never release books back into the wild.
Hahaha!  I need to have your sense of humor about my husband's book "hoarding" tendencies. 

I'm also struggling with getting our possessions down because most items aren't mine or ours.  I moved here in a car.  He moved an entire 3,000 sq ft house.  While I'm thankful for all of the things we didn't have to buy, I'm also resentful because our 1,000 sq ft house and garage are bursting at the seams.  I still have a bit more whittling to do with my clothing, but my husband has at least 4 times the amount of clothing that I have. 

Any tips for getting your partner to give up his things?

It's a tough one.  As they say, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink.

There are a variety of successful strategies, which vary based on personality:
Asking.  Spouse complies with a simple request.  We are all jealous.
Logic.  You explain to the spouse (see below for an example) of why decluttering makes sense.
Modeling.  Spouse sees the joy of decluttering and free space.  Spouse has their "own idea" to also declutter.  You never contradict spouse on this point.
Emotional.  Spouse is happy to make you happy once you explain how very important it is.  Tears may be involved.
Bargaining.  You agree to get rid of your ugly broken item if he agrees to get rid of his ugly broken item.
Bribes.  You offer favors (chores?  NSFW favors?  Get out of visiting a mother-in-law card?  Remote control privileges?) in exchange for going through and culling items.
Sneak.  Desperate, much like you might with children, you hide away unused items and gradually they "disappear" or are "lost" after a time passes with no one noticing.
Threats.  You inform your spouse it's you or the [ugly broken item].
Professional.  You call in professional help.  Optional: Blast issue on a reality tv show.

As you can tell, the list devolves as you go down it.  Let's call it the "CommonCents Hierarchy of Decluttering Your Partner"

Logic:
Pick one area (e.g. clothes).
Ask him how much he thinks would be an acceptable amount of clothes (or space to take up).  If he won't say, ask if he would agree it is reasonable that you share the closet space for example, 50/50.
Then tell him how much he has.  e.g. Did you know you have 104 t-shirts? 
Ask him whether you can set aside time on a weekend to go through them together to decide what is too old, worn, stained etc.  (Don't phrase it as "culling".)
During this time, make piles of keep, get rid, maybe.  (When going through the maybe pile for final disposition, accept he'll keep some for unreasonable sentimental reasons.)
Key to success: Asking questions, getting agreement
Thanks!  I'm going to try clothing this weekend.  I have a few things to get rid of too, so I hope it will be a productive day.  Currently our guest bedroom is full of my husband's clothes.  To be honest, my clothes are in the guest bedroom closet....because my husband has the closet in our bedroom. 
(http://data:image/webp;base64,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)x2
Plus two large dressers in a small guest bedroom. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 27, 2015, 02:00:38 PM
I went through the kitchen yesterday. I ended up with a small pile to toss. I'm not sure if that means I'm in a decent spot with how much stuff is in the kitchen, or if I'm too attached with what we have.

Part of the problem is I know my boyfriend won't be completely down with pairing down too much. He saw the pile I set aside and half-jokingly said we can't throw anything out. For each thing he didn't want to throw out, I asked him when the last time he used that item and when the next time he was going to use it. He put up a fight, but when I asked him what he wanted to keep only a couple of items made it back. To be fair, what he put back aren't mine to throw away.

Partners are tricky waters to navigate.  I generally leave his stuff alone, hoping I'm setting a good example, and then after a while when I suggest he clear out his things, he's more willing.  But he's got a complete blind spot for books - and this coming from someone who is reluctant in her own right to get rid of many.  As far as he's concerned, one should never release books back into the wild.
Hahaha!  I need to have your sense of humor about my husband's book "hoarding" tendencies. 

I'm also struggling with getting our possessions down because most items aren't mine or ours.  I moved here in a car.  He moved an entire 3,000 sq ft house.  While I'm thankful for all of the things we didn't have to buy, I'm also resentful because our 1,000 sq ft house and garage are bursting at the seams.  I still have a bit more whittling to do with my clothing, but my husband has at least 4 times the amount of clothing that I have. 

Any tips for getting your partner to give up his things?

It's a tough one.  As they say, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink.

There are a variety of successful strategies, which vary based on personality:
Asking.  Spouse complies with a simple request.  We are all jealous.
Logic.  You explain to the spouse (see below for an example) of why decluttering makes sense.
Modeling.  Spouse sees the joy of decluttering and free space.  Spouse has their "own idea" to also declutter.  You never contradict spouse on this point.
Emotional.  Spouse is happy to make you happy once you explain how very important it is.  Tears may be involved.
Bargaining.  You agree to get rid of your ugly broken item if he agrees to get rid of his ugly broken item.
Bribes.  You offer favors (chores?  NSFW favors?  Get out of visiting a mother-in-law card?  Remote control privileges?) in exchange for going through and culling items.
Sneak.  Desperate, much like you might with children, you hide away unused items and gradually they "disappear" or are "lost" after a time passes with no one noticing.
Threats.  You inform your spouse it's you or the [ugly broken item].
Professional.  You call in professional help.  Optional: Blast issue on a reality tv show.

As you can tell, the list devolves as you go down it.  Let's call it the "CommonCents Hierarchy of Decluttering Your Partner"

Logic:
Pick one area (e.g. clothes).
Ask him how much he thinks would be an acceptable amount of clothes (or space to take up).  If he won't say, ask if he would agree it is reasonable that you share the closet space for example, 50/50.
Then tell him how much he has.  e.g. Did you know you have 104 t-shirts? 
Ask him whether you can set aside time on a weekend to go through them together to decide what is too old, worn, stained etc.  (Don't phrase it as "culling".)
During this time, make piles of keep, get rid, maybe.  (When going through the maybe pile for final disposition, accept he'll keep some for unreasonable sentimental reasons.)
Key to success: Asking questions, getting agreement
Thanks!  I'm going to try clothing this weekend.  I have a few things to get rid of too, so I hope it will be a productive day.  Currently our guest bedroom is full of my husband's clothes.  To be honest, my clothes are in the guest bedroom closet....because my husband has the closet in our bedroom. 
(http://data:image/webp;base64,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)x2
Plus two large dressers in a small guest bedroom.

Oh, I almost forgot!  It worked really well when I did this with a friend (who wanted to declutter, but had a tough time doing it), and I asked her how many of X item she thought reasonable to keep.  For example, how many jackets are reasonable.  We then went through them and I pointed out she had told me that 15 were reasonable (I can't remember the exact number but it was around here or higher!), and yet there were 18 on the keep pile and another 10 on the maybe pile - so maybe she could keep this in mind while going through the maybe pile...  That actually let her keep on 2 of the maybes, which we both considered success.  The key in this is that the other person is setting the limits, not you.  Psychologically, they are more keen to stick to them because they've set them.  (And less apt to get mad at you for being controlling!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 27, 2015, 02:02:53 PM
I'm pretty sure my husband sometimes just gets rid of things for me.  And then either pretends he doesn't know where it went, or begs forgiveness if I notice something is gone (sometimes years later...)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on May 27, 2015, 04:03:26 PM
I'm pretty sure my husband sometimes just gets rid of things for me.  And then either pretends he doesn't know where it went, or begs forgiveness if I notice something is gone (sometimes years later...)
Haha!  I'm not comfortable with getting rid of my husband's things, but it is tempting. 

CommonCents, I think the number thing will work out.  Logic rules his thinking process, so I think we can be rational about the process.  I hope. 

If the closet (+guest bedroom) clean-up goes well, the garage will be next.  My husband thinks everything will fit if we buy more organizational tools (i.e. pegboard, storage boxes, etc.).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on May 28, 2015, 06:01:32 AM
Have been extremely busy, but we culled another garbage bag of clothes from the kids. Also a few pairs of pants from me. Slowly getting there... I haven't even tackled my closet yet. That needs to happen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on May 28, 2015, 06:42:09 AM
I took some books I'm never going to open again back to my department. They're books I had for coursework, so I figured I can leave them in the grad student office and perhaps a future grad student can use them for a class or project. Better that than dumping quality editions off at the thrift store... plus, I purge 10-15 books, easy! (Books continue to be the single most clutter-y thing in our home, which... well, there are worse things).

(I also resisted the urge to buy a new book for an upcoming trip, and thus adding to the clutter. I'm taking a hard copy of one I already own that I haven't read, and DLed a new library book to my Kindle.)

I'm also taking a pair of boots that refuse to get gone out of town with me to give to my sister in law (or her equally slim mom)! Get them out of the apartment!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 28, 2015, 07:59:25 AM

Any tips for getting your partner to give up his things?

Great stuff from CommonCents. The other thing I'd add that I've had success with is to ask which ones he wants to keep, rather than which he wants to get rid of. This is an easier proposition, and can also help them see they don't actually value much of it. 

For us, it went like this:



In my opinion the success, as many others have mentioned, was down to modelling. I tried nagging - not lots, but occassional mentions of 'Why don't you get rid of some t-shirts, and then you're drawer might close' for a few years, it acheived nothing.

In January I resolved to shut up and get my own house in order. He was amazed at how much I got rid of... Worried I wouldn't have anything to wear, and when I said, "But I wasn't wearing any of it anyway" just conversationally, a lightbulb seemed to go off.

We've now had lots of conversations about how we've realised that we didn't have anywhere to put anything because all of our 'storage' spaces (dressers, shelves etc) were neatly storing... things we didn't use.

He's now pretty much totally on board with decluttering, and has since done other areas, though I still wouldn't touch anything of his without checking with him, and I try not to preach.

Whereas before I'd say, "Why don't you get rid of this sock, it's full of holes" (in a judgemental and exasperated tone), now we are on a similar page, I keep all holey socks when I do laundry and say (factually, and without intonation, just as a simple question), "These socks are holey. Is it alright with you if I get rid of them?" and so far, touchwood, he has agreed every time.

The more you both get rid of, the more you realise your life becomes better, not worse, and the easier it is to let go of other stuff. Good luck.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 28, 2015, 08:11:04 AM
Well, of 28 items I dropped off, the consignment store took 8.
I was surprised they didn't take any of the Lands End polos. They were in great condition.  They also didn't take either of the two Banana Republic shirts, which were in season and good condition.

But my old tennis shoes got priced at $20 (they are Nikes, but that is crazy).

If things sell, I'm hoping I will take home between $5 and $15... 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: margarita on May 28, 2015, 09:29:08 AM
Well, of 28 items I dropped off, the consignment store took 8.
I was surprised they didn't take any of the Lands End polos. They were in great condition.  They also didn't take either of the two Banana Republic shirts, which were in season and good condition.

But my old tennis shoes got priced at $20 (they are Nikes, but that is crazy).

If things sell, I'm hoping I will take home between $5 and $15...

Recently I took clothes to a consignment shop - the owner told me button down shirts (ladies) are not a good seller.  She took my two almost new banana republic button down shirts but warned me they probably will not sell.  Sure enough at the end they did not sell (but I did pick up a cheque for $92.50 for the other items!). 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 28, 2015, 10:03:42 AM
Great progress, everyone! I'm still following the throw/donate one thing a day (since life is super busy and I don't want to stop the decluttering) and have cleaned up our magazine rack, our disposable containers and some extra furniture. Win! I'm now done with the low hanging ones and now have to make time to start looking deeper.

Does anyone feel that the house is still full of stuff even after getting rid of things? How do you keep yourself motivated?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 28, 2015, 10:09:52 AM
Regarding helping others declutter...

Ask them which they would prefer. That they go through and do it.

Or that they force their surviving loved ones to have to go through a whole bunch of stuff that doesn't matter in order to get to the things that do matter, while under incredible emotional stress.

Because either way, the stuff is gonna go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on May 28, 2015, 10:24:37 AM

Any tips for getting your partner to give up his things?

Great stuff from CommonCents. The other thing I'd add that I've had success with is to ask which ones he wants to keep, rather than which he wants to get rid of. This is an easier proposition, and can also help them see they don't actually value much of it. 

For us, it went like this:

  • Having watched me (silently) declutter for about 5 months DH suddenly says, "I think I'll get rid of some t-shirts"
  • He lays them all out on the bed.
  • I offer a prompt: 'Why don't you pick out the ones you love and put them back in the drawer to start'
  • He picks out maybe 4 (out of 20), puts them away
  • He looks at the pile and realises, hey, I obviously don't like these much...
  • He puts a few more away, and gives me the rest to get rid of.


In my opinion the success, as many others have mentioned, was down to modelling. I tried nagging - not lots, but occassional mentions of 'Why don't you get rid of some t-shirts, and then you're drawer might close' for a few years, it acheived nothing.

In January I resolved to shut up and get my own house in order. He was amazed at how much I got rid of... Worried I wouldn't have anything to wear, and when I said, "But I wasn't wearing any of it anyway" just conversationally, a lightbulb seemed to go off.

We've now had lots of conversations about how we've realised that we didn't have anywhere to put anything because all of our 'storage' spaces (dressers, shelves etc) were neatly storing... things we didn't use.

He's now pretty much totally on board with decluttering, and has since done other areas, though I still wouldn't touch anything of his without checking with him, and I try not to preach.

Whereas before I'd say, "Why don't you get rid of this sock, it's full of holes" (in a judgemental and exasperated tone), now we are on a similar page, I keep all holey socks when I do laundry and say (factually, and without intonation, just as a simple question), "These socks are holey. Is it alright with you if I get rid of them?" and so far, touchwood, he has agreed every time.

The more you both get rid of, the more you realise your life becomes better, not worse, and the easier it is to let go of other stuff. Good luck.
Thank you for all of the advice!  I've just started reading Marie Kondo's book (http://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing-ebook/dp/B00KK0PICK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1432830113 (http://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing-ebook/dp/B00KK0PICK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1432830113)).  After reading the first chapter, I realize that I'm going about this process in the completely wrong way.  My husband agreed to read 1 chapter of the book, and we will both sort through our clothes on Saturday.  I'm already planning a trip to Goodwill!  I'm very excited! 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 28, 2015, 10:41:26 AM
Well, of 28 items I dropped off, the consignment store took 8.
I was surprised they didn't take any of the Lands End polos. They were in great condition.  They also didn't take either of the two Banana Republic shirts, which were in season and good condition.

But my old tennis shoes got priced at $20 (they are Nikes, but that is crazy).

If things sell, I'm hoping I will take home between $5 and $15...

Recently I took clothes to a consignment shop - the owner told me button down shirts (ladies) are not a good seller.  She took my two almost new banana republic button down shirts but warned me they probably will not sell.  Sure enough at the end they did not sell (but I did pick up a cheque for $92.50 for the other items!).

They weren't button down though. They were summer tank tops with crocheted lace necklines.

No biggie. I told them to just donate whatever they weren't selling. The important thing is it is out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LiveLean on May 28, 2015, 11:22:17 AM
Can't believe I found an actual VCR still in our house this morning in an armoire (that itself needs to go).

Tossed the VCR on the pile of crap I had going to electronics recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on May 28, 2015, 11:31:29 AM
Can't believe I found an actual VCR still in our house this morning in an armoire (that itself needs to go).

Tossed the VCR on the pile of crap I had going to electronics recycling.
We have one too, it's been on the floor of our closet for several years! SO doesn't want to get rid of it until we make a list of our VHS tapes so we can, some day, replace the ones we like with DVDs. I hope we get time to do this soon!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on May 28, 2015, 12:33:26 PM
I have four days off, so I'm laying out a couple challenges for myself:

  • Actually get the latest box o' crap delivered to the thrift store
  • Go through and organize file cabinets
  • Get rid of two remaining fish and decommission the aquarium
  • Hang the curtains in the basement and clean up the hardware/crap that is hanging around there
  • List at least 5 items on eBay
  • Re-work a broken horse jump that's in the back yard using stuff I have on hand, and take it out to the stable

Dang, I haven't gotten to any of these.  The weather has been great, so I've been gardening and riding instead.  I was ready to load the boxes into the car and take them to the  Goodwill, but I realized that I am missing my gold necklace, so now I need to go through the boxes with a fine toothed comb to make sure I don't accidentally donate actual diamonds.  OTOH, I had an unexpected day at home today due to a last minute change of plans at work, so I've been decluttering outdoors.  So far I have the truck loaded up with old broken windows I had planned to make into cold frames, some materials that were too weathered to use for anything, a broken screen door and some nasty old Adirondack chairs that aren't worth scraping and re-painting.  I've also got an old A/C unit, 6 patio chairs and two plant pots out at the curb with "free" signs on them, and burned up a pile of yard waste that has been visual clutter in my line of sight from the kitchen window since last fall.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on May 28, 2015, 01:53:29 PM
We have one too, it's been on the floor of our closet for several years! SO doesn't want to get rid of it until we make a list of our VHS tapes so we can, some day, replace the ones we like with DVDs. I hope we get time to do this soon!

What about taking a picture (or several if necessary) of the VHS tapes? Then you'd have a record of what you used to own. You could still figure out what you want to replace, but don't have to keep the pile of stuff around to do it. Win, win?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 28, 2015, 02:47:51 PM
Tomorrow I start tackling cocktail and evening gowns.  This one will be hard for me.  I do wear these things, anywhere from 2-5 times a year, and I'm likely to start wearing them a bit more often.  Also, my size varies so I have a range of sizes (normal size and up and down one). 

I love these.  They are so beautiful.  And I do wear them.  And I hate wearing the same dress to more than every couple of years to these events.  Not entirely rational, but that's where I'm coming from as I tackle this.

This one will be a real struggle.  I probably have 25 or more.  Uggh.  I'm trying to decide what is reasonable.   This will be my first big challenge I think. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on May 28, 2015, 03:09:39 PM
Ugh! I have a bunch of fancy party dresses too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on May 28, 2015, 05:05:27 PM
Just wanted to give a general Thank You, fellow MMM declutterers! Reading what you're all up to is keeping me going when I hit a slump. eBay sales have slowed but I'm still shipping a few items a week. I gave up on some and just donated them. It looks like my rental house sale is going through, so I'll soon be free of that big burden (though there are still others, one less is a good thing!). And I just lowered the price on my collectible car for sale on CL.  I agree about the lowballers and scammers.  Geez, because I have a vintage Mercedes for sale, I'm now being targeted not only by foreign scammers, but by local massage practitioners!! Happy ending anyone? Sure, just buy my car, lady. That will give me the happy ending I'm looking for. ~They disappear quickly when they find out I'm a straight female. Lol
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on May 28, 2015, 06:08:03 PM
I haven't done much of anything since I last posted. I have a pile of clothes that I intended to try to sell on eBay, but I've realized that I'd make so little from most of them that it wouldn't be worth it. So the whole pile is going in trash bags tonight and to Goodwill tomorrow. I did sell a few baby clothes on eBay, but didn't make much. I have $26.20 pending in my Paypal account, and paid $14 total for shipping... so that's $12.20 for 6 pieces. Plus the hassle of making the listings, going to the post office, etc. No thanks.

On the topic of spouses, Mr Tofu has given me permission to get rid of some things that have been cluttering up our closet - 2 old, nonworking computer towers, and a bin full of random bike parts. He also has a bike that needs work that he intended to fix up but never did, and he said that can go on craigslist. His DVD's, he said can go in our closet. He is basically acknowledging that no one ever watches them, but he spent so much money on them, he's still not going to get rid of them. Just put them away where they'll definitely never get watched. I don't understand this, but whatever. I'm actually planning to go through all of our movies, pull out the ones that get watched (mostly the kids' stuff), and leave those downstairs, then put the rest in the closet.

I think I need to go through my clothes again, too...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 28, 2015, 06:35:21 PM
Now that I have moved, I have a big pile of stuff in a box by the front door to go to goodwill/ free cycle. There was some junk left in the house to go also, and I already checked in with the old tenants.   There were some things I was keeping to see about our new house, but now they can go. But I can already feel myself sliding into the phase where there is so much clutter, junk and boxes everywhere that I don't see it as much anymore. My eyes glaze over. How do I get going again?


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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on May 28, 2015, 08:03:11 PM
It has taken me a few weeks to read through all 37 pages of this thread, but I am finally caught up & excited to get on board! 

Many, many pages ago there was a link to a website about why people hang onto things. Unfortunately, I identified with several of the categories: 1) not wanting to waste things, 2) keeping things that I may need or want someday in future, 3) sentimentality, and 4) feeling guilty about getting rid of things that were given to me as gifts. There is some logic to each of these positions, but they add up to a life governed by stuff and being surrounded by things that weigh me down.

This thread was just the inspiration I needed. I am currently feeling quite overwhelmed by stuff, clothes and papers in particular. I recently moved into an apartment with a small closet, and I have clothes overflowing everywhere in my room. I've never had a problem with this before, but I used to just add more storage if I needed it, and now I don't have room for that. I'd like to move more towards the minimalist wardrobe being discussed in another thread -- having each piece in my closet be something that fits, that I love, and that I would want to wear all the time.

The rest of the apartment could all use a trim, too, but it's all livable right now. The bathroom is actually amazing because there is no linen closet, and at first I found it so frustrating, because: where do I put all my stuff?? But now I LOVE it's lack of storage. There is a small medicine cabinet that I share with my roommate that houses my true essentials, and I keep my towel hung on the back of the door. That's it. I keep extra towels in my dresser.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on May 28, 2015, 08:51:04 PM
I have four days off, so I'm laying out a couple challenges for myself:

  • Actually get the latest box o' crap delivered to the thrift store
  • Go through and organize file cabinets
  • Get rid of two remaining fish and decommission the aquarium
  • Hang the curtains in the basement and clean up the hardware/crap that is hanging around there
  • List at least 5 items on eBay
  • Re-work a broken horse jump that's in the back yard using stuff I have on hand, and take it out to the stable

Dang, I haven't gotten to any of these.  The weather has been great, so I've been gardening and riding instead.  I was ready to load the boxes into the car and take them to the  Goodwill, but I realized that I am missing my gold necklace, so now I need to go through the boxes with a fine toothed comb to make sure I don't accidentally donate actual diamonds.  OTOH, I had an unexpected day at home today due to a last minute change of plans at work, so I've been decluttering outdoors.  So far I have the truck loaded up with old broken windows I had planned to make into cold frames, some materials that were too weathered to use for anything, a broken screen door and some nasty old Adirondack chairs that aren't worth scraping and re-painting.  I've also got an old A/C unit, 6 patio chairs and two plant pots out at the curb with "free" signs on them, and burned up a pile of yard waste that has been visual clutter in my line of sight from the kitchen window since last fall.

The Craigslist leaving things on the curb for the first person who gets it, and then deleting the ad thing works wonders.  I posted the ads, peeked out the window about 30 minutes later, and the stuff was there.  Then the doorbell started ringing while I was on a conference call.  Peeked out the window again and the stuff was gone, and a second person had come right behind them, apparently.  I deleted the ads, then a third person came by hoping to get the chairs.  All this in about an hour.  I feel a tiny bit guilty about the people who come by and don't get the item, but it's gone and out of my life.

Now to go through the boxes to check for my necklace, and get them in the car so they get dropped off tomorrow.  I have a couple books to add to the pile as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 29, 2015, 04:12:51 AM
I stood in front of the closet, staring at the dresses for about 5 minutes, reordering them, pulling one out and putting it back, etc.  Then I gave up and worked on another section of the closet.  20 pants and blazers in a donation bag.  Blazers are an area where I'll need at least one more pass (L. Ron,  I have so very many clothes!).  Not what I intended and I didn't tackle the scary dress project, but not bad for a day's work, either.

I love the idea of setting a number of X items that seems reasonable.  How many cardigans/swimsuits/pairs of boots is it reasonable for me to own.  If, after a purge, I'm at 150% of that number, clearly there's more work to be done.  Thanks for the great suggestion!

Another project is a major shoe purge.  When I was working in an office, I wore fancy heals almost daily.  I still want that life and imagine it for myself, so getting rid of work clothes is a tough sell mentally.  But I need to accept that it isn't my life.  If shoes haven't been worn since I move to Japan (5 years ago, and I'm in Germany now), clearly they need to go.  If I have the professional life I want again someday, I can buy more shoes.  I've acquired a lot more comfy, casual shoes, because they better fit my life, but I never got rid of the ones that fit my old life. 

It's amazing to me how much mental baggage gets opened up.  They may be just shoes, but to me, they are a symbol of the professional life I sacrificed to move.  Getting rid of them means accepting that difficult change a bit more fully.    Sometimes, a shirt is just a shirt, but other times, there's so much more meaning behind the Stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 29, 2015, 05:13:44 AM
I stood in front of the closet, staring at the dresses for about 5 minutes, reordering them, pulling one out and putting it back, etc.  Then I gave up and worked on another section of the closet.  20 pants and blazers in a donation bag.  Blazers are an area where I'll need at least one more pass (L. Ron,  I have so very many clothes!).  Not what I intended and I didn't tackle the scary dress project, but not bad for a day's work, either.

I love the idea of setting a number of X items that seems reasonable.  How many cardigans/swimsuits/pairs of boots is it reasonable for me to own.  If, after a purge, I'm at 150% of that number, clearly there's more work to be done.  Thanks for the great suggestion!

Another project is a major shoe purge.  When I was working in an office, I wore fancy heals almost daily.  I still want that life and imagine it for myself, so getting rid of work clothes is a tough sell mentally.  But I need to accept that it isn't my life.  If shoes haven't been worn since I move to Japan (5 years ago, and I'm in Germany now), clearly they need to go.  If I have the professional life I want again someday, I can buy more shoes.  I've acquired a lot more comfy, casual shoes, because they better fit my life, but I never got rid of the ones that fit my old life. 

It's amazing to me how much mental baggage gets opened up.  They may be just shoes, but to me, they are a symbol of the professional life I sacrificed to move.  Getting rid of them means accepting that difficult change a bit more fully.    Sometimes, a shirt is just a shirt, but other times, there's so much more meaning behind the Stuff.
This is so true! I recently got rid of some fancy handbags  and clothes that I used to wear in my prior job (5 years ago!).  The hardest part for me was the acknowledgment that that chapter of my life is now irrevocably closed. I almost turned back on my way to the consignment store. But after a day or so I started feeling better about it and now I almost feel ready for the here and now and the next chapter... Almost, because I still have a few dresses I hang on to for sentimental reasons. I need to screw up my courage and let them go. Soon...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 29, 2015, 06:12:24 AM
Tomorrow I start tackling cocktail and evening gowns.  This one will be hard for me.  I do wear these things, anywhere from 2-5 times a year, and I'm likely to start wearing them a bit more often.  Also, my size varies so I have a range of sizes (normal size and up and down one). 

I love these.  They are so beautiful.  And I do wear them.  And I hate wearing the same dress to more than every couple of years to these events.  Not entirely rational, but that's where I'm coming from as I tackle this.

This one will be a real struggle.  I probably have 25 or more.  Uggh.  I'm trying to decide what is reasonable.   This will be my first big challenge I think.

If you wear 2-5 a year, you don't like to repeat except every few years, it seems rational to keep 15, 5 per year, for 3 years.

So I'd combine the advice of the above post, and pare down to at most 15.

Then, I'd do a long term "hanger turn"- rather than move them to storage (do you have a storage building? I'd get rid of that!) Hang them with the hanger the wrong way, when you wear them, turn it around.  If after 3 years any are still the wrong way, get rid of them too.  Clearly, those weren't your favorites, and you didn't need as many dresses as you thought.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 29, 2015, 06:15:04 AM
Regarding the fancy dresses, I had a recent revelation that they are cheap and plentiful on ebay here (UK), so I am storing them there from now on. I'll have a couple 'in stock' for last minute invitations, otherwise, I'll buy a 'new' one on ebay as an event invitation rolls in. Saves storing them, and means no repeats (I get you on that front). Actually, I think I'll send them to the consignment store, because they cost a lot more there, so I would probably do better even with the 50% commission.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on May 29, 2015, 04:49:58 PM
Hello, I'm back!

I felt done for some time, but now that it is summer I can see what summer clothes I can part with. Also, my SO has come around to the whole "minimalism" thing! He even went a step further and things we should downsize from 1,000 sf (with lots of closets and a storage locker) to 700 (with hardly any closet space!). Which makes me a bit nervous because I don't want to feel crammed, and I also will have trouble parting with my large dining table that I restored with the intention of keeping forever.

So, I think we will have to go through everything again and see what can be trimmed. We aren't planning on moving for over a year, but I am already apprehensive at the thought of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on May 30, 2015, 04:22:20 AM
I've slowed down on the clutter clearing lately so I went through some of my stuff again last night. I think I only ended up throwing away one thing, it was a packaging for a pillow that i was keeping for some unknown reason!

I ended up moving stuff around so it looks less cluttered which isn't really the point so I'm going to try again today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 30, 2015, 11:28:44 AM
Tomorrow I start tackling cocktail and evening gowns.  This one will be hard for me.  I do wear these things, anywhere from 2-5 times a year, and I'm likely to start wearing them a bit more often.  Also, my size varies so I have a range of sizes (normal size and up and down one). 

I love these.  They are so beautiful.  And I do wear them.  And I hate wearing the same dress to more than every couple of years to these events.  Not entirely rational, but that's where I'm coming from as I tackle this.

This one will be a real struggle.  I probably have 25 or more.  Uggh.  I'm trying to decide what is reasonable.   This will be my first big challenge I think.

If you wear 2-5 a year, you don't like to repeat except every few years, it seems rational to keep 15, 5 per year, for 3 years.

So I'd combine the advice of the above post, and pare down to at most 15.

Then, I'd do a long term "hanger turn"- rather than move them to storage (do you have a storage building? I'd get rid of that!) Hang them with the hanger the wrong way, when you wear them, turn it around.  If after 3 years any are still the wrong way, get rid of them too.  Clearly, those weren't your favorites, and you didn't need as many dresses as you thought.

No storage building.  Well, we have furniture in storage, paid for by the military.  A huge purge of that will happen when we are reunited. It will definitely be a large exodus, but it's a separate issue and one we can't address right now.

Because these dresses are expensive (though I bought many used/on ebay), I think I am going to avoid donating them, like I've done with everything else.  I'll move them to the States where I know I can find a good consignment store to take them. Doing that here would be much more difficult, and European style is different. 

I think I am going to try to do 5 formals and 5 cocktail in my main size, and 1 formal and 2 cocktail each in the +1 and -1 sizes. That's 16, which is probably an aggressive goal, but seems reasonable.  Of course, it's easier to say that now than it will be when I'm trying on dresses!

My parents are visiting in a few days (which means a break from the purging) and it has been so nice having less stuff as I clean and organize in anticipation of their visit.  I'm not where I want to be, but it's nice to see some concrete benefits of these efforts. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on May 30, 2015, 12:50:01 PM
I am giving my cedar chest to my brother, and ottoman back to the coworker who gave it to me . I'm moving in three days, already seeing there is more I want to be rid of before I move - more clothing. Although my belongings are quite minimal, I'm finding that at this point I really do not want to deal with things . moving things, in particular. I am so sick of moving but seems like it keeps being necessary.....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 30, 2015, 07:39:22 PM
I sold a couple of items on Craigslist and also joined a local tag sale group on Facebook.  Packed a large bag of items for goodwill and have another large batch of clothes for the consignment store. Some will have to wait until they accept fall items but they are put aside and ready to go.

Feeling good about my tidying so far. Also finished reading Marie Kondo's book tonight. Very inspiring!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on May 31, 2015, 02:44:56 AM
I got rid of some old, organic toothpaste that I think had gone off, a lipstick I hate, some bath foam was used up, an old notebook was put into recycling and pet food packaging thrown away.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 31, 2015, 07:49:53 AM
I threw away a bunch of old bathroom stuff. Like old toothpaste, old lotions and creams that were rancid, sunblock that was old and separated and had a tiny bit left, small sample size bottles of stuff that we were never going to use again. Also some plastic cosmetic bags that had seen better days. We also sorted all of our bathroom stuff, and we should have gotten rid of a ton more.  We have about 10 travel size toothpastes and the same number of brand new toothbrushes, all from the dentist. We use an electric one!  But DH didn't want to part with them (surprisingly since I'm the clutter bug). At least they are all in one place. I still have multiples of things, like 3 hotel shower caps, and too many cleaning items, like old toothbrushes and rags. But now that everything is together and organized, I can try a use things up or get rid of it in another pass. We are still missing a box from the bathroom, and we can't seem to find it.


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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on May 31, 2015, 07:50:47 AM
I also kept an old organic toothpaste, but I moved it to cleaning supplies and I'm going to try it on my headlights of my car as suggested on the internet.


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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 31, 2015, 10:22:17 AM
I threw away a bunch of old bathroom stuff. Like old toothpaste, old lotions and creams that were rancid, sunblock that was old and separated and had a tiny bit left, small sample size bottles of stuff that we were never going to use again. Also some plastic cosmetic bags that had seen better days. We also sorted all of our bathroom stuff, and we should have gotten rid of a ton more.  We have about 10 travel size toothpastes and the same number of brand new toothbrushes, all from the dentist. We use an electric one!  But DH didn't want to part with them (surprisingly since I'm the clutter bug). At least they are all in one place. I still have multiples of things, like 3 hotel shower caps, and too many cleaning items, like old toothbrushes and rags. But now that everything is together and organized, I can try a use things up or get rid of it in another pass. We are still missing a box from the bathroom, and we can't seem to find it.


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Places like Ronald McDonald House, Fischer House (Like Ronald McDonald house but for military), or domestic abuse shelters are likely to be happy to take new toothbrushes and sample toiletries.  Perhaps having someone who can make use of them will make it easier to get rid of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on May 31, 2015, 10:51:22 AM
I am rewarded for my cluttering efforts:
- $50 savings bond (15 years in of 30)
- $50 bill mixed in with deposit slips

Found them in a bin of my husband I haven't gotten him to go through, languishing in the closet.  Pulled out the obvious trash (e.g. an empty bag of bic razors), put away office stuff (yay, now we don't need to buy a three hole punch), and put off to the side potential sentimental items for him to look at.

Also went through my bathroom cabinet and DH's chest of clothes (reorganized and culled of damaged items, it looks great and actually closes now!  and I know we don't need to buy him new undershirts for about 5-10 years...).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on May 31, 2015, 12:47:37 PM
Went through my costume jewelry and got ride of about 80% of it. Gave one of the empty organizer boxes to my boyfriend for fishing lures. Packed up two organizer boxes with the jewelry I am giving. Away and set it aside for the nanny to take what she wants.

How I wish I had never bought this stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on May 31, 2015, 01:44:01 PM
Not much time today, but I went through our winter hats and scarves.  It was a quick pass and I probably need at least one more but I filled 2 plastic grocery bags plus threw away a few single gloves. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on May 31, 2015, 07:41:23 PM
I also kept an old organic toothpaste, but I moved it to cleaning supplies and I'm going to try it on my headlights of my car as suggested on the internet.


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Thanks, I am so trying this!  I was looking at my truck headlights today and they're really cloudy.

Other than listing some books on Amazon, I got almost nothing done this weekend.  Still feeling like there is a long way to go, though I happened to be in the living/dining room of an acquaintance a few days ago and with their "normal" amount of stuff, my place seemed almost Spartan in comparison.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on May 31, 2015, 08:07:32 PM
I donated 99 books today. (Maybe I should have looked around for one more.) That takes care of mine - now I have to work on DH.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 01, 2015, 03:39:51 AM
Got rid of a bottle of nailpolish which was going thick and lumpy, even after I tried to thin it. And put another one in a colour I don't like aside to give to my friend who loves all my cast-off cosmetics.

Earmarked a few pieces of fabric for summery patterns, though it's still cold here in the UK so I'm not feeling much motivation to make hot weather clothes. I'm slowly finishing up things in the bathroom and kitchen and loving the empty space left behind (though I have to keep reminding myself not to use too much of something just to get rid of it!).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 01, 2015, 05:10:58 AM
Sold some curtain fabric that I had for four years. I was never going to make the curtains, as the ones we have are perfectly good, and I just do not care about home decoration. The fabric had been a gift, but I"m glad to be rid of it. The man who purchased it said his wife was going to be so happy. I also donated an entire storage tub of fabric plus the storage bin. Most of that fabric had been gifted to me as well. Gave some nice sewing patterns to a friend and to the library. I'm next on the list for the Kondo book. Looking forward to more progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on June 01, 2015, 06:14:08 AM
This post has been inspiring. We already went through our closet and bookshelf. So far we packed up three boxes and two bags.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: begood on June 01, 2015, 07:46:49 AM
The Kondo book is SO great - so inspiring, and the author is so empathetic about our attachment to our STUFF.

We're starting with clothes, and we've pulled out 11 kitchen-size trash bags to donate. I had already come to the realization that if I was going to try to sell stuff, it would never leave my house, so we are sending it all off to Green Drop and calling it done.

Our closet has probably half the clothes it did two weeks ago. I also cleaned out a little dresser of socks, undies, PJs, et cetera. Now I know exactly what I have and where it is!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on June 01, 2015, 08:52:54 AM
Well, this weekend was quite slow going, but I managed to: 1) give away a tube of nice lip gloss and three bottles of shampoo to my mom, and 2) donate two pairs of knee-high tights and a spatula.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on June 01, 2015, 09:05:53 AM
I had a clothing swap this weekend which motivated me to go through my closet again. Got rid of about 40 more items which bumped me over my goal for this year of 365 items. I'm going to try to double it, since the year is not even half over. I may need to focus a little harder though, now that the easy stuff is already out the door.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lifejoy on June 01, 2015, 10:01:41 AM
I had a clothing swap this weekend which motivated me to go through my closet again. Got rid of about 40 more items which bumped me over my goal for this year of 365 items. I'm going to try to double it, since the year is not even half over. I may need to focus a little harder though, now that the easy stuff is already out the door.

I had a clothing swap this weekend too! Go us :)

It felt so good to get rid of my giant ikea bag of clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on June 01, 2015, 10:17:48 AM
Wife and I went through the "possibly mend" pile of kids' clothes yesterday. Chunked most of it. Anything worthy of Goodwill got bagged, and put with other bags waiting to get donated.

We've found a place that takes clothes donations in a drop-off bin, i.e. no long trips to Goodwill! I can chunk the stuff on the way to work now. I have decided to just chunk anything we can't immediately donate and/or sell.

I cleaned out my closet (mostly organized it, but the floor is clear now) and wife is decluttering the girls' room this morning. I'm getting the itch to organize my workshop too, but that's a long-term undertaking.

Slow. Very slow. But making progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Emilyngh on June 01, 2015, 05:17:16 PM
Wife and I went through the "possibly mend" pile of kids' clothes yesterday. Chunked most of it. Anything worthy of Goodwill got bagged, and put with other bags waiting to get donated.

We've found a place that takes clothes donations in a drop-off bin, i.e. no long trips to Goodwill! I can chunk the stuff on the way to work now. I have decided to just chunk anything we can't immediately donate and/or sell.

I cleaned out my closet (mostly organized it, but the floor is clear now) and wife is decluttering the girls' room this morning. I'm getting the itch to organize my workshop too, but that's a long-term undertaking.

Slow. Very slow. But making progress.

I hate to be a downer, but I'd recommend checking out the company associated with the bin;they are often not legit.   Just as an FYI: "In 2012, Goodwill officials complained that nationwide donation bins operated by for-profit recycling businesses or nonprofits only giving a fraction of donated items to those who need it most were taking away from donations that would actually benefit the poor, USA Today reported."

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/24/new-york-city-clothes-drop-off-scams_n_5617336.html
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on June 02, 2015, 05:49:59 AM
I hate to be a downer, but I'd recommend checking out the company associated with the bin;they are often not legit.   Just as an FYI: "In 2012, Goodwill officials complained that nationwide donation bins operated by for-profit recycling businesses or nonprofits only giving a fraction of donated items to those who need it most were taking away from donations that would actually benefit the poor, USA Today reported."

Goodwill is a for-profit company, too. I don't care what they do with it once I throw it in the bin: it's either that, or it goes in the dumpster. As long as it's not in my house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 02, 2015, 11:33:08 AM
I hate to be a downer, but I'd recommend checking out the company associated with the bin;they are often not legit.   Just as an FYI: "In 2012, Goodwill officials complained that nationwide donation bins operated by for-profit recycling businesses or nonprofits only giving a fraction of donated items to those who need it most were taking away from donations that would actually benefit the poor, USA Today reported."

Goodwill is a for-profit company, too. I don't care what they do with it once I throw it in the bin: it's either that, or it goes in the dumpster. As long as it's not in my house.

No, it's organized as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. You may or may not agree with how they operate (there's some things I don't like much), but they are not legally for profit.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goodwill_Industries

...and confirmed on the IRS' website because I was curious.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: honaras on June 02, 2015, 11:36:46 AM
i love playing "the minimalism game" where you get rid of one thing on day 1, two on day 2, all the way up to 30 on day 30.
'get rid of' could be sell, donate, give away, trash, etc.

it's a really painless way to unload 500+ items!

anything counts - a rubber band, a receipt, a bed. :)

i've played it three times (the two months before i moved last october and once again this march.)
figured i'd share, since a) i'm new, and b) it IS june 2nd, so not too late to start...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 02, 2015, 12:39:43 PM
i love playing "the minimalism game" where you get rid of one thing on day 1, two on day 2, all the way up to 30 on day 30.
'get rid of' could be sell, donate, give away, trash, etc.

it's a really painless way to unload 500+ items!

anything counts - a rubber band, a receipt, a bed. :)

i've played it three times (the two months before i moved last october and once again this march.)
figured i'd share, since a) i'm new, and b) it IS june 2nd, so not too late to start...

I think there is at least one person on here who is playing this game already.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 02, 2015, 04:43:14 PM
I finally got the book from library and read it immediately. I like most of what she is saying but with a small baby, I'm not sure how to keep everything in closets. Before baby, we were doing ok and things had their places. But now, with a crawler and her toys and books and clothes, everything seems everywhere. To add we live in a small apartment and her exersaucer takes up a lot of space. We've been good about giving away her big toys (her infant swing was replaced by jumperoo which was replaced by exersaucer) but we always have something big baby related. We also bought very few things for her compared to my friends and their babies. Our floor plan is such that our living room, dining room and kitchen are all in the same space (with two bedrooms and bathrooms on either side) - as a result, we end up spending A LOT of time in the main room. I've tried to repurpose stuff such that we use all the furniture in that room all the time (eg: our dining table is our changing table). Still I can see a lot of clutter in the main room and its driving me mad. Any idea how to tackle this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on June 02, 2015, 08:01:55 PM
Still I can see a lot of clutter in the main room and its driving me mad. Any idea how to tackle this?
I really really really recommend starting with clothing first, following her method: find all the t-shirts (for example) in the house, and put them in a big pile. Include those that are in your car, closet, dresser, floor, laundry room, wherever. Pick up each and every one and decide if you really love it and it's in wearable condition, in the size you currently wear. Get rid of all the others. Do this for every category of clothing. Doing the clothing first really helped me move on to other categories (I'm not nearly done yet). I found clothing easier because it's so well categorized, and it's obvious when it doesn't fit or is torn/stained, or I just never wear it. Doing this first got me into the groove for moving on to more difficult things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: daymare on June 02, 2015, 08:12:54 PM
I also read the Magic of Tidying book - the author definitely came across as single-minded in her passion re: tidying (which I can respect), while also a bit kooky in a way I couldn't fully get behind, but I really enjoyed the book.  Over the last several years, I've been decluttering my belongings and trying to simplify things.  I came to know about myself that I really prefer bare (or mostly bare except a few decorative things) surfaces and space.  Like for other posters, having lots of stuff out is over-stimulating and distracting and chaotic.

We keep our bedroom and living space (small apt) relatively streamlined and bare and minimal. And yet, there's a bunch of stuff in various closets, and we don't use all of it regularly.  I went through my clothes again and filled a 13 gallon trash bag to donate to Goodwill - my clothes all basically fit in a small closet, the amount isn't excessive.  Though to be fair, a lot of my clothes are meh and don't bring me joy.  Meh.  I convinced my husband that the 2nd bedroom ('his' room) would be better if he got rid of a bookcase to create space - surprisingly, he agreed and actually went through his stuff and culled a bunch of electronics.  I definitely pushed him on getting rid of TV cables and the like (haven't had a TV in 2 years, neither of us feel a need to get one, we watch everything on our laptops anyway). But it was basically all him, and he got to re-position his desk/computer setup so he had more space.  And the bookcase we put outside on the street got snapped up within a few hours. (Yay!)

My other small victories were gathering some mini toiletries, as well as unopened office/school supplies, and a bunch of loose leaf tea that I don't drink much (all gifted - I'm a big tea drinker so theoretically it was a good gift, but I'm not picky and find the bagged tea more convenient), and donated it to a local domestic violence shelter/organization.  I also went through the 8 textbooks my husband refused to donate (8 left after he did donate a bunch) and for 6 of them, found PDFs of that or a newer edition of the book, which meant husband was fine with getting rid of the physical textbooks.  I feel somewhat crappy about illegally downloading the PDFs, but oh well.  Half are going to Goodwill, and half we'll sell for $60-70 each on Amazon.  One already sold (after being listed yesterday), as well as an old Roku I bought for my husband >3 years ago, and his old T-89 calculator.  Yay money.

I keep sporadically looking at housing in the Boston area (our endgame location, and where I grew up) and wanting to kill myself.  We'll be moving back in 3 months or 3 years, and considering buying a few years after that.  And the prices are horrible.  Not going to lie, I really want to have little stuff and be able to happily live in a 2 bedroom with 1 kid in the future.  But that's all very far away.  In the meantime, I just keep realizing how generally non-necessary and sometimes also crappy the clothes and things I've bought over the years are.  That's kinda depressing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 02, 2015, 09:11:00 PM
I keep sporadically looking at housing in the Boston area (our endgame location, and where I grew up) and wanting to kill myself.  We'll be moving back in 3 months or 3 years, and considering buying a few years after that.  And the prices are horrible.  Not going to lie, I really want to have little stuff and be able to happily live in a 2 bedroom with 1 kid in the future.  But that's all very far away.  In the meantime, I just keep realizing how generally non-necessary and sometimes also crappy the clothes and things I've bought over the years are.  That's kinda depressing.

Yeah I live in a Boston suburb.  It's bad.  We closed 1.5 years ago.  Our house has gone up in value 11% (technically as we bought w/o a realtor and negotiated for that back, it's closer to 8.5%, but either way - high).  But don't get depressed, just focus now on buying things of meaning and not crap anymore, when you do decide to buy.  I've successfully persuaded my husband to avoid buying souvenirs of our trips that clutter up our house for example.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mikhial on June 03, 2015, 06:50:35 AM
I'm a third through the Magi of Tidying audio book and I'm not terribly impressed. She is definitely an odd one. I don't think it helps that the audiobook sounds like they're trying to impersonate a computer generated voice. Thnk GLaDOS, but with less personality.

Personally, I think the main thing she's selling - to keep only things that give you joy - doesn't make sense. Not everything is made to give you joy. Most tools are just tools. Does this USB cable give me joy? No, but it takes up a small amount of space and I like to have an extra one for certain situations. A bag of screws certainly doesn't give me joy, but that bag has saved me several trips to a hardware store.

I think a big problem I have is that I'm already pretty minimal and organized so most of her advice doesn't help me. I was hoping for something that would push me to go farther, but this book hasn't. I can't say it hasn't done anything for me, though. It has given me some motivation to go through some more stuff and make another pile for donation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 03, 2015, 09:33:35 AM
Trash picked yesterday - some empty boxes. To be used to ship stuff when I sell it on ebay. Plan is to list things this week!

Edited to add cause I completely forgot:
Last weekend I needed to find a specific picture, so I go to the laptop, open the folder, and realized that I had 3000 completely unorganized pictures. (I never take pictures, that's why it's so few compared to many). I spent hours deleting duplicates, bad pictures and other ones. Down to 1300 and it's organized!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs. Pomodoro on June 03, 2015, 12:35:17 PM
i love playing "the minimalism game" where you get rid of one thing on day 1, two on day 2, all the way up to 30 on day 30.
'get rid of' could be sell, donate, give away, trash, etc.

it's a really painless way to unload 500+ items!

anything counts - a rubber band, a receipt, a bed. :)

i've played it three times (the two months before i moved last october and once again this march.)
figured i'd share, since a) i'm new, and b) it IS june 2nd, so not too late to start...

Thanks for posting this, honaras! I've read about this game on the minimalists' blog in the past but didn't think I could do it. You inspired me to actually start playing the game last night! ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on June 03, 2015, 08:54:36 PM
Just an FYI: Marie Kondo is married (contrary to previous comments) and is having a baby. It will be fun to see how parenthood inspires creative tidying and storage methods for her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: honaras on June 03, 2015, 09:31:45 PM
i love playing "the minimalism game" where you get rid of one thing on day 1, two on day 2, all the way up to 30 on day 30.
'get rid of' could be sell, donate, give away, trash, etc.

it's a really painless way to unload 500+ items!

anything counts - a rubber band, a receipt, a bed. :)

i've played it three times (the two months before i moved last october and once again this march.)
figured i'd share, since a) i'm new, and b) it IS june 2nd, so not too late to start...

Thanks for posting this, honaras! I've read about this game on the minimalists' blog in the past but didn't think I could do it. You inspired me to actually start playing the game last night! ;)

glad you were moved to start simplifying. keep us posted!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 03, 2015, 11:23:12 PM
I finally finished moving yesterday & donated/tossed more in the process: vacuum cleaner, bulky picture frame that I hate ( came with a beautiful print that I love & kept ) , lots more fabric out ( whole big bag full ) . more out most likely when I hav time to unpack . ahh, I love it . moved into a room a quite a bit smaller ( to be measured later ) & a closet half the size & feeling less cramped than previous room! Deciding what to do with glass table ( who to give it to ). Cedar chest to brother, ottoman back to coworker.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 04, 2015, 02:59:51 AM
I'm back to revisiting already decluttered spaces, and I'm glad to report there was still more to get rid of.

When I originally did the bathroom I put all of our flannels (face cloth / wash cloth whatever you want to call it) into a nice decorative box I didn't want to throw away. Now, months later, I realise I have never been into that box. I got rid of 5 flannels, and just kept a few, which fitted into a wash bag. I think I should probably go back and get rid of them all - we clearly are not flannel people. I would just hate to have to rebuy. And so I go round in circles. I'm going to get rid of them all. If I have to rebuy, oh well, at least I had all that space for all that time in between. Decision made.

Also reorganised a cabinet moving seldom used things higher up, and oft used things front and centre. Seems so obvious, don't know why I hadn't done it before (oh yeah, because there was so much crammed in there it was an avalanche if you tried to rearrange).

But I still have a long way to go before I've tamed the bathroom beast. I want all those products used up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 04, 2015, 03:24:10 AM
I've cleared out a huge pile of kitchen stuff we are getting rid of! and this is after I did a major purge already. This downsizing plan has really motivated me to only keep the essentials.

Quote
I would just hate to have to rebuy. And so I go round in circles.

The Minimalists say that they have a $20 rule. If you aren't sure if you will use it in the future and it can be repurchased for $20 or less then you should get rid of it. Chances are you'll never do that though!

My last major house purge was a little less than a year ago and I've only bought one of those metal round steamer things that goes in a pot for about $5. Everything else that I was worried about needing, I can't even remember them now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 04, 2015, 03:43:31 AM
I've cleared out a huge pile of kitchen stuff we are getting rid of! and this is after I did a major purge already. This downsizing plan has really motivated me to only keep the essentials.

Quote
I would just hate to have to rebuy. And so I go round in circles.

The Minimalists say that they have a $20 rule. If you aren't sure if you will use it in the future and it can be repurchased for $20 or less then you should get rid of it. Chances are you'll never do that though!

My last major house purge was a little less than a year ago and I've only bought one of those metal round steamer things that goes in a pot for about $5. Everything else that I was worried about needing, I can't even remember them now!

Thanks Cookie, a rule is really helpful to me, I'm going to adopt that one. With most things I'm now happy to 'let Ebay' store it, but facecloths not so much. But you're right, they could be rebought cheaply if the need ever did arise. Out they go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on June 04, 2015, 04:58:17 AM
Haven't decluttered much lately, but I gave 3 books to charity today. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: crujonez on June 04, 2015, 05:33:12 AM
I just sold my house i lived in for 13 years. Me and my wife are taking time off work and using our inlaws as home base so I have had to declutter in order to show the house well to sell it and now must get rid of a lot of stuff and pack everything into a PODS container. It has been overwhelming to say the least
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on June 04, 2015, 05:59:06 AM

Personally, I think the main thing she's selling - to keep only things that give you joy - doesn't make sense. Not everything is made to give you joy. Most tools are just tools. Does this USB cable give me joy? No, but it takes up a small amount of space and I like to have an extra one for certain situations. A bag of screws certainly doesn't give me joy, but that bag has saved me several trips to a hardware store.

I think the quirkyness is part culture, though.

And after hearing the whole book I would perhaps sum up my impression of her aproach thus: she puts weight in the fact that tidying is emotional, not logical. Anyone may sit down, make a list of "things I need" and then toss all else. It's as simple as making a grosery list (though more timeconsuming). Yet we don't do that.

She nods to usefull things that doesn't bring "joy", and then debates if that item, be it a screw, cord or box is of use. Do you keep it "in case" and have for 3 years with no use? Is it easy to get your hands on? Pass it on. To get use out of something is a form of joy to her. My pots and pan doesn't "spark joy" when I hold them. They're old and battered. But they DO help me make many culinary joys. That tray I never use on the other hand, never brings me joy of any sort and so I gave that one away. It's a, to me, new yet very effective way to think.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on June 04, 2015, 06:16:54 AM
The Minimalists say that they have a $20 rule. If you aren't sure if you will use it in the future and it can be repurchased for $20 or less then you should get rid of it. Chances are you'll never do that though!

I follow this rule. I got rid of hundreds of dollars of computer parts... but by the time I did that, the parts were either outdated, or were cheap enough that I could buy another one for $15 if I needed to.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on June 04, 2015, 06:48:06 AM
The Minimalists say that they have a $20 rule. If you aren't sure if you will use it in the future and it can be repurchased for $20 or less then you should get rid of it. Chances are you'll never do that though!
Thanks for sharing this rule, it's something I've been having trouble with - deciding whether to get rid of extras I've got in case I need them later if something breaks. This is a big one in our kitchen - excess casserole dishes, cookie sheets, cutting boards and so on that we might need some day when one wears out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on June 04, 2015, 07:49:14 AM
The rule I've read of is the 20/20 rule, which does not only factor in money but also time: any item that you can get within 20 minutes and for less than $20 you don't need to keep 'just in case'
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 04, 2015, 08:44:49 AM
The rule I've read of is the 20/20 rule, which does not only factor in money but also time: any item that you can get within 20 minutes and for less than $20 you don't need to keep 'just in case'

Don't ruin it for me! I live in the country!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on June 04, 2015, 09:09:54 AM
You can replace the 20 minute part by 'can be found online' / 'borrowed from neighbours' etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on June 04, 2015, 09:11:26 AM
Don't ruin it for me! I live in the country!
LOL that was my first thought too, nothing I can get within 20 minutes! I like the rule but will adjust it to anything less than $20 that I can get either online or within an hour drive of home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 04, 2015, 09:15:47 AM
You can replace the 20 minute part by 'can be found online' / 'borrowed from neighbours' etc.

That's good. 'Located and ordered within 20 mins' will do me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 04, 2015, 10:31:26 AM
http://www.theminimalists.com/21days/

This approach is too minimalist for me at this time , I hav a lot of art/sewing projects I don't work on every week. But I thought someone reading the thread might be into a more "logical" (keeping what you really use) approach. Found it ( and other articles ) on this site interesting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on June 04, 2015, 10:48:08 AM
Just brought a few more items to the consignment store and collected a check for $50+.  There were 3 dresses in the batch that had a lot of meaning for me and it was hard to let them go.  But they are now 2 sizes too small so I will never wear them again.  I said goodbye and thank you to them following the Konmarie method and that made it easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on June 04, 2015, 11:59:02 AM
The only thing I've gotten from the book is a way to fold (which is awesome). Other things I do relating to the book are more properly relegated to this thread, as opposed to the book itself. Kondo's leanings don't quite get me all excited, but I think that some of the stuff people have commented recently made me a bit concerned.


Personally, I think the main thing she's selling - to keep only things that give you joy - doesn't make sense. Not everything is made to give you joy. Most tools are just tools. Does this USB cable give me joy? No, but it takes up a small amount of space and I like to have an extra one for certain situations. A bag of screws certainly doesn't give me joy, but that bag has saved me several trips to a hardware store.

I think the quirkyness is part culture, though.

And after hearing the whole book I would perhaps sum up my impression of her aproach thus: she puts weight in the fact that tidying is emotional, not logical. Anyone may sit down, make a list of "things I need" and then toss all else. It's as simple as making a grosery list (though more timeconsuming). Yet we don't do that.

She nods to usefull things that doesn't bring "joy", and then debates if that item, be it a screw, cord or box is of use. Do you keep it "in case" and have for 3 years with no use? Is it easy to get your hands on? Pass it on. To get use out of something is a form of joy to her. My pots and pan doesn't "spark joy" when I hold them. They're old and battered. But they DO help me make many culinary joys. That tray I never use on the other hand, never brings me joy of any sort and so I gave that one away. It's a, to me, new yet very effective way to think.
I totally understand about the "sparking joy" issue. Very few of my items spark joy, but I do use them a lot. 

I've taken away that I need to do an entire subsection in a day.  I made so much progress with my clothing (which is the only thing I've used for the KonMari method to do) in a short period of time.  It was also helpful to have a list, finish the entire process (no breaks), and reap the benefits so quickly.  I'm planning to do books with my husband this weekend. 

Some of Marie Kondo's terminology and tendencies (greeting houses) is bizarre.  However, the bigger picture of reducing possessions and not hoarding them in storage containers speaks to me. 

It is part culture, and part her religion. The idea that stuff does hold our energy is interesting, and translates well to decluttering.

However, I will say that 'sparking joy' is an interesting way of looking at things. If a USB cable that you use all the time doesn't spark joy, why do you use it? Every time I plug it in, I tend to think of all the awesomeness that goes with it. There is somewhere where coal, nuclear, or wind is harnessed (and I do prefer wind) that then sends all that electricity down the wires to me. It then goes into a battery that stores that, whether it be my remote re-charger, my laptop, or my UPS's (which runs my servers). Thinking about all that does spark joy in me. I shifted my thinking and reclaimed the whole sparking joy thing. It wasn't religiously based as Kondo's bit, but still...

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mikhial on June 04, 2015, 12:30:51 PM
I have a question for those of you selling some of your stuff: what's your go-to answer when someone asks "What's the lowest price you'll take?" I absolutely HATE that question and I get it with almost everything I put up for sale. Someone even asked me that about my house! Luckily I could honestly answer that DH and I hadn't actually talked about our bottom dollar yet so we didn't know.

I don't really care about getting the best price for my stuff, I mostly just want it gone, but that question makes me want to scream and not even deal with the person at all

It's quite possibly one of the worst questions to ask. I'm not going to tell you what the lowest I'd take for it. So now how are you going to negotiate me down from this price that's supposed to be the lowest I can go?

I usually am either really firm with these people or don't respond to them at all. The people who try and get the lowest deals are also the people who flake out the most often.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on June 04, 2015, 12:31:10 PM
I have a question for those of you selling some of your stuff: what's your go-to answer when someone asks "What's the lowest price you'll take?" I absolutely HATE that question and I get it with almost everything I put up for sale. Someone even asked me that about my house! Luckily I could honestly answer that DH and I hadn't actually talked about our bottom dollar yet so we didn't know.

I don't really care about getting the best price for my stuff, I mostly just want it gone, but that question makes me want to scream and not even deal with the person at all

I would just respond with a number I'm willing to accept but not my absolute lowest.  Say, I have an item listed for $60 but would let it go for $40, I would probably respond with $50.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 04, 2015, 01:08:15 PM
I usually give a bit above my lowest number and stick to it. Once they ask that question and I give the number, its either take it or leave it. No more bargaining. Also, for stuff I put in craigslist or Facebook, I've usually given the list price as my lowest number. There is a reason I put the price up with my posting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 04, 2015, 01:31:32 PM
Well put, jordanread!

From Kondo's AMA:
"What about keeping objects that don't spark joy but that I don't want to spend money or time replacing right now and which are still helpful - for example a computer, a mattress, a toothbrush...

Those things are helping you every single day. So you should appreciate how they are contributing to your life. Change the relationship with those items, by appreciating their contributions to your life."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 04, 2015, 01:50:14 PM
I have a question for those of you selling some of your stuff: what's your go-to answer when someone asks "What's the lowest price you'll take?" I absolutely HATE that question and I get it with almost everything I put up for sale. Someone even asked me that about my house! Luckily I could honestly answer that DH and I hadn't actually talked about our bottom dollar yet so we didn't know.

I don't really care about getting the best price for my stuff, I mostly just want it gone, but that question makes me want to scream and not even deal with the person at all

It's quite possibly one of the worst questions to ask. I'm not going to tell you what the lowest I'd take for it. So now how are you going to negotiate me down from this price that's supposed to be the lowest I can go?

I usually am either really firm with these people or don't respond to them at all. The people who try and get the lowest deals are also the people who flake out the most often.

Never negotiate against yourself.  "Well, I was looking to get $X (price listed).  I'm willing to consider other offers, however, I thought was $X reasonable based on [facts - age, condition of item, interest...]." 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on June 04, 2015, 01:51:22 PM
Well put, jordanread!

From Kondo's AMA:
"What about keeping objects that don't spark joy but that I don't want to spend money or time replacing right now and which are still helpful - for example a computer, a mattress, a toothbrush...

Those things are helping you every single day. So you should appreciate how they are contributing to your life. Change the relationship with those items, by appreciating their contributions to your life."
Thanks for letting me know there was an AMA.  https://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/2u7yet/i_am_marie_kondo_international_tidying_expert_and/ (https://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/2u7yet/i_am_marie_kondo_international_tidying_expert_and/)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 04, 2015, 02:09:53 PM
I have a question for those of you selling some of your stuff: what's your go-to answer when someone asks "What's the lowest price you'll take?" I absolutely HATE that question and I get it with almost everything I put up for sale. Someone even asked me that about my house! Luckily I could honestly answer that DH and I hadn't actually talked about our bottom dollar yet so we didn't know.

I don't really care about getting the best price for my stuff, I mostly just want it gone, but that question makes me want to scream and not even deal with the person at all

It's quite possibly one of the worst questions to ask. I'm not going to tell you what the lowest I'd take for it. So now how are you going to negotiate me down from this price that's supposed to be the lowest I can go?

I usually am either really firm with these people or don't respond to them at all. The people who try and get the lowest deals are also the people who flake out the most often.

Never negotiate against yourself.  "Well, I was looking to get $X (price listed).  I'm willing to consider other offers, however, I thought was $X reasonable based on [facts - age, condition of item, interest...]."
Oooh, I like this one, thanks! I never wanted to give out an amount so I usually do something along the lines of "I don't know, what's the most you're willing to offer?"
Once I (as light heartedly as I could through text) said "I really hate that question. Make me an offer and I'll let you know if it's too low" and she replied "I really hate making offers" and didn't make one (luckily I got full price for the item a couple of days later)

Happy to help.  Took a negotiating class a while back and learned a lot, but the best takeaway was simply to just try negotiating and practice everywhere.

If they push you, you can even be honest.  "This is awkward for me because I already put my offer on the table and I don't want to negotiate against myself.  What's the highest amount you would pay?"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 04, 2015, 02:12:57 PM
I have a question for those of you selling some of your stuff: what's your go-to answer when someone asks "What's the lowest price you'll take?" I absolutely HATE that question and I get it with almost everything I put up for sale. Someone even asked me that about my house! Luckily I could honestly answer that DH and I hadn't actually talked about our bottom dollar yet so we didn't know.

I don't really care about getting the best price for my stuff, I mostly just want it gone, but that question makes me want to scream and not even deal with the person at all

I say to those types " make me an offer. "
If it sounds good to me, sold. If not , the haggling begins.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 04, 2015, 02:14:44 PM
I have a question for those of you selling some of your stuff: what's your go-to answer when someone asks "What's the lowest price you'll take?" I absolutely HATE that question and I get it with almost everything I put up for sale. Someone even asked me that about my house! Luckily I could honestly answer that DH and I hadn't actually talked about our bottom dollar yet so we didn't know.

I don't really care about getting the best price for my stuff, I mostly just want it gone, but that question makes me want to scream and not even deal with the person at all

I say to those types " make me an offer. "
If it sounds good to me, sold. If not , the haggling begins.

& sometimes I want to hold a price firm . but usu will price something slightly higher to make around the desired amount .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on June 04, 2015, 07:20:12 PM
Not the typical decluttering, but I decluttered my phone contact list this week. Just because I need someone's number for that project in uni, does NOT mean I need it forever.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 05, 2015, 04:06:33 AM
I was momentarily annoyed by my decluttering last night when I went to find something that used to live 'out' on a windowsill and it wasn't there. I glanced in the logical cupboard, and could see it wasn't there. Looked in the next logical cupboard - there it is!

It took all of 20 seconds to locate and proved that stuff does not need to live out in the open for me to know where it is. And my windowsill does look lovely all empty and clean.

Also, I was amazed that there was lots of empty space in the second place I looked - I don't even remember what used to be in there!

(I forgot to get rid of the extra washcloths though, must remember to do that tonight).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on June 05, 2015, 06:03:37 AM
I got rid of two glass candle holders yesterday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: snogirl on June 05, 2015, 07:27:06 AM
i love playing "the minimalism game" where you get rid of one thing on day 1, two on day 2, all the way up to 30 on day 30.
'get rid of' could be sell, donate, give away, trash, etc.

it's a really painless way to unload 500+ items!

anything counts - a rubber band, a receipt, a bed. :)

i've played it three times (the two months before i moved last october and once again this march.)
figured i'd share, since a) i'm new, and b) it IS june 2nd, so not too late to start...

I did The Minimalist Game in May 2014 with two friends. 
It was great & we had so much fun sending each other pictures of what we got rid of.
Since then, I literally have gotten rid of 80% of my junk.
Getting rid of that junk has helped pay off all my face punch debt & pay for new replacement windows in cash.
Those two guys & their game transformed my life & led me to MMM.
Very cool you did it too (and are doing now).  I could use another round.
I sold a Home Theater System that had been set up in 2 years (no TV or cable) & a AC last Friday. $150 into EF.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on June 05, 2015, 09:06:42 AM
I went through a ton of my sewing supplies last night and got rid of several bags of junk - weird bits of fabric, crappy thread that people have given to me that's unusable in my machine, patterns I'll never make or made and disliked. It's great - now that it's been pared down to a manageable level, it's way easier to focus on some of the projects I want to do since I know exactly what I have and don't have. I cut out a shirt pattern last night and will sew it today. More fabric gone!

Also my old giant blender that was starting to leak, replaced with a small modern one that's easy to clean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 06, 2015, 12:00:12 AM
Hung out with my grandma today and we found 4 bags of books and magazines to donate:) . she still has lots, but progress for sure
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 06, 2015, 09:28:32 AM
I went through a ton of my sewing supplies last night and got rid of several bags of junk - weird bits of fabric, crappy thread that people have given to me that's unusable in my machine, patterns I'll never make or made and disliked. It's great - now that it's been pared down to a manageable level, it's way easier to focus on some of the projects I want to do since I know exactly what I have and don't have. I cut out a shirt pattern last night and will sew it today. More fabric gone!

Also my old giant blender that was starting to leak, replaced with a small modern one that's easy to clean.

I've also been through my stash again. Realised some of my jersey scraps were the perfect size / weight for underwear (sorry, TMI, but yes, I made my own undies!), so I will cut those out today. Also found a piece of fabric which was left over and is the perfect thing to test a new pattern on. It only fitted on the fabric by reducing the seam allowances, but that makes it even better because I will truly only have little scrappy scraps left (and 5/8th is excessive anyway IMO). I have a lovely piece of viscose challis for the final run but wanted to test the fit first.

And I just hand-rolled a piece of scrap silk into a scarf, so that is one gift for someone sorted! I usually dislike handsewing, but I found it super relaxing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 06, 2015, 12:52:43 PM
I had to go to the mall with friends. And fought the urge to not buy anything..... And succeeded! Usually I buy something during sales. But today I just didn't even though I was sorely tempted. I was thinking where I'll use each item that tempted me and couldn't come up with a good answer. I'm surprised and happy about my mindset now. Can't wait to clear more from my home and look for the change in mindset.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on June 06, 2015, 03:52:19 PM
I finally got the energy to start tackling the piles of paperwork last night. I found all my pay stubs since 2006, visa bills from cards I no longer own, and utility bills from houses I no longer live in! I threw out a lot, and since I don't have a shredder I started a little fire in my fire pit this morning and burned all the ones that should be shredded. :)

Feels great. I hope I can keep the motivation and use it to tackle paperwork: part 2.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on June 07, 2015, 05:54:06 AM
Mom had a broken serger (specialty sewing machine) at her house more than ten years with intention of taking to the shop.  I moved it here 9 months ago.  This weekend I fixed it.  Guilt ridden clutter became a useful tool.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: roadtrippers on June 07, 2015, 06:50:53 AM
Hi all--
I've been lurking for a while, but this is my first post. I cleared out 2 garbage bags of clothes from my closet to bring to Savers today. Still a long way to go, but it's a start!

I haven't read all 38 pages of this thread(!) but I wonder if Moustachians are familiar with itsdeductible. It's an offshoot of Turbotax where you can enter your deductions all year long and then import them into TT if you use it (no product kickback for me in this endorsement). I love it because it gives me a value for clothes WAY beyond what I would have estimated, and sometimes even more than what I paid originally (ie a camisole in very good condition is worth 13.00 donated). Knowing that I will get a tax writeoff for my stuff takes away some of the remorse over buying it in the first place. Hope this helps someone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 07, 2015, 07:45:09 AM
Hi all--
I've been lurking for a while, but this is my first post. I cleared out 2 garbage bags of clothes from my closet to bring to Savers today. Still a long way to go, but it's a start!

I haven't read all 38 pages of this thread(!) but I wonder if Moustachians are familiar with itsdeductible. It's an offshoot of Turbotax where you can enter your deductions all year long and then import them into TT if you use it (no product kickback for me in this endorsement). I love it because it gives me a value for clothes WAY beyond what I would have estimated, and sometimes even more than what I paid originally (ie a camisole in very good condition is worth 13.00 donated). Knowing that I will get a tax writeoff for my stuff takes away some of the remorse over buying it in the first place. Hope this helps someone!


Thank u so much for the recommendation! I will check it out now. Sounds much more convenient than added up all my receipts at the end of the year- o my
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on June 07, 2015, 04:55:49 PM
Inline skates and old bike helmet went to Goodwill today.  Tried the skates on ebay a few times but no bites.  It's one of those things that the tax deduction it almost worth as much as what I'd make selling them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on June 07, 2015, 06:55:59 PM
Cleaned out our book collection using the KonMari Method.  We still have way too many books, but we donated over 50 books today.  We also cleared out an entire bookshelf!  The bookshelf has already been disassembled. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 07, 2015, 09:57:24 PM
Cleaned out our book collection using the KonMari Method.  We still have way too many books, but we donated over 50 books today.  We also cleared out an entire bookshelf!  The bookshelf has already been disassembled.

Excellent progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on June 08, 2015, 12:58:42 AM
I found two packages of diapers that are too small for our baby now and put them on craigslist for half the price. We are still thinking abou having a second one but im not keeping the diapers around for that long. We also moved the baby bed downstairs as she moved into her own room last weekend. So much more space now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on June 08, 2015, 01:12:42 AM
I threw out some old information documents (about a health condition that I have). I have 3 nail polishes that I will give away at work tomorrow. We also gave some cat toys to a kitten rescue group because our cats had never played with those particular toys.

I really need to do some filing (and associated culling of paper) but have been running a fever and didn't feel up to it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 08, 2015, 03:21:55 AM
Today I got rid of random toiletries we can't use because of sensitive skin, a cutting board, a sweater, and a whiteboard. Tomorrow I will go through my crafting box. I plan to donate most of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on June 08, 2015, 03:33:34 AM
Got rid of a small shopping bag of "stuff" over the weekend. Even though the quantity was small it feels like a win because it was in my sentimental box that I rarely open so anything I can do to reduce the size is good. When I moved house I chucked a lot of "useful" but not sentimental stuff in there. Needless to say very little of it has seen the light of day since I moved a year ago so it was good to send some of it away. I have also given away a bread maker (rarely used as the bread doesn't freeze well and I live at alone) to my mum to replace hers that broke. So I saved her money and reclaimed about an eigth of my tiny kitchen cupboard space back. I also sorted the bathroom cupboards to identify what I already have and tossed some out of date medication :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on June 08, 2015, 03:53:17 AM
Attended a nice cycling event on saturday, and got the inevitable goody bag.
Some nice items in it, but some I know I will never use.

Put those items on a local giveaway facebook group immediately, they will be picked up tonight. Good riddance!

To do next time: refuse the goody bag.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 08, 2015, 05:13:19 AM
Attended a nice cycling event on saturday, and got the inevitable goody bag.
Some nice items in it, but some I know I will never use.

Put those items on a local giveaway facebook group immediately, they will be picked up tonight. Good riddance!

To do next time: refuse the goody bag.

I find it hard to refuse free stuff... but then I feel guilty for getting rid of it when it's useless.  I did decline a carrier bag for something I bought earlier that would easily fit in my handbag. Baby steps!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 08, 2015, 11:42:12 AM
Acquired several free books- to be donated of course immediately after reading. Heavy reader here
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on June 08, 2015, 01:23:27 PM
Acquired several free books- to be donated of course immediately after reading. Heavy reader here

My parents had (and still have) a vast home library; I wanted one when I grew up.  Plus, growing up in the countryside, miles from the nearest library and images like this


(https://omniverousreader.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/henry-higgins-library1.jpg)



and this

(http://fillthewell.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/beauty-and-the-beast-library.jpg)

really ingrained in me that I need to be surrounded by books everywhere, as a means of self-sufficiency.  I'm still struggling with what should be my rules for the books.

So far this has been a good rule for me: If I'm treating the books as if they are museum treasures, and not reading them, they have to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 08, 2015, 01:27:47 PM
So far this has been a good rule for me: If I'm treating the books as if they are museum treasures, and not reading them, they have to go.

Love the visuals :)

I agree that's a good rule, except w/r/t one book - an 1800s copy of a Grimm's fairytales I own from my grandfather.  Not worthy of selling (as I did actually read it ~age 16-20 when I got it from my grandfather and despite my extreme care, the pages fell apart), but sufficient sentiment that I will keep it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on June 08, 2015, 02:30:09 PM
Threw out a bagful of various "stuff" found in my bathroom cabinets that I was holding on to for some reason.  Eyelash curler that hasn't been used in at least 7 years, anyone?  How about 10 year old skin toner?  Or that temporary hair color my DD bought several years ago that I thought I would try (haven't colored my hair in almost 5 years...)???  And this was the second pass through these cabinets and drawers after a purge a couple of months ago.  It's almost as if some stuff becomes invisible after sitting there for such a long time - I gloss over it when I open the cabinet.  I really need to KonMari these drawers and the cabinet.  Take everything out and pick up each item and decide if I still need it.  Maybe tonight.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on June 08, 2015, 02:31:46 PM
Threw out a bagful of various "stuff" found in my bathroom cabinets that I was holding on to for some reason.  Eyelash curler that hasn't been used in at least 7 years, anyone?  How about 10 year old skin toner?  Or that temporary hair color my DD bought several years ago that I thought I would try (haven't colored my hair in almost 5 years...)???  And this was the second pass through these cabinets and drawers after a purge a couple of months ago.  It's almost as if some stuff becomes invisible after sitting there for such a long time - I gloss over it when I open the cabinet.  I really need to KonMari these drawers and the cabinet.  Take everything out and pick up each item and decide if I still need it.  Maybe tonight.
Good luck with the drawers and cabinet!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on June 08, 2015, 04:12:02 PM
For the last 6 years my job (social worker) has had a very casual dress code, but I've held on to some office clothes from my corporate days.

For the last 5 weeks I've been on a secondment where more formal clothing is required, and I've learnt that a) I have enough clothes in my regular wardrobe to put together a nice office look short term, b) I have no desire to move back into an office role c) most of the clothes I had put aside either no longer fit well or aren't my style.

So, out they go! Including my only suit.

We also participated in the all-town garage sale last weekend and made some cash to put towards our fruit trees. Still need to take the leftovers to the thrift store though :/


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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 09, 2015, 04:36:38 AM
Zizi, I definitely think items don invisibility cloaks during clean ups. It's always the strangest items too.

Nice work, goodlife! I like to think that when I RE I'll burn my office clothes in a FIRE pit. Pretty sure I'll wash, fold, and deliver them to Goodwill, but it's a nice thought. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on June 09, 2015, 06:37:38 AM
I have two packages of diapers that are too small for my daughter. Listed them for half the retail price on the local craigslist and people ask if they can pick them up but then dont respond anymore. Im frustrated right now as one woman emailed me five times now asking for different times when I was clear that Im working during the day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on June 09, 2015, 07:15:09 AM
Did another sweep through the bathroom cabinets last night.  Threw out a few more items and gathered things that can be used up  like half empty bottles of shampoo or body wash.  These I put in places where I will use them.  I am feeling much better even though I still kept some questionable things that probably should be thrown out eventually.

Also started purging papers this morning while I was transferring some files to a new computer.

Question: how long do I need to hold on to these types of papers:
- confirmation of final student loan payoff from over 10 years ago
- purchase and sale paperwork for a house (bought in 2003 sold in 2012)
- information relating to a 401k that I rolled over to an IRA 5 years ago
- car accident paperwork that ended up in a lawsuit (settled by the insurance co) more than 10 years ago

I've been keeping them in case questions arise relating to them but it seems that at some point they should be thrown out?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on June 09, 2015, 07:17:59 AM
I just cleaned the inside of my kitchen cupboards and found some wheat noodles that need to be used up.

I forgot I had bought some mini pizza bases which I will be using this week as I have fresh tomatoes that could be used to make a pizza topping.

I decided I am going to go through my clothes again and see what I haven't worn that can go to a charity shop or if it's tatty to clothing recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 09, 2015, 08:40:41 AM
Did another sweep through the bathroom cabinets last night.  Threw out a few more items and gathered things that can be used up  like half empty bottles of shampoo or body wash.  These I put in places where I will use them.  I am feeling much better even though I still kept some questionable things that probably should be thrown out eventually.

Also started purging papers this morning while I was transferring some files to a new computer.

Question: how long do I need to hold on to these types of papers:
- confirmation of final student loan payoff from over 10 years ago
- purchase and sale paperwork for a house (bought in 2003 sold in 2012)
- information relating to a 401k that I rolled over to an IRA 5 years ago
- car accident paperwork that ended up in a lawsuit (settled by the insurance co) more than 10 years ago

I've been keeping them in case questions arise relating to them but it seems that at some point they should be thrown out?

For peace of mind would you be able to scan them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mleigh on June 09, 2015, 09:05:18 AM
Did another sweep through the bathroom cabinets last night.  Threw out a few more items and gathered things that can be used up  like half empty bottles of shampoo or body wash.  These I put in places where I will use them.  I am feeling much better even though I still kept some questionable things that probably should be thrown out eventually.

Also started purging papers this morning while I was transferring some files to a new computer.

Question: how long do I need to hold on to these types of papers:
- confirmation of final student loan payoff from over 10 years ago
- purchase and sale paperwork for a house (bought in 2003 sold in 2012)
- information relating to a 401k that I rolled over to an IRA 5 years ago
- car accident paperwork that ended up in a lawsuit (settled by the insurance co) more than 10 years ago

I've been keeping them in case questions arise relating to them but it seems that at some point they should be thrown out?

Car accident statute of limitations is certainly up, so there's no reason to keep that anymore.  The house information is likely on record with your county recorder, so there's no need for you to keep it.  Final student loan payoff I'd keep.  I'd double check that the 401(K) is included in the IRA papers and then shred that, too. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bardo on June 09, 2015, 11:50:43 AM
So far this has been a good rule for me: If I'm treating the books as if they are museum treasures, and not reading them, they have to go.

Love the visuals :)

I agree that's a good rule, except w/r/t one book - an 1800s copy of a Grimm's fairytales I own from my grandfather.  Not worthy of selling (as I did actually read it ~age 16-20 when I got it from my grandfather and despite my extreme care, the pages fell apart), but sufficient sentiment that I will keep it!

The pictures remind me of the house I grew up in.  I think a lot of people struggle with keeping books.  I've been able to keep my book acquisition habit reasonably under control by being limited to three bookcases that were a gift when I was young.  Since then I have never gone beyond the bookcase limit, which has meant tossing a lot of books over time as I got new ones.  What is left are a lot of ones I look at again and again, and the bookcases aren't full.  Also I reread old ones regularly, and now just utilize the library.  So while I do still have more books than I might like, I don't feel out-of-control about it either.  I'm certainly not going to toss them all just for the sake of it.





Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 09, 2015, 12:37:51 PM
So far this has been a good rule for me: If I'm treating the books as if they are museum treasures, and not reading them, they have to go.

Love the visuals :)

I agree that's a good rule, except w/r/t one book - an 1800s copy of a Grimm's fairytales I own from my grandfather.  Not worthy of selling (as I did actually read it ~age 16-20 when I got it from my grandfather and despite my extreme care, the pages fell apart), but sufficient sentiment that I will keep it!

The pictures remind me of the house I grew up in.  I think a lot of people struggle with keeping books.  I've been able to keep my book acquisition habit reasonably under control by being limited to three bookcases that were a gift when I was young.  Since then I have never gone beyond the bookcase limit, which has meant tossing a lot of books over time as I got new ones.  What is left are a lot of ones I look at again and again, and the bookcases aren't full.  Also I reread old ones regularly, and now just utilize the library.  So while I do still have more books than I might like, I don't feel out-of-control about it either.  I'm certainly not going to toss them all just for the sake of it.

I think the difference b/w a lot of people here is how often you reread your books.  I reread mine and I also read fast.  Not every one gets read every year, but some get reread multiple times, and some might be more on a 3 year reread schedule.  I'm ok with this.  Given by my appreciation of the visual - to me, it's décor, not clutter.  To another, it'd be clutter (but something they have I'd consider clutter).  I have enough clutter clutter to work on for now!
Did another sweep through the bathroom cabinets last night.  Threw out a few more items and gathered things that can be used up  like half empty bottles of shampoo or body wash.  These I put in places where I will use them.  I am feeling much better even though I still kept some questionable things that probably should be thrown out eventually.

Also started purging papers this morning while I was transferring some files to a new computer.

Question: how long do I need to hold on to these types of papers:
- confirmation of final student loan payoff from over 10 years ago
- purchase and sale paperwork for a house (bought in 2003 sold in 2012)
- information relating to a 401k that I rolled over to an IRA 5 years ago
- car accident paperwork that ended up in a lawsuit (settled by the insurance co) more than 10 years ago

I've been keeping them in case questions arise relating to them but it seems that at some point they should be thrown out?

I believe you are to hold onto tax paperwork related to houses for 7 years.  Maybe use that as a guideline?  I would keep it plus the loan payoff (but perhaps scan it).  The other two I'd toss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 09, 2015, 07:02:05 PM
Droopy pants and blazer out ( keeping the skirt ) .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on June 09, 2015, 10:08:00 PM
Worked through some more piles of paperwork today. Tossed out (rather, put in the 'to shred' pile) tax returns from 1997 to 2007. Got rid of my jr high and high school report cards, and post-secondary records. I had no idea I still had them! There were account statements of all sorts from accounts I no longer have. After about 2 hours I neared the end of the pile the paperwork and they became more recent and it wasn't as easy to know what I needed to keep, so I stopped for the day. There is still a full filing cabinet drawer and 3 small piles to go, but I feel like I made great progress the last coupe days. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on June 10, 2015, 01:38:35 AM
Took out the full content of my wardrobe last night. I keep it down and managed (I toss out clothes I don't wear/that's worn out regularly) but still ended up with 1 bag of donatable items, 1/2 a bag for fabric reuse and 1/4 bag of junk. And to be honest: I didn't sort through the summer clothes. Summer is so long ago I can't remember what I like to wear. It's just 2 tiny piles, though. Will sort through it in fall.

I don't like to actually send anything to be incinerated unless it has absolutely no use, so I love the fact that they have started re-using fabric. Makes fleeze and blankets, I'm told. Also makes me not feel guilty about getting rid of things.

Will try to take a small pile of items to my used things store this weekend. And then try to sell some old movies and games I never use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on June 10, 2015, 01:53:16 AM
Thanks Nancy, love the idea of a FIRE pit for ceremonial corporate clothes burning!

I moved a few months ago and combined households with my partner. On the weekend we dragged a whole pile of boxes in from the shed to sort and unpack (doing this in stages as we're renovating and not all rooms are useable). It's cold here and I'm not really in the mood but I am DETERMINED to get through a few tonight with a cup of hot tea and some trashy TV. I WILL do it! 


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on June 10, 2015, 09:04:19 AM
FINALLY recycled an old iphone that belonged to an ex who had wanted to throw it out. This was probably two years ago!! Dropped it off to Best Buy. Also getting ready to soon finally bring some household stuff to Housing Works and another small batch of books (once I cull them) to re-sell/fund a father's day gift. And I avoided taking two pairs of high heels in my size that were out in my neighborhood recently--I was interested but would never actually wear them. Previously I'd never hesitate!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: expectopatronum on June 10, 2015, 09:43:52 AM
I'm a third through the Magi of Tidying audio book and I'm not terribly impressed. She is definitely an odd one. I don't think it helps that the audiobook sounds like they're trying to impersonate a computer generated voice. Thnk GLaDOS, but with less personality.

Personally, I think the main thing she's selling - to keep only things that give you joy - doesn't make sense. Not everything is made to give you joy. Most tools are just tools. Does this USB cable give me joy? No, but it takes up a small amount of space and I like to have an extra one for certain situations. A bag of screws certainly doesn't give me joy, but that bag has saved me several trips to a hardware store.

I think a big problem I have is that I'm already pretty minimal and organized so most of her advice doesn't help me. I was hoping for something that would push me to go farther, but this book hasn't. I can't say it hasn't done anything for me, though. It has given me some motivation to go through some more stuff and make another pile for donation.

I've got this on request at the library and can't wait to actually read the book. It's not something I want to pay for as I think once you have the principles down, you're set...it's not like a fiction novel where you can re-read it over and over. (Or maybe I'm the only one who's read Harry Potter 7 a zillion times?)

I've only read news articles and blogs on it to glean the basic premise, and so far I like it a LOT. My problem is, I was hanging onto a lot more old stuff than I thought, some of which I didn't like anymore or need since I now live with my husband. I thought I was pretty minimal having just moved from an apt, but turns out I was porting tons of crap I didn't use from place to place with every move.

I view the things that are mostly utility (cables, that kind of thing) as "bringing me joy" in the sense that they are allowing me to fulfill a certain function. I wonder how much of that is lost in translation, since joy isn't the word I'd use to describe our mop or our toilet bowl cleaners, haha. Another valuable thing it's done for me is to just reduce my consumerism for eco-reasons. Where is this thing going to go? Is it really worth it? Vs before, when all I really thought about was if it was worth the temporary happiness, despite MMM's admonishing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on June 10, 2015, 12:44:02 PM
This is an electronic one - we moved house last year and sold it a couple of months ago. I went through my credit union online bill payee list and deleted any related to the old house that I would never have to pay anymore. Makes things simpler as two utility companies were the same as we only moved 17 miles closer to my work, just different account numbers. I hadn't mixed them up, but this makes sure I won't.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 10, 2015, 12:56:43 PM
So far this has been a good rule for me: If I'm treating the books as if they are museum treasures, and not reading them, they have to go.

Love the visuals :)

I agree that's a good rule, except w/r/t one book - an 1800s copy of a Grimm's fairytales I own from my grandfather.  Not worthy of selling (as I did actually read it ~age 16-20 when I got it from my grandfather and despite my extreme care, the pages fell apart), but sufficient sentiment that I will keep it!

+1 on the pictures :)

I too have a book problem. My solution has been to severely limit the number of books I buy. I have a set amount of space for books, and that isn't changing. However, I am a re-reader. Books like I like and re-read, I'm fine owning. Books that I need for reference (Joy of Cooking, etc) I'll keep. Beyond that, if I won't re-read it, then I shouldn't keep it. Of course, the purges only happen when I run out of space...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 10, 2015, 12:59:10 PM
Did another sweep through the bathroom cabinets last night.  Threw out a few more items and gathered things that can be used up  like half empty bottles of shampoo or body wash.  These I put in places where I will use them.  I am feeling much better even though I still kept some questionable things that probably should be thrown out eventually.

Also started purging papers this morning while I was transferring some files to a new computer.

Question: how long do I need to hold on to these types of papers:
- confirmation of final student loan payoff from over 10 years ago
- purchase and sale paperwork for a house (bought in 2003 sold in 2012)
- information relating to a 401k that I rolled over to an IRA 5 years ago
- car accident paperwork that ended up in a lawsuit (settled by the insurance co) more than 10 years ago

I've been keeping them in case questions arise relating to them but it seems that at some point they should be thrown out?

Personally, I'd toss or shred all of those items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on June 10, 2015, 02:00:18 PM
Thanks to all who responded to my questions about retention of paperwork.

I will shred the accident and 401k paperwork, file house paperwork with the tax returns for the year of sale and scan the loan payoff confirmation.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Hot_AZ on June 10, 2015, 02:16:38 PM
Last night I sold 2 bulky photography props I have.  2 less things to move and $35 in my pocket :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 10, 2015, 03:14:59 PM
I cleaned out my craft/sewing supplies last night. I went through my keep pile and asked myself if I was keeping it to actually use, or keeping it because it was aspirational stuff. Some things I really couldn't tell. I was hoping to part with more, but it's still progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on June 10, 2015, 05:09:34 PM
I am currently planning for a cross country move. So currently very motivated to declutter and looking at what I own in a different light. I wonder if thinking "would I take it with me if I moved interstate" help any of you guys to make decisions.
Like most kids I have some "stuff" ay my folks house but I am pretty certain it's stuff I may need again not just junk. (Example, my modem is there, but I currently share my neighbors connection, I will be taking this on the move as they cost $100 and I think I'll need it, unless I can find another neighbour. Other example: half my crockery - after I moved from a house to an apartment I knew I would no longer be hosting dinner parties for 8. Kind of useful to have as I do break things and this way can take from this pile as needed.) However I fully intend to go through it in detail to confirm next time I see them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 11, 2015, 02:50:58 AM
Today I sold 3 baking pans and a fancy food warmer. I also donated a grocery bag worth of clothes and books, three pots, 5 baking pans 4 mixing bowls and a crockpot! I upgraded the pots so not entirely empty cupboards, but I did decide to get rid of most of my baking supplies. We really don't eat desserts, and if I have to buy them instead of easily make them, then we will be encouraged to eat even less.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 11, 2015, 03:12:25 AM
Some more clothes into the consignment pile, just need to find an opportunity to drop them off (and soon, because they are summer stock).

I needed a flannel, after deciding to get rid of them all! Luckily they hadn't gone to the recycling yet, so I got one (just one) out to keep.

And I cleaned out my shoebox of Christmas decorations (yeah, I don't really do much, some fairy lights and a few baubles) because I wanted the box for something else and I found a stack of cut up old Christmas cards I was obviously planning to make gift tags out of. Well, they're gone. I have loads of tags already, I don't need another half done craft hanging around. Bonus was that I could use an ever smaller shoe box going forward.

I'm getting really close to 1000 things decluttered this year!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on June 11, 2015, 05:39:01 AM
Today I sold 3 baking pans and a fancy food warmer. I also donated a grocery bag worth of clothes and books, three pots, 5 baking pans 4 mixing bowls and a crockpot! I upgraded the pots so not entirely empty cupboards, but I did decide to get rid of most of my baking supplies. We really don't eat desserts, and if I have to buy them instead of easily make them, then we will be encouraged to eat even less.
That's about where we are, except SWMBO has celiac disease so buying desserts isn't a real option. Still, we eat dessert like twice a month or something and the baking stuff is by far the least used kitchen equipment we own. And when we do eat dessert it's often pudding that uses the same saucepans as everything else.

Edited to add: will you need a name change now? :p
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 11, 2015, 07:39:56 AM
Any ideas for what to do with an old letterman jacket?  It takes up space and I never wear it but there's still a bit of sentiment attached to it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on June 11, 2015, 08:26:25 AM
I need to spend some time on the kitchen.  That bundt cake pan I got as a wedding present and have never used?  It needs to go.  Lots of tools and gadgets and bowls and whatever that can go. 

It's a busy summer before our move, but I really want to get a lot more stuff out before we get packed up. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on June 11, 2015, 08:29:23 AM
I am currently planning for a cross country move. So currently very motivated to declutter and looking at what I own in a different light. I wonder if thinking "would I take it with me if I moved interstate" help any of you guys to make decisions.

Absolutely. I consider this question when I am deciding to keep something or not (the answer is almost always 'hell no'). I'm not planning on moving for a couple years, but it's still a great question to ask while decluttering now. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rubic on June 11, 2015, 10:36:12 AM
Any ideas for what to do with an old letterman jacket?  It takes up space and I never wear it but there's still a bit of sentiment attached to it.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mleigh on June 11, 2015, 10:54:12 AM
Any ideas for what to do with an old letterman jacket?  It takes up space and I never wear it but there's still a bit of sentiment attached to it.

I took the letters off mine and sold the jacket at a rummage sale.  I decided that the real sentiment was in the letters, and those are virtually two-dimensional and easily fit in the box of memorabilia I keep. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 11, 2015, 03:45:05 PM
Quote
Edited to add: will you need a name change now? :p


OH NO! dangit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on June 11, 2015, 06:38:34 PM
I am currently planning for a cross country move. So currently very motivated to declutter and looking at what I own in a different light. I wonder if thinking "would I take it with me if I moved interstate" help any of you guys to make decisions.

Absolutely. I consider this question when I am deciding to keep something or not (the answer is almost always 'hell no'). I'm not planning on moving for a couple years, but it's still a great question to ask while decluttering now. :)
This question was useless for me until we were actually considering an interstate move. Then all of a sudden a lot of things got earmarked for disposal! Several of those items are ones we won't get rid of unless we make a move because we do use them (couches) and i would simply want to get new ones at the new place. Also because I've tried selling them on Gumtree and I'm not ready to put them up for free until we move, which should be at the end of this year even if its just to a new place in the same city.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on June 11, 2015, 07:42:17 PM
It works really well for paperwork and clothes and sentimentals... But perhaps less well for furniture ;-) if I applied this too liberally I would be sleeping on the floor (my I got it second hand and have had it for 5 years mattress will not be making the journey).  But yeah it's been good. Also everything out and only the useful stuff back in helps at lot. I have done the bathroom and pantry scanning both for out of date items or items I will never use. If I hadn't emptied both out onto the floor first I don't think I would have got rid of as much
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mikhial on June 11, 2015, 08:21:05 PM
Has anyone tracked all of their items in a spreadsheet? I'm kind of interested in doing it. I think it would be a good way to see how much I have and what I can get rid of. I do worry that tracking my items would make me spend more time thinking about them.

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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 11, 2015, 08:36:11 PM
Has anyone tracked all of their items in a spreadsheet? I'm kind of interested in doing it. I think it would be a good way to see how much I have and what I can get rid of. I do worry that tracking my items would make me spend more time thinking about them.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

Yes, I did when I was trying to get rid of 7 things a day for a month - in part to track, in part to record for donations.  I ended up getting rid of 500+ items...but sometimes pushed the envelope on number (e.g. I got rid of say, 7 tubes of travel toothpaste, or chapstick etc and called it 7.  Technically correct but a lot of small items released didn't get me far).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 12, 2015, 07:21:35 AM
MonkeyJenga, that's some impressive tracking!

I finally got the Kondo book after six months on the library waiting list. I might write about my experience in the ol' journal so I don't clog up this thread.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 12, 2015, 09:13:56 AM
Has anyone tracked all of their items in a spreadsheet? I'm kind of interested in doing it. I think it would be a good way to see how much I have and what I can get rid of. I do worry that tracking my items would make me spend more time thinking about them.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

I printed off an excel 'spreadsheet' of 2015 boxes outlined. I just put a mark in each box as something leaves the house. Low tech, but easy to keep track of and very motivating.

Every so often my husband will throw something away and then say, "Now you can go and put a tick on your sheet!", it kind of makes it into a game.

Also, I NEVER would have guessed I would be at 950 odd if I hadn't tracked it. It's unbelievable how quickly it adds up - and how quickly I have forgotten what all that stuff even was.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 12, 2015, 09:20:00 AM
Has anyone tracked all of their items in a spreadsheet? I'm kind of interested in doing it. I think it would be a good way to see how much I have and what I can get rid of. I do worry that tracking my items would make me spend more time thinking about them.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

Yes, I did when I was trying to get rid of 7 things a day for a month - in part to track, in part to record for donations.  I ended up getting rid of 500+ items...but sometimes pushed the envelope on number (e.g. I got rid of say, 7 tubes of travel toothpaste, or chapstick etc and called it 7.  Technically correct but a lot of small items released didn't get me far).

btw, I stopped because it became too time consuming for the benefit to me.  For me, after the initial boost it provided me as encouragement to get going, it was better to look at the clean space as a market of success than lines on the spreadsheet.  YMMV
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on June 12, 2015, 10:12:54 AM
I think I am the slowest declutterer ever. But I also don't have a ton that needs to go so that works out, I guess. Slow and steady...brought in a big bag of books today to re-sell next week, and also brought in the collected plastic bags under the sink to recycle next door to my work. Lord knows we always accrue more.

I had an interesting experience at the grocery store the other night on that note. This is a place that asks for your id every time you use a card to pay. They usually use a ton of plastic bags in packing groceries but the neighborhood is gentrifying rapidly and the other night the young woman before me and the young man behind me (and me) all had our own canvas bags. But first the plastic bags had to be unpacked because it's the default. A strange type of culture clash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 12, 2015, 10:24:09 AM
I go for the pre-emptive strike in this situation.  My fabric bag is put on top of the groceries, so the first thing the cashier handles is the bag.

They usually use a ton of plastic bags in packing groceries but the neighborhood is gentrifying rapidly and the other night the young woman before me and the young man behind me (and me) all had our own canvas bags. But first the plastic bags had to be unpacked because it's the default. A strange type of culture clash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on June 12, 2015, 11:22:30 AM
Rat63, that's good! I am often fumbling with my wallet and/r planning on stuffing everything into my main bag, but I hope one day to reach this level of preparedness...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 12, 2015, 11:44:35 AM
My laundry room is clean!!!! I know exactly what is in there (we still have some odds and ends and my husband's sports stuff) and even have some bare shelves. We don't have a garage and our laundry room doubles up as odds and ends storage. After years..... And it's not even weekend yet. I'm smiling all day now :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on June 12, 2015, 07:06:13 PM
Go cutenila!

We loaded my boyfriends car FULL of boxes for the thrift store this morning ... then it wouldn't start :/


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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on June 12, 2015, 07:07:13 PM
Go cutenila!

We loaded my boyfriends car FULL of boxes for the thrift store this morning ... then it wouldn't start :/


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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 12, 2015, 07:12:26 PM
Donated a bag of clothes & dishes to a thrift shop today and gav painting supplies to parents. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cougar on June 12, 2015, 08:22:57 PM


Also donating some clothes to goodwill.


 And throwing out some Christmas decorations. I still have a fake tree, lights and manger display but i used to go really overboard for Christmas and am finally cutting back to reasonable.(Well, almost reasonable. Kept the 8 foot inflatable snowman. Ok, so; i've cut back on how far overboard i go for Christmas).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 12, 2015, 10:35:46 PM
This week I've made $115 from selling stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 13, 2015, 06:20:14 AM
Nice work ,Cookie! Feels good to turn your unneeded stuff into usable dollars.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on June 13, 2015, 02:16:15 PM
I gave a newly-retired friend the coupons that came in today's early edition Sunday newspaper.  My coupon cloth runneth over and I know she can use them.  Less paper recycling for me to deal with too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on June 14, 2015, 05:52:31 PM
SO went through all our bags with me. Got rid of 2 laptop bags, a backpack and a ratty handbag.

The best bit was that he went through a box of paperwork from school/uni and got rid of most of it. I am so pleased with our progress over the weekend!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on June 14, 2015, 11:36:00 PM
Sold a trailer for $200 on Craigslist.  It was one of those things that never get done - my wife bought it, so it was her responsibility, but she wanted me to sell it, because that's my job.  So, it never got done.  My backyard is looking better!  Also put 4 chairs out for free in front of our house.  Gone in minutes.  In the process of cleaning out the garage.  Realized we had an extra table, so I am no longer planning to buy a desk for the guest room/office.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on June 15, 2015, 01:54:40 AM
We got rid of a matraze this weekend. We have so much more space in the basement now and can access the back shelf to get rid of more clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on June 15, 2015, 11:08:31 AM
Well, I got rid of clothes and then brought more clothes in. But some of the clothes (free) will probably be donated as they were a bulk pick-up. And four small household things are gone that won't be coming back. Books to be taken for re-selling tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 15, 2015, 11:50:36 AM
Cleaned up our hall closet. Crossed 1000 items either donated or thrown out. Also found five pairs of shoes/sandals that were lurking in there.

Next up, papers. Starting to get closer and closer to done and I'm getting excited at the prospect of a decluttered home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: celticmyst08 on June 15, 2015, 02:16:06 PM
I just got Marie Kondo's decluttering book and read it last week. Overall, I really enjoyed it. We were gone over the weekend but now I want to start going through clothes. It's intimidating, because even though we have a smallish apartment, we have still managed to accumulate tons of useless crap. I know for a fact that most of my wardrobe does not spark joy!

My end goal is I want our home to be a retreat. We've made progress but I think we just need to bite the bullet and declutter all at once. The incremental "10 minutes a day" or "one room at a time" just hasn't worked for us.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 16, 2015, 07:00:31 AM
I find the Kondo book whimsical and fun. I have to admit that I can't get over her generalizations and claims based on anecdotal info (I keep thinking source? Oh right, her personal experience). However, I'm trying to take it for what it is.

SO and I have two bags of clothes to donate. It was really easy to go through clothes since I do not care about them at all. Most of the clothes I have were given to me by other people. Perfectly good! Sparking joy for clothes was based on utility and comfort (do I use it frequently and is it comfortable?).

Edited to add: I was surprised at how much the book actually helped me in getting rid of clothes., particularly nice items (coats, sweaters, dresses) that I had been holding on to purely because they were expensive (relatively) or of good quality even if I never wore them or they were uncomfortable.

Also, I really enjoy how honest Kondo is about her struggle with clutter. That was unexpected for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on June 16, 2015, 09:56:57 AM
Just wondering what other's thoughts are on the issue of 'family heirlooms' or collections or such that are handed down to you. I have received some things that get little use (e.g. actual silver silverware, fancy Delftware, an extensive coin collection), but that have a great deal of sentimental value (and possible monetary value). Some of the items are potentially interesting to my children (e.g. the coins) or their future children. Other items I look at and sort of shrug - like weird tableware (e.g. some sort of fancy pickle bowl that no one ever uses any more). Nothing is taking up much space and it is all tucked away in a drawer that I can spare. I just find myself looking at it and wondering why I am hanging on to it - I can't really put it into use because it isn't the sort of thing that is useful on a daily basis and/or it is too old and fragile to be used regularly.

I have a much easier time decluttering books and clothing and misc. rubble. What do you all do about the sorts of things I've described above?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 16, 2015, 10:52:29 AM
Just wondering what other's thoughts are on the issue of 'family heirlooms' or collections or such that are handed down to you. I have received some things that get little use (e.g. actual silver silverware, fancy Delftware, an extensive coin collection), but that have a great deal of sentimental value (and possible monetary value). Some of the items are potentially interesting to my children (e.g. the coins) or their future children. Other items I look at and sort of shrug - like weird tableware (e.g. some sort of fancy pickle bowl that no one ever uses any more). Nothing is taking up much space and it is all tucked away in a drawer that I can spare. I just find myself looking at it and wondering why I am hanging on to it - I can't really put it into use because it isn't the sort of thing that is useful on a daily basis and/or it is too old and fragile to be used regularly.

I have a much easier time decluttering books and clothing and misc. rubble. What do you all do about the sorts of things I've described above?

I also hav received TONS of heirlooms and I kept what I like & hav a heap I will sell also ( high monetary value) . maybe keep items for your kids that you think of setting aside for them , esp if you hav the space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 16, 2015, 11:32:17 AM
Just wondering what other's thoughts are on the issue of 'family heirlooms' or collections or such that are handed down to you. I have received some things that get little use (e.g. actual silver silverware, fancy Delftware, an extensive coin collection), but that have a great deal of sentimental value (and possible monetary value). Some of the items are potentially interesting to my children (e.g. the coins) or their future children. Other items I look at and sort of shrug - like weird tableware (e.g. some sort of fancy pickle bowl that no one ever uses any more). Nothing is taking up much space and it is all tucked away in a drawer that I can spare. I just find myself looking at it and wondering why I am hanging on to it - I can't really put it into use because it isn't the sort of thing that is useful on a daily basis and/or it is too old and fragile to be used regularly.

I have a much easier time decluttering books and clothing and misc. rubble. What do you all do about the sorts of things I've described above?

I'd ask other family members if they want them before getting rid of them.  If no takers, don't feel guilty!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 16, 2015, 11:33:25 AM
Just wondering what other's thoughts are on the issue of 'family heirlooms' or collections or such that are handed down to you. I have received some things that get little use (e.g. actual silver silverware, fancy Delftware, an extensive coin collection), but that have a great deal of sentimental value (and possible monetary value). Some of the items are potentially interesting to my children (e.g. the coins) or their future children. Other items I look at and sort of shrug - like weird tableware (e.g. some sort of fancy pickle bowl that no one ever uses any more). Nothing is taking up much space and it is all tucked away in a drawer that I can spare. I just find myself looking at it and wondering why I am hanging on to it - I can't really put it into use because it isn't the sort of thing that is useful on a daily basis and/or it is too old and fragile to be used regularly.

I have a much easier time decluttering books and clothing and misc. rubble. What do you all do about the sorts of things I've described above?

I also hav received TONS of heirlooms and I kept what I like & hav a heap I will sell also ( high monetary value) . maybe keep items for your kids that you think of setting aside for them , esp if you hav the space.

I'm getting ahead of that nightmare. I won't accept anything that I don't actually want. This works out to be very little.

When my parents are gone, my sister and I have a plan of action.
1. She and I take what we want (fairly short list)
2. Offer items to specific family members (considering the family origin of the item)
3. Offer items to general family (regardless of relationship to family origin of the item)
4. Offer items to friends
5. Sell/donate items.

Mom is generally aware of this and isn't really pleased, but mollified by the offering items to family. I think she thinks the family will take everything, while me and sis think that will be limited. We're also not willing to move stuff, so the family will have to come get things (or pay for shipping).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on June 17, 2015, 04:56:37 PM
I think once someone has died there is no reason for you not to do what you wish with the things which are now yours.  Freedom!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 17, 2015, 06:12:09 PM
I think once someone has died there is no reason for you not to do what you wish with the things which are now yours.  Freedom!

This seems discourteous to me if it's something someone else in the family would really want.  Why not offer and avoid any hurt feelings down the line?  (Note, I'm talking about sentimental items, not items family wants solely because it's valuable.)

Of course the onus can be on the family member to pick it up in a reasonable timeframe as agreed upon (or forfeit it).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 17, 2015, 10:08:43 PM
Be careful about offering it to other family members. I know some people may not want it, but could get very upset to learn that you are getting rid of it. I'm not saying don't offer to family, but be able to hold strong against their pressure for you to become the museum.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on June 18, 2015, 12:47:39 AM
Just wondering what other's thoughts are on the issue of 'family heirlooms' or collections or such that are handed down to you. I have received some things that get little use (e.g. actual silver silverware, fancy Delftware, an extensive coin collection), but that have a great deal of sentimental value (and possible monetary value). Some of the items are potentially interesting to my children (e.g. the coins) or their future children. Other items I look at and sort of shrug - like weird tableware (e.g. some sort of fancy pickle bowl that no one ever uses any more). Nothing is taking up much space and it is all tucked away in a drawer that I can spare. I just find myself looking at it and wondering why I am hanging on to it - I can't really put it into use because it isn't the sort of thing that is useful on a daily basis and/or it is too old and fragile to be used regularly.

I have a much easier time decluttering books and clothing and misc. rubble. What do you all do about the sorts of things I've described above?
I'm facing a similar dilemma at the moment.  I'm offering relatives the opportunity to take things (one cousin is keeper of the family archive on that side, so is taking papers and photos and some artifacts).   If there are likely to be disputes, offer the whole lot at once with each family member choosing what they want in turn (draw lots for the order and with people who can't be there in person making a list of preferred items) until everything is gone.  If children don't have a home of their own yet and you have room, keep things for them until they are eg 21 or 25, and if they still don't want them pass them on to other family or sell them.

I'm keeping a few things for myself that I can use and have room for, making sure I have a little something from each family member I want to remember with love. I've limited the remaining photos to three albums - for my brother, myself, and a general historic one and the rest are being burnt.

Everything else valuable is going to auction - as the auctioneer said to me "sell what you don't want and use it to buy something you do want".

If you are hanging on to heirlooms, make sure the "story" is written down and goes with them - eg "teaset given to [relative] on getting married in [year]", as this is what gives them the "family value".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pancakes on June 18, 2015, 04:06:52 AM
Be careful about offering it to other family members. I know some people may not want it, but could get very upset to learn that you are getting rid of it. I'm not saying don't offer to family, but be able to hold strong against their pressure for you to become the museum.
This x1000

A relative gave us a lot of hand-me-down bits and pieces form her mother. We moved a few times and eventually found ourselves not needing them anymore. We checked if she'd like them back (nope she got rid of them because they didn't suit her house) and checked with other family members (also didn't want them) before donating them. When she found out we'd given them away she became very angry because they had sentimental value. I believe that it is unfair to expect another person to warehouse your sentimental items but many will get upset if you discard them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 18, 2015, 04:42:24 AM
The heirlooms talk is illuminating.

I cleaned out my desk drawers, which I had done before but I was more ruthless. Instead of looking at the usefulness of the item, instead I said to myself, if I didn't have one of these, would I go out and buy it? If the answer was no, I got rid.

My drawer is so much emptier! But this will only work if I completely stop impulse purchasing. So far, so good. I needed a few things from the chemist and I did not browse at all - just got what I went for. I was having something bound at Staples and thought, 'I'll have a wander about while I wait'. No. I would be tempted by all the pretty stationery (I'm looking at you, Martha Stewart). My decluttering is only going to work if I can continue to reduce what I bring in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 18, 2015, 05:04:37 AM
Nice work, advicist! I'll give that method a try. I forget about things in drawers so I clearly don't need any of it.

As for impulse purchases, before I buy anything  new I try to think of all the resources that went into making it and the route it may have had to travel to get to the store. (Then I take a step back and look at all of the items hanging on the one shelf in the one aisle of this one store, and on and on.) Then I ask if I can justify the purchase. Is the item and my use of it  worth those resources?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 18, 2015, 05:20:46 AM
Nice work, advicist! I'll give that method a try. I forget about things in drawers so I clearly don't need any of it.

As for impulse purchases, before I buy anything  new I try to think of all the resources that went into making it and the route it may have had to travel to get to the store. (Then I take a step back and look at all of the items hanging on the one shelf in the one aisle of this one store, and on and on.) Then I ask if I can justify the purchase. Is the item and my use of it  worth those resources?

Thanks! It really helped me with things like 'headache balm'. Yes, one day I might get a headache and maybe would have used it. But when it runs out, am I going to buy another, or just deal with the headache?

I love the resource approach. That is one thing that stops me throwing things out - but it's wasteful! Think about the earth! I need to do that further up the chain and see whether the thing is really worth buying in the first place (especially toiletries where results are so varied for me. It's not worth the chance, because the guilt is too much if it doesn't work out).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 18, 2015, 07:52:55 AM
Nice work, advicist! I'll give that method a try. I forget about things in drawers so I clearly don't need any of it.

As for impulse purchases, before I buy anything  new I try to think of all the resources that went into making it and the route it may have had to travel to get to the store. (Then I take a step back and look at all of the items hanging on the one shelf in the one aisle of this one store, and on and on.) Then I ask if I can justify the purchase. Is the item and my use of it  worth those resources?

Thanks! It really helped me with things like 'headache balm'. Yes, one day I might get a headache and maybe would have used it. But when it runs out, am I going to buy another, or just deal with the headache?

I love the resource approach. That is one thing that stops me throwing things out - but it's wasteful! Think about the earth! I need to do that further up the chain and see whether the thing is really worth buying in the first place (especially toiletries where results are so varied for me. It's not worth the chance, because the guilt is too much if it doesn't work out).

I'm relatively good on carefully thinking through purchases.  My issue is bringing in free items - things from my mom, a freebie from a site, a giveaway from people at the train, etc. - it comes from every which direction!  Just because it's free doesn't mean I should accept it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 18, 2015, 07:55:04 AM

I'm relatively good on carefully thinking through purchases.  My issue is bringing in free items - things from my mom, a freebie from a site, a giveaway from people at the train, etc. - it comes from every which direction!  Just because it's free doesn't mean I should accept it!
Oh god, this is me too! I opened the post this morning and received THREE free pads, and THREE free pens! Argggggghhh
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on June 18, 2015, 08:17:52 AM

I'm relatively good on carefully thinking through purchases.  My issue is bringing in free items - things from my mom, a freebie from a site, a giveaway from people at the train, etc. - it comes from every which direction!  Just because it's free doesn't mean I should accept it!
Oh god, this is me too! I opened the post this morning and received THREE free pads, and THREE free pens! Argggggghhh

Me three! But I've been getting much better at saying no thanks to my mom unless it is something that will actually be useful AND used (it often is).

Went through a little more paperwork last night and a couple shelves that I was dreading, full of memories, mostly from traveling. I got rid of about half of them with minimal effort! :) I didn't want to start decluttering last night, but my boyfriend persuaded me to just do it for 30 min. After 30 min I didn't want to stop! Then he helped me go through a drawer full of cords, because he has a better idea of what they are all for and whether I will ever need them. 'No dear, you likely won't ever use a landline phone cable ever again.' I certainly don't need 2 of them! I haven't had a land line in over 10 years.

A few more piles of paperwork and 2 shelves to go and I'll be finished that room (until phase 3). :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 18, 2015, 08:36:52 AM
I need to label cords when they come into the house, so years later I know what they go to.  I'm always terrified getting rid of cords for fear they go to something I've forgotten about (a not often used but still critical item), as it's happened before.  So I have a box of cords I go to when I need one, and hunt until I find something that works for the printer/external hard drive/cell phone I'm donating/device/random thingamabob...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on June 18, 2015, 08:42:45 AM
I need to label cords when they come into the house, so years later I know what they go to.  I'm always terrified getting rid of cords for fear they go to something I've forgotten about (a not often used but still critical item), as it's happened before.  So I have a box of cords I go to when I need one, and hunt until I find something that works for the printer/external hard drive/cell phone I'm donating/device/random thingamabob...

I had that fear too, hence the huge drawer full of cords. Thankful for the boyfriend that knows what they all do. There was only one whose purpose neither of us could identify. Most of the big ones we tossed. When we went though the boxes for my computer parts (motherboard, power supply, etc) I kept most of the extra cords/pieces/adaptors/manuals/etc. The only ones I tossed were in the boxes for the parts on the previous computer which I no longer have. Even then we went through the box and made sure there was nothing useful left.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rubic on June 18, 2015, 09:44:05 AM
I need to label cords when they come into the house, so years later I know what they go to.  I'm always terrified getting rid of cords for fear they go to something I've forgotten about (a not often used but still critical item), as it's happened before.  So I have a box of cords I go to when I need one, and hunt until I find something that works for the printer/external hard drive/cell phone I'm donating/device/random thingamabob...

I stow my cords individually in ziplock bags with a 3x5 card indicating which device it belongs to.  This makes it easy to find the cord I'm looking for and keeps them from getting tangled up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 18, 2015, 09:57:51 AM
Rubic, for the organization win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on June 18, 2015, 10:04:55 AM
I need to label cords when they come into the house, so years later I know what they go to.  I'm always terrified getting rid of cords for fear they go to something I've forgotten about (a not often used but still critical item), as it's happened before.  So I have a box of cords I go to when I need one, and hunt until I find something that works for the printer/external hard drive/cell phone I'm donating/device/random thingamabob...

I stow my cords individually in ziplock bags with a 3x5 card indicating which device it belongs to.  This makes it easy to find the cord I'm looking for and keeps them from getting tangled up.

When I unpack a new thing w/ a cord I used a labeler to identify it. It really helps. I dumped a huge box of mystery cords and chargers about 2 years ago - and nothing happened. Earth did not tilt into the sun, no zombie apocalypse, etc. I figured if they were used infrequently enough to end up in the box chances were I wouldn't miss them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on June 18, 2015, 10:53:11 AM
Bike, toilet and carseat gone. Put on the curb.

3 bags of (mostly) clothes to goodwill. 2 more to friends.

And, best of all, dh organized all our music, on the computer. Discarded most of the CDs. Made some mp3s for the car. Yay!!!!! (Huge, long over due project, done!)

I went through the kids clothes, culled a good deal and then bought only what we needed. They are pleased, im pleased and I finally let go of the guilt I always feel. About buying clothes and giving them away at the same time. (The guilt is totally irrational, I know, because I'm giving away what we don't need and buying what we do. But somehow I still feel bad for it. I think because most of the kids clothes were given to us by very kind family and friends. )

We attacked the toys too. Summer is a good time for this, BC my kids want to spend their time outside, so they are less attached to the toys. They reach have a designated spot for personal toys. There are also spots for games, books, puzzles, sets of toys and at supplies. Everything must fit in its spot or something has to go. I think they are finally old enough to get this part of it.

I culled half of my clothes and bought a dozen new pieces ( I know, not so much of a capsule girl). But now it all fits me, all fits easily in my closet, I love it all and I am enjoying wearing it much more. I started a new job 6 weeks ago, and now I also feel comfortable with the appropriate dress for the office.

Next up to tackle are the kids at supplies and projects, home school supplies, books, etc. Again, summer is a good time for this. I'll also get everything planned and ready for the fall. My goal is to be finished in two weeks. ( I work outside the home full time, plus we are traveling next week.)

Thanks for all the encouragement!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 18, 2015, 10:59:25 AM
I need to label cords when they come into the house, so years later I know what they go to.  I'm always terrified getting rid of cords for fear they go to something I've forgotten about (a not often used but still critical item), as it's happened before.  So I have a box of cords I go to when I need one, and hunt until I find something that works for the printer/external hard drive/cell phone I'm donating/device/random thingamabob...

I stow my cords individually in ziplock bags with a 3x5 card indicating which device it belongs to.  This makes it easy to find the cord I'm looking for and keeps them from getting tangled up.

When I unpack a new thing w/ a cord I used a labeler to identify it. It really helps. I dumped a huge box of mystery cords and chargers about 2 years ago - and nothing happened. Earth did not tilt into the sun, no zombie apocalypse, etc. I figured if they were used infrequently enough to end up in the box chances were I wouldn't miss them.

Such bravery!  (This is a blind spot for me, because I am convinced it'll bring on a zombie apocalypse.)

I do have them coiled with the bread ties, so at least they are no longer one giant mass (like knotted jewelry chains).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 18, 2015, 05:37:01 PM
Be careful about offering it to other family members. I know some people may not want it, but could get very upset to learn that you are getting rid of it. I'm not saying don't offer to family, but be able to hold strong against their pressure for you to become the museum.

Select family "heirlooms" I hav been keeping, I've asked other family members if they would like . usu the answer is yes. If a "no", I wouldn't mention I was donating/selling said item in that case, because somebody ( one fam member in particular ) would be upset. But this particular fam member would never say no to any item offered.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 19, 2015, 04:18:50 PM
I went through books yesterday, which was pretty easy. I used to be unable to part with books. After summers away, I would give my clothes away to be able to bring my books back in my suitcase! Now, I pop them on Goodreads as read or to read, and I send them on their way. The ones we kept make me happy. Surprisingly, I had the most difficulty parting with my comic books. They are reading copies of new titles (not valuable), but I felt a pang in getting rid of them.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 19, 2015, 04:25:57 PM
I can see the light at the end of decluttering our home but still have a huge pile of things to sell. Every time I see that pile I worry about that clutter. How do you deal with selling pile? Do you keep it somewhere you can't see? Or do you try to sell all at once (like a yard sale) and be done with it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie on June 19, 2015, 05:35:09 PM
Quote
I can see the light at the end of decluttering our home but still have a huge pile of things to sell. Every time I see that pile I worry about that clutter. How do you deal with selling pile? Do you keep it somewhere you can't see? Or do you try to sell all at once (like a yard sale) and be done with it?

I either price the items to sell quickly or donate them. Once I want to get rid of the clutter, keeping it for weeks to sell is really frustrating to me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on June 20, 2015, 09:46:24 AM
Finally can see the light at the end of the decluttering tunnel. Had a huge garage sale a few weeks ago that was very successful.  Have been selling on FB garage sale groups and craigslist. Every time we visit one of our adult children we bring along a box of their stuff- they can decide if they want to keep it. It feels great to have less stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rubic on June 20, 2015, 11:42:46 AM
I finally unloaded a vintage stereoscopic viewer yesterday.  It had been sitting on freecycle.org for weeks and somebody finally came to pick it up.  I've been selling a bunch of stuff on ebay, but the viewer would have been a hassle.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 20, 2015, 02:40:02 PM
Our important papers have been finally sorted. I need to take the unwanted papers for shredding but other than that, that area is clean and done. One down, last two areas to go (my jewelry and kitchen)! Yay!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsStubble on June 20, 2015, 03:55:32 PM
working on going through 35 years of memories today (pictures, things we saved, journals, report cards, letters, drawings, trophies, etc etc etc.) hoping to walk away for enough to make a book about the history of us that i can get printed like a regular book.  Then all i have left is the holiday stuff and a whole year of purging stuff from our house will come to a much lighter, and much more organized end. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 20, 2015, 04:54:47 PM
Awesome Mrs.Stubble. I've been decluttering for two months now and can't wait for it to end. You pulled through one whole year of decluttering. You give me hope. Truly awesome!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on June 20, 2015, 05:31:22 PM
I am working on decluttering a drawer at work. It had been a repository for various things, including plastic bags to recycle, an item that I bought online that needs to be dropped off at UPS to be returned, and mostly papers and more papers to be shredded. Finally, this past week, every day I shredded a stack here and stack there, and now the papers are gone! I'm aiming to recycle the plastic bags and mail the package on Monday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on June 20, 2015, 06:01:56 PM
Commoncents, I was thinking specifically about the wishes of the dead, not of the other relatives. I too would want to offer things to certain relatives (depending on the relatives).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on June 21, 2015, 07:15:31 AM
I got rid of some more stuff, the end of a lipstick, an eyeliner I didn't like and I'm collecting up another bag to go to donation.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on June 21, 2015, 11:02:34 AM
You guys inspire me.  After reading this thread I have de cluttered the coffe table (a chest) of 3 blankets, the hall tree of a grocery bag full of old hats and falling apart gloves, the curio cabinet of 6 things I inherited but don't love.  I am also washing all the hats and gloves in the house.  B/c OMG the dog hair!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mm1970 on June 21, 2015, 05:30:52 PM
My husband gathered up some kitchen stuff (including these dessert dishes we got as a wedding gift that we never use...but he didn't want to give up...we've been married 19 years), some kids stuff, and some clothing to give away.

I am giving away our crib/toddler bed (probably leaving the house tomorrow).  I thought about selling it (re: the Craigslist thing above), but my research locally was telling me that most of the ads in our local FB group - the cribs didn't really sell at all.  Not sure why.  So I found a friend of a friend who needs one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on June 21, 2015, 06:22:35 PM
We put our love seat and a chair curbside and they were gone fast.  We thought about buying a recliner to fill the space and found a comfy one, but we are going to wait to decide if we need one.  House looks bigger and less cluttered.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 21, 2015, 07:24:14 PM
My husband gathered up some kitchen stuff (including these dessert dishes we got as a wedding gift that we never use...but he didn't want to give up...we've been married 19 years), some kids stuff, and some clothing to give away.

I am giving away our crib/toddler bed (probably leaving the house tomorrow).  I thought about selling it (re: the Craigslist thing above), but my research locally was telling me that most of the ads in our local FB group - the cribs didn't really sell at all.  Not sure why.  So I found a friend of a friend who needs one.

I've heard standards have changed regarding crib sizes/gaps in bars etc. because it can cause deaths.  So if I, a non-parent have heard that, I imagine my friends who are expecting have heard it all the more so and are paranoid about accepting a hand me down crib of unknown standards.  I just typed in "using old cribs" into google and it wanted me to go to "danger using old cribs" so it's likely a well searched issue.  Here's one article on it:
http://www.willowspediatrics.com/blog/207/for-new-parents-using-older-cribs-is-potentially-dangerous/

Seems to be cribs 10+ years old that are the problem.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on June 22, 2015, 01:47:18 AM
I finally took pictures of an entire pile of clothing last night. Listed it on craigslist and if it is still there on Friday it goes out the door. Not gonna keep it around any longer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on June 22, 2015, 04:58:21 AM
While reading Marie Kondo I realised that while I'm fairly minimalistic I have a ton of stuff at my parents house. Mostly because of silly reasons such as:
1. when I moved I didn't have a bookshelf and therefore left most of my books (A fair number of my posessions back then were books) for "later" (a point of time that, as we all know, never arives). 6 years later? I still don't miss most of them.
2. Things were stored in boxes. Like a heap of teddybears and winter clothes and old notes from uni and my collection of cartoons and so on.

I will not be using 99% of all this stuff and plan to go through this summer and purge.

Oddly enough, getting rid of these things (I've started a box at a time and am currently having great fun re-reading old manga before I will donate them) though they do not clutter my house and are not in the way in my parents big house, makes me feel lighter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on June 22, 2015, 05:00:59 AM
while I'm fairly minimalistic I have a ton of stuff at my parents house.
Same here. Should really work on that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on June 22, 2015, 07:44:40 AM
Charity donation pick-up is coming Friday. This week the kids are at their Dads house all week - so I have time for more decluttering. I am going to dig into those cabinets and shelves that are rarely used, get the junk drawer under control. I am even going to get rid of storage baskets - because the contents of the baskets has been moved along. Hoping to have a pretty substantial collection of stuff to go to charity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on June 22, 2015, 08:13:24 AM
I realised that while I'm fairly minimalistic I have a ton of stuff at my parents house.

My Mom actually had me clean out the stuff at her house. I took what I wanted, and left the rest for her to donate or toss (like every single one of my report cards K-12!)
My Dad went through the donation pile and insisted I didn't really want to give away most of it (clearly I NEED my high school drill team cowboy hat, right?), and put it back in storage.  5-years later, I went through it again, told her I wanted to donate it, and she set it in the garage. My Dad "rescued" half of it, again.

I've now told her this is my Dad's stuff, not mine.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: celticmyst08 on June 22, 2015, 09:35:54 AM
We did a good cleaning on Saturday before my parents arrived from out of state. Since we've been decluttering more regularly so far this year, as well as buying less, we noticed it was quite easy to do a top to bottom clean in just a couple hours. DH looked around and said "Wow, this looks great. Can we keep it like this more often?"

Next up: Going through all our clothes. Not looking forward to that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 22, 2015, 10:21:46 AM
We did a good cleaning on Saturday before my parents arrived from out of state. Since we've been decluttering more regularly so far this year, as well as buying less, we noticed it was quite easy to do a top to bottom clean in just a couple hours. DH looked around and said "Wow, this looks great. Can we keep it like this more often?"

Next up: Going through all our clothes. Not looking forward to that.

I've noticed the cleaning thing too. On Sunday morning we did laundry, swept, hoovered in what felt like half the time it usually takes. Amazing what a different just 10% less stuff has. (Hmm, I wonder what percentage I have got rid of? 1000 things so far this year. I'd actually be embarrassed if I have 10000 after reading so many people with 100, so hopefully it's more like a 25% reduction? Oh dear, now I want to count!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on June 22, 2015, 10:45:01 AM
I went home this weekend and my mom always has tons us stuff for me. Picked up all of the clothes she laid out with the intention of sending most of them to twice; keeping three black tops and a black floral Old Navy dress which I'm wearing today. Also a white top which I may just use as a rag. I probably have too many black tops, but I actually have gotten rid of some lately. She had a collection of different colored new tank tops which I also took in the intent to stencil them and give them to my cousin and her friends when they visit for her bachelorette in two months. Now to get fabric paint...

Also brought home a bunch of books from my bedroom with the sole intent of trying to re-sell them at the strand.  I figure I didn't read them before, don't really care to read them now, and can maybe get some cash. Some kitchen stuff acme home with me too, but it will be useful: a big nice platter (I host pretty often), a pastry brush which was on my buy list, some peppercorns and mustard and tapenade and jam.

My mom has too much stuff so getting it out of the house is good, though she does also buy things with the idea to give them to me, so I'm not sure that I'm actually helping. I will use the stuff though, even the things going immediately to twice--I see it as a zero-cost opportunity to perhaps make a few dollars. Someday I really need to go home to help clear out the garage, basement, side room--but I know my mom doesn't actually want me to do this, even though she needs the help. Maybe as she gets older I'll think about this more seriously.

Also brought home a radio and a laptop, I guess I am not really at full on decluttering mode but both have been on my mental list! I swear I did get rid of some stuff last week (via clothing swap, book selling, and as a trade for someone's stuff) and have clothes I intend to re-sell soon...I'm not exactly sure if I'm just doing a 1 in 1 out situation here with the simultaneous recent acquisitions. But at least nothing is stagnant, which I think ultimately helps individual items from becoming too much of a permanent fixture.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: celticmyst08 on June 22, 2015, 11:41:47 AM
We did a good cleaning on Saturday before my parents arrived from out of state. Since we've been decluttering more regularly so far this year, as well as buying less, we noticed it was quite easy to do a top to bottom clean in just a couple hours. DH looked around and said "Wow, this looks great. Can we keep it like this more often?"

Next up: Going through all our clothes. Not looking forward to that.

I've noticed the cleaning thing too. On Sunday morning we did laundry, swept, hoovered in what felt like half the time it usually takes. Amazing what a different just 10% less stuff has. (Hmm, I wonder what percentage I have got rid of? 1000 things so far this year. I'd actually be embarrassed if I have 10000 after reading so many people with 100, so hopefully it's more like a 25% reduction? Oh dear, now I want to count!)

It really does make a huge difference, I think mainly because I don't have to pick up stuff off the floor, put things away, etc. All I have to do is clean the surfaces (dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, etc).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 22, 2015, 12:57:42 PM
while I'm fairly minimalistic I have a ton of stuff at my parents house.
Same here. Should really work on that.

I'm very proud of myself here. There is nothing at my parents house that should be in mine. (Items which they may give me in the future/I'll inherit aren't counted.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on June 22, 2015, 02:11:59 PM
Oh dear, I have LOTS of things that my parents are storing for me. Reminds me of one writer's confession on Apartment Therapy:

Quote
[W]hen I posted my own small space manifesto earlier this year, about how happy and peaceful my little 260 square foot apartment made me feel . . . I got an indignant phone call from my mother, who wanted to know if I had admitted to the Apartment Therapy community that the reason my small space was so uncluttered and zen-y was that half of my stuff was still at my parent's house.

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/the-dirty-secret-of-small-space-living-219439.

Meanwhile, I creep forward with progress at my own apartment. Over the weekend, I donated a bag of clothes, a pair of shoes, a spatula, a skirt hanger, and a poster. Unfortunately, I have also been ordering new work clothes online, so it feels like a wash (though in a fairly responsible way -- trying to buy quality basics that fit well and will last a long time so I can simplify my closet).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on June 22, 2015, 02:30:17 PM
I'm very proud of myself here. There is nothing at my parents house that should be in mine.
Way to go!
There's lots of stuff at my parents house that doesn't fit in my current apartment, but even if I had a bigger house, I still wouldn't want it.

Better get rid of it now, or I'll have to sort it all out when my parents die or move to a nursing home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 22, 2015, 02:44:45 PM
My mom dropped all of my stuff off within a month of buying a house, before I really had a chance to breathe from unpacking the bulk of my stuff.  :(  I culled it down to one bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tmac on June 22, 2015, 03:07:56 PM
My sister was notorious for moving out of my parents' house for a few months, moving back with all her new stuff, then moving out again but leaving much of the junk in the basement. She did it three times. When I left after college, I made sure to clear all my stuff out. My sister's stuff is still here. She moved out for the last time 25 years ago.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: amandapdx on June 22, 2015, 03:24:21 PM
When my husband and I bought our house, my parents actually hired a semi truck to come and take all the stuff I'd ever left there. plus a piano and some smaller furniture, plus all of this stuff my mom thought I would want. Something like 75 boxes plus furniture. I still have a bunch of those to go through. Since the attic storage is right next to my kids' room, I am having a hard time getting to it, though it's a goal for this year to clear out both the basement and the attic so we can start some house projects. Thanks, Mom and Dad! I am grateful, but they are packrats and have such a high volume of stuff! I grew up the same way but am ready for a change.

In the meantime, I have been working on going through all of the kids' stuff we've accumulated in the past 6 years since our first was born, and selling or donating it. This spring I made over $400 selling mostly kids' clothes at 3 different consignment sales. It's a few hours of work plus drop-off and pick-up, but these are not amazing clothes and I never would have been able to make any money on any of them through Craigslist. The toys I try on Craigslist first so I can get 100% of the sale instead of the 65% I get at the consignment sales. This cash ends up covering the costs of buying the larger clothes for my two boys, plus some toys or other things like new bike carriers, and babysitting for our rare nights out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on June 22, 2015, 06:34:04 PM
I think things are clearing mentally for me with the de-cluttering.  I am beginning to see possibilities I did not see before and am revelling in the cleared areas.  I am still in love with seeing the floor we unearthed last September.  I have not completed the house but have an urge to revisit a few spots to get rid of some things I hung onto the first time around.

I just LOVE looking in my closet and seeing it so clear and clean and beautiful.  Lately I have been taking an hour here and there and rearranging things in drawers, etc.and that of course leads to more turfing out, and more beauty. 

I find that thinking of approaching an entire room or closet can be daunting but dealing with one area only seems do-able to me.  Also, having a friend here to help makes all the difference to how long I will stick with clearing out.  It helps to have someone cheering me on for getting rid of things.

Thus far no regrets, only joy.  That is, no regrets at having gotten rid of something, but plenty of regrets at seeing how I used to spend my money. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 23, 2015, 04:42:04 AM

Thus far no regrets, only joy.  That is, no regrets at having gotten rid of something, but plenty of regrets at seeing how I used to spend my money.

This is exactly how I feel. Hopefully it will keep me from impulse purchases going forward.

One thing I'm struggling with is our medicine cabinet. I see bloggers with only 100 things, and I think, 'What about plasters (bandaids)'? What about all those things I have left over that were used once... but might be needed again. Cold and flu remedies I didn't finish. Cough mixture. Some magnesium sulfate used to remove a splinter. I don't have a cold right now. I rarely get splinters, but wow, when you've got one, it hurts. What does everyone else do about this stuff? Just accept it's useful and move on? Or get rid of it and allow the chemist to store it for you? It doesn't help that we are about a half hour from an all night chemist.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 23, 2015, 05:11:26 AM
I keep my meds and bandages since they are useful. I got rid of duplicates, expired medicine, and things I wouldn't use even if their intended purpose arose. I'm not concerned with having  X amount of items in my house. I just want the things that I need to be accessible.  There is a spot for it, and it'll definitely spark joy to have a bandaid when I need it! I grew up in a house that didn't have these types of goods, and it was stressful to have to figure out how to work around not having a bandage. Also if you plan and buy ahead, you can get the items for cheaper than you may be able to get at the nearest store. Sorry for the long response! I've never given it much thought, but clearly have some ideas about it. Do what works for you and good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on June 23, 2015, 07:20:32 AM
The medicine cabinet is one area where I ignore the per unit costs and just get the absolute smallest amount I can. We both rarely take OTC meds, and it usually expires before it gets used up. Such a waste. We only have one size of bandaid, and just replace it (with the smallest box available) when it runs out. I usually need to buy cough drops once a year, but also drink a LOT of hot tea/hot water when I have a persistent cough to deal with it.

For splinters, we just use tweezers and/or sewing needle, if anything. (My spouse is a woodworker.)

We use the nail clippers to also trim our cats' nails - learned this one from our vet!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on June 23, 2015, 07:24:18 AM
I keep a small box in the cupboard under the sink in the kitchen with bandages and things like that.

I have two more rubbish (garbage) size bags to donate. Where does it all come from? It seems like I decluttered so much stuff a few months ago.:P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on June 23, 2015, 08:06:02 AM
We both rarely take OTC meds, and it usually expires before it gets used up. Such a waste.

This is one area where it is fun to have a medicinal chemist in the house. Expired medication is rarely "bad", it just loses it's efficacy.  My husband has actually calculated half-life on some of it, and recalculated dosage based on the age of the medicine.

But that is even with buying the smallest size.  I need to be near death to take OTC meds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 23, 2015, 08:32:24 AM
We both rarely take OTC meds, and it usually expires before it gets used up. Such a waste.

This is one area where it is fun to have a medicinal chemist in the house. Expired medication is rarely "bad", it just loses it's efficacy.  My husband has actually calculated half-life on some of it, and recalculated dosage based on the age of the medicine.

But that is even with buying the smallest size.  I need to be near death to take OTC meds.

Buying the smallest size is great advice! I must admit I ignore expiration dates. If I'm in a pickle I'll take old over none any day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on June 23, 2015, 08:42:02 AM
We both rarely take OTC meds, and it usually expires before it gets used up. Such a waste.

This is one area where it is fun to have a medicinal chemist in the house. Expired medication is rarely "bad", it just loses it's efficacy.  My husband has actually calculated half-life on some of it, and recalculated dosage based on the age of the medicine.

But that is even with buying the smallest size.  I need to be near death to take OTC meds.

Buying the smallest size is great advice! I must admit I ignore expiration dates. If I'm in a pickle I'll take old over none any day.

I usually ignore them too, as long as it's within reason. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 23, 2015, 09:06:13 AM
We both rarely take OTC meds, and it usually expires before it gets used up. Such a waste.

This is one area where it is fun to have a medicinal chemist in the house. Expired medication is rarely "bad", it just loses it's efficacy.  My husband has actually calculated half-life on some of it, and recalculated dosage based on the age of the medicine.

But that is even with buying the smallest size.  I need to be near death to take OTC meds.

Buying the smallest size is great advice! I must admit I ignore expiration dates. If I'm in a pickle I'll take old over none any day.

I usually ignore them too, as long as it's within reason. :)

I used to use old meds, but my doctor friends freaked out so I've tossed them, particularly prescriptions.  I'm more lax about Tylenol/Ibuprofen, etc.  Apparently I should have sold my Percocet (for wisdom teeth removal) on craigslist though, for a tidy sum...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on June 24, 2015, 04:51:12 PM
I donated a whole bunch of first aid stuff to a charity last fall.  I need to look at the sell by dates on the remaining pills and tinctures.

I seem to be in a holding zone with a bunch of stuff due to go out the door but it just sits there.  I do not recommend this.  It takes all the immediate joy out of the act of tossing out.  How do you all motivate yourselves at a time like this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 24, 2015, 05:20:33 PM
Wintersun, I hear ya! I have a whole bunch sitting in sight in the guest room all waiting to be sold off or shipped off. I have set a deadline for myself, if I don't sell that item by that time, I'm going to take the loss and donate it. The deadline is in two weeks. I console myself saying everyday I'm closer to a clean home one way or the other.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on June 24, 2015, 06:12:38 PM
I too feel your pain, wintersun. With eBay items, I box them up and stack them neatly in the guest room. During my huge paper-scanning project, the living room had boxes of files containing 30 years of documents. I put the ones still needing to be sorted/scanned on one side of the room and covered the pile with a cheerful '50s tablecloth as a disguise. It helped me feel less overwhelmed and pressured.

With donation or clothing consignment items that I have to wait for a few days or week to drop off, I put them in the garage so I don't have to see them in the house. And lastly, the clothing I want to consign but which has to wait for fall or winter, I hang in the guest room closet. Little by little I am feeling unburdened.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on June 25, 2015, 01:51:33 AM
My donation bags are getting collected today. I get a real high from decluttering.:P

I reorganised my large chest of drawers and was thinking about getting some cheap drawer dividers to neaten it up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on June 25, 2015, 02:10:59 AM
Well after putting in a huge effort for a few months, the BF and I have been slack with decluttering lately. Time to step it up a notch again. We're moving in six weeks and I don't want to move anything I'm not keeping long-term.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 25, 2015, 02:11:21 AM
I donated a whole bunch of first aid stuff to a charity last fall.  I need to look at the sell by dates on the remaining pills and tinctures.

I seem to be in a holding zone with a bunch of stuff due to go out the door but it just sits there.  I do not recommend this.  It takes all the immediate joy out of the act of tossing out.  How do you all motivate yourselves at a time like this?

I was putting them straight into the boot of my car, but I don't recommend this for the following reason:

I had loads of bags in my boot. DH borrowed my car and said he'd drop everything off as he was passing a charity shop that was open (my problem is that they are always closed when I am passing!). Great!

Fast forward two days, and I'm thinking, where's that bag of stuff I was taking to my friends house? Oh yeah, you guessed it. It had been on the passenger seat, but I put it in the boot just so it wasn't visible when I parked up somewhere.

I could keep track of which bag was which. Husband had no way of knowing one bag of junk was 'different'. Ultimately it didn't matter - it was stuff I was getting rid of I thought she could use. Luckily I had forgotten to put a DVD I had borrowed from her in there. Phew. But be careful using your car as a holding zone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on June 25, 2015, 09:22:14 AM
When I was slowly decluttering, I would fill a box, which would sit in my guest bedroom. 

After I switched to the KonMari method, I deal with donating the items immediately.  I go through everything (keep, toss, donate), put away the items I'm going to keep, and then drive to the Salvation Army (closest place to donate) with all of the stuff.  I don't have a chance to change my mind, and I don't feel the stress of having to deal with finishing the project.  I set aside at least 4 hours for each of the categories (on komono now) on a weekend morning. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on June 25, 2015, 10:14:31 AM
Well after putting in a huge effort for a few months, the BF and I have been slack with decluttering lately. Time to step it up a notch again. We're moving in six weeks and I don't want to move anything I'm not keeping long-term.

I've found moving is a great time to declutter. If you aren't paying to move it by weight, I actually prefer to move everything and then declutter when I get there.  Anything that doesn't find a new home within 1 month of move in gets donated.  Has worked for me the past 4 moves :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsGuided on June 25, 2015, 11:48:33 AM
Working on letting go of lots of crap. Unfortunately I feel an urge to sell or find a use for things b/c I feel terrible about the money and resources wasted. Have sold quite a bit on Craigslist over last few months and have also donated a ton, but still have a long way to go. Getting more accustomed to just donating and not thinking about how to sell. I have often put things aside to sell and they sit there for ages. Just get it out, allow it to be used by someone and move on.

Have a big black bag full of clothes. Have thought about trying to consign about 1/3 of them b/c they are high quality, but after reading a bunch of posts here, decided I'll drive it to the donation station TODAY and not even peek in the bag.

Like several of you have written, I never regret donating once it's gone. The pain is always in the decision to let go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 25, 2015, 12:28:55 PM
We use the nail clippers to also trim our cats' nails - learned this one from our vet!

That would work with one cat, but not the other. Older cat, and her claws have become talons. I need to get dog sized clippers for her actually.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on June 25, 2015, 06:21:49 PM
I'm actually trying to get in the habit of picking things to sell rather than just donating. Got someone coming around today to pick up a glass desk for half of what I paid for it, but now I can pick up a smaller desk that won't leave my partner scared of it shattering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on June 25, 2015, 07:27:21 PM
Well after putting in a huge effort for a few months, the BF and I have been slack with decluttering lately. Time to step it up a notch again. We're moving in six weeks and I don't want to move anything I'm not keeping long-term.

I've found moving is a great time to declutter. If you aren't paying to move it by weight, I actually prefer to move everything and then declutter when I get there.  Anything that doesn't find a new home within 1 month of move in gets donated.  Has worked for me the past 4 moves :)

I've still got six weeks before I move, so I'll still try to get as much done beforehand as possible, but I'll keep that technique in mind for a second push of decluttering after the move :-)

I'm actually trying to get in the habit of picking things to sell rather than just donating. Got someone coming around today to pick up a glass desk for half of what I paid for it, but now I can pick up a smaller desk that won't leave my partner scared of it shattering.

I'm going to try to sell a few things too, particularly things that are easy to ship but could sell for a bit (hello, leather handbags that I bought and have basically never used because they're not in my colour scheme). I've always dismissed it as too hard but I'm thinking of at least dipping my toe in the water, maybe listing one or two things at a time on ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 25, 2015, 08:03:52 PM
Not sure if it's where I live or the stuff I sell, I've found that rare or one off items sell better in ebay while others are a wash after including fees. For example, I recently sold a smart watch locally for $120. EBay would've netted me less after fees. So do your diligence before putting it on ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 25, 2015, 11:38:39 PM
Another shirt and book out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 26, 2015, 01:55:00 AM
Went into the bathroom and challenged myself to throw away just one thing. This is after many decluttering sessions in there, so I thought it would be hard. Opened a drawer and threw out four things immediately! It is blowing my mind how things that a few months ago I thought were untouchable now seem kind of useless to me.

I've also finished three dresses this week (two just needed hemming) and one t-shirt which had been cut out and waiting (in the designated drawer!) for a while. Ordered one piece of fabric, but plan to make it up immediately (don't I always?). Doing much better now I'm only buying stuff I totally love (and allowing myself to buy all of it) because I am much less tempted buy stuff because it's cheap. The fabric stash is definitely reducing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on June 26, 2015, 01:57:20 AM
I've now told her this is my Dad's stuff, not mine.
I know all abouth that. Just with my parent it's my Mom. Old childrens schoolbooks and clothes and toys? I will not touch them because it upsets her so much to toss out even the most simple of things. The things do no harm where they are, so I consentrate on newer items.

Therefore: this week brought 2 coats and 7 comic books from my parents house. 1 coat will be donated, another is a long winter coat I asumed I had tossed out and missed for 3 years. Will meet new use this winter and I will be blissfully warm. The comics will be read and then donated. Also dug out a handmade garment that will be offered to a relative. If she doesn't want it I will donate. Next week I will digg out my old textbooks from uni (no sentiment attached to those, luckily) and toss them all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SisterX on June 26, 2015, 02:10:31 AM
Re: stuff left at parents' houses

We did our big move to the Lower 48, and are now temporarily back with my parents until we get jobs and housing organized.  My in-laws helped us, but gave us a few extra boxes of things my husband had left at their house.  Thankfully, his mom and I had him go through all the other boxes, 99% of which he didn't want anymore.  One of the kept boxes is filled with old trading cards that my husband is going to try to sell.  Might not be worth much individually, but in bulk (it's an old paper box) we might get a few bucks?

We did also give them back a few boxes, though, because my MIL seemed to think that our child should have all of my husband's old baby items.  Why?!  Baby quilts with his name on them?  She got tons of quilts and baby blankets made just for her, thanks.  So many that we donated a bunch to a charity.  So we came to grips with the fact that we might hurt her by giving back the mementos and just did it.  If she doesn't want to keep them, she can deal with them.  I hope we finally got the message across that our place is not a dumping ground for her excess.  (They're trying to downsize.)  I'm going to be much firmer in the future about saying no if she tries to bring any of their old stuff to us "because I thought you might like it."

Now, since we're with my parents, we're in my old bedroom, which is still filled with crap which I left, and crap which my family moved in there because they didn't know where else to put it.  One of the first things I did was go around and box up the things we don't want or need, which is pretty much everything except the books.  (I'm re-reading some of the books now, and these were the ones which survived many purges before I moved away, so definitely keepers.  Well worn and read.)  Wow, did I leave a lot of junk here, mostly things which were given to me as a child which I never liked, but kept anyway out of "obligation".  I still need to go through the closet.

At least the dresser was empty.  Trying to fit myself and my spouse into my old bedroom is actually harder than I expected.  Having BabyX next door is also tricky because of stuff my parents have.  The closet in there is stuffed, the dresser is full of my moved-out sibling's clothes, etc.  Thankfully toddler clothes are small and we don't have tons in each size, so the current size all fits tidily into the drawers of the desk in there.

Will need to take the stuff I cleared out of my room (or rather, into boxes, still in my room) to the charity shops, and hope soon to start helping my parents to declutter their stuff.  (Don't worry, they're honestly thrilled to have the help.)  In fact, I already facilitated getting one desk out of the house by finding someone who was happy to take it.  Not much, but it's a start.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 26, 2015, 02:33:03 AM
I know I've mentioned the blog A Slob Comes Clean before, but I really like it. She has a funny video series on how to deal with relatives giving you their old sh*t that you don't want:

Here's a link to the first post in the series (the other ones are also linked in that post): http://www.aslobcomesclean.com/2014/11/clutter-avoidance-conversations-the-ill-see-what-i-can-use-approach/

Or you can see them all on youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4ylB6f-VoxpT8LXGB4WvdwhS8Ir__sz1

She plays different characters, and I bet you'll recognise a few.

I really like some of her ideas, and I've tried it and they work! That said, I really feel for people dealing with relatives piling on the guilt because you don't want to store stuff that they don't want to store either.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on June 26, 2015, 07:32:16 AM
Re: stuff left at parents' houses

We did our big move to the Lower 48, and are now temporarily back with my parents until we get jobs and housing organized.

Didn't realize you were moving away from Alaska.  I always liked your Alaska stories because I lived there a few years as a kid (dad was Coast Guard).  What brings you down to the lower 48?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on June 26, 2015, 07:51:20 PM
I'm going to try to sell a few things too, particularly things that are easy to ship but could sell for a bit (hello, leather handbags that I bought and have basically never used because they're not in my colour scheme). I've always dismissed it as too hard but I'm thinking of at least dipping my toe in the water, maybe listing one or two things at a time on ebay.

You will get so sick of visiting the post office repeatedly. Better to do it all at once. Make a very clear "pay within 48 hours or I will re-list" warning on your listings and set your promised ship time to 72 hours. This way you should be able to catch everyone in a single post office trip. List everything in one day. It will be annoying, but over with and your total time investment per item will drop drastically.
Although, TBH, I find since Aus Post and Ebay have both put their fees up it's not worth the hassle unless the item will net you at least $20 (You can clear $10 on a low shipping weight item that sells for $20). If it's going to sell for less than $10 you will loose money and if it's going to sell for less than $20 it's probably not worth the hassle, of listing it, communicating with buyers, packaging etc.) And last time I ebayed many of my items fetched far less than normal. Like gumtree, the market is now over saturated with sellers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 26, 2015, 09:43:32 PM
Just gave 3 shirts to a roommate .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 27, 2015, 05:07:31 AM
I'm through household  stationary. I had no idea I had that many notebooks. I have some fancy watches that were gifted to us over our lives that are definitely in the going out pile, but they are languishing in my to be listed for sale pile. First items that resulted in procrastination.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on June 27, 2015, 09:13:38 AM
Time to tackle the closet from hell!

It may take me 2-3 days to finish, but reading these posts has given me the incentive to just dig in. Thanks guys, I'll post on my progress.

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on June 27, 2015, 05:36:53 PM
I returned 2 half-functional items to Amazon today, that I had purchased specifically for my trip last week.  Shit that doesn't work right drives me crazy! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 28, 2015, 09:32:33 AM
Sold a shoe stand, Xbox 360 (and associated games), Nexus 9 and a few more things this week. Also have a ton of interest on the others I have on eBay. Woot! Loads more gone by end of next week :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on June 28, 2015, 10:05:54 AM
Culled three boxes of old documents and keepsakes into one box.  One box worth was recycled, and one will be shredded.

Also have been donating books to the library (a dozen or fifteen every time I visit) and at the gym, where they have a leave-a-book, take-a-book area.  I've been leaving books and only ended up taking one so far. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on June 28, 2015, 04:47:37 PM
Recently I donated, into a Lion's Club box at the library, a pair of old prescription sunglasses and a pair of glasses I wore during a particularly depressing period.  In good karmic fashion, a manager at the glasses shop down the street actually tightened up the fit of my newer internet-purchased Rx sunglasses for FREE.  My ears and nose were grateful not to have those sunglasses pushing on them all day driving through the sunny states on my recent travels. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on June 28, 2015, 06:26:45 PM
I'm going to try to sell a few things too, particularly things that are easy to ship but could sell for a bit (hello, leather handbags that I bought and have basically never used because they're not in my colour scheme). I've always dismissed it as too hard but I'm thinking of at least dipping my toe in the water, maybe listing one or two things at a time on ebay.

You will get so sick of visiting the post office repeatedly. Better to do it all at once. Make a very clear "pay within 48 hours or I will re-list" warning on your listings and set your promised ship time to 72 hours. This way you should be able to catch everyone in a single post office trip. List everything in one day. It will be annoying, but over with and your total time investment per item will drop drastically.
Although, TBH, I find since Aus Post and Ebay have both put their fees up it's not worth the hassle unless the item will net you at least $20 (You can clear $10 on a low shipping weight item that sells for $20). If it's going to sell for less than $10 you will loose money and if it's going to sell for less than $20 it's probably not worth the hassle, of listing it, communicating with buyers, packaging etc.) And last time I ebayed many of my items fetched far less than normal. Like gumtree, the market is now over saturated with sellers.

Thanks Melody, I'll use those tips! Though given my low energy I'm definitely only going to start with two or three items, that way if I find I've bitten off more than I can chew there's not a mountain of things to package and post all at once.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on June 28, 2015, 07:17:41 PM
Cleaned out the fridge.  It was long overdue. Yuk.

Sorted quilt batting and have some to toss. Some to give away. And some to use.

Finished scanning the last of my scrapbooks and photos.

Working on ripping my cd collection.

Eating (or tossing) all the odd food in the cupboards.

:).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 29, 2015, 02:35:05 AM
So I didn't get any decluttering done this weekend, but we did visit friends, which really reaffirmed my commitment to this! Their house was just so full of stuff. Stacks of mail so old and tall they had fallen over. Something on every single flat surface. Kitchen appliances which were clearly never used taking up the small amount of counter space, making preparing any food very difficult. A huge table squished up against a wall and so covered in junk I couldn't even sit at it to eat!

I just wanted to say, Argh, why are you even keeping this?! and start throwing stuff out. But I was very good and just played the perfect houseguest. But life is so much harder than it has to be with all that stuff. You have to move something around every time you want to do anything. I honestly couldn't bear it, it was so hard to move about, to find anything. Even making a cup of coffee with no counter space and everything so jumbled up was traumatic.(I'm trying not to sound judgemental and failing, I realise).

Came home to my still too cluttered but with 1/3 the stuff in it house, which is much smaller than their place, and breathed a sigh of relief at all the space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on June 29, 2015, 08:44:49 AM
So I didn't get any decluttering done this weekend, but we did visit friends, which really reaffirmed my commitment to this! Their house was just so full of stuff. Stacks of mail so old and tall they had fallen over. Something on every single flat surface. Kitchen appliances which were clearly never used taking up the small amount of counter space, making preparing any food very difficult. A huge table squished up against a wall and so covered in junk I couldn't even sit at it to eat!

I just wanted to say, Argh, why are you even keeping this?! and start throwing stuff out. But I was very good and just played the perfect houseguest. But life is so much harder than it has to be with all that stuff. You have to move something around every time you want to do anything. I honestly couldn't bear it, it was so hard to move about, to find anything. Even making a cup of coffee with no counter space and everything so jumbled up was traumatic.(I'm trying not to sound judgemental and failing, I realise).

Came home to my still too cluttered but with 1/3 the stuff in it house, which is much smaller than their place, and breathed a sigh of relief at all the space.
I totally understand your sentiment! I feel this way walking into most people's homes, and some businesses. I think to myself - they never wear those hiddeous green funky frame glasses adorning the bookshelf: toss. That stack of fashion magazines mixed with their books ( when they'd already mentioned they still receive mags that they toss because came for former roommate )- toss. Laundry all over furniture, so many clothes it won't fit in the closets, so many dishes they are all crammed into every inch of the cupboards.... Argh.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: N on June 29, 2015, 09:32:45 PM
this weekend I listed 13 board/card games on my local fb virtual garage sale groups. I sold all of them. I first tried them at 3 or 4$ each, but got no bites. After a few days, I edited them and made them all 2$, (except one really nice one I got 10$ for). Made 33$

and now my board game shelves are really tidy, and stocked with games we really do play.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on June 29, 2015, 10:21:08 PM
this weekend I listed 13 board/card games on my local fb virtual garage sale groups. I sold all of them. I first tried them at 3 or 4$ each, but got no bites. After a few days, I edited them and made them all 2$, (except one really nice one I got 10$ for). Made 33$

and now my board game shelves are really tidy, and stocked with games we really do play.

We need to go through our board games. I'd love to buy some games that we enjoy, but I feel like I can't because we already have 2 shelves full - we just don't like playing any of those games! I wonder how SO will feel about it when I bring it up...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on June 30, 2015, 06:58:53 AM
I think Kondo says that if we focus on other people's inability to be tidy, it's because we have some things we need to tidy up ourselves (or something to that effect).

I'm working on the kitchen declutter tonight. I'm a bit nervous and a lot excited since this is an area where we seem to have a lot o' stuff and we definitely do not have a lot o' room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 30, 2015, 08:32:01 AM
I think Kondo says that if we focus on other people's inability to be tidy, it's because we have some things we need to tidy up ourselves (or something to that effect).


Oh totally. It really brought home to me how much more stuff I want to get rid of.

Just did my desk drawers (which, as I keep saying, I've done before!). Got rid of loads more, and have really seen my efforts of using stuff up (primarily snacks, ha ha) and NOT REPLACING them.

So much more room, and a place for everything. Tomorrow... I'll attack the bedroom again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: relena on June 30, 2015, 10:14:57 AM
i sold a big box of books on craigslist yesterday! listing an old multi function printer that we never use today!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 01, 2015, 07:14:13 AM
As planned, I tackled the bedroom today. Phew.

I cleared a whole shelf. Doesn't sound like much, but we have a four shelf unit which used to be *crammed*. Gradually I'd reduced the amount of stuff on it so there was breathing room. Today I got it to a place where everything comfortably fit on three of the shelves. I plan to leave the top one completely empty.

There was a knock on effect in the lounge as some stuff moved down there. I pulled out a lot of books and storage boxes from the shelves there to consolidate and make room for stuff moving downstairs. Why did I have four sets of playing cards? We never play cards.

So much stuff ready to go to the charity shop. And I also decided I needed to use my 'ebay box' for odd sock storage if I was going to get the top shelf clear, so every single thing in it has been listed on a one-week auction. (Whenever an odd sock comes out of a load I put it there. Eventually they all find their friends, but I will always need a place for the spares as they're rarely all correctly married up at once!).

If the items I've listed don't sell, I will consider relisting it once more if I think it's worth waiting, otherwise it's off to charity. Nothing else is going in an ebay holding box - either I list it immediately or donate. I think I've got rid of most of the stuff that's worth much anyway.

I also cleared out recipe cards I've been saving, and chose one to make for dinner (which also uses up a curry mix I had been wanting to get rid of). This meant I could designate a spot for our ipad to live. That makes me weirdly happy. It had a general 'area' before, but this is even better.

Also cleared out my e-mails, I have 2 items in my inbox both of which are ongoing. Feeling good! Well done to everyone else who's had success this week too, and hugs to those struggling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 01, 2015, 07:57:38 AM
Could someone give me a pep talk that it would be better to get rid of the stamping supplies at even a penny on the dollar I paid for them, then to keep them unused in my closet?

I am having a very hard time clearing them, because I know they cost so much money.  And maybe I'll use them against someday...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 01, 2015, 08:36:12 AM
Could someone give me a pep talk that it would be better to get rid of the stamping supplies at even a penny on the dollar I paid for them, then to keep them unused in my closet?

I am having a very hard time clearing them, because I know they cost so much money.  And maybe I'll use them against someday...

When it comes down to clutter that I can't get much value back on, it's easiest for me to give away items than to sell them.  Then I feel good about making someone else happy rather than quite so regretful for the lost money.  Is there someone who would appreciate them in your life (and not consider it clutter)?  If so, give it to them (bonus you can likely "visit" and borrow if you really want.)  Save out your favorites if that will make you feel better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 01, 2015, 10:03:58 AM
Could someone give me a pep talk that it would be better to get rid of the stamping supplies at even a penny on the dollar I paid for them, then to keep them unused in my closet?

I am having a very hard time clearing them, because I know they cost so much money.  And maybe I'll use them against someday...

When it comes down to clutter that I can't get much value back on, it's easiest for me to give away items than to sell them.  Then I feel good about making someone else happy rather than quite so regretful for the lost money.  Is there someone who would appreciate them in your life (and not consider it clutter)?  If so, give it to them (bonus you can likely "visit" and borrow if you really want.)  Save out your favorites if that will make you feel better.

That's a great idea common cents. Even a post on Facebook might bring some stamping friends out of the woodwork. Or a local craft group/teacher?

When this happens to me I remember the money is already gone. Holding onto the stuff just reminds me of the waste, so I'd rather not see them. But it's easier said than done, I know.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 3Mer on July 01, 2015, 10:41:03 AM
Could someone give me a pep talk that it would be better to get rid of the stamping supplies at even a penny on the dollar I paid for them, then to keep them unused in my closet?

I am having a very hard time clearing them, because I know they cost so much money.  And maybe I'll use them against someday...

I find if I give away stuff I've spent money on helps me think twice before over-spending in the future.  The fact it is a little painful can be a help!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 01, 2015, 03:11:35 PM
I'm getting kicked out of my apartment in Dec because they're renovating and converting it to an office building. Good thing I've been decluttering and selling things on ebay/craigslist over the past few months. Time to kick things into high gear for the summer!

Progress for June: $230 (got rid of clothes/shoes/an airbed despite being away for 2 weeks!)
Progress for 2015 (Jan-June): $1510

Plan for July is to sell/give away an old dresser that I got for free but never used, a foot massager that I rarely use and was keeping for my parents' visit (now that they've left I can get rid of everything that I've been keeping for overnight guests), that extra bike I was keeping for visiting guests, and any other bulky things that I think I can get rid of.

Anyone else find that craigslist/ebay are a lot more active in the summer months?

Sry to hear you will hav to move . but excellent time to be rid of more . I also had to move recently unexpectedly, such a bummer , but found a better place for less  .
Wow! That's a lot of money you've made selling your unwanted stuff. Excellent.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on July 01, 2015, 05:28:07 PM
My clutter busting goals for 2015:

Locate and re-organize all my important papers, label each folder and subfolder. Then set up a file system that actually works for me. Finished in March 2015! Yeah - success is sweet! Order in the study is a wonderful thing to behold. I can actually pull out my file drawer with all my important papers and find what I need within seconds - Hallelujah!!!

Clear all paper clutter period! That's a biggie - that means boxes and bags and boxes and bags crammed full and shoved in corners and closets - still working on it. Made a few good dents in it last year and early this year, stopped - hated that, but it was an emergency trip that took me out of the country for a couple of months and when I got back I'd lost my momentum.

Started up again - cleared out a cabinet this June, but ironically never managed to sort through and eliminate the one big basket of papers hiding in it.
But hey, I sorted, purged and re-organized the entire cabinet - so in a way it was still a success. But now it has me wondering - psychologically speaking, why did I avoid that one basket of paper clutter still hiding in there?

Meanwhile, this Sunday we cleared out 75% of the laundry room from hell. Mostly boxes of paper clutter, pulled it all out, sorted through all but one big box. Felt good, now DH can have a look at the electric outlet that mysteriously stopped working, the one that's right behind the washer of course. Hope he can figure it out, if not I will have to call the electrician.
Found some change and at least ten good pens from when I cleared out my car two years ago:)
So far I filled two huge thrash cans with junk and paper clutter. A few things destined for a garage sale and some information that I had been looking for.
 
I will continue the job tomorrow, with luck I may make it through the last box and all the clutter on top of the tool box. Then I will feel inspired to finish the job, finding a home for everything from the odd Christmas tin box to the rope etc. ...
Sorting paperwork is downright exhausting - it's all those decisions about whether to keep or toss. I'll be real glad when the last of the paperwork is properly sorted and filed away - in fact, that will require a reward.

Got a long way to go - more boxes with paperwork clutter in other rooms... made a few inroads here and there over the past year. It has been very slow going at times, but the one thing I am most proud of is that I have a functioning file drawer and all my important papers are properly filed and can be found in seconds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 02, 2015, 02:54:27 AM
Rosy sounds like you have done great work, well done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pancakes on July 02, 2015, 04:51:22 AM
Could someone give me a pep talk that it would be better to get rid of the stamping supplies at even a penny on the dollar I paid for them, then to keep them unused in my closet?

I am having a very hard time clearing them, because I know they cost so much money.  And maybe I'll use them against someday...
The expense was incurred when you purchased them, not when you get rid of them. Keeping them and never using them is as good as not having them at all.

Make plans to use them this weekend or get rid of them. The sooner they are gone, the sooner you'll stop having negative feelings about their cost every time you look at them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nottoolatetostart on July 02, 2015, 07:07:52 AM
We moved last year and I've been trying to seriously declutter 1 moving box per day (stuff we have not opened in the last year of living here) that we have in our basement. I am on my third week. Takes 10-15 minutes per day (working full-time and 2 kids). I am being very selective in what we keep because our upcoming goal is to continue to downsize into smaller home (hopefully around 1200 sq ft) and we don't need all this stuff. This process really makes me hate buying anything new, because of the mental energy of owning something (cleaning it, fixing it, organizing it, and then finally disowning it, etc). Less stuff = less time spent on it = more time for fun.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 02, 2015, 07:35:15 AM
All good points about the craft supplies (sunk cost and gifting to friends for joy). You have all helped me tremendously! A very hearty thank you!

Rosy + advicist, you're making excellent progress. I'm inspired!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 02, 2015, 10:50:40 AM
Another 3 shirts. One skirt, and one bra out . also one big beach bag that I do not like anymore out . was using to keep paints and brushes but transferred them to a shoebox stacked with other art and sewing supplies also in one shoebox each, easily accessible on shelf in closet .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on July 02, 2015, 12:33:42 PM
When does decluttering end?

My closets contain only things I want to keep/spark joy for me and I've given away or cleared over a 1000 items in the past two months. Everything (except my husband's closet) is cleared of clutter. Items to be sold or gifted would be done soon (July 15 to be exact - that is my self imposed deadline to clear out the sell items) and I've started on the digital decluttering.

However, this morning I see that our mail shelf is again full (from past week) and I'm finding a shelf here, a bag there that I didn't catch the first time I decluttered. I'm also starting to take another look at all the stuff we still have.

But I'm starting to feel the fatigue too. I'm not sure when is a good time to stop and just let things be. I sometimes worry I still have too much and sometimes think I'm throwing something that my husband or kid might need. When do you stop decluttering?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on July 02, 2015, 12:49:35 PM
When does decluttering end?

My closets contain only things I want to keep/spark joy for me and I've given away or cleared over a 1000 items in the past two months. Everything (except my husband's closet) is cleared of clutter. Items to be sold or gifted would be done soon (July 15 to be exact - that is my self imposed deadline to clear out the sell items) and I've started on the digital decluttering.

However, this morning I see that our mail shelf is again full (from past week) and I'm finding a shelf here, a bag there that I didn't catch the first time I decluttered. I'm also starting to take another look at all the stuff we still have.

But I'm starting to feel the fatigue too. I'm not sure when is a good time to stop and just let things be. I sometimes worry I still have too much and sometimes think I'm throwing something that my husband or kid might need. When do you stop decluttering?

Personally I'm going through everything in rounds. Round 1 is nearly over and I've started on round 2 in some rooms already. I expect I'll take decluttering off my to-do list after round 3, but I imagine by then I will have developed a habit and will naturally declutter here and there just to prevent the clutter from coming back. So I don't think it'll ever end, but it'll get easier and more natural over time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 02, 2015, 10:14:37 PM
And a pair of fleece socks that make my feet sweat even in winter are out. The simple things hahaha.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 03, 2015, 02:34:28 AM
I thought that when I saw the new post too, acorn!

This is long, get ready...

I caved and bought the Marie Kondo book with an amazon voucher I had. Loving it so far! I thought it would be all patronising and self-helpy, but no, she tells it straight. She uses real examples from her clients, and is sometimes quite scathing about them and their habits, I love it!

My favourite so far is her talking about a client who was stockpiling loo roll. The clients excuse was digestive issues. Marie says,

"But even if she used one roll a day, she had at least three months’ supply. I’m not sure she could have used up one roll a day even if she spent all day wiping her bottom, and by that time her bottom would have been rubbed raw. It made me wonder if I should be giving her skin cream rather than lessons in cleaning."

Made me LOL! Enjoying it very much so far, although I wasn't quite sure when to actually start? At one point she says 'let's get to it!' so I went and started on my wardrobe, but then ended up reading the rest of the chapter as it contains lot of tips. Now I'm not sure if I should stop reading to tackle my books, or read all the way through and then do it.

I did another pass through of my clothes having read that chapter, and got rid of about 20 more things (even after all the weeding I've been doing). I used to store 3 bags of out of season stuff and I got it down to 1 by focussing not on whether I wear it, but whether it brings me joy. I was amazed how much stuff I wore because it was 'useful' (goes with anything, warm, easy outfit) rather than because it made me feel good.

I'm down to one small bag of out of season, and I would have hanging space for it all but my hanging area is 50/50 full length and half length, and I have way more dresses than tops so the full-length side is full, the other side has lots of capacity. Will incorporate a 70/30 split into my new bedroom design when the time comes.

I also liked how she says, you think I'm nutty don't you? Well, just try it anyway. So I did with the socks (folding, not balling up). I also rolled all my tights as described. I must say, I do like it! With tights especially it takes up a lot less space, and I could see at a glance that I was short on nude and needed to get some washing on. Much better than my usual tug of war trying to extract on pair from the tangle.

And her advice on hanging clothes so that they rise to the right, it sounds mad, but she said to draw a diagonal line in the air up to your right, and then one down to your right, and see how it makes you feel. I think I need to reverse my hanging order!

Also got bids on lots of things I listed on ebay earlier in the week, and have sold a book on amazon.  Thanks so much to everyone who recommended the book!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 04, 2015, 01:18:06 PM
My DD and I decluttered her room yesterday. It took us a good part of the day but her closet and her room never looked better. We have a huge pile of stuff for donation and a few items for consignment. We used the Konmarie method and it worked quite well.  She had a ton of clothes that she didn't like or outgrew so that's the majority of the pile. We'll probably need to do another sweep through her various miscellaneous items but she's made good progress there too considering she generally keeps a ton of stuff for sentimental reasons. 

I've been feeling so much better since I've started my decluttering and minimizing "mission" ;-). Clutter really stresses me out. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on July 04, 2015, 04:10:46 PM
I threw out more photos yesterday. Yay! Now I'm just down to printed ones from the last 5 years. I should really just chuck them all, but I'm not quite at that stage. The only time I ever look at my photos is when I'm going through them to cull. D'oh!

Last weekend, I sorted our big pile of paperwork. We use the bottom drawer of a chest of drawers that sits next to the front door for mail that needs to be kept and filed. I ended up throwing out 2/3 of the papers (realised we really didn't need to keep vet receipts, for example) and DH tore them up and we chucked them into the compost. Normally we recycle paper, but neither of us are comfortable with putting stuff with personal identity/bank account details straight into the recycling bin. We did have a shredder but it died after a year. Don't want to replace it cos the next one is also likely to not last that long, and having to send stuff to landfill unnecessarily sickens me a bit these days.

tl;dr - filed some papers, threw out the rest.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 04, 2015, 06:39:15 PM
I cleaned the house yesterday but it made me realise how much easier cleaning would be if I had less junk.
I also realised I have enough stationary to last a very long time so I might start taking some of it to work where at least I will use it (even though I can of course get it free from the stationary cupboard) as I really just want to see it used. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on July 04, 2015, 07:21:48 PM
I started to type a post asking for opinions on whether to keep a certain set of items (workout clothes that are currently too small bc of pregnancy weight)... and in typing out my reasons for keeping them, realized they were dumb reasons. They'll go in the next donation bag!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 04, 2015, 07:49:28 PM
So... got the Kondo book from the library last week and am poking through it. So far, so good. I think I've always been a declutterer by nature for quite some time (plus i moved every 2-4 years for 15 years or so - which does reinforce a certain level of decluttering). I've been in the same house now for 7 years and I do feel that stuff is piling up. But some of it is like big furniture things - not just little cluttery things. Like my bedroom added a bookshelf and a wicker laundry basket things over the 7 years. And of course those furniture things are full of little cluttery things! So, today I have a plan in place for the laundry hamper to go (it was holding clean bedding), and some of the bedding to go too (naturally). Struggling with the books and bookshelves (there are many in the house).  Eyeing a chair in the living room that I loved the look of but don't find particularly comfortable and it rarely gets used. Thinking if I shred many of the papers I can ditch the file cabinet and at least one desk....

Anyone done the big stuff and not just the little piles of stuff?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on July 04, 2015, 08:50:03 PM
Felt the result of all our decluttering - we had friends over this weekend and cleaning took just two hours (while before it would've taken atleast a day, putting things away and then cleaning everything and it would've resulted in a fight about who's stuff is lying all around the house). I'm loving it!

Now we've decided to do this level of cleaning every week so we can enjoy our home even more. :)

Started on digital decluttering - can anyone recommend any books for how to go about it? I feel overwhelmed by that task.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on July 04, 2015, 09:54:57 PM
I'm working on ripping my cd collection as I write. I'll be so glad when this project is done.

Sorted the past school years papers. Scanned what I need. Recycling a 3 inch thick pile.

Knotted a comforter that's been sitting around for months waiting to be quilted.  I generally despise knotted comforters but it was time... It is a gift and will soon be taking up space in someone else's home! ;)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 04, 2015, 10:16:23 PM
So... got the Kondo book from the library last week and am poking through it. So far, so good. I think I've always been a declutterer by nature for quite some time (plus i moved every 2-4 years for 15 years or so - which does reinforce a certain level of decluttering). I've been in the same house now for 7 years and I do feel that stuff is piling up. But some of it is like big furniture things - not just little cluttery things. Like my bedroom added a bookshelf and a wicker laundry basket things over the 7 years. And of course those furniture things are full of little cluttery things! So, today I have a plan in place for the laundry hamper to go (it was holding clean bedding), and some of the bedding to go too (naturally). Struggling with the books and bookshelves (there are many in the house).  Eyeing a chair in the living room that I loved the look of but don't find particularly comfortable and it rarely gets used. Thinking if I shred many of the papers I can ditch the file cabinet and at least one desk....

Anyone done the big stuff and not just the little piles of stuff?

Well done.
Yes I hav and the spareness is lovely.
Keep up the good work
 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 04, 2015, 10:26:11 PM
So... got the Kondo book from the library last week and am poking through it. So far, so good. I think I've always been a declutterer by nature for quite some time (plus i moved every 2-4 years for 15 years or so - which does reinforce a certain level of decluttering). I've been in the same house now for 7 years and I do feel that stuff is piling up. But some of it is like big furniture things - not just little cluttery things. Like my bedroom added a bookshelf and a wicker laundry basket things over the 7 years. And of course those furniture things are full of little cluttery things! So, today I have a plan in place for the laundry hamper to go (it was holding clean bedding), and some of the bedding to go too (naturally). Struggling with the books and bookshelves (there are many in the house).  Eyeing a chair in the living room that I loved the look of but don't find particularly comfortable and it rarely gets used. Thinking if I shred many of the papers I can ditch the file cabinet and at least one desk....

Anyone done the big stuff and not just the little piles of stuff?

Well done.
Yes I hav and the spareness is lovely.
Keep up the good work
We cleared 4 small sets of curved glass corner shelves and sold 3. I've sold a large desk top I had and replaced it with one 2/3 the size. We're currently trying to work out which of our sets of shelves we need, and then sell the ones we don't like after we've been through the stuff they hold. Should get rid of at least 1 bookshelf. We have more drawers in our bedroom than I'd like, but they hold bedding as well as clothes and make everything work much better. Getting rid of the big stuff feels great and is a much more obvious change then the little pieces.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on July 05, 2015, 12:17:34 AM
I 'fessed to DH that I was feeling overwhelmed with his stuff and kept daydreaming of a near-empty house. He loves his stuff (mostly DVDs, CDs, books and comics) so we're kind of at an impasse. But he did get rid of a small box of DVDs that we will take to charity next week. No point selling stuff here - the secondhand market is oversaturated.

Anyway, I also moved my small pile of photos into our box of wedding memorabilia. I found the off-cut from my wedding dress (it was a blue dress, not white) and chucked it away immediately. I love that I married DH but my memories of getting married (the lead-up, the day itself and the honeymoon) are quite fraught and ambivalent. I was so very very sick but didn't realise it at the time (spent more than a week in hospital after we got back from our honeymoon), and so I don't actually like having many mementoes of that time. I'd rather just enjoy today and being married, rather than being all nostalgic about our wedding day. Anyway, I'm rambling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on July 05, 2015, 01:57:45 AM
I 'fessed to DH that I was feeling overwhelmed with his stuff and kept daydreaming of a near-empty house. He loves his stuff (mostly DVDs, CDs, books and comics) so we're kind of at an impasse. But he did get rid of a small box of DVDs that we will take to charity next week. No point selling stuff here - the secondhand market is oversaturated.



My husband is a pack rat too, he did clear out some stuff but he still has 7 large boxes of vinyl records and he still keeps all his CDs even though he doesn't even listen to them. *Sigh*

ETA I suppose I should be grateful that he doesn't have his comic collection here as he is keeping it at his Mum's house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on July 05, 2015, 04:38:30 AM
Well.. having an unexpected house guest come to stay this week (don't know for how long yet - although it is likely to be intermittent) meant I did a bit of a declutter in the spare room this weekend. The room was mostly tidy, but the drawers / wardrobe / under the bed are storage places for items I want to keep, but don't know where to put them. Some items are the use once a year type - and cannot easily be replaced, so they stay. Some items are more of a sentimental nature. I go through this room about once a year, and each time find more stuff to get rid of. I mostly feel good now, there have been a few things come out of the room that need to be re-homed. Some toys from my childhood, are to go to nieces / nephews or be sold. I have slowly come to the realisation that there is no point in keeping them under the bed, when they were designed to be played with! There are some items which I still need to figure out a better home for. I would love it if my guest bedroom only had items for guests in it, but with limited other storage in the house that is not possible.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 05, 2015, 09:47:06 AM
I am now engaged to longtime boyfriend ( 6yrs ) & we do not live together , but did a while back for two years.. Anyway, we will begin to look for a place , sml apt or similar. My things are very minimal by now, but his are not so much . he has tons of clothes, hats, shoes, etc.  Also tons of clutter type random things that serve no purpose really besides adorning every surface of his place.  Ha! Opposites attract sometimes. Most likely he'll donate a few things, but keep the bulk and I won't give him a hard time . His furniture is rather minimal tho so that's a plus.  I foresee my few possessions will dwindle further as I always do a major sweep if everything every time I move :) . for me is good fun and a great additional motivator.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on July 05, 2015, 08:52:14 PM
After giving it a couple weeks on Freecycle with no bites, I took my old broken Canon printer to the trash room this morning.  I feel glad to have that nonfunctioning monstrosity out of my living room. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 05, 2015, 09:03:51 PM
A good friend informed me that she is having a garage sale in a few weeks and that I'm welcome to bring stuff over. Yeah! I'm sure there is something stashed in this house that I can get rid of. We had a huge sale in May but there is always more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on July 05, 2015, 11:41:53 PM
Mrs LC, I like your blog!
Today I admitted I needed to give away a shirt that looked great on the hanger and horrible on me.  Even though the tags were still on it.  I had a whole fight about it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on July 06, 2015, 02:25:05 AM
I got rid of a few more things yesterday. I am sending my old mobile phone and charger for recycling. I don't know why I was holding onto it for so long.

I threw away a blanket for my cat which she had ruined.

A couple items of makeup binned, the mascara had dried up.

I am waiting for my new drawer dividers to arrive and I want everything non clothes related to fit in three of the drawers so I may have to move some stuff around and see if there is anything else that can be purged.:)

ETA I just moved some paperwork from the drawer to the box files and threw away some advertising flyers. Threw away some old costume jewellery as I doubt it would sell at a charity shop.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 06, 2015, 03:34:01 AM

Anyone done the big stuff and not just the little piles of stuff?

MsPeacock, I hadn't intended to get rid of any big stuff, but I found that getting rid of the little stuff freed me to get rid of the big stuff.

The first item of furniture to go was a chest of drawers, which (of course) was given to me as a hand me down. It held napkins, placemats etc. When I cleared out some drawers of kitchen gadgets I never used I decided to put the dining items in there, so the drawers were obsolete. Moving them out gave me space to move other stuff around and freed up much needed circulating space near our dining table.

Then just on Friday night I cleared out another chest of drawers in the bathroom. I've mentioned my toiletries struggle before, but after finishing Marie Kondo I just tackled it head on. I haven't bought and toiletries for months, and pretty much never intend to again (I make all my own creams and lotions and get given enough bubble bath / shower gel etc to see me through).

So knowing I was bringing no more in I felt better about throwing out stuff I was never going to use. I had a few duplicates I know I will get to, they went into a small cosmetics bag on a shelf. I moved the first aid and medicines out of the bathroom into another drawer which had been cleared out thanks to Marie.

Getting rid of that chest of drawers opened up the bathroom immensely.

So if you've done the little things you'll likely have excess storage capacity and be able to get rid of some bigger items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 06, 2015, 04:56:45 AM
Tossed a cardigan out which had faded badly in the sun (after only 2 days on the line in winter - WTF???) and a merino long sleeve t-shirt that a moth had had a feast on. Neither need to be replaced, I have plenty more cardis and merinos so that's two less items in my home.
Bought new winter work shoes today but left them under my desk at work (oops) as soon as I have them home and waterproofed the current pair is going in the bin. I didn't feel any purchase guilt as I knew they were replacing a pair that had well and truly done their time. Next planned purchase is a pair of summer work shoes to replace the two crappy/beat up pairs I currently have in my closet. The aim is to have two good quality and stylish pairs of shoes for work and be done with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 06, 2015, 06:49:40 AM
Mrs LC, I like your blog!
Today I admitted I needed to give away a shirt that looked great on the hanger and horrible on me.  Even though the tags were still on it.  I had a whole fight about it.
Thanks. Glad you liked it! The blog is just getting started so come back for more and bring your friends!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 06, 2015, 07:12:51 AM
Mrs LC, I like your blog!
Today I admitted I needed to give away a shirt that looked great on the hanger and horrible on me.  Even though the tags were still on it.  I had a whole fight about it.
Thanks. Glad you liked it! The blog is just getting started so come back for more and bring your friends!

I checked it as well and liked it as well!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 06, 2015, 08:05:28 AM
Finished Knodo's book this weekend. I have folded most of the drawers in my dresser as she recommends - why have I never heard of this before??? It is such an improvement to be able to see everything.

Started on weeding down my books - which is a major hurdle for me. I didn't take them all off the shelf as she recommends (that I will probably save for round 2), but took shelves and shelves out for donation. And now thinking back to some I left behind - those will go too.

YAY!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kander on July 06, 2015, 08:20:39 AM
Great, MsPeacock. I've also read the book and I'm very enthusiastic about it!

Didn't start with the clothes, because I did that a few weeks ago, so I started with the books. I've cut or book collection in half :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 06, 2015, 09:20:56 AM
Sunday morning I was in the basement, and finally got around to opening the box and putting the furnace filters in the utility room. Looked at it, thought that I really needed to clean it out, closed the door and went back upstairs.

An hour later roomie and I were frantically removing everything from the utility room because the ejector pump failed and was flooding the basement. Thank god, it's laundry water and not toilet water!

Most of the clutter is paint cans. Some were there when we moved in. 2 gallons of a color that had been tried and rejected by a previous occupant and 9 pint cans of test colors from the living room got put on the free stuff section of Craigslist. One person coming tonight for the gallons, and someone hopefully coming tomorrow for the rest. If they flake out then I'll just put the ad back up.

Need to figure out which can of brown is the right color and use it for some touchups, then dispose of the other can. Also need to go through the rest and figure out what's actually on the walls, then get rid of the rest. Plus, I think the huge container of spackle has dried out and can get tossed. Already tossed the cardboard boxes that got wet.

Looking forward to getting the pump fixed so we can wash everything that got used for mopping up. Still working on the cleanup in the basement, but mostly trying to dry everything asap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 06, 2015, 12:13:20 PM
DH and I spent some quality time in the basement over the weekend throwing crap out. 

A few months ago we got a pretty large dumpster and gutted the basement.  In this process a ton of crap got thrown away, which was way awesome.  However, this weekend showed both of us that there is still a lot down there that has to go.  We only had the dumpster for a week, and we filled it right to the brim with everything from some concrete walls and ceiling tiles to old things of DH's gram that we just didn't want around any longer.

Still found some old expired food.  Still scraping tiles off the floor.  Still going through boxes we ignored in the demolition purge.  It's coming along.  Trash goes out tonight, I'm hoping for at least 4 bags of trash and to fill the recycle bin at least halfway (we have one of the huge 55+ gallon ones).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 06, 2015, 08:04:05 PM
Mrs LC, I like your blog!
Today I admitted I needed to give away a shirt that looked great on the hanger and horrible on me.  Even though the tags were still on it.  I had a whole fight about it.
Thanks. Glad you liked it! The blog is just getting started so come back for more and bring your friends!

I checked it as well and liked it as well!

Thanks for the support!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 07, 2015, 07:20:45 AM
I finally decluttered the kitchen gadgets! Woot! I'm excited. I knew it wouldn't be hard to get rid of things, but was nervous about the volume. Turns out, we don't have that much stuff, just limited space. I didn't declutter food since I am strongly against food waste (sorry Kondo, on this we part ways), but I'm committed to eating down my dried goods once again.

We are inching closer and closer to the hobby supplies. I'm actually excited to get to them and get rid of them!

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 07, 2015, 06:14:12 PM
Task for the weekend: get the book from the library and do some focused decluttering. I also want to learn the folding tricks as I wear a lot of t-shirts and tank tops and have yet to figure out a way to keep the draw clean. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 07, 2015, 06:21:34 PM
I finally decluttered the kitchen gadgets! Woot! I'm excited. I knew it wouldn't be hard to get rid of things, but was nervous about the volume. Turns out, we don't have that much stuff, just limited space. I didn't declutter food since I am strongly against food waste (sorry Kondo, on this we part ways), but I'm committed to eating down my dried goods once again.

We are inching closer and closer to the hobby supplies. I'm actually excited to get to them and get rid of them!
In terms of food decluttering could you take the unwanted/unhealthy items (unopened stuff like cans etc) and put them in one of those donation boxes out the front of the supermarket. We always have them at Christmas but they also appear at other times of the year like homeless week (yes its a thing) and the like. Another alternative is to given the unwanted food to family/friends/neighbours. I gave my mum a bunch of flavoured tea I didn't like... The tea will get used and I don't have to drink it. Win win! I have also gotten rid of food by leaving it in the kitchen at work (stuff like weird powdered iced tea mix) co workers happily consumed it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 08, 2015, 05:08:15 AM
Excellent point, Melody! If I left food at work it would get devoured. I'll go through my food with that in mind. Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on July 08, 2015, 06:10:24 AM
I made a foray into DD's room and even though I hardly touched the surface we ended up with a large bag of rubbish which half filled the garbage bin, and 4 bags/boxes of  stuff went to the family store.  And another two to go.  This is huge since DD is usually very protective of her treasures.

I honestly don't know how I ended up with a house with so much stuff in it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on July 08, 2015, 07:17:23 AM
Brought some stuff for clothing re-sale yesterday (though I did use store credit to get a skirt at one of them oops...), and a bag of books to re-sell today with a bag for donation hopefully going out tomorrow. Growing the twice, clothing swap, and fall trade piles. I feel like most of my 'de-cluttering' is mostly just trying to turn things I'm not using into small cash infusions, so not very Marie Kondo maybe, but I realized I might be able to move my cookbooks onto my regular bookshelf from their space above the stove. Not sure what else would go where they are now but kitchen space always is useful. Costco buying really takes up room!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 08, 2015, 11:05:09 AM
Sunday morning I was in the basement, and finally got around to opening the box and putting the furnace filters in the utility room. Looked at it, thought that I really needed to clean it out, closed the door and went back upstairs.

An hour later roomie and I were frantically removing everything from the utility room because the ejector pump failed and was flooding the basement. Thank god, it's laundry water and not toilet water!

Most of the clutter is paint cans. Some were there when we moved in. 2 gallons of a color that had been tried and rejected by a previous occupant and 9 pint cans of test colors from the living room got put on the free stuff section of Craigslist. One person coming tonight for the gallons, and someone hopefully coming tomorrow for the rest. If they flake out then I'll just put the ad back up.

Need to figure out which can of brown is the right color and use it for some touchups, then dispose of the other can. Also need to go through the rest and figure out what's actually on the walls, then get rid of the rest. Plus, I think the huge container of spackle has dried out and can get tossed. Already tossed the cardboard boxes that got wet.

Looking forward to getting the pump fixed so we can wash everything that got used for mopping up. Still working on the cleanup in the basement, but mostly trying to dry everything asap.

ouch! that sounds like a big mess, hope the pump gets fixed asap and you'll get a sparkling clean and decluttered basement!

All fixed now! Basement is just about back to normal - still have ventilation going to help with the drying process, but we think it's about 95% dry.

Got rid of 2 gallons of paint. The rest of the paint colors that aren't currently on the walls are in the garage, going to check them to see if they're still good (I suspect at least one isn't), and then put them up on Craigslist. The ones that are on the walls can stay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jrubin on July 08, 2015, 11:18:32 AM
For me it's been an ongoing struggle - both the DH and the two kiddos are more on the hoarder side - and while I'm not a hoarder, I have a lot of my own stuff that is pretty disorganized. I've been working on reducing the amount of "stuff" little by little - selling it on the FB tag-sale sites. No shipping like ebay and where our house is - not much ability for a tagsale. In the past month, I've managed to sell almost $300 worth of things, and probably about $1000 in the last 9 months or so. All of the proceeds going to our Early Retirement :)  Finally the Hubs and Kids are seeing the benefits and have started to randomly bring me things to post/sell for them. I've cleared/donated 3 bags of clothes from my closet (not even a dent - but not ready to MK it yet), and 3 bags of clothes from the kids closets. It's pretty overwhelming for me - we REALLY have a LOT of stuff - seriously UGH!! But getting there. The MMM mindset and this forum have really helped me to see where I'd like to be in comparison to where I am. I literally haven't even been to the mall since October 2014, which is HUGE for me - no mindless shopping and adding to the 'stuff'. It's a long road - and I really appreciate everyone on this forum that reminds me I'm not alone, I'm making progress, and there are lifetime rewards in sight. So thank you all!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on July 08, 2015, 11:29:12 AM
I am beginning to declutter again.  I had to take a break from it as I have done a major declutter within the last year or so. I have taken out some storage containers and am ready to go through them. I just don't know what to do with my collectibles.  They aren't worth much, I checked on ebay and most are not selling at all.  I am not ready to take that hit but I don't want them either.  What a dilemma.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 08, 2015, 12:00:49 PM
I am beginning to declutter again.  I had to take a break from it as I have done a major declutter within the last year or so. I have taken out some storage containers and am ready to go through them. I just don't know what to do with my collectibles.  They aren't worth much, I checked on ebay and most are not selling at all.  I am not ready to take that hit but I don't want them either.  What a dilemma.

What type of collectibles?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 08, 2015, 12:47:05 PM
A bag of clothing out today to neighbors - a dress, pants, several shirts, a skirt, a couple handkerchiefs. And a book .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 08, 2015, 12:50:49 PM
Also went thru a small stack of papers in my dressers top drawer . always mange to collect ...
Also, go thru my car to order things every week or so ( recycle expired coupons and trash out from door etc. Tidy up items in trunk & donate any items hav gathered there ) .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on July 08, 2015, 01:37:53 PM
I just don't know what to do with my collectibles.

I don't want them

You do know what to do ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jrubin on July 08, 2015, 04:23:31 PM
I have some collectibles too, like Lladro statues that were gifted to me. Not really moving from what I've seen on eBay, not sure how to sell any other way :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 08, 2015, 10:55:43 PM
Excellent point, Melody! If I left food at work it would get devoured. I'll go through my food with that in mind. Thanks!
Happy to help. I am very good at giving things away but not so much to charity where I am sometimes doubtful if the stuff gets used/appreciated and don't have the personal connection to get a warm fuzzy from it. I have never felt the need to de clutter a suit jacket which is too big for me (and I have two more black suit jackets) but as soon as I saw an unemployed friend needed one I was very enthusiastic about decluttering it. So I usually focus on finding more appreciative homes for things which helps me de clutter. I suppose because I then don't feel "omg I wasted how much on this" but I go "yay... I am making someone happy... Warm fuzzy feelings!!!" I am super good about old towels to the cat haven though... Excuse to visit cute kitties and always appreciated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 08, 2015, 10:57:03 PM
Also three bottles of medication last night... One of them was 6 years out of date... Oops!!! And I thought I had done a really good job on the bathroom the other week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bardo on July 09, 2015, 05:42:11 AM
I have some collectibles too, like Lladro statues that were gifted to me. Not really moving from what I've seen on eBay, not sure how to sell any other way :(

So you have some rubbishy statues that were "gifted" to you and that you don't want.  Would it really be so wrong just to toss them into the trash and be done with them?  If nothing else you would get that quick rush of being done with them and having them out of your sight. 


Myself, I have a couple of decorative bowls I was planning "re-purpose" with a hammer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 09, 2015, 06:54:58 AM
I have some collectibles too, like Lladro statues that were gifted to me. Not really moving from what I've seen on eBay, not sure how to sell any other way :(

I had a similar issue with an expensive watch that was gifted to me 15 years ago. I decided to give it to a family member, who I know will wear it. Do you know anyone who would appreciate the statues?

I learned something about myself when I decluttered my valuable. I don't like "nice" things. I get tremendous joy from old repurposed items, but fancy/shiny things stress me out. Not sure if it's a fear of breaking them or what, but I prefer used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on July 09, 2015, 07:33:33 AM
I have some collectibles too, like Lladro statues that were gifted to me. Not really moving from what I've seen on eBay, not sure how to sell any other way :(

Are there any kids in your family who would want them?  Since you don't care if they get broken/chipped. 

If you really need to sell them, perhaps a high-end consignment furniture shop?  They often have such things, and if you try there and it doesn't work, you're not out anything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jrubin on July 09, 2015, 12:06:34 PM
I have some collectibles too, like Lladro statues that were gifted to me. Not really moving from what I've seen on eBay, not sure how to sell any other way :(

I had a similar issue with an expensive watch that was gifted to me 15 years ago. I decided to give it to a family member, who I know will wear it. Do you know anyone who would appreciate the statues?

I learned something about myself when I decluttered my valuable. I don't like "nice" things. I get tremendous joy from old repurposed items, but fancy/shiny things stress me out. Not sure if it's a fear of breaking them or what, but I prefer used.

Thanks for all the ideas everyone! I will start by asking family members if they are interested in these things, then move on to a consignment shop, and as a last step - the thrill of tossing (or hammering) them ;)   I also prefer older, repurposed things that I don't have to stress out about breaking - based solely on what someone else spent on them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 09, 2015, 12:12:06 PM
Oftentimes you can get more benefit from donating and using the tax deduction than you can get from selling the item. I do a combination of selling on eBay, donating to thrift store or giving to friends. (Have mostly given up on Criag's List except when trying to sell cars). Last year I cleared out almost all my books and donated them, even some valuable ones. I typed up a list of the titles and took pics for proof of donation (along with thrift store receipt). ~We had a really nice tax deduction last year!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 09, 2015, 01:02:59 PM

So you have some rubbishy statues that were "gifted" to you and that you don't want.  Would it really be so wrong just to toss them into the trash and be done with them?  If nothing else you would get that quick rush of being done with them and having them out of your sight. 



I at least would give them to a thrift shop or freecycle them. That doesn't take much effort, but produces less waste, as someone might want them, just not for much money.


I think I will have a similar problem with Hummells in just a few years. There are at least 8 family members with significant collections. And they know I'm the one who cares about "family stuff".  Except I don't consider mass produced figurines to be family antiques like the trunks my grandparents brought over from Hungary. Totally different category.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on July 09, 2015, 03:52:51 PM
Task for the weekend: get the book from the library and do some focused decluttering. I also want to learn the folding tricks as I wear a lot of t-shirts and tank tops and have yet to figure out a way to keep the draw clean.

YouTube videos are great for that. I couldn't figure out how to fold just based on the description in the book.

Here's a link to Marie Kondo folding undies

https://youtu.be/tglp9eWQEhY

There are countless videos of other people (not Marie Kondo) folding T-shirts, I liked this one

https://youtu.be/EIjGlMD0Nz8
I spent about 20 minutes watching youtube videos before I put my clothes back in the drawers.  I save a lot of time finding things because everything is so easily accessible.  Organizing my socks was life-changing. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on July 09, 2015, 03:57:46 PM
I read the Life-changing Magic book a couple of months ago but can't remember - why does she suggest folding all your things rather than hanging them in the closet? It seems much easier and faster to just hang everything, especially when you hang shirts to dry on the hangers and can just pop them in the closet when they're dry.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 09, 2015, 04:18:13 PM
I read the Life-changing Magic book a couple of months ago but can't remember - why does she suggest folding all your things rather than hanging them in the closet? It seems much easier and faster to just hang everything, especially when you hang shirts to dry on the hangers and can just pop them in the closet when they're dry.
Because when you fold, you check the condition the item is in, as well as folded items taking up much less space than hanging ones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 09, 2015, 04:49:36 PM
I have been doing the hangar trick for about a month and wanted to try it for the folding stuff. With the new "folding" and a bit of cardboard I reckon I can move things from one side of the drawer to the other.the idea is that when I move to Melbourne any winter clothes that haven't been used are to stay behind or in the very least to be seriously scrutinized. My problem is I can not wear something for more than a year and then "rediscover" it and wear it to death. Generally the rediscovery relies on a complementary item entering my wardrobe. I had this shirt I really liked by found I wasn't really wearing it as it didn't go with much. Since my grey tights have entered my wardrobe it gets worn a fair bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 09, 2015, 05:06:24 PM
My clearing clutter energy came back and it is so satisfying to be almost through the first round of clearing the house out.  Another load to the dumpster this week has left me seeing the finish line ahead.  I am revelling in the feeling of being able to locate most things, being able to access them easily, being able to walk into each room with ease and best of all feeling a yummy feeling when I walk into a room and it has clear surfaces and a clear floor.

My second round will involve dealing with all the paper that was kept and organised into categories in last year's mammoth paper purge. For some reason I am putting off scanning since I don't know how.  The second round will also include checking each closet and drawer and cupboard for things which I am now ready to release.  That part should be quite quick.

Ongoing projects such as using up all lotions and toothpastes and other toiletries are bringing me weekly joy as I slowly reduce the number of jars and bottles.

Repeatedly lately people have been offering me their culled items: tonight someone brought two bags of clothing to a party for a give away and people kept holding things up for me to try on.  Finally someone asked me why I was not trying things on and I said I simply do not want to add to what I have.

I feel excited that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.  I have never lived in a state of choice, where everything we own has been recently examined and chosen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 09, 2015, 05:09:24 PM
This week two groups of people came to our house and remarked that it looks different and feels different than the last time they were here.  I explained that I had cleared out every drawer, closet, box and bin and they said they could feel a freshness in the house that was not there before. 

Made my day!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 09, 2015, 06:07:27 PM
This week two groups of people came to our house and remarked that it looks different and feels different than the last time they were here.  I explained that I had cleared out every drawer, closet, box and bin and they said they could feel a freshness in the house that was not there before. 

Made my day!!!!

Yay, wintersun! That was a fitting affirmation for all your efforts. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 10, 2015, 02:45:46 AM
This week two groups of people came to our house and remarked that it looks different and feels different than the last time they were here.  I explained that I had cleared out every drawer, closet, box and bin and they said they could feel a freshness in the house that was not there before. 

Made my day!!!!

My mum also commented on our house. She literally walked in and said, "What have you done?" as if we had redecorated or something. I suppose it's like people say that they get a face lift and everyone knows something is different, but can't put their finger on it, and so think they've changed their hair or something.

I just said, "oh I just tidied up" and she remarked about how great it was looking. It did feel nice... but it also made me slightly regretful for living in such disorder for so long (I always had an excuse, we are about to start a remodel soon, so there was no point in giving things a home etc etc). Anyway, it was nice that she noticed.

Thanks Eirene for posting the link to those videos - very helpful. I was interested to see she doesn't fold bras in half down the middle as I do. I guess she thinks it's bad for the material to be effectively turned inside out (I tuck one cup into the other).

Approaching the 1300 mark in my 2015 in 2015 challenge. I have a fair few things on ebay finishing this weekend, so they'll get checked off as they go out of the door. The money will be useful too, we've been doing an unusual amount of entertaining this month (probably linked to the fact I don't feel the need to clear up for company coming?) so we're short on booze.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on July 10, 2015, 08:53:22 AM
I read the Life-changing Magic book a couple of months ago but can't remember - why does she suggest folding all your things rather than hanging them in the closet? It seems much easier and faster to just hang everything, especially when you hang shirts to dry on the hangers and can just pop them in the closet when they're dry.
Because when you fold, you check the condition the item is in, as well as folded items taking up much less space than hanging ones.

Wouldn't you check the condition when you wear it? I'd certainly notice if something I had on had holes in it or something. As far as space, I think it just makes more sense to get rid of enough clothes that you don't need more space than your closet has. But I guess most people probably have more clothes than me...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 10, 2015, 09:32:20 AM

So you have some rubbishy statues that were "gifted" to you and that you don't want.  Would it really be so wrong just to toss them into the trash and be done with them?  If nothing else you would get that quick rush of being done with them and having them out of your sight. 



I at least would give them to a thrift shop or freecycle them. That doesn't take much effort, but produces less waste, as someone might want them, just not for much money.


I think I will have a similar problem with Hummells in just a few years. There are at least 8 family members with significant collections. And they know I'm the one who cares about "family stuff".  Except I don't consider mass produced figurines to be family antiques like the trunks my grandparents brought over from Hungary. Totally different category.

Are any of the Hummells valuable at all? If not, just donate them when you end up with them.

Actually, my sister and I have figured out how to handle parent's stuff eventually:
1. We take what we want (luckily, not aware of much overlap)
2. Offer to family
3. Offer to friends
4. Donate/sell/trash
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 10, 2015, 09:58:49 AM
Are any of the Hummells valuable at all? If not, just donate them when you end up with them.


Expensive to buy ($150-$300!!!).  But I can't imagine many (if any) of them have retained their value at all. Way too many people have these things.
Ebay tells me they go for $10-50.  Which on the lower end doesn't seem worth the effort of trying to ship something breakable, which can lose the seller money.

So yeah, we will probably donate them.  Although, with my parents I suspect we will have to have some sort of estate sale. Are stamp sets from every year since 1950 worth anything? What about coin proof sets? (At the very least I can open those up and have $1.41!) My Dad collects so much crap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 10, 2015, 10:08:11 AM
I read the Life-changing Magic book a couple of months ago but can't remember - why does she suggest folding all your things rather than hanging them in the closet? It seems much easier and faster to just hang everything, especially when you hang shirts to dry on the hangers and can just pop them in the closet when they're dry.
Because when you fold, you check the condition the item is in, as well as folded items taking up much less space than hanging ones.

Wouldn't you check the condition when you wear it? I'd certainly notice if something I had on had holes in it or something. As far as space, I think it just makes more sense to get rid of enough clothes that you don't need more space than your closet has. But I guess most people probably have more clothes than me...
Her reasoning is that it's hard on clothes. They don't like being hung up (back to the slightly batty "objects have feelings" mentality)

To me, it's definitely batty. But then again, so is my roommate. She's not willing to part with anything, even though she has more clothes than she needs. She won't even get rid of clothes that are now too big for her! "I can get them altered" um, not worth it on a large scale. Either learn to sew and do it yourself, or get rid of them and just get new clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 10, 2015, 10:10:33 AM
Are any of the Hummells valuable at all? If not, just donate them when you end up with them.


Expensive to buy ($150-$300!!!).  But I can't imagine many (if any) of them have retained their value at all. Way too many people have these things.
Ebay tells me they go for $10-50.  Which on the lower end doesn't seem worth the effort of trying to ship something breakable, which can lose the seller money.

So yeah, we will probably donate them.  Although, with my parents I suspect we will have to have some sort of estate sale. Are stamp sets from every year since 1950 worth anything? What about coin proof sets? (At the very least I can open those up and have $1.41!) My Dad collects so much crap.

For the stamps and coins, it's worth checking with a dealer. Some of them might be valuable, and unless you want to take the time to figure it out, there are stamp/coin dealers. Though I wouldn't be surprised if you couldn't find some sort of exchange online and check prices.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 10, 2015, 10:41:20 AM
The Hummel collection conversation is interesting.  My mom collects them.  Due to the expense, dad buys them for her, we don't.  I'm now wondering if eBay will be my new best friend for presents for my mom...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 10, 2015, 11:08:11 AM
I read the Life-changing Magic book a couple of months ago but can't remember - why does she suggest folding all your things rather than hanging them in the closet? It seems much easier and faster to just hang everything, especially when you hang shirts to dry on the hangers and can just pop them in the closet when they're dry.
Because when you fold, you check the condition the item is in, as well as folded items taking up much less space than hanging ones.
We hang up all of our shirts and pants except for a small stack of old clothes that are worn for tasks like painting where is doesn't matter if you stain them. Hanging keeps them at eye level and unwrinkled. There is also room for air circulation around clothes that are hung up if your closest isn't stuffed full. We can see the condition of the clothes just fine on a hanger. We also have a house rule that you can't throw out anything clean so inspection better be done before the clothes hit the laundry basket!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 10, 2015, 01:17:33 PM
The Hummel collection conversation is interesting.  My mom collects them.  Due to the expense, dad buys them for her, we don't.  I'm now wondering if eBay will be my new best friend for presents for my mom...

I found a few that I know my Mom has for as low as $7.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on July 10, 2015, 08:31:51 PM
Hummels: could sell as a lot.vs individually. Less listing work and higher return.

Hanging everything:  some things stretch when hung.  Especially knits of course,
Other things can be distorted by hangers too. Some things wrinkle when folded... 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: simmias on July 10, 2015, 09:37:58 PM
If I remember the story Kondo told to illustrate folding vs. hanging, it was that she had a client with two walk-in closets and a standalone filled with clothes even though it was just her and she said she didn't own that much clothing.  Turned out she hung up every piece of clothing she owned, including t-shirts and underwear, and had special hangers for each type of clothing.  Kondo just had her fold the stuff that should be folded and it solved her problem.

I love Kondo's folding methods, especially for socks, underwear and t-shirts.  I love opening my dresser now, while in the past it was just a place where things would get piled up, buried and forgotten.

But hey, if you have the closet space, hang it all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 11, 2015, 05:18:13 AM
Re stamps - we took my Dad's collection, and all the associated equipment, to a dealer with online auctions.  The dealer was pleasantly surprised by what it brought, two people got into a bidding war for what was a very ordinary collection.  They took their 20%, which was totally fair because they did all the work and sold to an interested market, and all I had to do was get the collection to them and wait.  I am sure even at the expected sale price that I would have netted more than if I had tried to sell it myself, and I definitely made more because of the bidding war.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 11, 2015, 08:58:33 AM
Re stamps - we took my Dad's collection, and all the associated equipment, to a dealer with online auctions.  The dealer was pleasantly surprised by what it brought, two people got into a bidding war for what was a very ordinary collection.  They took their 20%, which was totally fair because they did all the work and sold to an interested market, and all I had to do was get the collection to them and wait.  I am sure even at the expected sale price that I would have netted more than if I had tried to sell it myself, and I definitely made more because of the bidding war.

This is a great idea , very inspiring & something I hadn't thought of .
I hav a  mink coat that was my great grandmothers .any thoughts of how I couldgo about selling to get the most money for it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on July 11, 2015, 01:45:26 PM
My dad has thoughtfully started liquidating his coin collection, knowing my sister and I have no interest.  I really appreciate that.  If there's much less, we will likely bring the collection to a dealer and see what they will give us, or maybe consider going through an auctioneer. 

The have little of much value (other than the accounts), but sister and I will take what we want (which likely won't be all that much), and the rest will either be donated, or we might bring in someone to hold a large estate sale and let them take their cut, if they think it will be worth it.  My parents don't live near friends or family, so we can't really offer to let people forage, which is just as well, I think.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 11, 2015, 01:57:38 PM
Re stamps - we took my Dad's collection, and all the associated equipment, to a dealer with online auctions.  The dealer was pleasantly surprised by what it brought, two people got into a bidding war for what was a very ordinary collection.  They took their 20%, which was totally fair because they did all the work and sold to an interested market, and all I had to do was get the collection to them and wait.  I am sure even at the expected sale price that I would have netted more than if I had tried to sell it myself, and I definitely made more because of the bidding war.

This is a great idea , very inspiring & something I hadn't thought of .
I hav a  mink coat that was my great grandmothers .any thoughts of how I couldgo about selling to get the most money for it?

I sold my grandma's fur wrap on eBay and shipped it to a woman in Italy. To attract international buyers, I made sure to offer international postage "at actual cost" after inputting the weight and dimensions of the package. If you instead select the default option of sending it to a shipping center and having ebay forward it, they mark the price up so much that it scares away most int'l buyers. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 11, 2015, 03:53:33 PM
Re stamps - we took my Dad's collection, and all the associated equipment, to a dealer with online auctions.  The dealer was pleasantly surprised by what it brought, two people got into a bidding war for what was a very ordinary collection.  They took their 20%, which was totally fair because they did all the work and sold to an interested market, and all I had to do was get the collection to them and wait.  I am sure even at the expected sale price that I would have netted more than if I had tried to sell it myself, and I definitely made more because of the bidding war.
I'm just wondering if your dad's stamp collection was neatly organized in binders or something? I have a bag of loose stamps (and some may even be postmarked) from the 60s-80s. Not sure if a dealer would want to look at my mess of a collection.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 11, 2015, 04:13:53 PM
Both.  There were stamp books with the appropriate stamps, there were loose stamps (in envelopes, sorted), there were the forceps and stuff to process the stamps.

I chatted with them while they looked at my stamps and made my list.  They get all sorts of stuff, in all sorts of levels of organisation - they are used to handling estate stamps. They will know whether to put it up in one lot or separate things out.  Or whether there is any value at all.

Re stamps - we took my Dad's collection, and all the associated equipment, to a dealer with online auctions.  The dealer was pleasantly surprised by what it brought, two people got into a bidding war for what was a very ordinary collection.  They took their 20%, which was totally fair because they did all the work and sold to an interested market, and all I had to do was get the collection to them and wait.  I am sure even at the expected sale price that I would have netted more than if I had tried to sell it myself, and I definitely made more because of the bidding war.
I'm just wondering if your dad's stamp collection was neatly organized in binders or something? I have a bag of loose stamps (and some may even be postmarked) from the 60s-80s. Not sure if a dealer would want to look at my mess of a collection.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Basenji on July 11, 2015, 05:35:00 PM
Today (because all it does is rain here in NoVA) we attacked the finished attic room that we use for TV and storage. Since we moved in almost 7 years ago, we have piled things up, left unsorted boxes laying around, the usual crap. Everytime I went upstairs I felt tired and dusty and overwhelmed. First round today we made a large give away pile: old gym bags with broken zippers, never played old time games like Pictionary, soccer cleats, etc. Then filled 2 trash bags of useless, broken, whatever stuff. Moved everything out from the low edges of the room, vacuumed, dusted, and put boxes back in some order. Still lots of boxes to go through and sort (DH has all his uniforms from the Navy, even though he retired 5 years ago), tons of "memory" papers (do I need that musuem guide from Tokyo?).

Didn't move us towards FIRE, but there's lots more clean floor, and it felt like progress.

ETA: of course in one dusty pile I found a forgotten "decluttering" book. Guess I'll read that tonight...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on July 11, 2015, 05:49:37 PM
I've got 3 big bags of stuff in the back of the car, all going to Goodwill tomorrow. It's mostly clothes, some books and misc stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on July 11, 2015, 09:07:07 PM
I did another cull of my drawings and paintings. Funny how some things were soooo precious to me even a few years ago either made me sad to look at (I was extremely productive at drawing when I was going through a really bad patch in my life) or I'd lost my emotional attachment to it. So now I'm down to about 20 loose drawings and paintings, 2 sketchbooks and my drawings and paintings hung up in the lounge room.

I've kept my coloured pencils and set of 12 graphite pencils but have offloaded the rest of my stuff over the past few years. There was a lot of guilty shoulds "I should really do some drawings or paintings" but even if I made myself sit down with paints or pencils, the spark wasn't there and it felt like a chore. And because it felt like a chore, the painting or drawing was pretty shitty and soulless.

Moral of my story: something can be a huge and important part of your life for years, but I've changed and I'd rather get rid of stuff that I feel ambivalent or worse about.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on July 12, 2015, 05:37:42 AM
I threw away some random things I found in a drawer. I also went through my collection of pens and threw away the ones that had run out.



ETA: of course in one dusty pile I found a forgotten "decluttering" book. Guess I'll read that tonight...

:P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 12, 2015, 05:59:46 AM

I read the Life-changing Magic book a couple of months ago but can't remember - why does she suggest folding all your things rather than hanging them in the closet? It seems much easier and faster to just hang everything, especially when you hang shirts to dry on the hangers and can just pop them in the closet when they're dry.

She doesn't say to fold all of your clothes since she suggests hanging items in terms of length going up to the right or some such thing. Anyway, I wouldn't get too hung up (a wink) on her suggestions of how and what to fold. Do what feels right/works for you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 12, 2015, 06:42:50 AM
I haven't read the book but just the idea of thanking an item for its service has really helped me say goodbye to a pot of stuff. This is probably the biggest single de clutter I have done in my adult life that wasn't motivated by moving house. And yet when I look in my closet I think "I probably could have culled further". So I may do another cut later. I also kept "this should go to someone who will appreciate it more than me". A friend dropped in tonight and I was able to give her two t-shirts and three pairs of tights. She was so stoked she pulled one of the shirts on immediately to wear out to the pub :-)  so thanking a worn out item for its service or thinking of a new appreciative owner for an item in good condition that didn't suit my life has really helped :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pachnik on July 12, 2015, 07:47:45 AM
I bought a copy of the Magic Art of Tidying Up yesterday afternoon with a gift card + it was on sale.  I've read a little bit and so far so good. 

I've moved a few times over the last 2 years so we downsized quite a bit but I am going to attack my clothes one night next week.  I will work on 'my' stuff first and then branch over to 'our' stuff.  I think the author suggests the discarding is done in a particular order and I will do it her way. 

Because of all the moves, I let go of a few sentimental items that sat in a cupboard.  I am going to keep track of the number of boxes and bags I send to the thriftstore just out of curiosity.  When I first found this website, I sold some designer purses that I'd received as gifts but never used.  That was about it for anything of any real money value.  I think I will work it down to one sentimental item per person if I can.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on July 12, 2015, 12:46:12 PM
The wardrobe categories I've cut are down to about one third.  Today, I culled 35 boots and shoes.   Still need to do cardigans, dresses, and coats.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 12, 2015, 02:07:16 PM
Several pieces of clothing out : shirts, shorts, dresses, socks, bathing suit, shoes, fabric, handkerchiefs.. And 5 books out as well. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 12, 2015, 02:34:56 PM
And on the way to the car, a pair of sunglasses out . ( there's donations for other condo dwellers where I live ) . I only just purchased them a couple months ago ( grrr ) but never really could get behind the unusual frame shape.. I sooo wanted to like them, ah well . only out $2 ( secondhand ) thankfully.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 12, 2015, 03:01:30 PM
The bad news: Many books in, from a library sale and my mom.  (Both cases were free, as the library was closing up shop, although I did give a donation for a bag).

The good news: I'll read once and donate some of those.  (Already read two.)  I went through a pile of books near my book case and eliminated a stack of books ranging from girls scout books from my childhood to "welcome to Boston" to books from school I no longer want.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nickels Dimes Quarters on July 12, 2015, 04:15:08 PM
This has been a constant challenge living in a small house. I read an article on the book, the Life-changing Magic, but there is still a long waiting list to borrow it from the library. But I did start rolling my socks like sushi. I've been folding my shirts her way for several years now, after reading about it on life hacker and loved the idea. It saved a lot of room in my dresser.

For awhile I was making weekly drop offs to a local charity that gives items away to the poor. I've let the progress slip, so maybe this post will get me back on board!

NDQ
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 12, 2015, 07:04:55 PM
I used to move every 2-3 years for about 15 years. I've been in the same house now for 7 years - and a purge is well overdue. This weekend was gangbusters for getting stuff out of the house. I took a giant carload of stuff to Goodwill (excess bedding, more clothing, hamper, storage boxes that now have nothing to hold). Came home and tackled my row of bookshelves (5 full width Billy bookshelves that go to the ceiling). Cut out all the contents from 2 of them. Took some books to the free little library. The rest are boxed up and ready to go to Goodwill or friends of the library. Can't wait to haul the actual bookshelves themselves OUT.

Organized my kitchen junk drawer.

My desk is piled w/ misc. crap right now that I pulled out of drawers and storage cabinets. Getting ready to go through that stuff and sort out what, if any, should stay and what should go.

Books have been a hang-up for me but I really did well - I would guess 200 or so books have been removed. I kept a lot of children's books because I have books that belonged to my grandmother, my parents, me, and now my children's books - and they are so treasured and we still take them down and look at them. I look forward to the 5th generation getting those books one day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: simmias on July 12, 2015, 07:04:59 PM
I read an article on the book, the Life-changing Magic, but there is still a long waiting list to borrow it from the library.
You can find the audio book on YouTube.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on July 12, 2015, 08:05:27 PM
Bagged up a bag of books, a bag of DVDs and two bags of clothes yesterday for charity.

I've set aside some mugs and tea cups which I never use. They're cute, so I'm sure someone else will love them. Tonight or tomorrow night I'll wrap them carefully in bubble wrap so that they can be donated without causing me anxiety around breakage on the journey.

We also 'decluttered' yesterday by giving my nephew a huge pile of birthday presents, a month late. Obviously there was no real risk that we would accidentally keep them forever - we were just waiting until the next time we saw him - but the gifts were bulky and we're happy to have handed them over now. In the same vein, my deadline is midday Wednesday for getting some clothes bagged up and posted for return to an online shop. They're not bulky, but it needs to be done.

Right now my philosophy is that every little bit less we have to move to the next house is going to make a huge difference on the day. It's working!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on July 13, 2015, 06:18:29 AM
I used to move every 2-3 years for about 15 years. I've been in the same house now for 7 years - and a purge is well overdue. This weekend was gangbusters for getting stuff out of the house. I took a giant carload of stuff to Goodwill (excess bedding, more clothing, hamper, storage boxes that now have nothing to hold). Came home and tackled my row of bookshelves (5 full width Billy bookshelves that go to the ceiling). Cut out all the contents from 2 of them. Took some books to the free little library. The rest are boxed up and ready to go to Goodwill or friends of the library. Can't wait to haul the actual bookshelves themselves OUT.

Organized my kitchen junk drawer.

My desk is piled w/ misc. crap right now that I pulled out of drawers and storage cabinets. Getting ready to go through that stuff and sort out what, if any, should stay and what should go.

Books have been a hang-up for me but I really did well - I would guess 200 or so books have been removed. I kept a lot of children's books because I have books that belonged to my grandmother, my parents, me, and now my children's books - and they are so treasured and we still take them down and look at them. I look forward to the 5th generation getting those books one day.

You could see if a used book store near you has the Kondo book, and get in in exchange for some of your discards.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Basenji on July 13, 2015, 06:56:45 AM
Went through another box upstairs. One bag of paper recycling, one small trash bag. Found a lot of old papers and writing, diaries, letters. I've decided I may get rid of some of it. Dithering over old yearbooks. High school senior year, college one, sure, keep. But do I really need my 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, grade yearbooks? Putting those aside for now. I may send two good friends their letters (remember letters?!). They might enjoy reading them. Old love letters from past boyfriends, meh. I've been thinking as I sort, who would want this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 13, 2015, 09:24:50 AM
I used to move every 2-3 years for about 15 years. I've been in the same house now for 7 years - and a purge is well overdue. This weekend was gangbusters for getting stuff out of the house. I took a giant carload of stuff to Goodwill (excess bedding, more clothing, hamper, storage boxes that now have nothing to hold). Came home and tackled my row of bookshelves (5 full width Billy bookshelves that go to the ceiling). Cut out all the contents from 2 of them. Took some books to the free little library. The rest are boxed up and ready to go to Goodwill or friends of the library. Can't wait to haul the actual bookshelves themselves OUT.

Organized my kitchen junk drawer.

My desk is piled w/ misc. crap right now that I pulled out of drawers and storage cabinets. Getting ready to go through that stuff and sort out what, if any, should stay and what should go.

Books have been a hang-up for me but I really did well - I would guess 200 or so books have been removed. I kept a lot of children's books because I have books that belonged to my grandmother, my parents, me, and now my children's books - and they are so treasured and we still take them down and look at them. I look forward to the 5th generation getting those books one day.

You could see if a used book store near you has the Kondo book, and get in in exchange for some of your discards.

Got it from the library a couple weeks ago, read it in the weekend, and returned it. I am aiming to drag two bookshelves out this week - now empty and remove the one from my bedroom (which is 1/2 empty). Feels sooooo good to get rid of this stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on July 13, 2015, 09:49:55 AM
I used to move every 2-3 years for about 15 years. I've been in the same house now for 7 years - and a purge is well overdue. This weekend was gangbusters for getting stuff out of the house. I took a giant carload of stuff to Goodwill (excess bedding, more clothing, hamper, storage boxes that now have nothing to hold). Came home and tackled my row of bookshelves (5 full width Billy bookshelves that go to the ceiling). Cut out all the contents from 2 of them. Took some books to the free little library. The rest are boxed up and ready to go to Goodwill or friends of the library. Can't wait to haul the actual bookshelves themselves OUT.

Organized my kitchen junk drawer.

My desk is piled w/ misc. crap right now that I pulled out of drawers and storage cabinets. Getting ready to go through that stuff and sort out what, if any, should stay and what should go.

Books have been a hang-up for me but I really did well - I would guess 200 or so books have been removed. I kept a lot of children's books because I have books that belonged to my grandmother, my parents, me, and now my children's books - and they are so treasured and we still take them down and look at them. I look forward to the 5th generation getting those books one day.

You could see if a used book store near you has the Kondo book, and get in in exchange for some of your discards.

Got it from the library a couple weeks ago, read it in the weekend, and returned it. I am aiming to drag two bookshelves out this week - now empty and remove the one from my bedroom (which is 1/2 empty). Feels sooooo good to get rid of this stuff.
Books were the best category for me because we were able to get rid of a large, ugly bookshelf out of our dining room.  We also reorganized all of our books and media (CDs, DVDs, video games), so our dining room and living room are so much more organized.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 13, 2015, 10:08:45 AM

I'm just wondering if your dad's stamp collection was neatly organized in binders or something? I have a bag of loose stamps (and some may even be postmarked) from the 60s-80s. Not sure if a dealer would want to look at my mess of a collection.

From my research- loose stamps are less likely to see for nearly as much as organized ones. Because finding out if anything in them is worthwhile is a lot of work.

If you have anything still on an envelope DO NOT REMOVE IT.  Sometimes that is worth more than just a stamp.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tmac on July 13, 2015, 02:16:18 PM
I actually got some push back from my mother this weekend. She thought I was making a mistake getting rid of most of my books because "children need to know that books are valued and important." Well, yes. But they don't need to know that book OWNERSHIP is important. We spend plenty of time worshipping the book gods at the library, thank you very much.

She then joked that she didn't ever have to declutter her own crowded home because I would just do it for her once she was dead. I wanted to remind her that her own mother had cleared out her home in a major purge a couple of years before she died, and how grateful we all were at the time of her death that we didn't have to grieve and spend weeks emptying out her home at the same time. But I didn't. I will next time. I did, however, pull three cardboard boxes from her basement and insist she fill them for me to take to the Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 13, 2015, 03:18:01 PM

I'm just wondering if your dad's stamp collection was neatly organized in binders or something? I have a bag of loose stamps (and some may even be postmarked) from the 60s-80s. Not sure if a dealer would want to look at my mess of a collection.

From my research- loose stamps are less likely to see for nearly as much as organized ones. Because finding out if anything in them is worthwhile is a lot of work.

If you have anything still on an envelope DO NOT REMOVE IT.  Sometimes that is worth more than just a stamp.

Thanks for the tips, Iowajes and Retiredat63! I'll see if I have anything I can organize them into (like a slide protector page with little pockets), so I can at least present them in a more viewable fashion. ~Same thing with some old coins I've found stashed away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 13, 2015, 03:23:31 PM
I actually got some push back from my mother this weekend. She thought I was making a mistake getting rid of most of my books because "children need to know that books are valued and important." Well, yes. But they don't need to know that book OWNERSHIP is important. We spend plenty of time worshipping the book gods at the library, thank you very much.

She then joked that she didn't ever have to declutter her own crowded home because I would just do it for her once she was dead. I wanted to remind her that her own mother had cleared out her home in a major purge a couple of years before she died, and how grateful we all were at the time of her death that we didn't have to grieve and spend weeks emptying out her home at the same time. But I didn't. I will next time. I did, however, pull three cardboard boxes from her basement and insist she fill them for me to take to the Goodwill.

I can relate to this, as I have two parents who are collector-hoarders. My mom has gotten upset when she's heard I'm selling my own childhood stuff on eBay, and years ago when I attempted to declutter a bunch of childhood books, she took them out of the donation pile. So I'm sure she still has them stored in boxes--probably chewed up by mice at this point! To me it feels like emotional bullying when she tells me I HAVE to keep something. It also feels like my (70+ year old) parents are expecting me to continue to carry the burden of their hoards. And that feels like enabling a mental illness. :-/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 13, 2015, 06:13:29 PM
Taking a huge bundle of papers to the shredder at work today :-) I also have all my PP&E used on occasional site visits to be stored in my desk at work which I recently decluttered. This gets this seldom used but needs to be owned stuff out of my way. I also gave my mum two toiletries bags to use on her upcoming vacation (she was going to buy some) as I now use a very small kit bag and small makeup bag as I only ever take hand luggage. My next zones I am hoping to tackle are the car (aka the random junk holder) and the linen shelf.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 13, 2015, 06:51:04 PM
I've made zero, or possibly negative progress on decluttering lately, but did just pawn off two name-brand purses on my visiting nieces, and they were thrilled to have them.  Really hoping to summon the mental energy to start selling some things.  It's the items with some value that aren't leaving the house; I have no problem dropping things by the thrift store.  Maybe it's time to read the Kondo book and become inspired.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on July 13, 2015, 08:10:46 PM
Have made progress on the decluttering of old stuff stuck at my parents house.
So far 1 box of old paperbacks and 2 boxes of old school papers have made it into paper recycling. 3 boxes of old books will be offered to relatives with children of right age. Tossed some old toys that were broken (plastic doesn't store well) and saved the quality toys for later.

Also brought home a box to look through more thoroughly and found some old dvd's I'm going to enjoy watching on a rainy night. I know the result of the 'decluttering' will be more stuff at my house and less at their. But that's ok, as long as I don't own more than I can comfortably house in my (smal) apartment.

Also took stuff to el-recycling today. For some reason I put that of, sometimes for months...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 14, 2015, 03:35:54 AM
Have made progress on the decluttering of old stuff stuck at my parents house.
So far 1 box of old paperbacks and 2 boxes of old school papers have made it into paper recycling. 3 boxes of old books will be offered to relatives with children of right age. Tossed some old toys that were broken (plastic doesn't store well) and saved the quality toys for later.

Also brought home a box to look through more thoroughly and found some old dvd's I'm going to enjoy watching on a rainy night. I know the result of the 'decluttering' will be more stuff at my house and less at their. But that's ok, as long as I don't own more than I can comfortably house in my (smal) apartment.

Also took stuff to el-recycling today. For some reason I put that of, sometimes for months...
Urgh this pile!!! I had a quick glimpse at it last time I was at my parents, pretty sure it is mostly sewing stuff which should be able to come home now I have decluttered, stuff I use there (a spare sweater and some sports equipment) but I will need to check no junk crept in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 14, 2015, 08:58:37 AM
I actually got some push back from my mother this weekend. She thought I was making a mistake getting rid of most of my books because "children need to know that books are valued and important." Well, yes. But they don't need to know that book OWNERSHIP is important. We spend plenty of time worshipping the book gods at the library, thank you very much.

She then joked that she didn't ever have to declutter her own crowded home because I would just do it for her once she was dead. I wanted to remind her that her own mother had cleared out her home in a major purge a couple of years before she died, and how grateful we all were at the time of her death that we didn't have to grieve and spend weeks emptying out her home at the same time. But I didn't. I will next time. I did, however, pull three cardboard boxes from her basement and insist she fill them for me to take to the Goodwill.

I can relate to this, as I have two parents who are collector-hoarders. My mom has gotten upset when she's heard I'm selling my own childhood stuff on eBay, and years ago when I attempted to declutter a bunch of childhood books, she took them out of the donation pile. So I'm sure she still has them stored in boxes--probably chewed up by mice at this point! To me it feels like emotional bullying when she tells me I HAVE to keep something. It also feels like my (70+ year old) parents are expecting me to continue to carry the burden of their hoards. And that feels like enabling a mental illness. :-/

Don't tell them you're getting rid of something. And good luck when you have to clean out their house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 14, 2015, 04:28:35 PM
Good idea, Sibley. What's that movie quote, "You can't handle the truth!"  They want to think that all their collecting and hoarding efforts have been worthwhile and the sad truth is, it was mostly a waste of time, energy and money.

Today I took my old coins to a reputable dealer and they bought maybe 1/3 of them. They paid me $44 for coins with an original face value of $5. So, though it was nearly 9x their original value, it doesn't seem like it was worthwhile to hold on to them for all those years. I asked him about stamps and they're only interested in 1910 and older, in pristine condition. That rules out my whole collection, lol! I will be donating them to the local thrift store. Maybe they'll be used for arts & crafts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 15, 2015, 06:33:30 AM
I am on a (free) vacation & hav packed almost all of my clothing. Because that is how minimal my wardrobe is ! So funny :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 15, 2015, 07:39:14 AM


I am on a (free) vacation & hav packed almost all of my clothing. Because that is how minimal my wardrobe is ! So funny :)

If there was a badassity prize you'd have my nomination!!!


Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on July 15, 2015, 07:45:01 AM
Been dipping in and out of this thread but I am about 80% done with getting rid of probably 80% of my belongings. My husband and I are setting out on a months-long road trip, in which we intend to stay in a bunch of different places until we find one where we want to settle down for a while. We have a small storage room and a Honda Fit and that's it!

We've been following the usual course of action ... Craigslist, friends, Goodwill. We've made about $800 selling stuff so far and will probably clear $1500 by the time it's all said and done. Plus we've given a lot of great stuff to our friends and to the thrift stores around here. It's been a lot of schlepping, but it feels awesome to go through literally every item you own and only keep the ones that you have decided to keep.

I keep leaping out of bed at 5 in the morning because I'm so excited! We leave Sunday! Still lots to do but not so much that we will need to go bananas to get it done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 15, 2015, 07:59:26 AM
Anyone have any ideas on getting rid of a hooked rug canvas, pattern & yarn? It's not selling on ebay. Just has to go somewhere where it will be appreciated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 15, 2015, 08:09:08 AM
Anyone have any ideas on getting rid of a hooked rug canvas, pattern & yarn? It's not selling on ebay. Just has to go somewhere where it will be appreciated.

Kids art center
Senior center
Craigslist for free
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 15, 2015, 09:21:40 AM


I am on a (free) vacation & hav packed almost all of my clothing. Because that is how minimal my wardrobe is ! So funny :)

If there was a badassity prize you'd have my nomination!!!


Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk

There should be a badassity prize!
And thanks :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 15, 2015, 09:24:51 AM
Been dipping in and out of this thread but I am about 80% done with getting rid of probably 80% of my belongings. My husband and I are setting out on a months-long road trip, in which we intend to stay in a bunch of different places until we find one where we want to settle down for a while. We have a small storage room and a Honda Fit and that's it!

We've been following the usual course of action ... Craigslist, friends, Goodwill. We've made about $800 selling stuff so far and will probably clear $1500 by the time it's all said and done. Plus we've given a lot of great stuff to our friends and to the thrift stores around here. It's been a lot of schlepping, but it feels awesome to go through literally every item you own and only keep the ones that you have decided to keep.

I keep leaping out of bed at 5 in the morning because I'm so excited! We leave Sunday! Still lots to do but not so much that we will need to go bananas to get it done.

That is so exciting! A long roadtrip . finding a place to settle for a bit . that's what I'll be doing a little later .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 15, 2015, 12:31:53 PM
Thanks to you all I watched some Konmari type videos and really swallowed the idea that when purging paper I should not deal with other things.  So…I entered the room of paper (cue scary music) and separated out all other stuff such as CDs, books, electrical cords, boxes, etc.  They all went on a different table.  Suddenly it all seemed simpler.  Magic!

i emptied out desk drawers, a filing drawer, some shelves, binders and boxes.

Then I decided to have one binder with everything in it in my office plus one box with rarely accessed stuff in a closet.

I have been destroying old bills, statements, journals, course notes, and notecards.  I have been tossing junk mail, flyers, and goodness knows what all. I have tossed three bags of paper trash and I feel great.  I am not finished yet but can see the end in sight.  I had a look at my computer and realised that perhaps the reason my scanner won't work is that I have my previous (dead) scanner listed as the scanner in my computer.  Whoops.

I stacked nostalgic papers in a separate pile to deal with after going through the unsentimental stuff.  Most of that will be scanned and tossed. 

I still have three boxes of paper in a closet.  I know Marie Kondo would not approve but there is only so much clutter I can visually deal with without giving up.  Most of that is keepsakes and scannable stuff so it can come out once I get the scanner ready to go.  And more importantly it can come out when the present heavily reduced stacks are down to small mounds.

After my first phase last fall I am seeing all kinds of stuff I suddenly am ready to toss with this second go around.  I am determined not to scan nonsense so I am going to go through the To Be Scanned Pile one more time before scanning and I bet I will toss a lot more.

Woohooo!!!! This thread is really inspiring me.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on July 15, 2015, 12:42:36 PM


I am on a (free) vacation & hav packed almost all of my clothing. Because that is how minimal my wardrobe is ! So funny :)

If there was a badassity prize you'd have my nomination!!!


Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk

There should be a badassity prize!
And thanks :)

I think the badassity prize is FIRE. It is for me anyway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 15, 2015, 01:10:36 PM
Then What?

Once the paper has been reduced it will be time to have a future plan.  My plan is evolving and I welcome input and hearing what you do:

GOAL: Minimal paper with minimal computer files. Immediacy (in accessing info and dealing with incoming paper)

1.  Incoming paper will go into an inbox on my desk including mail and receipts my husband brings home and any paper that would usually float around and end up in a pile of books for months.  Then I will  deal with them frequently, toss most.

2.  Binder by my desk holding current info such as house maintenance records (until I get software for this), the latest version of a couple of paper only bills, a few papers containing health info, and ???

3. One easy to reach slim box in closet will have things like dividend certificates, baptism, marriage and birth certificates, the check book, house deeds, tax forms, etc.

4. Online statements and billing and online receipt of annual reports etc. ALREADY SET UP

5. Management of scanned files…I need a good system for managing this on my mac.  I was going to use Evernote but found out I can only use that online.  I like the idea of hashtags but dread the idea of files entering the computer and never being accessed.  I want a system where I can delete things that no longer are necessary.

6. Possible hard drive to store scanned photos.  I have yet to purge photos, that is another category.

7. Visuals to scan: I understand a Fujitsu Scansnap type of scanner is good for images and may buy one and then sell it later.

8. Appliance Manuals- find them online and bookmark and then toss hard copies. Have a bookmark file for manuals.

9. Home Maintenance software to store house maintenance info such as scanned receipts, records of what was done when and what it cost, age of appliances, paint charts, etc. 

10. Typing: Right now I have a big pile of stuff to type into the computer.  Urggggh.  I would rather not so I am going to check it all again and see what I can just dump or scan.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on July 15, 2015, 01:25:15 PM
10. Typing: Right now I have a big pile of stuff to type into the computer.  Urggggh.  I would rather not so I am going to check it all again and see what I can just dump or scan.
Can you instead just scan it and then use OCR software? It'll save you a lot of time!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 15, 2015, 01:27:18 PM
Final Frontiers

Once I have completed this phase with paper (and then possibly photos if I feel like it) it will be time to deal with clutter of a specific type:

Needs To Be Repaired:

Sewing and darning (repairs not new items)

Furniture, frames, lamps and other wood

Odds and ends

This will involve some DIY and some hiring of knowledgeable contractors.  I hope that when I pull these items out I will choose to toss a lot of them rather than spend time on repairs.

Finally I will get to…

Projects Using Up Materials (That I Have Chosen To Keep For This Reason):

Clothing, curtains, upholstery, carpentry projects, craft projects

I suspect that once I reach this final, final frontier I will need to introduce deadlines by which things must be used or tossed out. 


And then???? Life without clutter!!!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 15, 2015, 01:28:55 PM
Grantmeaname, what a terrific idea!  I will find out about that.  Do you know of one which is good for macs?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on July 15, 2015, 01:36:08 PM
No idea. Adobe Acrobat does OCR and does it well but it's not cheap - maybe get a trial and do it all within the trial period?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 15, 2015, 01:38:39 PM
That is doable.  As I go through I will probably be able to toss some of the pages. Thanks so much.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 15, 2015, 02:27:01 PM

Have any of you noticed connections between the threads that you post in or read?  I see that I am mostly into the following:

Losing weight in 2015
Clearing Out Clutter
No Clothes Shopping in 2015
Using up Fabrics, Sewing and Crafting Supplies
Eat All the Food in Your House

I am seeing a connection between being drained of energy and having too much STUFF whether it is stored food, stored fat on my body, too many clothes, too many unfinished projects or too much paper.

I seem to have spent several years blindly stocking up on body fat, spare toilet paper, lotions and toothpastes, crafting supplies, useless boxes of paper, health supplements and broken things.  And, I am seeing that as the fridge gets clear I rush out to buy more food so that once again we have an abundance and once again I struggle to eat it all before it rots.  With craft supplies, fancy lotions, fancy health supplements and shoes I get them and never use them.  It is as though having them is soothing and if I use them up I feel an anxious urgency to restock, not in order to get a good price but to ease my anxiety.
 
After all these months of on and off de-cluttering and weight loss and regain and loss again I am seeing trends in my feelings when supplies get low.

Having used up so many things this winter and spring, the idea of going to a Costco type place and stocking up on supplies horrifies me, I can't bear the idea of more stuff sitting around.  I have spent months using up jars and bottles of spares and would rather rush out when the shampoo has barely a drop left than stock up ever again. And yet...

... At the same time there are things which I am still resisting using up because I don't want to be without them despite never touching them, ever.  With some of them it is because buying them is expensive and so I do not want to deplete my stores.  Consequently crafting supplies have hardened in their tubes, lotions have separated, supplements are well past their sell by dates…all wasted and ready to be thrown away.

We have quite a few broken things which others would have tossed out but I have held onto for years and years with the idea that I will repair them.  I have even bought broken things at yard sales since they are cheaper and I plan to fix them up but don't.

Is this due to growing up with few new things and no expensive things?  What is this mentality and how do I let it go? 


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 15, 2015, 03:05:56 PM

Have any of you noticed connections between the threads that you post in or read?  I see that I am mostly into the following:

Losing weight in 2015
Clearing Out Clutter
No Clothes Shopping in 2015
Using up Fabrics, Sewing and Crafting Supplies
Eat All the Food in Your House

I am seeing a connection between being drained of energy and having too much STUFF whether it is stored food, stored fat on my body, too many clothes, too many unfinished projects or too much paper.

I seem to have spent several years blindly stocking up on body fat, spare toilet paper, lotions and toothpastes, crafting supplies, useless boxes of paper, health supplements and broken things.  And, I am seeing that as the fridge gets clear I rush out to buy more food so that once again we have an abundance and once again I struggle to eat it all before it rots.  With craft supplies, fancy lotions, fancy health supplements and shoes I get them and never use them.  It is as though having them is soothing and if I use them up I feel an anxious urgency to restock, not in order to get a good price but to ease my anxiety.
 
After all these months of on and off de-cluttering and weight loss and regain and loss again I am seeing trends in my feelings when supplies get low.

Having used up so many things this winter and spring, the idea of going to a Costco type place and stocking up on supplies horrifies me, I can't bear the idea of more stuff sitting around.  I have spent months using up jars and bottles of spares and would rather rush out when the shampoo has barely a drop left than stock up ever again. And yet...

... At the same time there are things which I am still resisting using up because I don't want to be without them despite never touching them, ever.  With some of them it is because buying them is expensive and so I do not want to deplete my stores.  Consequently crafting supplies have hardened in their tubes, lotions have separated, supplements are well past their sell by dates…all wasted and ready to be thrown away.

We have quite a few broken things which others would have tossed out but I have held onto for years and years with the idea that I will repair them.  I have even bought broken things at yard sales since they are cheaper and I plan to fix them up but don't.

Is this due to growing up with few new things and no expensive things?  What is this mentality and how do I let it go?

Wow, you have been able to articulate so many feelings I have as well...

Clutter and too many things around me stress me out, yet I feel anxious if I am running low on stuff and I go out and stock up on things all the time.  I really don't know what the answer is and I will be interested in what others have to say on this topic.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on July 15, 2015, 04:22:15 PM
Great work all!

Wintersun, those are some of the threads I enjoy the most too. Even though I think I'm doing ok in those areas (always room for improvement!) I love the feeling of order and efficiency that comes from only having what you need and managing resources well. So calming!

I spent Saturday organising my boyfriend's papers into our new filing cabinet and fed quite a lot to the fire (old paid utility bills, manuals for VCR no longer owned, etc). Signed up for online statements as much as possible. Will need a second pass later on but trying not to freak him out with my organising ways.

Recent closet purge continues to be a blessing and saves so much time and mental energy. Need to move a few more things into summer stash as I am never reaching for them on these freezing winter days. And deal with mending too. Not a favourite job but will be happy when it's done. 




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Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on July 15, 2015, 04:22:48 PM
Great work all!

Wintersun, those are some of the threads I enjoy the most too. Even though I think I'm doing ok in those areas (always room for improvement!) I love the feeling of order and efficiency that comes from only having what you need and managing resources well. So calming!

I spent Saturday organising my boyfriend's papers into our new filing cabinet and fed quite a lot to the fire (old paid utility bills, manuals for VCR no longer owned, etc). Signed up for online statements as much as possible. Will need a second pass later on but trying not to freak him out with my organising ways.

Recent closet purge continues to be a blessing and saves so much time and mental energy. Need to move a few more things into summer stash as I am never reaching for them on these freezing winter days. And deal with mending too. Not a favourite job but will be happy when it's done. 




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 15, 2015, 04:30:02 PM


I am on a (free) vacation & hav packed almost all of my clothing. Because that is how minimal my wardrobe is ! So funny :)

If there was a badassity prize you'd have my nomination!!!


Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk

There should be a badassity prize!
And thanks :)

I think the badassity prize is FIRE. It is for me anyway.

+1000. Yup.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Erica/NWEdible on July 15, 2015, 04:46:37 PM

Have any of you noticed connections between the threads that you post in or read?  I see that I am mostly into the following:

Losing weight in 2015
Clearing Out Clutter
No Clothes Shopping in 2015
Using up Fabrics, Sewing and Crafting Supplies
Eat All the Food in Your House

I am seeing a connection between being drained of energy and having too much STUFF whether it is stored food, stored fat on my body, too many clothes, too many unfinished projects or too much paper./snip

This is a very powerful observation you've made. I'm following most of those threads, too - I know what you mean.

I think the common denominator (for me at least) is probably taking on too much. May I presume you are a woman? I feel like this is endemic among women - the feeling that we should do and be everything. I struggle with it, most of my female friends do as well. It's the fast track to burnout.

As I've gotten further into Mustachianism I feel like many of these things get easier because I get better at saying No. No to stuff I don't actually need, no to obligations I can't fulfill, no to food that makes me fat.

But then there are all these ghosts all over my home from when I was less discriminate about taking on everything - when I was proud to be the girl who was trying to do it all, instead of realizing that's a particular sickness in itself. And in throwing out the clutter it's like you have to confront those ghosts all over again, and that in itself is exhausting.

I also have noticed about myself - when I allow my time to be stretched, stretched, stretched by other people - I have way less bandwidth to say no to unhealthy food, impulse purchases, etc. and so I slip back a bit.

And then there's confronting any underlying emotional things that make us want to be surrounded by a bubble of stuff, fat, protection, security, whatever....and all I can say is that's some deep inner child shit right there. But even making these connections like you have - that's got to be half the battle, right?

Thanks for bringing these things up.

I think you should throw away those lotions and things you are clinging to that are past their sell by. Like, just do it. Right now. Do the Konmari thank you or whatever, and get that burden off your shoulders. My 2 cents.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 15, 2015, 04:47:40 PM
Grantmeaname, what a terrific idea!  I will find out about that.  Do you know of one which is good for macs?
A lot of scanners have ocr bundled into their basic software. The one I had did a decent job as long as the original was clear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 15, 2015, 05:07:52 PM
I love all these discussions about "why" we find cleaning out clutter hard. My 0.02... I suffer from "what if I need this". I think this is partially recognition of the money or time that went into procuring the item... Something which has helped me is letting myself know if what if happens I can borrow or buy another one and also finding a "good" home for the item (which will appreciate it) which seems to remove concern over time/resources. Decluttering gives me a sense of control over my life. Also I love love love the whole tiny house movement and can see the financial benefits to downsize when I move (pretty full on given I live in 36sqm/400sq ft)  so getting rid off stuff helps me work towards the move. Also I hate mess... My mother is always recognised as the clean one in her group of friends and seems like I am going the same way. Given my limited time (as Erica said we women do tend to try and do it all) an uncluttered house is an easier to keep clean house. I have noticed my volume of stuff declining steadily over time so I think I am doing ok... But still I was surprised how much I could purge from such a small space!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarahMD428 on July 15, 2015, 05:32:11 PM
Okay, I need some help! I'm just starting to KonMari my clothes. What do I do with stuff that brings me joy and would be of the first things I pick if I hadn't put on 20 lbs? I keep telling myself I'm going to lose the weight, but since it's been a year and a half and I haven't taken any action to actually lose, I think I might be lying to myself, or just unable/unwilling to find the headspace and motivation to do it.
Do I keep something because it brings me joy and hope or ditch it because I don't know when/if I'll ever be able to wear it again?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on July 15, 2015, 09:11:23 PM
Okay, I need some help! I'm just starting to KonMari my clothes. What do I do with stuff that brings me joy and would be of the first things I pick if I hadn't put on 20 lbs? I keep telling myself I'm going to lose the weight, but since it's been a year and a half and I haven't taken any action to actually lose, I think I might be lying to myself, or just unable/unwilling to find the headspace and motivation to do it.
Do I keep something because it brings me joy and hope or ditch it because I don't know when/if I'll ever be able to wear it again?
I have 75 liters of shirts that I put in a backpack. They were from the "shit I'm too fat to wear" section. I figured that by the time I need the backpack, if I can't fit them, I won't. Still haven't needed the pack, but the shirts mostly fit now. The fitness thread helped, as did anw. I have very little attachment to stuff, so I'm possibly the absolute worst person to respond. Still, the deadline I set obviously stuck in the back of my head. Didn't think about it at all, but I've done well with that kind of motivation. It was then like a fun surprise.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 15, 2015, 10:06:24 PM

Have any of you noticed connections between the threads that you post in or read?  I see that I am mostly into the following:

Losing weight in 2015
Clearing Out Clutter
No Clothes Shopping in 2015
Using up Fabrics, Sewing and Crafting Supplies
Eat All the Food in Your House

I am seeing a connection between being drained of energy and having too much STUFF whether it is stored food, stored fat on my body, too many clothes, too many unfinished projects or too much paper.

I seem to have spent several years blindly stocking up on body fat, spare toilet paper, lotions and toothpastes, crafting supplies, useless boxes of paper, health supplements and broken things.  And, I am seeing that as the fridge gets clear I rush out to buy more food so that once again we have an abundance and once again I struggle to eat it all before it rots.  With craft supplies, fancy lotions, fancy health supplements and shoes I get them and never use them.  It is as though having them is soothing and if I use them up I feel an anxious urgency to restock, not in order to get a good price but to ease my anxiety.
 
After all these months of on and off de-cluttering and weight loss and regain and loss again I am seeing trends in my feelings when supplies get low.

Having used up so many things this winter and spring, the idea of going to a Costco type place and stocking up on supplies horrifies me, I can't bear the idea of more stuff sitting around.  I have spent months using up jars and bottles of spares and would rather rush out when the shampoo has barely a drop left than stock up ever again. And yet...

... At the same time there are things which I am still resisting using up because I don't want to be without them despite never touching them, ever.  With some of them it is because buying them is expensive and so I do not want to deplete my stores.  Consequently crafting supplies have hardened in their tubes, lotions have separated, supplements are well past their sell by dates…all wasted and ready to be thrown away.

We have quite a few broken things which others would have tossed out but I have held onto for years and years with the idea that I will repair them.  I have even bought broken things at yard sales since they are cheaper and I plan to fix them up but don't.

Is this due to growing up with few new things and no expensive things?  What is this mentality and how do I let it go?

Yeah, when you watch Hoarders, or Biggest Loser, there's always an emotional reason behind the problem.  Just because we have clutter, not a hoard, or 20 extra pounds, not 200, that doesn't mean there isn't an emotional problem behind it.  As corny as it sounds, I was able to start losing weight after  a life coach/animal communicator that was doing a session with my horse honed in on me instead and told me I didn't need to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders, and that I had built myself a sort of cocoon.  Maybe it was because it was the only profound life advice anyone had given me in a long time, but after letting that sink in for a year or so (guess I'm slow), I ended up losing 50#, and after that, started working my way off the debt hamster wheel and not making a martyr of myself, which has lead to a bigger desire to declutter the things that I see as weighing me down and preventing me from streamlining my life so I can enjoy doing stuff, instead of just managing STUFF.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on July 16, 2015, 05:20:05 AM
Well, I feel as if I've been painted into a corner. We downsized from 2400 sq ft to 1200 by closing our office away from home, the MA winter was so bad DH took everything out of the attic and filled it with insulation, and my overstuffed clothes closet was ruined by a wall cave-in (from winter ice storm damage) and subsequent takeover by mold, to which I am allergic. Everything had to come out of the closet and be cleaned. It should have been a happy time, moving into semi-retirement, but my anxiety level went through the roof and the dentist said I might need an implant from breaking another tooth by grinding them at night. Yuck!

Being home again, I saw all the clutter around me from life, work, activities, and space reduction, and felt just plain awful. On top of that, the design supplies we brought home from work had pushed out all my art supplies.

Marie Kondo's book is helping me cope and dig out. (Thank you for directing me to the book!) DH, who usually hates getting rid of anything, is being very helpful, lugging bags and boxes and piles of anything and everything to all the appropriate destinations. He even agreed to part with my grandmother's set of the Harvard Classics because I found a Kindle edition for $2.50... unbelievable but true. As for my return to being a fine artist, we are turning an unused guest cabin in the back yard into an art studio. At first, I felt sad about being banished to the back yard, but I'm warming up to the idea. And, it would be very unseemly to complain when I do have a cute little building in the yard just waiting for me :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 16, 2015, 05:36:59 AM
I love the idea of a backyard studio I bet you can make it a beautiful and inspiring space :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarahMD428 on July 16, 2015, 08:46:52 AM
I would love a backyard studio (as long as it has heat for the winter)! A little oasis away from everything - including that stress-mess and everyday chores that call your name. How lovely!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 16, 2015, 10:43:50 AM
Horsepoor, thanks for sharing your experience.  I appreciate hearing it.  It is so cool that you got your advice from such an unlikely source!  I need to find thematic words that tip me into a new place.  Congrats on all the upgrades :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 16, 2015, 10:50:19 AM
Erica,

Quote
I think the common denominator (for me at least) is probably taking on too much.  I feel like this is endemic among women - the feeling that we should do and be everything. I struggle with it, most of my female friends do as well. It's the fast track to burnout.

... I get better at saying No. No to stuff I don't actually need, no to obligations I can't fulfill, no to food that makes me fat.

But then there are all these ghosts all over my home from when I was less discriminate about taking on everything - when I was proud to be the girl who was trying to do it all, instead of realizing that's a particular sickness in itself. And in throwing out the clutter it's like you have to confront those ghosts all over again, and that in itself is exhausting.

I also have noticed about myself - when I allow my time to be stretched, stretched, stretched by other people - I have way less bandwidth to say no to unhealthy food, impulse purchases, etc. and so I slip back a bit.

And then there's confronting any underlying emotional things that make us want to be surrounded by a bubble of stuff, fat, protection, security, whatever....and all I can say is that's some deep inner child shit right there. But even making these connections like you have - that's got to be half the battle, right?

Thanks for your input.  Definitely some deep inner child shit for me to address :)  I like the idea that it could be related to doing too much and doing too much for others.  I am looking at this as well as at saying NO. 

Thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 16, 2015, 10:55:14 AM
Chasingthegoodlife,

Quote
I love the feeling of order and efficiency that comes from only having what you need and managing resources well. So calming!

Let us know how the mending goes, that is upcoming for me.  Today I am going through files of old bills and statements.  I am getting tired of tearing them so I am going to investigate the community shredders.  I feel some excitement about getting rid of all this STUFFFFF.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 16, 2015, 10:59:43 AM
ZiziPB,

I know what you mean by
Quote
I feel anxious if I am running low on stuff

Sigh.  If I figure anything out I will share it here.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MoustacheKnittah on July 16, 2015, 11:51:06 AM

Have any of you noticed connections between the threads that you post in or read?  I see that I am mostly into the following:

Losing weight in 2015
Clearing Out Clutter
No Clothes Shopping in 2015
Using up Fabrics, Sewing and Crafting Supplies
Eat All the Food in Your House

I am seeing a connection between being drained of energy and having too much STUFF whether it is stored food, stored fat on my body, too many clothes, too many unfinished projects or too much paper.

I have absolutely been trying to tie together theses aspects of my life! Call it minimizing, optimizing, maximizing efficiency, whatever you like - but I am trying hard to focus on streamlining all of these things to free up mental energy, time and money.
1. Minimalist diet (less processed foods, less food shopping/impulse grocery buys, more taking lunch, eat down the pantry/freezer, process seasonal food in a timely fashion - canning/freezing)
2. Minimalist wardrobe (less clothes shopping and getting rid of clothes/shoes)
3. Minimalist household (clearing out clutter, only buying new when we run out or something breaks and cannot be repaired)
4. Minimalist fitness routine (free exercise that does not require a separate facility such as walking, biking, yoga/body weight exercises, yardwork/housework)
5. Minimalist media consumption (I have cut down A LOT on TV watching, but still could cut down on Facebook/internet. I am reading more and listening to a lot of radio/podcasts if I am in the kitchen or doing yardwork.)

As to how to get rid of the mentality and let go? I don't know. I'm not there yet. I started down a semi-minimalism/frugality path just a few months ago, so I haven't really had to make any deep cuts in terms of letting go of stuff or letting go of stress due to not having enough stuff. I know that feeling with food, in particular. I worry there won't be enough food so I make too much food or I pre-eat and then I eat more when I get there, etc. I just need to learn to plan a little better and throw a granola bar in my bag in case the hangry strikes. Everything else...a work in progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on July 16, 2015, 12:04:03 PM
Okay, I need some help! I'm just starting to KonMari my clothes. What do I do with stuff that brings me joy and would be of the first things I pick if I hadn't put on 20 lbs? I keep telling myself I'm going to lose the weight, but since it's been a year and a half and I haven't taken any action to actually lose, I think I might be lying to myself, or just unable/unwilling to find the headspace and motivation to do it.
Do I keep something because it brings me joy and hope or ditch it because I don't know when/if I'll ever be able to wear it again?

What I did was choose a couple of very specific items (one pair of pants, one dress, one top) that were things I loved but didn't fit any more and donated the rest.  I also made sure as I lost the weight that the things I loved but were too big left the house very quickly.  I discovered once those items fit again that they didn't match my life any more, and so I was able to pass them along with good feelings.  I still think it was the right plan to hold on to those things - first off it let me measure progress, and secondly, I would have romanticized those items otherwise, and regretting letting them go assuming I'd never get back to the right size. 

But I didn't keep those items in my closet.  They were left in under-the-bed storage, so I didn't have the constant reminder of how different my body measurements were.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on July 16, 2015, 12:34:08 PM
I love the idea of a backyard studio I bet you can make it a beautiful and inspiring space :-)

Melody and Sarah, thank you for the encouragement. I think I can make this work. The cabin does have window AC and electric baseboard heat. The water pipe is broken (and not winterized), so I'll have to wash my brushes up at the house. Not a big problem.

I do have a question, though. It may sound a bit odd, but I am serious: With my current buffed-up anti-stuff attitude, how do I justify making art? Where do I put it? We already have too much art and too many photographs to hang on the walls in our house. Even good art doesn't always sell. Isn't art just more stuff, most of which would probably end up in a landfill?

I would love to read what other artists and non-artists think about this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: simmias on July 16, 2015, 02:35:25 PM
He even agreed to part with my grandmother's set of the Harvard Classics
Sacrilege!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MoustacheKnittah on July 16, 2015, 03:13:49 PM
Quote
I do have a question, though. It may sound a bit odd, but I am serious: With my current buffed-up anti-stuff attitude, how do I justify making art? Where do I put it? We already have too much art and too many photographs to hang on the walls in our house. Even good art doesn't always sell. Isn't art just more stuff, most of which would probably end up in a landfill?

I would love to read what other artists and non-artists think about this.

Quote
I'm a knitter and I've struggled with this as well. If you hang around knitting fora a lot, you'll hear people describe themselves as product (I knit to have a sweater) and process (I knit because I like to knit and the sweater is incidental) knitters. Is there something similar for art? If it's the process of making art that you like, do you care if you keep the final product? Could you do something that uses less stuff (sketching)? Could you use waste materials (the back of scratch paper) so you feel like you aren't creating waste?

Shockingly, I am also a knitter :) I think for knitting/fiber crafts it's pretty easy, because there are a lot of charities for babies, homeless shelters, etc. that accept handknit/handsewn goods. So it's pretty easy to give things away if you're a process knitter. Photography, wall hanging, pottery, etc - yeah that gets a little trickier. At some point, your friends/family have enough of your beautiful art hanging in their houses, so it's hard to give away as gifts. I think electronic display of photographs has come a long way in the last few years, so that's an option to keep the collection "fresh" without creating any more physical objects. I don't have a good answer for pottery and other art that creates things that sit around on tables and shelves (and things where the only purpose is just to look cool and be interesting). I will have to ponder that one...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 16, 2015, 03:43:59 PM

I do have a question, though. It may sound a bit odd, but I am serious: With my current buffed-up anti-stuff attitude, how do I justify making art? Where do I put it? We already have too much art and too many photographs to hang on the walls in our house. Even good art doesn't always sell. Isn't art just more stuff, most of which would probably end up in a landfill?

I would love to read what other artists and non-artists think about this.

I don't wrap my identity up in "being an artist" just like I never identified myself as "being a gallery/art center manager" I have always looked at it as "being a creator" The act of creating is what is important.

The art is the outcome of the creative process as are MANY other benefits - self-expression/confidence/stress relief...

Just because what you produce could be considered "just stuff" to you suggests to me that the "creative process" is more important to you then the finished product. If so, awesome!

Sell what you can. Donate to non-profits and fundraisers you care about. Hook up with women's shelters and bring some color and beauty to their walls. Donate pictures to hospices and end of life care facilities. If the value for you is in the creation - seek to connect with others who will value your end product. Even if you don't get paid for it, it will be doing some good in the world and inspiring others....Also if you do want to sell more of your work, this is a great way to get your name out there and build community good will.

You could also create your art and then let the originals go and use copies to make products people could use...Journals, planners, note cards, heck even downloadable wallpapers which will earn you a bit of cash and pretty up peoples computers without them having to have a physical "thing" in their home.

Art doesn't have to "be junk that ends up in a landfill" once you have fulfilled your purpose in creating, let it go to someone else who might need the beauty or inspiration in their life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 16, 2015, 04:51:25 PM
I love the idea of donating to women's shelters and the like. My mum offers her art to local businesses for free (cafes etc) so this is an idea too.  Also I think if you sketch and paint then your art doesn't take up much space and over time you will find loving homes for these items. My personal art forms are photography and music so these don't take up space, and I sew (the items get used). Sometimes I sketch and I have a few sketch books. If I like it I keep it if not I tear the page out. I don't feel wasteful and I don't think you should either if it brings you joy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 16, 2015, 05:01:16 PM
I love the idea of donating to women's shelters and the like. My mum offers her art to local businesses for free (cafes etc) so this is an idea too. 

This is a popular thing for artists in Canada except they usually offer them for sale and split the proceeds with the cafe.

Another thing you could do if you have a huge body of work is an "Art Rental" where you approach local businesses and offices and offer them art on their walls for x$ a month and you change it up every so often (swapping your art between different clients) They get new art to enjoy, you make some money for it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on July 16, 2015, 06:56:07 PM
I love the idea of a backyard studio I bet you can make it a beautiful and inspiring space :-)

Melody and Sarah, thank you for the encouragement. I think I can make this work. The cabin does have window AC and electric baseboard heat. The water pipe is broken (and not winterized), so I'll have to wash my brushes up at the house. Not a big problem.

I do have a question, though. It may sound a bit odd, but I am serious: With my current buffed-up anti-stuff attitude, how do I justify making art? Where do I put it? We already have too much art and too many photographs to hang on the walls in our house. Even good art doesn't always sell. Isn't art just more stuff, most of which would probably end up in a landfill?

I would love to read what other artists and non-artists think about this.

I'm a knitter and I've struggled with this as well. If you hang around knitting fora a lot, you'll hear people describe themselves as product (I knit to have a sweater) and process (I knit because I like to knit and the sweater is incidental) knitters. Is there something similar for art? If it's the process of making art that you like, do you care if you keep the final product? Could you do something that uses less stuff (sketching)? Could you use waste materials (the back of scratch paper) so you feel like you aren't creating waste?

This is an interesting response! I think it is a little bit different for artists than knitters, but there are definitely some similarities. I'm not sure what direction my work will take next, but I love your idea of taking responsibility to be aware of limiting waste.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on July 16, 2015, 07:09:18 PM
He even agreed to part with my grandmother's set of the Harvard Classics
Sacrilege!

:-) Not really. He gave me permission to give them to one of our kids.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on July 16, 2015, 07:16:07 PM
swick and Melody, thanks for the great ideas! With all those options, I don't need to worry about it anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on July 17, 2015, 03:12:27 AM
Speaking of clutter and donating, extra bathroom supplies (lotions or whatever) can go to shelters.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 17, 2015, 04:56:45 AM
Sorting through some of the office supplies tonight. I could write a bazzilion university essays and still have too many pens. Some are going to my dad, I know he'll use them, and some to work (yes I could take new work stuff from the stationary cupboard but better to use up something I already have) and keeping some of it stored neatly for using on job applications etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 18, 2015, 11:24:55 AM
So... Do I really need to save old tax records? If for some unforeseen reason I needed them, aren't they available from the IRS? I needed them for my divorce since as a means of harassment the other side asked for my tax returns going back 400 year or so. And I had them. But that is over, and aside from that I've never needed my old taxes.

Thoughts? Getting rid of them allows me to get rid of an entire file cabinets. (I"m also tossing old closing records and such on prior houses that I no longer own, etc.).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: swick on July 18, 2015, 12:05:44 PM
So... Do I really need to save old tax records? If for some unforeseen reason I needed them, aren't they available from the IRS? I needed them for my divorce since as a means of harassment the other side asked for my tax returns going back 400 year or so. And I had them. But that is over, and aside from that I've never needed my old taxes.

Thoughts? Getting rid of them allows me to get rid of an entire file cabinets. (I"m also tossing old closing records and such on prior houses that I no longer own, etc.).

It depends on the statue of limitations set out by your government. In Canada you can amend (and they can reassess) back 7 years, so that is required. If you were to be audited and didn't have your documentation, I'm not sure they are required to provide you with their records? Or if their records are different from yours, you have to be able to provide supporting documentation as to how you came up with your numbers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 18, 2015, 01:18:08 PM
MoustacheKnittah,

Quote
I have absolutely been trying to tie together theses aspects of my life! Call it minimizing, optimizing, maximizing efficiency, whatever you like - but I am trying hard to focus on streamlining all of these things to free up mental energy, time and money.

I will be curious to hear more  of your progress including the lows and the highs.  I am getting a taste of the freed up mental energy already and I want more and more.  I spent part of this morning looking at areas where I complicate things and thus overwhelm myself and found some useful ideas.  I will put them in another post.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 18, 2015, 01:43:16 PM
So... Do I really need to save old tax records? If for some unforeseen reason I needed them, aren't they available from the IRS? I needed them for my divorce since as a means of harassment the other side asked for my tax returns going back 400 year or so. And I had them. But that is over, and aside from that I've never needed my old taxes.

Thoughts? Getting rid of them allows me to get rid of an entire file cabinets. (I"m also tossing old closing records and such on prior houses that I no longer own, etc.).

It depends on the statue of limitations set out by your government. In Canada you can amend (and they can reassess) back 7 years, so that is required. If you were to be audited and didn't have your documentation, I'm not sure they are required to provide you with their records? Or if their records are different from yours, you have to be able to provide supporting documentation as to how you came up with your numbers.

So that is what I am trying to answer - do I actually need to save them? In the highly unlikely event that I was audited on records from x years ago (lets say 6) - I assume the IRS would have to provide a copy of my filings if I request them. I mean, I can request them *now* so I doubt they could refuse my records to me if I were being audited. I just feel like I could go back and get bank records and pay stubs (which I haven't saved anyhow) if needed and I am trying to see why this would be any different. I really want to toss all this paper!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 18, 2015, 01:54:16 PM
I have been de-cluttering bit by bit for many months.  As I go along I have been separating out things we are not using (that are broken/need scanning or typing) and putting them aside to deal with later.  We are nearing that point and I am realising...

Why repair/mend/read/scan/type/photograph all the detritus?  Why not just say goodbye instead and feel the benefits now?  Why not allow someone else to enjoy sewing that pretty fabric or planting those seeds? Let's face it, I am no longer as enamored of these things as I was when I acquired them.

Toss out/Donate:

All the fabric for sewing into clothing
All the supplies for crafts other than the two I love the most
All the unused health supplements
All the seed packs for flowers
Empty picture frames
Some of the broken furniture
Ripped bags and clothing in the mending pile
Lamps that need wiring but we do not have room for
Jewellery that is broken and will cost more to mend than it is worth to me
Old prints that are in the closet

I see that up until today I was still harboring the idea that I must keep commitments to objects, and that not doing so was wasting the money originally spent.  How great will it be to end this burden this week?

Part of my issue is excess clutter in my mind.  Those broken things take up a lot of room in my head.  I do not love them.  In fact today I feel a huge urge to toss them out the window.

Watch this space...





Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iknowiyam on July 18, 2015, 03:04:51 PM
So... Do I really need to save old tax records? If for some unforeseen reason I needed them, aren't they available from the IRS? I needed them for my divorce since as a means of harassment the other side asked for my tax returns going back 400 year or so. And I had them. But that is over, and aside from that I've never needed my old taxes.

Thoughts? Getting rid of them allows me to get rid of an entire file cabinets. (I"m also tossing old closing records and such on prior houses that I no longer own, etc.).

It depends on the statue of limitations set out by your government. In Canada you can amend (and they can reassess) back 7 years, so that is required. If you were to be audited and didn't have your documentation, I'm not sure they are required to provide you with their records? Or if their records are different from yours, you have to be able to provide supporting documentation as to how you came up with your numbers.

So that is what I am trying to answer - do I actually need to save them? In the highly unlikely event that I was audited on records from x years ago (lets say 6) - I assume the IRS would have to provide a copy of my filings if I request them. I mean, I can request them *now* so I doubt they could refuse my records to me if I were being audited. I just feel like I could go back and get bank records and pay stubs (which I haven't saved anyhow) if needed and I am trying to see why this would be any different. I really want to toss all this paper!

Yes! Save them forever, especially if you own a home. Find a friend with a decently quick scanner (if you don't have one), and save them on a backup drive or even a thumb drive. Shred and recycle the paper.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 18, 2015, 03:21:51 PM
I have been de-cluttering bit by bit for many months.  As I go along I have been separating out things we are not using (that are broken/need scanning or typing) and putting them aside to deal with later.  We are nearing that point and I am realising...

Why repair/mend/read/scan/type/photograph all the detritus?  Why not just say goodbye instead and feel the benefits now?  Why not allow someone else to enjoy sewing that pretty fabric or planting those seeds? Let's face it, I am no longer as enamored of these things as I was when I acquired them.

Toss out/Donate:

All the fabric for sewing into clothing
All the supplies for crafts other than the two I love the most
All the unused health supplements
All the seed packs for flowers
Empty picture frames
Some of the broken furniture
Ripped bags and clothing in the mending pile
Lamps that need wiring but we do not have room for
Jewellery that is broken and will cost more to mend than it is worth to me
Old prints that are in the closet

I see that up until today I was still harboring the idea that I must keep commitments to objects, and that not doing so was wasting the money originally spent.  How great will it be to end this burden this week?

Part of my issue is excess clutter in my mind.  Those broken things take up a lot of room in my head.  I do not love them.  In fact today I feel a huge urge to toss them out the window.

Watch this space...

Lovely. Good for you .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 19, 2015, 09:15:37 PM
So... Do I really need to save old tax records? If for some unforeseen reason I needed them, aren't they available from the IRS? I needed them for my divorce since as a means of harassment the other side asked for my tax returns going back 400 year or so. And I had them. But that is over, and aside from that I've never needed my old taxes.

Thoughts? Getting rid of them allows me to get rid of an entire file cabinets. (I"m also tossing old closing records and such on prior houses that I no longer own, etc.).


It depends on the statue of limitations set out by your government. In Canada you can amend (and they can reassess) back 7 years, so that is required. If you were to be audited and didn't have your documentation, I'm not sure they are required to provide you with their records? Or if their records are different from yours, you have to be able to provide supporting documentation as to how you came up with your numbers.

So that is what I am trying to answer - do I actually need to save them? In the highly unlikely event that I was audited on records from x years ago (lets say 6) - I assume the IRS would have to provide a copy of my filings if I request them. I mean, I can request them *now* so I doubt they could refuse my records to me if I were being audited. I just feel like I could go back and get bank records and pay stubs (which I haven't saved anyhow) if needed and I am trying to see why this would be any different. I really want to toss all this paper!

It's not just the returns themselves that you'd need in an audit but the receipts and backup (W-2s, 1099s, etc) proving what you claimed on the return. A few months ago I scanned over 20 years of documents and put them on a high capacity thumb drive with a backup clone. But also we have rental properties, so it seemed like a good idea to just scan everything. The shredding or burning afterward is highly cathartic!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on July 19, 2015, 09:23:26 PM
I did well on the weekend, getting through several piles of paper, most of which is now in the shredding bin.

I was also able to set aside another two bags of clothes for charity - do my clothes breed and multiply when I'm not looking?!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 20, 2015, 05:02:51 AM

I seem to have spent several years blindly stocking up on body fat, spare toilet paper, lotions and toothpastes, crafting supplies, useless boxes of paper, health supplements and broken things.  And, I am seeing that as the fridge gets clear I rush out to buy more food so that once again we have an abundance and once again I struggle to eat it all before it rots.  With craft supplies, fancy lotions, fancy health supplements and shoes I get them and never use them.  It is as though having them is soothing and if I use them up I feel an anxious urgency to restock, not in order to get a good price but to ease my anxiety.
 

Wintersun, I too was overwhelmed by all the lotions and toothpaste etc, yet, when I started running out, wanted to purchase more. Here's how I dealt with it.

I just let the feelings sit, but I didn't give into them. I decided that if I gave into the anxiety and purchased more, I was just feeding the cycle. So, I didn't buy replacements, except the things I was genuinely using up. So, for example, the cotton wool pads I just wanted to see gone, I didn't repurchase (even though I felt the urge) because using them up had felt like a chore. The facewipes I use every day I did repurchase, because using them up was just... neutral. I wasn't 'trying' to use them up, or trying to keep them. I just needed to take my makeup off, and that was how I did it.

So, I allowed myself to repurchase neutral things I was using. Anything I had had to 'work' to use up, I did not repurchase, even though I thought, oh my goodness, what if I need x.

And things where I was nearing the end, and thought, "I don't want to finish this, because I know I'm not going to repurchase and I might need it", I finished, by promising myself that if I finished it, and then later needed it, I could repurchase. But I did not allow myself to repurchase for stock - only if the need arose.

What I found is that most things could be substituted. This wasn't my intention at all, it was just something that was revealed to me. I've run out of one potion, oh, I'll just use another. A lot of 'first aid' type stuff also had duel uses I found by reading the label. Something I bought to ease nasal congestion can be used a wound disinfectant, so, since I no longer have the congestion this can be my go to disinfectant when the Savlon runs out and I won't repurchase.

Anyway, that was a long way of saying my advice would be thus. Acknowledge the feeling of wanting to stock up and rebuy, but don't act on it. Try not to judge that feeling, just accept it. "I want to rebuy that, even though I also want to rid of it", or whatever. Don't give in to it, or you are just feeding the cycle of anxiety.

It's hard, but it gets easier. Resisting the first time is much more uncomfortable than the 20th time. And I found that as stores depleted, and I realised how little I used any of the stuff I had got rid of, my anxiety lessened significantly too.

Increasingly, I am happy not to hold onto things in that way. For example, the other day I was packing for travel and I needed a toothbrush to take, as my electric one is too bulky. I had a freebie from a flight in a drawer. I thought, "I don't want to take it! Then it will be gone. I might need it someday". And I thought to myself, "Yes, I do need it someday - I need it today. It has fulfilled it's purpose by providing me with a toothbrush when I needed one". Somehow this now feels -even better- to me than keeping it. Using things up, allowing them to fulfil their purpose.

My husband told me off for getting out the 'good glasses'. I told him, no, I want to use them. Hell, I want to -break- them all (in time!), because I want to know that I have had the use out of them, enjoyed them fully, and they have served me completely. I want to wear things out, so I can let go of them knowing they've served me well, and I've used up all that joy they contained. Does any of this make sense, or do I sound raving?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 20, 2015, 05:17:48 AM
So... Do I really need to save old tax records? If for some unforeseen reason I needed them, aren't they available from the IRS? I needed them for my divorce since as a means of harassment the other side asked for my tax returns going back 400 year or so. And I had them. But that is over, and aside from that I've never needed my old taxes.

Thoughts? Getting rid of them allows me to get rid of an entire file cabinets. (I"m also tossing old closing records and such on prior houses that I no longer own, etc.).


It depends on the statue of limitations set out by your government. In Canada you can amend (and they can reassess) back 7 years, so that is required. If you were to be audited and didn't have your documentation, I'm not sure they are required to provide you with their records? Or if their records are different from yours, you have to be able to provide supporting documentation as to how you came up with your numbers.

So that is what I am trying to answer - do I actually need to save them? In the highly unlikely event that I was audited on records from x years ago (lets say 6) - I assume the IRS would have to provide a copy of my filings if I request them. I mean, I can request them *now* so I doubt they could refuse my records to me if I were being audited. I just feel like I could go back and get bank records and pay stubs (which I haven't saved anyhow) if needed and I am trying to see why this would be any different. I really want to toss all this paper!

It's not just the returns themselves that you'd need in an audit but the receipts and backup (W-2s, 1099s, etc) proving what you claimed on the return. A few months ago I scanned over 20 years of documents and put them on a high capacity thumb drive with a backup clone. But also we have rental properties, so it seemed like a good idea to just scan everything. The shredding or burning afterward is highly cathartic!

Apparently the federal statute of limitations on tax stuff in 3 years. States vary. There would be no reason to save stuff past the statue of limitations. 3 years I can deal with.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on July 20, 2015, 05:28:10 AM
We cleaned the top of the book shelf. Finally! We already decluttered the book shelf a couple of weeks ago but put papers on top that we needed to through. Now its all gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on July 20, 2015, 05:44:47 AM
Apparently the federal statute of limitations on tax stuff in 3 years. States vary. There would be no reason to save stuff past the statue of limitations. 3 years I can deal with.
You need to save documents for three years after the last time they appear on a return. For example, if you buy a house in 2000 and sell it in 2012, you need documents about the house through 2015, not 2003, because the paperwork affects your tax calculation in 2012. It's not safe to just shred all your documents from 2012 or before - you still need some.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on July 20, 2015, 08:01:45 AM
I got a good start on the garage on Saturday. I did more sorting and cleaning than decluttering, but I did get rid of a few things and it looks so much more manageable.

I also cleared away the donate pile and a couple other piles of library books and paperwork in preparation for having a dozen friends over for dinner. As soon as I did it I realized how much better everything looked and that I still have some work to do to keep those spaces clear permanently. :)

Does any of this make sense, or do I sound raving?

It all makes perfect sense to me. It's something I'm also working on, especially 'what if I need this someday? ...yes, like today' lol.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 20, 2015, 08:05:05 AM
Apparently the federal statute of limitations on tax stuff in 3 years. States vary. There would be no reason to save stuff past the statue of limitations. 3 years I can deal with.
You need to save documents for three years after the last time they appear on a return. For example, if you buy a house in 2000 and sell it in 2012, you need documents about the house through 2015, not 2003, because the paperwork affects your tax calculation in 2012. It's not safe to just shred all your documents from 2012 or before - you still need some.

+1
Although it can be longer than 3 years (up to 7 in some cases for federal returns) that you need to retain records.

This is for businesses, but still helpful:
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/How-long-should-I-keep-records
amusingly, they tell you to keep them forever if you've made a fraudulent return!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 20, 2015, 11:25:18 AM
If you've had very simple tax returns and don't have a 401k or other retirement plan or securities, nor own any real estate, then only keep 3 years' worth. But if you have any of those complications, you might want to read up.  A couple easy reference links below.

* The IRS has six years to challenge your return if it thinks you underreported your gross income by 25 percent or more.

* House/Condo Records
From six years to permanently
Keep all records documenting the purchase price and the cost of all permanent improvements -- such as remodeling, additions and installations.
Keep records of expenses incurred in selling and buying the property, such as legal fees and your real estate agent's commission, for six years after you sell your home.

Holding on to these records is important because any improvements you make on your house, as well as expenses in selling it, are added to the original purchase price or cost basis. This adds up to a greater profit (also known as capital gains) when you sell your house. Therefore, you lower your capital gains tax.

* Retirement/Savings Plans
From one year to permanently
Keep the quarterly statements from your 401(k) or other plans until you receive the annual summary; if everything matches up, then shred the quarterlies. --->Keep the annual summaries until you retire or close the account.

http://apps.suzeorman.com/igsbase/igstemplate.cfm?SRC=MD012&SRCN=aoedetails&GnavID=20&SnavID=20&TnavID=&AreasofExpertiseID=17

http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/how-long-to-keep-financial-records.aspx
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 20, 2015, 12:52:05 PM
David at Raptitude has a new post about decluttering and he too has discovered the Marie Kondo method.

http://www.raptitude.com/2015/07/out-of-sight/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Raptitudecom+%28Raptitude.com%29
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on July 20, 2015, 01:11:52 PM
My husband told me off for getting out the 'good glasses'. I told him, no, I want to use them. Hell, I want to -break- them all (in time!), because I want to know that I have had the use out of them, enjoyed them fully, and they have served me completely. I want to wear things out, so I can let go of them knowing they've served me well, and I've used up all that joy they contained. Does any of this make sense, or do I sound raving?

Oh hell yeah. +1000

I used to be like that. I would have clothes/bags/shoes/notebooks/insert-random-item that I couldn't bear to use because then they'll get used and no longer be pristine and *gasp* might even break! Then I realized that I was using my B-list things daily while hoarding my A-list things in their pristine conditions. Like. Why am I doing that again??

So I got over it and started using all the good stuff, because they were meant to be used. I get more joy out of using them rather then keeping them in the closet. In fact, now that I'm actively minimizing, I almost want things to wear out so I can get rid of them by attrition.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on July 20, 2015, 02:06:32 PM
My husband told me off for getting out the 'good glasses'. I told him, no, I want to use them. Hell, I want to -break- them all (in time!), because I want to know that I have had the use out of them, enjoyed them fully, and they have served me completely. I want to wear things out, so I can let go of them knowing they've served me well, and I've used up all that joy they contained. Does any of this make sense, or do I sound raving?

Oh hell yeah. +1000

I used to be like that. I would have clothes/bags/shoes/notebooks/insert-random-item that I couldn't bear to use because then they'll get used and no longer be pristine and *gasp* might even break! Then I realized that I was using my B-list things daily while hoarding my A-list things in their pristine conditions. Like. Why am I doing that again??

So I got over it and started using all the good stuff, because they were meant to be used. I get more joy out of using them rather then keeping them in the closet. In fact, now that I'm actively minimizing, I almost want things to wear out so I can get rid of them by attrition.

I have been learning this lesson myself. I always used to save up my "special" items, thus losing out on the opportunity to use them and enjoy them.

What's even worse is that I completely wasted some things because I saved them past their shelf life (like some lotions and makeup that my mom got me when I was younger that dried up). How counterproductive is that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 20, 2015, 02:36:59 PM
I love the idea of a backyard studio I bet you can make it a beautiful and inspiring space :-)

Melody and Sarah, thank you for the encouragement. I think I can make this work. The cabin does have window AC and electric baseboard heat. The water pipe is broken (and not winterized), so I'll have to wash my brushes up at the house. Not a big problem.

I do have a question, though. It may sound a bit odd, but I am serious: With my current buffed-up anti-stuff attitude, how do I justify making art? Where do I put it? We already have too much art and too many photographs to hang on the walls in our house. Even good art doesn't always sell. Isn't art just more stuff, most of which would probably end up in a landfill?

I would love to read what other artists and non-artists think about this.

I'm a knitter and I've struggled with this as well. If you hang around knitting fora a lot, you'll hear people describe themselves as product (I knit to have a sweater) and process (I knit because I like to knit and the sweater is incidental) knitters. Is there something similar for art? If it's the process of making art that you like, do you care if you keep the final product? Could you do something that uses less stuff (sketching)? Could you use waste materials (the back of scratch paper) so you feel like you aren't creating waste?

I needlepoint (similar to cross stitch). Traditionally, you make seat and cushion covers and pillows by needlepointing. You can also do some Christmas stuff.

I neelepoint because I enjoy it. There's somethings that I make that are used - drink coasters (just made 50 this year for Christmas gifts to friends). Brick covers (door stops). The rest just ends up sitting in a drawer forever. I will at some point get it from my mom's house, take pictures, then just toss it all. Rarely do I want the finished pieces.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 20, 2015, 04:45:12 PM
+1 for using up the good stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 20, 2015, 06:11:48 PM
Yes, use the good stuff!

I have a story about that.  My grandmother had an entire floor on her house that was designated "the good part".  She would keep it pristine but never use it.  When she had a party she would spend hours cleaning it, then have all her guests in the basement.  Never made sense to me at all!  Why have it if you're not going to use it!

Extreme example of course, but it does show the silliness of saving the good stuff too long.

Now we have the house.  You know what?  I use the main living areas, cause it's the nice part!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 20, 2015, 09:43:38 PM
Yes, use the good stuff!

I have a story about that.  My grandmother had an entire floor on her house that was designated "the good part".  She would keep it pristine but never use it.  When she had a party she would spend hours cleaning it, then have all her guests in the basement.  Never made sense to me at all!  Why have it if you're not going to use it!

Extreme example of course, but it does show the silliness of saving the good stuff too long.

Now we have the house.  You know what?  I use the main living areas, cause it's the nice part!
Interesting story about your grandmother. We live in our house and use everything. If it's too good to use we don't own it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 20, 2015, 10:23:14 PM
I currently have 39 items listed on eBay, and bids on about a quarter of the stuff, for almost $950 so far.  It will be really nice to get that stuff packed up and shipped out, but the place is a wreck in the meantime.  Would LOVE to have it all sold, as that would mean nearly $5K in my pocket, but some stuff is sure to no-sale.  Next, I really need to Craigslist my espresso machine and aquarium.  I don't have time for the aquarium any more, and it sucks electricity and creates mental clutter (oh no's, that tetra is all alone, and I need to clean the tank!).  The espresso machine lost its countertop space to the blender and Instant Pot, so it gets zero use.  Oh yeah, we have a printer that needs to hit road too.

I was thinking about hoarding/retaining clutter (hoarding lite?) while driving yesterday, and it seems like it is just a more primitive form of saving.  After all, having a cache of supplies is a much more tangible way of preparing for the future, than saving money, which is, after all, a pretty abstract concept.  So it makes sense that many of us are trying to make the mental shift from hanging on to stuff towards hanging on to intangible dollars in accounts.  When we were in Peru this spring, they were talking about how some Incas were able to make it through multi-year droughts because of their hoard of dehydrated potato.  It probably felt pretty good to be an Incan with a huge pile of 5-years' worth of dehydrated potato, but it's kind of a leap of faith to believe that some numbers on a screen are equivalent to 5 year's worth of basic needs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 21, 2015, 09:16:13 AM
I dunno, I think the reasons for keeping things are closer to fear of needing it later, sentiment or laziness/inertia (it takes effort to go through things, and stuff constantly seems to flow in rather than out).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EllieStan on July 21, 2015, 11:24:00 AM
Decluttering the electronics!

- Getting rid of my old laptops and a few computer towers we do not use. I kept them for years because I didn't know how to retrieve data left on the hard drives, but my IT/geeky spouse helped me over the weekend. We'll bring everything to an ecocentre.

- I'll also try to sell my VCR and DVD player. My goal is to get rid of all but a few DVDs I particularly enjoy. We mostly use AppleTV to watch movies/series in streaming. After it's done, we'll be able to get rid of/sell our media tower.

I am wondering, though: is it worth trying to sell DVDs and CDs via Amazon or Ebay? I'm thinking about the multiple trips to CanadaPost just to send one $5 item at a time, and it doesn't seem efficient. Thoughts?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 21, 2015, 02:29:11 PM
Got rid of the random box of cables and cord this weekend. My lovely techy boyfriend went through it and identified cords that go w/ various electronics (e.g. the really old video camera that uses tapes). Paired things up appropriately with intent of donation. Tossed the rest. I am trying to be good now able putting labels on new cords as they come into the house (e.g. "kindle charger cord"). I feel like a messy pile of cables is this eras equivalent of 1950s pile of twist ties or the junk drawers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on July 21, 2015, 03:59:16 PM
Another successful round of uncluttering completed. Persuaded DH to part with 95 DVDs.  Removed 2 ikea cabinet towers from our family room.  After DVDs and old school papers and unused board games cleared out, DH and the kids conceded that maybe open space was better than mostly empty cabinets!
Also sent 4 more boxes of clothes to donation center.   Only 2 closets left to clear.    Three hoarders vs one minimalist makes for slow going.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 21, 2015, 04:17:09 PM
Well I am on vacation (100% free) and still downsizing .hahaha. One book and one magazine out . realizing more and more how much I really dislike magazines.. The only time I read them is at the gym, because my books are a little precarious. This particular magazine I was hoarding for a few months to look at, and thought I might enjoy it for the trip. Nope. One of those things ( even if just one ) I was holding onto for "someday", as a " should ". No more.
I think I mentioned before I packed most of my wardrobe for this 2 week trip because my clothing is so minimal, and there are at least a few items that I was feeling like I " should" keep. Rethinking this now as I continue to avoid wearing them... I'll likely rid myself of a few more things before I head home, but I'll keep you posted.
And I find myself coming up with more things to donate at home! Hilarious. The decluttering mindset is strong :). There's a glass table that I like but is taking up space.. Hmm.. I almost didn't even bring it when I moved recently. We'll see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 21, 2015, 06:02:15 PM
I've been on a decluttering binge for most of the year. It has levelled off a bit now because I've tossed so much, but I'm constantly on the lookout for things that can go.

This morning I tossed a t-shirt. Straight into the bin. Most of my clutter has been donated or sold on eBay, but not this. I bought it on a trip two years ago and quickly discovered it was the softest t-shirt ever made, so I proceeded to sleep in it constantly. It then developed two unfortunately-placed holes that have been getting bigger and bigger, and I could no longer wear it without something underneath it.

This morning I admitted it no longer serves a purpose and threw it out.

Someone else mentioned Project 333, and while I haven't been that brutal, I have slowly been piecing together a quality capsule wardrobe. The stress it has saved me is invaluable and (though it's somewhat un-Mustachian), I have no problem paying a little bit more for a good quality item that I love.

In the past 10 days I've had a wedding and a funeral. I thought about buying a new dress for the wedding just because it is freezing here, but ended up wearing a dress I've had for four years with the good trench coat and dressy black flats I wear to work. To the funeral I wore a black shift dress I wear to work, with the same trench coat and same shoes. No-one noticed, no-one cared, and I was packed for the (unexpected, out-of-town funeral) in five minutes.

Previously I bought clothes because I felt good about myself when I bought them (i.e. they were cheap) but then I hated the clothes/myself when I wore them. Now I am mastering the art of buying clothes I feel good about wearing, and actually feel OK about buying because I know I will have them for years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 21, 2015, 06:28:58 PM
Decluttering the electronics!

- Getting rid of my old laptops and a few computer towers we do not use. I kept them for years because I didn't know how to retrieve data left on the hard drives, but my IT/geeky spouse helped me over the weekend. We'll bring everything to an ecocentre.

- I'll also try to sell my VCR and DVD player. My goal is to get rid of all but a few DVDs I particularly enjoy. We mostly use AppleTV to watch movies/series in streaming. After it's done, we'll be able to get rid of/sell our media tower.

I am wondering, though: is it worth trying to sell DVDs and CDs via Amazon or Ebay? I'm thinking about the multiple trips to CanadaPost just to send one $5 item at a time, and it doesn't seem efficient. Thoughts?
Can you list the DVDs in bulk lots? Group them by similar genres (e.g action etc). May not net you the highest price but you would get something for them. Or list everything at on the same day, set yourself a long shipping time frame so you have time for everyone to pay up, then you can do it all with one trip to the post office. Re list only one time before donating.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 21, 2015, 06:30:10 PM
Decluttering the electronics!

- Getting rid of my old laptops and a few computer towers we do not use. I kept them for years because I didn't know how to retrieve data left on the hard drives, but my IT/geeky spouse helped me over the weekend. We'll bring everything to an ecocentre.

- I'll also try to sell my VCR and DVD player. My goal is to get rid of all but a few DVDs I particularly enjoy. We mostly use AppleTV to watch movies/series in streaming. After it's done, we'll be able to get rid of/sell our media tower.

I am wondering, though: is it worth trying to sell DVDs and CDs via Amazon or Ebay? I'm thinking about the multiple trips to CanadaPost just to send one $5 item at a time, and it doesn't seem efficient. Thoughts?
Can you list the DVDs in bulk lots? Group them by similar genres (e.g action etc). May not net you the highest price but you would get something for them. Or list everything at on the same day, set yourself a long shipping time frame so you have time for everyone to pay up, then you can do it all with one trip to the post office. Re list only one time before donating.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 21, 2015, 07:48:53 PM
I've been on a decluttering binge for most of the year. It has levelled off a bit now because I've tossed so much, but I'm constantly on the lookout for things that can go.

This morning I tossed a t-shirt. Straight into the bin. Most of my clutter has been donated or sold on eBay, but not this. I bought it on a trip two years ago and quickly discovered it was the softest t-shirt ever made, so I proceeded to sleep in it constantly. It then developed two unfortunately-placed holes that have been getting bigger and bigger, and I could no longer wear it without something underneath it.

This morning I admitted it no longer serves a purpose and threw it out.

Someone else mentioned Project 333, and while I haven't been that brutal, I have slowly been piecing together a quality capsule wardrobe. The stress it has saved me is invaluable and (though it's somewhat un-Mustachian), I have no problem paying a little bit more for a good quality item that I love.

In the past 10 days I've had a wedding and a funeral. I thought about buying a new dress for the wedding just because it is freezing here, but ended up wearing a dress I've had for four years with the good trench coat and dressy black flats I wear to work. To the funeral I wore a black shift dress I wear to work, with the same trench coat and same shoes. No-one noticed, no-one cared, and I was packed for the (unexpected, out-of-town funeral) in five minutes.

Previously I bought clothes because I felt good about myself when I bought them (i.e. they were cheap) but then I hated the clothes/myself when I wore them. Now I am mastering the art of buying clothes I feel good about wearing, and actually feel OK about buying because I know I will have them for years.
Good for you on the t-shirt!  Super soft t-shirts are something special :-)

I work at a consignment shop, and when asked for my opinion I'm always honest with the ladies.  I want them to be just as happy with their purchase months later as they are the day they buy, so if something is a bad color for them or just doesn't fit right I am not shy about telling them that. 

Then of course I go and pull something better off the racks that looks fabulous!  :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 21, 2015, 09:34:06 PM
I've been the same size since high school (today I wore a skirt that I wore at my fifteenth birthday party).

(http://cdn.meme.am/instances/59853826.jpg)

I'm smaller than I was in highschool (& no, I was not large). I don't hav any clothing from then though. I wore the hell out of all those rap and metal t-shirts, along with the dark and distressed getups- think black lingerie and combat boots (I was pretty Gothic back then, so I likely wouldn't wear any of it even if it were still around).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 21, 2015, 09:51:42 PM
I dunno, I think the reasons for keeping things are closer to fear of needing it later, sentiment or laziness/inertia (it takes effort to go through things, and stuff constantly seems to flow in rather than out).

Depends on what it is.  I was thinking more of the discussion above about things like toiletries.  Like, is there really a fear of running out of toothpaste?  No, but it's somehow comforting to see a cache of consumable goods, whether they'll be used/needed or not.  It reminds me of those stockpiles some of the extreme couponers have.  They'll likely never use those 117 bottles of shampoo, or 78 jars of mustard, but somehow having them in the basement gives them a sense of security, kind of like having a big fat 401(k) might be to a Mustachian.  I actually don't have a problem getting rid of stuff that doesn't get used, but still fight a strong urge to "stock up" on stuff like food and cleaning supplies.  I get a deep sense of satisfaction/security from seeing my little basement pantry stocked full of canned goods and storage vegetables that I just don't get from looking at my TSP balance on Mint, even though it's not like I'm going to survive long on a jam, tomato sauce and a few potatoes.  Money, OTOH, is an abstraction, but is much more versatile for fulfilling uncertain future needs, assuming that our economic system doesn't collapse, of course.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 22, 2015, 04:06:37 AM
I am also still my highschool size. I weigh about 4kgs more but am 2inches taller so clothing size it's a wash. However two inches taller and a different body shape means I haven't actually hung onto any high school clothes bar a raincoat, some pjs and some track pants. Other things that may have still fitted me today wore out long ago, it's not like I had the money to spend on super high quality stuff back in school.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 22, 2015, 04:10:03 AM
When I have a fear of needing something in the future I always ask myself how many 're buys I have had to do. The only one I can think of would be a printer (done with university... Goodbye printer... Never thinking I might need it for job applications a couple of years down the line) and a few bits of sports equipment here and there (I give up the sport only to take it up again). Given there have been so few "fails" I feel quite confident in my ability to assess if I need something again. Sports equipment tho, I will now proceed to keep forever and ever ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on July 22, 2015, 05:38:09 AM
Part of my desire to have a lot of stuff on hand - consumables - like shampoo, laundry detergent, etc. - is that I cling to the hope that by doing this I will magically have to go to the grocery store less often. Or Costco less often, because I most def do not enjoy doing a Costco run.  For me the laundry detergent et. al. falls in a different category than say books, excess clothing, DVDs, and general clutter. I can tidily store my extra shampoo in the cupboard in my laundry room and it is put away and not 'clutter.'
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on July 22, 2015, 06:05:31 AM
Our dishes are chipped and looking pretty awful, and it is time to replace them.  I was assumign that once Stateside I'd cruise thrift stores, TJ Maxx and place of that ilk, and sales until I found something I liked.

Then I realized I have two sets of dishes in storage (gov't paid, due to overseas moves, not due to excess stuff).  One is my grandmother's china, and the other a lovely Mikasa set my mom gave me.  And yet I'm considering buying dishes to use?  The Mikasa set isn't 100% my taste, but I certainly don't hate them.  And given that they will generally be underneath a pile of pasta or a slab of meat and some potatoes, it doesn't much matter.

I've also started going through the two bins (large shoebox size) of "travel products" I have soaps, shampoos, toothbrushes, sewing kits, eye masks, etc.  I grab them thinking "this will be nice to have" or intending to donate them, or thinking I'll use them up with my every day grooming.  But I don't.  I'll empty the nicest of the containers because I do find it very helpful to have 3-4 travel size bottles, but everything else will either go in the shower to be used, or get tossed. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 22, 2015, 08:58:57 AM
Another successful round of uncluttering completed. Persuaded DH to part with 95 DVDs.  Removed 2 ikea cabinet towers from our family room.  After DVDs and old school papers and unused board games cleared out, DH and the kids conceded that maybe open space was better than mostly empty cabinets!
Also sent 4 more boxes of clothes to donation center.   Only 2 closets left to clear.  Three hoarders vs one minimalist makes for slow going.

Keep it up! You're making progress with them too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on July 22, 2015, 04:16:33 PM
Yes, use the good stuff!

I have a story about that.  My grandmother had an entire floor on her house that was designated "the good part".  She would keep it pristine but never use it.  When she had a party she would spend hours cleaning it, then have all her guests in the basement.  Never made sense to me at all!  Why have it if you're not going to use it!

Extreme example of course, but it does show the silliness of saving the good stuff too long.

Now we have the house.  You know what?  I use the main living areas, cause it's the nice part!
Interesting story about your grandmother. We live in our house and use everything. If it's too good to use we don't own it.

I helped my Mom and Aunt clean out Grandma's house after she died. She had MULTIPLE sets of beautiful towels, unused and stored all over the house, while the towels in the bathroom, the ones she used, were so threadbare you could read the newspaper through them.

It made me sad. She had nice things that she never used, because they were "too nice" or because she needed to use the old things until they turned to rags and dust in her hands. So she died and those towels were given away to be enjoyed by strangers. I came home and stopped saving the "good" things for some magical future time. If I have it, I use it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 22, 2015, 07:39:44 PM
Took a trip yesterday to see our son and girlfriend. We took along a few items they were in need of and we weren't.  I call that a win-win!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 23, 2015, 05:49:36 AM
Took another load of items to the dress agency (consignment store) yesterday. I knew I'd taken all the best stuff already, but since I made so much money from what I was just getting rid of I thought I'd try again. She didn't take anything! But she did send to charity for me, so it was worth a try, and it's saved me carrying it around to drop off myself. 

I also did a big charity drop off (and I mean parking right outside and making four trips in and out!), with stuff that I have been decluttering over the past few weeks.

And I put three more items of clothing in the donate box when I got home.

I've also found space for my jeans in my drawers, so they are not stacked anymore, but folded Marie Kondo style. I didn't weed them as thoroughly as I should have. I have too many pairs, I know. The empty shelf is staring down at me and I love it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 23, 2015, 07:30:47 AM
I have moved all of my craft stuff out of the room and back in again about a month ago, sorting into 3 categories - tools, projects and supplies. All the wedding projects are taking up the available bench space because they are the most urgent and important. Worked out quite well, except that I now had a spread of stuff I needed to go through that took up the whole floor (room is MAYBE 2m by 3m at most). Turned out that the cupboard has a mould issue again, so I had to move everything off the floor for the handyman to get in tomorrow (love renting). Now I've sorted about 1/3 of the stuff, and taken 2 grocery bags of rubbish out of it - yay! Plus I think that I have all the wedding information in one place again, so it can be accessed easier for the minor amount of things that we need it for (logistics only at this point). I'm moving nicely towards my goal of having the majority of the supplies sorted into projects :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 23, 2015, 08:24:24 AM
Serpentstooth,

Quote
I hoard consumer goods because my lizard brain thinks we'll all be safer if I have a nice big cache of diapers and dish detergent. It's obviously irrational, but I still get all happy looking at the diaper closet.

Do you have kids? :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 23, 2015, 08:35:42 AM
Wow, the paper piles are almost gone! 

I am going to have three binders: one slim one for important docs, one for need-this-year-papers  and one in a cupboard for Archived Papers Which I Am Choosing To Keep.  I am keeping new computer paper in drawers now that the drawers are so empty.

We have destroyed (by ripping, shredding or burning) two large boxes of personal papers. Phew.

Now to deal with the random bits that are left.

Question:  With investment reports,  do I need to keep reports from years ago or do I just need this year's reports? I don't actually understand the whole report but can decipher the top two pieces of paper.  Is there any reason I need a record? should I keep the top sheet from each quarter?


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 23, 2015, 10:14:54 AM
Wow, the paper piles are almost gone! 

I am going to have three binders: one slim one for important docs, one for need-this-year-papers  and one in a cupboard for Archived Papers Which I Am Choosing To Keep.  I am keeping new computer paper in drawers now that the drawers are so empty.

We have destroyed (by ripping, shredding or burning) two large boxes of personal papers. Phew.

Now to deal with the random bits that are left.

Question:  With investment reports,  do I need to keep reports from years ago or do I just need this year's reports? I don't actually understand the whole report but can decipher the top two pieces of paper.  Is there any reason I need a record? should I keep the top sheet from each quarter?
Are the investment reports available online? If so then you can burn the paper ones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: expectopatronum on July 23, 2015, 02:17:50 PM
Soooooo. Today we are finishing our downsize from a 2600sqft house to an 800sqft apartment (plus a 8x10 storage unit). Celebratory post is coming - but oh. My. Gosh. We had so much stuff. My husband was definitely hanging onto a lot more things than me, and there are some things that we moved that could probably go...but we'll be going through them once we are back from vacation.

I was so proud, though. Here are some of the things we got rid of:

- Crafting supplies that hadn't been used in >2 years.
- Two glass chess boards (we don't own chess pieces...)
- Wedding decor (gave to a friend)
- Cheapo IKEA coffee table (gave to a friend)
- Cheapo Halloween decor
- Cheapo 4th of July decor
- Cheapo Christmas ornaments (non-sentimental)
- Cheapo mini bookshelf and desk chair from college
- Extra kitchen table and chairs (gave to a friend)
- Chocolate fountain
- About 150 plastic hotel key cards. They weren't even unique! Some of them had Pizza Hut ads on the front! There were tons of duplicates! WTH!
- Husband used to have about 75 polos, 75 T-shirts, and basically cut it in half.

We took two SUV carloads full of stuff to Goodwill, and that's just from the last week. Over the last few months, it's been even more than that!

We also produced an incredibly shameful amount of trash.

Moving into a smaller place is definitely going to help us keep the stuff to a minimum and think twice about buying something. I'm still on the waiting list for Marie Kondo's book but looking forward to reading it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 23, 2015, 02:22:40 PM
One book & T-shirt donated. One pair of shorts beyond repair to trash.& one super scratched pair of sunglasses trashed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on July 23, 2015, 05:05:43 PM

- Husband used to have about 75 polos, 75 T-shirts, and basically cut it in half.


They won't do him much good like that, except as crop tops. j/k ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on July 24, 2015, 06:41:03 PM
I feel like people might appreciate this:
http://www.jspowerhour.com/comics/178
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on July 24, 2015, 06:53:22 PM
I normally don't buy stuff to pour into another, decorative container. I just use the original container. But a few years ago family gave us a jug for olive oil.mimhad been pouring it into the jug. The jug was opaque and I never knew how much was in,it.

Today I just got tired of re pouring, and I tossed the jug. Now I'll use the olive oil in its original bottle. We use it up fairly quickly so there never was a real need to keep it refrigerated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 24, 2015, 10:59:47 PM
First major load of eBay stuff gone to the post office today.  I have a few more paid items packed up and ready to leave on Monday.  So in the last three days, I've sold $2,270.02 worth of crap!  OK, not crap, but horse gear I don't need and have not been using.  I'm going to relist the stuff that didn't sell, and hopefully double that number.  I've sneaked some clutter out with the boxes too, like wrapping the saddle I shipped today in a big wad of quilt batting that's been kicking around for years taking up way too much space.  There are some other things around here that I'm motivated to get sold now too, as I watch all this cash pile up in my bank account.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on July 24, 2015, 11:43:48 PM
First major load of eBay stuff gone to the post office today.  I have a few more paid items packed up and ready to leave on Monday.  So in the last three days, I've sold $2,270.02 worth of crap!  OK, not crap, but horse gear I don't need and have not been using.  I'm going to relist the stuff that didn't sell, and hopefully double that number.  I've sneaked some clutter out with the boxes too, like wrapping the saddle I shipped today in a big wad of quilt batting that's been kicking around for years taking up way too much space.  There are some other things around here that I'm motivated to get sold now too, as I watch all this cash pile up in my bank account.

Nice work! And yeah, quilt batting is a space hog.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on July 25, 2015, 02:56:54 PM
Big win today.   Going through a pile of old papers and found $100 of Amazon gift certificates and $200 of LLBean gift certificates!!   
My thanks to whoever started this topic.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 25, 2015, 02:58:04 PM
Big win today.   Going through a pile of old papers and found $100 of Amazon gift certificates and $200 of LLBean gift certificates!!   
My thanks to whoever started this topic.

Excellent. I love finding money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 25, 2015, 10:15:18 PM
Wow, the paper piles are almost gone! 

I am going to have three binders: one slim one for important docs, one for need-this-year-papers  and one in a cupboard for Archived Papers Which I Am Choosing To Keep.  I am keeping new computer paper in drawers now that the drawers are so empty.

We have destroyed (by ripping, shredding or burning) two large boxes of personal papers. Phew.

Now to deal with the random bits that are left.

Question:  With investment reports,  do I need to keep reports from years ago or do I just need this year's reports? I don't actually understand the whole report but can decipher the top two pieces of paper.  Is there any reason I need a record? should I keep the top sheet from each quarter?

From what I've read about keeping tax-related documents, you're supposed to save everything relating to investments until you sell it (real estate, stocks, mutual funds, securities, etc), because it's proof of your basis & resulting profit or loss. Annoying, I agree. And really it's all sort of a gamble. What are the chances you'd ever be audited? Maybe slim. But I just went ahead and scanned all the paper statements I had kept, then threw them away. Once or twice a year I will download online statements to the same thumb drive where the scanned docs are saved. They don't make them available online for more than a year, usually, so it's good to get them while you can. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on July 26, 2015, 07:52:03 AM
I'm only starting this thread, but I've recently lost my job and moved. I netted over $500 in two yard sales. My stuff has been greatly reduced, but I bet I can still reduce it by another 50%. I love the progress I've made, but still feel burdened by the many things I still have.

One of the hardest challenges for me to get rid of my stuff is the scarcity mentality I have. Interestingly, when I had lost my job and started getting rid of things, it was much easier. I was very stressed out, and the things were just mostly clutter to me and I was happy to get rid of so much. I still ended up with a lot left over but no time to go through it more thoroughly, so I boxed up everything that was left quickly and moved.

Now I'm in my new place, which is a lot smaller than what I had before, and I make WAY less money than I used to, so the feeling of scarcity is coming back in full force. I can't throw away some stuff I've had for over a year and haven't used, and will 90% most likely never use in the near future, but I literally can't bring myself to throw it out. Because I paid money for it, and I feel so "poor" now I'm convinced that in the unlikely event that I *should* need it later, it will be too much of a purchase on my limited budget.

I find it ironic that this mindset was hardly present at all when I had no job and no money coming in and no other job lined up, but now that I have a poor-paying job I feel poorer and can't let go of things. Most of my stuff is still in boxes because I'm avoiding clearing things out because I'm struggling so much to make decisions on the first box.

Ugh. I'll start churning through the rest of the thread and see what I learn...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on July 26, 2015, 09:41:40 AM

Ugh. I'll start churning through the rest of the thread and see what I learn...

babysnowbyrd,
Starting at the beginning is great, but in the last several pages of thread there have been some great conversations and resources about the emotions and psychology behind keeping and leting go.  The entire thread is littered with these things, but the recent conversation might resonate with you.

 As for me... I just put the deposit down on a 290sq' studio apartment in a city 3.5 hours away.  It looks so much smaller than my current 400 sq'.  I'm panicking a little.  I know that my belongings will fit, but I don't want them to squeeze in!  I'm doing some packing this weekend.  I haven't found much to purge.  Feels good to know what I've got to work with.

I have about ten dinner plates.  I never use ten dinner plates at once.  They are mismatched hand-me-downs from my great grandmother, so I might keep them all but every time I open that cupboard I wonder why I have so many plates. 


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 26, 2015, 01:00:04 PM
Thanks for the ideas on what to do with investing papers.  I am dumping all except the latest and the earliest.  The company who manage our investments have copies.

I am feeling so FREEEEE after getting rid of so much this week including a huge donation to a charity where the staff were over the moon to receive the stuff.  What a great feeling to know that it will be used and appreciated. 

And another person came over and remarked on how clear and open the house feels now. That makes about 4 people who have commented.

Every time I feel close to the end I realise that there is a box or two hiding somewhere else.  But I am definitely on the winning stretch.  The big final parts will be going through the sentimental papers and then scanning. 

In total, more than ten car loads have gone to the dump in the last year, and ten have gone to charity. 

Once the final scanning is complete I will do a quick overview of each room and closet and chest to see if anything else is begging to leave.









Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 26, 2015, 01:17:38 PM
One book & T-shirt donated. One pair of shorts beyond repair to trash.& one super scratched pair of sunglasses trashed.

A second book, a sunglasses case, a dress donated. An old baseball hat trashed.
And all while still on vacation!
Looking forward to continue clearing out the clutter at home soon.... :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 26, 2015, 06:54:34 PM
I normally don't buy stuff to pour into another, decorative container. I just use the original container. But a few years ago family gave us a jug for olive oil.mimhad been pouring it into the jug. The jug was opaque and I never knew how much was in,it.

Today I just got tired of re pouring, and I tossed the jug. Now I'll use the olive oil in its original bottle. We use it up fairly quickly so there never was a real need to keep it refrigerated.

Feeling rather embarrassed now. I'd been thinking about asking for one of those bottles for my birthday later in the year!

We buy olive oil in 4L tins (cheaper in bulk), then re-fill a supermarket bottle, but the bottle wasn't designed to be refilled and it's quite an art to detach the plastic pourer.

But, with this in mind, I shall do the mustachian thing and persist!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 26, 2015, 06:59:34 PM
On a separate note, some relatives are getting together for a combined garage sale later this year.

I know I have more to cull but I've been a bit disheartened by eBay, so this is the perfect motivation.

Last night I put a bag in our spare room and dropped a couple of things in it straight away.

They won't have the sale till the weather warms up around here, so I have at least three months to gradually go through all our drawers and shelves and cupboards and shed another layer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 26, 2015, 07:26:32 PM
I normally don't buy stuff to pour into another, decorative container. I just use the original container. But a few years ago family gave us a jug for olive oil.mimhad been pouring it into the jug. The jug was opaque and I never knew how much was in,it.

Today I just got tired of re pouring, and I tossed the jug. Now I'll use the olive oil in its original bottle. We use it up fairly quickly so there never was a real need to keep it refrigerated.

Feeling rather embarrassed now. I'd been thinking about asking for one of those bottles for my birthday later in the year!

We buy olive oil in 4L tins (cheaper in bulk), then re-fill a supermarket bottle, but the bottle wasn't designed to be refilled and it's quite an art to detach the plastic pourer.

But, with this in mind, I shall do the mustachian thing and persist!
I use an old honey bottle for my olive oil.  Since I buy in Costco sized containers this is a container that's easy to refill, has a flip top lid and spout for easy use, and fits in my hand for easy lifting and storage near the stove. 

Just another idea.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 26, 2015, 07:46:07 PM
I normally don't buy stuff to pour into another, decorative container. I just use the original container. But a few years ago family gave us a jug for olive oil.mimhad been pouring it into the jug. The jug was opaque and I never knew how much was in,it.

Today I just got tired of re pouring, and I tossed the jug. Now I'll use the olive oil in its original bottle. We use it up fairly quickly so there never was a real need to keep it refrigerated.

Feeling rather embarrassed now. I'd been thinking about asking for one of those bottles for my birthday later in the year!

We buy olive oil in 4L tins (cheaper in bulk), then re-fill a supermarket bottle, but the bottle wasn't designed to be refilled and it's quite an art to detach the plastic pourer.

But, with this in mind, I shall do the mustachian thing and persist!

sriracha bottles make awesome oil bottles.

My car is full of more eBay packages.  I finally tossed a pile of old work shirts today.  Can't give them away with the agency logo, I never need them for work and they are too big anyway.  Also finished a little sewing project that's been sitting out for several weeks.  Ferreted out a pair of shorts and a top that I never wear and started a new donation pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: bluecollarmusician on July 26, 2015, 07:55:30 PM
We also have the giant olive oil bottles from Costco, and my wife refills a fancy looking bottle of olive oil that we got at big lots for a few dollars...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on July 26, 2015, 08:18:33 PM
I normally don't buy stuff to pour into another, decorative container. I just use the original container. But a few years ago family gave us a jug for olive oil.mimhad been pouring it into the jug. The jug was opaque and I never knew how much was in,it.

Today I just got tired of re pouring, and I tossed the jug. Now I'll use the olive oil in its original bottle. We use it up fairly quickly so there never was a real need to keep it refrigerated.

Feeling rather embarrassed now. I'd been thinking about asking for one of those bottles for my birthday later in the year!

We buy olive oil in 4L tins (cheaper in bulk), then re-fill a supermarket bottle, but the bottle wasn't designed to be refilled and it's quite an art to detach the plastic pourer.

But, with this in mind, I shall do the mustachian thing and persist!

We do the exact same thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on July 26, 2015, 08:21:58 PM
Dropped off a  car boot-load of stuff for charity on the weekend.

I'm pretty sure at this stage that we will have at least another boot-load to give away after we finish moving house, but I'll report back at that point :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 26, 2015, 10:53:52 PM
Got rid of a towel due to natural attrition (it tore in the washing machine) which will not be replaced. I have way too many towels still, but struggle with getting rid of them due to the inevitable natural attrition. It's easy to get rid of clothes as you can not like them anymore or they don't fit, but towels never go out of style ;-) ditched a cardigan, I was going to mend it but decided it was in such poor condition it wasn't worth the time to mend it in order to get a few extra wears from it. Also I have enough cardigans.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 27, 2015, 06:28:21 AM
Sold off the rest of my Shakeology (just 5 packets), so that is out of the cabinet!

And I found out my neighbor likes Photography/Scuba so I am going to bring him the pile of magazines I've been trying to get to move on craigslist; I hate to just throw them in the recycling.  So that's 25 magazines gone tonight!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mrs.LC on July 27, 2015, 07:00:04 AM
Got rid of a towel due to natural attrition (it tore in the washing machine) which will not be replaced. I have way too many towels still, but struggle with getting rid of them due to the inevitable natural attrition. It's easy to get rid of clothes as you can not like them anymore or they don't fit, but towels never go out of style ;-) ditched a cardigan, I was going to mend it but decided it was in such poor condition it wasn't worth the time to mend it in order to get a few extra wears from it. Also I have enough cardigans.
Old towels make great rags so put them to use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on July 27, 2015, 07:19:46 AM
I have way too many towels still, but struggle with getting rid of them due to the inevitable natural attrition. It's easy to get rid of clothes as you can not like them anymore or they don't fit, but towels never go out of style ;-)
Old towels make great rags so put them to use.

At a certain point though, I generate more rags than I finish using them.  Old towels are currently being saved for winter use as window snakes, but I'm hoping after we replace this window, we won't need that any more either.

This weekend I threw away an embarrassing number of chopsticks from takeout meals and some bad quality napkins.  I have no idea how long they've been there, I haven't gotten takeout Asian food on a regular basis for probably five years.  I probably brought them home from work.  I considered leaving them in the office kitchen, but that drawer is already too full.  There are still some plastic utensils and napkins which I feel like I should keep for travel or picnics.

Also went through a drawer and found that ipod charger I had been searching for, four pairs of headphones (so threw away the two pairs currently in rotation which were being held together by tape and one pair of dead headphones that was in the drawer as a backup), some blank notepads (brought into work) and some misc trash. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 27, 2015, 07:38:16 AM
I struggle with the "should keeps" as well.. the stuff that you use but frankly have far too much of. For me one of these was stationary so I gave half to my dad. I still have too much but it's no longer so silly. I also have too much plastic cutlery, must remember to offer to bring it (and paper plates and napkins) for our next "bring a plate" event, as it will save the hostess from buying them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 27, 2015, 07:47:04 AM
I struggle with the "should keeps" as well.. the stuff that you use but frankly have far too much of. For me one of these was stationary so I gave half to my dad. I still have too much but it's no longer so silly. I also have too much plastic cutlery, must remember to offer to bring it (and paper plates and napkins) for our next "bring a plate" event, as it will save the hostess from buying them.

Popped a bunch of expired medication in my bag to drop off at the pharmacy tomorrow also. Making slow but steady progress. All the obvious "junk" went when I moved into this apartment a year ago and I have been declutttering pretty hard out for a month or so now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sstants on July 27, 2015, 07:53:02 AM
I recently dropped a load of running shoes off at the goodwill. Maybe they aren't perfect anymore for putting miles on my injured knee, but they were all in great shape and could definitely be used by someone else.

I didn't realize how many old pairs of sneakers I had hanging around, when I really only need one at a time! I also dumped all my crappy flip flops and sandals and now just have one nice leather pair. I love the idea of keeping one nicer (albeit more expensive) item around than a bunch of crap!

I still have a long way to go with sweatshirts and some other stuff, but it's a start!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 27, 2015, 09:05:31 AM
Another good weekend decluttering-wise. The bathroom feels amazing since I really purged all cosmetics and toiletries. I have got rid of a whole chest of drawers, and everything now fits on one shelving unit and in the airing cupboard.

I rearranged everything which was stored on some open shelving - handbags, fabric and sewing supplies for dressmaking, patterns, one large box of sentimental stuff. I didn't feel ready to actually tackle the sentimental stuff, but I had a quick scan through and found the following:
1) most of it is photos. That's easier to deal with than other stuff because I can keep the best one / throw out any that are blurry or duplicates etc.
2) In a box in the box were some tools (don't know why they were there!) which we have been looking for for ages.
3) Removing the box of tools gave me enough room to put all our wedding cards and a copy of the programme etc in this sentimental box, so I truly only have one sentimental box now.
4) I was hilariously cringe-worthy as a teenager.

And I did throw out a few things that I had no memory of. A cheesy 'You're such a special friend' book mark isn't so sentimental when you have no idea who gave it to you. Also, a stray 21st birthday card from 'Emma'? Could have been any number of people. Gone.

When everything was back on the (cleaned) shelves it took up far less room visually, is better organised, and definitely less dusty. Hopefully dust won't be a problem any more as everything is well used and it is easy to clean there now.

Pared down some the handbags again, and put some fabric aside to be sold. I also threw out some scraps which were maybe big enough to make something small, but wasn't the nicest fabric and would have taken a lot of thought and mental energy to come up with something to make.

Since all surfaces were clear, I decided to dust and hoover whilst I was at it. Took 5 mins at most.

I rearranged some kitchen cabinets so they are only one thing deep. Previously to get a large glasslock container (which we use instead of tupperwear) you had to reach over the small ones. There is a lot of 'wasted' space but it is so much easier to unload the dishwasher or grab what you need.

The space has come from eating up food supplies and not replacing. I am determined to carry less 'in stock'. We are wasting far less food as well.

And finally a note about getting partners on board... I've told you before I am doing this just with my stuff. 1400 things gone so far, and probably 50 of them have been offered up by my husband (I have not got rid of a single thing of his).

He commented on how we are getting along so well at the moment, and we agreed a lot of it was to do with having less stuff around and more space. 'His' areas of the house (dresser, bedside table etc) are looking incongruously stuffed with items but I am resisting the temptation to mention it, and still just focussing on my stuff. I can feel a change in the mood of the house though as we have both got a lot of me decluttering. So don't think you can't change anything if you're the only one into it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sstants on July 27, 2015, 10:31:51 AM
The Kondo book finally came in at the library so I downloaded it. Forgive me, this lady sounds mildly nuts. Keep only things that spark joy? My spatula does not spark joy. Objectively, I need the spatula. This is kind of silly.

I thought that too on my first read through. Ditto my cheese grater doesn't make me super happy. But I definitely love being able to cook nice meals. I think sometimes you have to think one step beyond the item and think about what the item allows you to do for her method to make more sense. If the answer to that question is, "it allows me to do the same thing that my other spatula does" then you've identified something that is duplicative or excessive and can be donated or discarded. Thinking about things like this helped me get down to more of a 'one of each' situation for a lot of my kitchen and bathroom stuff.

She definitely comes off as a little nutty and extreme, but in a really lovely and organized way! I looked at some pictures of her before/after for clients and it is a beautiful thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on July 27, 2015, 11:04:35 AM
The Kondo book finally came in at the library so I downloaded it. Forgive me, this lady sounds mildly nuts. Keep only things that spark joy? My spatula does not spark joy. Objectively, I need the spatula. This is kind of silly.

I think this is another reason to start with clothing as she recommends.  Sparking joy is more obvious there for most people I think.  (I used my can opener yesterday and it definitely sparked joy - I recently replaced an old one and this one is so much easier to use and it helped me make my lunches for this week which will save me lots of cash and will be healthy.)  Her specific mindfulness techniques might not work for you either, but something else might.  I'm pretty sure I've seen research that counting your blessings in some way or another does make you happier.

Objectively it is silly.  But so much of decluttering is about dealing with emotions.  Just like success with weight loss generally isn't objective, and ditto saving high % of your take-home pay.  It's like people who pay down a small debt even though it isn't the highest rate.  If you don't have a problem with clutter, then take the ideas that work for you and discard the rest.  In fact, at one point she says to discard the book if it isn't working for you and bringing ongoing joy.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on July 27, 2015, 11:32:36 AM
A week ago my husband and I left Pittsburgh with only what could fit in our Honda Fit (plus some sentimental stuff in a 5'x10' storage unit that's only 1/2 full).

We've been on the road 1 week and 1 day and have already got together a big box of stuff that we don't want to keep with us, to ship back to Pittsburgh.

Normally, traveling makes me want to buy things, but in this case I don't have anywhere to put it! So it's curbed those shopping desires.

So far, we are both 100% in love with having very little shit, and being able to pack up our entire lives in less than an hour.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 27, 2015, 05:35:31 PM
Another good weekend decluttering-wise...
And finally a note about getting partners on board... I've told you before I am doing this just with my stuff. 1400 things gone so far, and probably 50 of them have been offered up by my husband (I have not got rid of a single thing of his).

He commented on how we are getting along so well at the moment, and we agreed a lot of it was to do with having less stuff around and more space. 'His' areas of the house (dresser, bedside table etc) are looking incongruously stuffed with items but I am resisting the temptation to mention it, and still just focussing on my stuff. I can feel a change in the mood of the house though as we have both got a lot of me decluttering. So don't think you can't change anything if you're the only one into it.

Great work!

Your husband has obviously noticed the changes in your home, so hopefully by leading by example he will voluntarily get on board with decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on July 27, 2015, 05:43:07 PM
I love this thread. It's inspiring me to deal with my own "stuff." Thank you, everyone, for sharing your stories and journeys. I hope to share mine soon.

The idea that everything you have/use can be something you actually like--not just something you happen to have--is like a revelation. You mean all those coffee mugs we've accumulated, I don't HAVE to keep? I could actually have every cup in the house be *pleasing*?? 

One issue for me is visual clutter--we don't have places to put things away, so everything is out all the time, which I am starting to realize makes me feel stressed.

I've dealt with clothing a lot in the past, and I can manage that fairly well now--I still sometimes feel like I have a full closet and nothing to wear, but I'm able to take some rational steps when that happens.

A big thing for me right now is non-clothing stuff and things that I didn't ever choose, I just happened to end up with, and that are now tangled in a web of emotions. Furniture from my parents that I never really liked, but didn't want to part with because it was *theirs*, oh and it's good quality so I don't feel right about donating it, but it's in the way and not pleasing me. Other stuff from parents and even grandparents that got packed in a box and sent to me fairly randomly. I've been used as a repository for stuff no one else wanted. Kondo says in her book that younger sisters often end up with lots of stuff they don't like because they get so many hand-me-downs--that's definitely the case in my family, just with things instead of clothes.

We have a dining room with a lovely table and chairs (which we use every night), a sideboard or two, and THREE pieces of furniture we just ended up with, which are just standing around taking up space. One is a cart that we no longer need in the kitchen because we installed a cabinet. My husband wants to keep it there because he likes looking at it, even though it's useless where it is. He's just as bad as I am. WTF.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 27, 2015, 06:13:54 PM
First day home. 2 more dresses, another t-shirt, and small decorative boxes out. Large box of tea's that I don't drink to my SO. Several other items trashed, including half used supplements that don't agree with me & expired eyelash conditioner, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 27, 2015, 08:00:18 PM
The idea that everything you have/use can be something you actually like--not just something you happen to have--is like a revelation. You mean all those coffee mugs we've accumulated, I don't HAVE to keep? I could actually have every cup in the house be *pleasing*?? 

It's eye-opening!

Clothes, homewares, everything... if I don't love it, I get rid of it/don't buy it in the first place.

I've been burned too many times in the past by buying the cheaper or not quite right option, then regretting it. It's worth taking the time and buying things once.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 27, 2015, 08:05:00 PM
The idea that everything you have/use can be something you actually like--not just something you happen to have--is like a revelation. You mean all those coffee mugs we've accumulated, I don't HAVE to keep? I could actually have every cup in the house be *pleasing*?? 

It's eye-opening!

Clothes, homewares, everything... if I don't love it, I get rid of it/don't buy it in the first place.

I've been burned too many times in the past by buying the cheaper or not quite right option, then regretting it. It's worth taking the time and buying things once.

In the past, I would purchase or even just take castoffs of clothing that wasn't quite right- because I am so picky it's hard to find the right things. So much wasted money & space. Needless to say, no more. And it's all since been donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 27, 2015, 08:23:21 PM
The idea that everything you have/use can be something you actually like--not just something you happen to have--is like a revelation. You mean all those coffee mugs we've accumulated, I don't HAVE to keep? I could actually have every cup in the house be *pleasing*?? 

It's eye-opening!

Clothes, homewares, everything... if I don't love it, I get rid of it/don't buy it in the first place.

I've been burned too many times in the past by buying the cheaper or not quite right option, then regretting it. It's worth taking the time and buying things once.

In the past, I would purchase or even just take castoffs of clothing that wasn't quite right- because I am so picky it's hard to find the right things. So much wasted money & space. Needless to say, no more. And it's all since been donated.

You know what I've found? I'm getting a clearer picture of what I like and why, especially when it comes to a capsule-ish wardrobe.

I feel like it took me till the of 28 to start learning how to dress myself. :/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on July 27, 2015, 08:48:44 PM
The idea that everything you have/use can be something you actually like--not just something you happen to have--is like a revelation. You mean all those coffee mugs we've accumulated, I don't HAVE to keep? I could actually have every cup in the house be *pleasing*?? 

It's eye-opening!

Clothes, homewares, everything... if I don't love it, I get rid of it/don't buy it in the first place.

I've been burned too many times in the past by buying the cheaper or not quite right option, then regretting it. It's worth taking the time and buying things once.

In the past, I would purchase or even just take castoffs of clothing that wasn't quite right- because I am so picky it's hard to find the right things. So much wasted money & space. Needless to say, no more. And it's all since been donated.

You know what I've found? I'm getting a clearer picture of what I like and why, especially when it comes to a capsule-ish wardrobe.

I feel like it took me till the of 28 to start learning how to dress myself. :/

Don't feel too bad--I'm 52 and just starting to figure it out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 27, 2015, 10:28:02 PM
I have started a no repeat challenge. I am going to see how long I can go without repeating outfits and taking a selfie of the evidence each day. This mindfulness is making me super cheap excited about what I do have and curbing my desire to buy new clothes. Previously I would declutter out clothes I didn't like but keep adding new items because I got "bored". I am not aiming for a capsule wardrobe just a smaller wardrobe of things that get used and enjoyed so my selfie challenge is helping me with this. It's also helping me feel good about myself as I feel compelled to put an effort into my outfit to get a good selfie each day :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 28, 2015, 03:07:46 AM
I've been used as a repository for stuff no one else wanted. Kondo says in her book that younger sisters often end up with lots of stuff they don't like because they get so many hand-me-downs--that's definitely the case in my family, just with things instead of clothes.


Kondo really helped me with this aspect of gifts - both being the recipient and the giver. As I've been decluttering, every so often I've thought, "I should give this to so and so!", and the book helped me realise, no, don't assuage my guilt by creating an obligation for someone else. Instead, I have thanked the item and given it to the charity shop - where someone can decide they want / need something and choose it for themselves.

As for gifts I've received, I asked myself "What was the giver's intention? To make me feel good? To fulfil an obligation?". If the intention was to make me feel good, and I don't like the item, I don't mind letting it go, because if that makes me feel better it is fulfilling their original intention. If their original intention was simply to fulfil a societal obligation (hostess gift, etc) I don't mind getting rid of it either, because it has fulfilled that purpose for them.

No-one was simply trying to give me an obligation - something I have to hang on to whether I like it or not, just so they could see I was using it. And actually, if they were, I'd have no compuction giving it away either because that's an unhealthy way to think of gifts you've given!

Since I've stopped shopping, and untangled my feelings about gifts allowing me to get rid of them, I am starting to believe Marie Kondo that I will only ever have to Tidy Up once! (That said, I've been at it for 7 months...)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on July 28, 2015, 01:27:25 PM
I'm very proud of myself here. There is nothing at my parents house that should be in mine.
Way to go!
There's lots of stuff at my parents house that doesn't fit in my current apartment, but even if I had a bigger house, I still wouldn't want it.

Better get rid of it now, or I'll have to sort it all out when my parents die or move to a nursing home.

Finally got rid of a nice chunk of my stuff at my parents' house today.
Lots more to do though...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on July 28, 2015, 02:55:07 PM
Cleared out an Entropy Pile* of paperwork.  Pretty excited as this one has been around collecting items for a while.

Looked for a CD (we rarely play them) and it wasn't in the case.  Discovered DH has a lot of his CDs still in his 200 disk player.  Moving with the CDs inside the device still pissed it off.  I was excited we'd get rid of a piece of equipment we haven't used in over 1.5 years, but he did manage to get it working again after opening it up to extract the stuck CDs.  Reorganized most of the CDs.  Didn't get rid of any, but it's loads better even if only organized and not decluttered.

*Coined by a coworker an Entropy Pile refers to the pile of stuff that just grows and collects stuff as time passes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 28, 2015, 03:27:06 PM
Such inspiring progress in the last week!  Reading what you are up to helps keep me motivated.

Yesterday I got in the car with a bunch of stuff to be donated and I thought "Gosh! I used to throw money around!  What a waste!"

I wasn't feeling like attacking the paper yesterday so I went from room to room checking for things on the floor and putting things away.  I also started on the books with Marie Kondo urging me on.  We had so many books we had not read at all or even peeked at for more than a nano second.  I have let go of a lot of books this week.

 Today someone came by and said that our house is looking fantastically clear (and that is with one room full of paper crapola yet to be dealt with).  I love the feedback that the shifts are obvious to others and not just to us.

I am looking with a more discerning eye and wanting more and more clear surfaces and empty floor showing.  No more framed pictures on the floor waiting to be hung, no more accumulation of things just out of sight behind the bookcase or on the other side of a bed.  No more things falling to the closet floor and staying there for months.

Everything that is broken is going into the basement to be pondered all at once. 

The sentimental paper stacks are haunting me.  I think I may have to sort through all of it and then go through it which is double the work I suppose.  In a way though it is like the Konmari method of categorising clothing by tops, pants, dresses, etc before dealing with them.  Right now I am avoiding going into that room.  I am thinking photos in one pile, things from other people (old letters, cards etc) in another, old school papers in another, poetry I wrote in my twenties in another pile, class notes from seminars ( I know), journals...

Can I trust technology enough to donate the cds I have knowing that their contents are safe on my computer and back up hard drive?  What do you all do?





Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 28, 2015, 10:16:30 PM
I kept my cds because they are one of the few things that is very sentimental to me. I am a punk so I met most of my current friends at the shows where I bought the cds and the lyrics have guided me through pivotal points in my life. I got rid of any I didn't like or any "burnt" cds and boxed the rest up on a trunk which doubles as my bedside table. It was the right choice for me. I still listen to all this music however I use the iPod as the playing device for ease of use. I also have some vynyl and this is displayed in my lounge. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 28, 2015, 10:19:31 PM
I think you can rely on digital though. Just make sure you have a back up hardrive with copies. These are very small (the size of a paperback) and about $60 and would enable you to get rid of a lot of clutter if the cds themselves are not sentimental but merely functional.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 28, 2015, 10:21:05 PM
I added a dress to the charity bag today. As part of the selfie challenge I am wearing some clothes I don't wear often as soon as I put it on I knew why... Looks great but so uncomfortable!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on July 29, 2015, 05:24:39 AM
Melody, Thanks for the your thoughts on CDs and digital.  I am tempted to toss the whole lot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 29, 2015, 05:34:12 AM
Great progress, wintersun! In addition to saving on the hard drive, I store my music on cloud drives.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 29, 2015, 10:50:19 AM
Okay, I read the Kondo book and then Kondoed our dresser. I blame all of you.

Ha it got to you too! Her method works wonders tho doesn't it:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: windupnerd on July 29, 2015, 01:48:49 PM
I'm throwing down the gauntlet for myself here.  I really want to work on decluttering our apartment.  Here are some of my goals:

1. Go through winter clothing and reduce it to two storage tubs (donate or throw out the rest)
2. Post clothing items I have been meaning to sell online
3. Organize all papers on computer desk (throw out/shred anything unneeded)

This is just a start for me.  My goal is to get rid of enough "stuff" to allow us to find a slightly smaller and cheaper apartment when our lease is up at the end of April.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarahMD428 on July 29, 2015, 01:51:04 PM
HOLY CRAP you guys!! Did you know that H&M takes ALL textiles?!? Including clothes, socks, sheets and even flip-flops?? If you want to double check anything the customer service # is 855-466-7467. (Like, I asked about pillows and they said they don't take the stuffing.) They do this at EVERY LOCATION! Sorry for all of the yelling, this is just completely revolutionizing my guilt factor. They might not be the only ones either; its in conjunction with something called I:CO which also has affiliate links for Levi, Puma and some other stores.
I HAD to share. Alright, off to the mall - and not to buy anything either!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on July 29, 2015, 02:27:37 PM
I added a dress to the charity bag today. As part of the selfie challenge I am wearing some clothes I don't wear often as soon as I put it on I knew why... Looks great but so uncomfortable!!!

This is a great idea for me too. I don't have very many clothes compared to many, but there are still lots that I never wear. I should wear something new each day and remember why! Then donate!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on July 29, 2015, 02:41:11 PM
HOLY CRAP you guys!! Did you know that H&M takes ALL textiles?!? Including clothes, socks, sheets and even flip-flops?? If you want to double check anything the customer service # is 855-466-7467. (Like, I asked about pillows and they said they don't take the stuffing.) They do this at EVERY LOCATION! Sorry for all of the yelling, this is just completely revolutionizing my guilt factor. They might not be the only ones either; its in conjunction with something called I:CO which also has affiliate links for Levi, Puma and some other stores.
I HAD to share. Alright, off to the mall - and not to buy anything either!

Doesn't goodwill do that too? I've read before that they take all textiles (even if damaged, etc) and they sort them according to their condition for recycling or for sale at their stores. Although maybe there are more H&M stores closer to you and it's more convenient?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 29, 2015, 03:44:10 PM
Okay, I read the Kondo book and then Kondoed our dresser. I blame all of you.

Do you love that it looks like a box of jelly beans now? I am ridiculously gleeful every time I open a drawer, post KonMari.  :-D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on July 29, 2015, 03:50:50 PM
I spent a couple quality hours decluttering the garage today and now I have a carful of donations and recycling to drop off. There is much more to do...I think I just need to attack it Kondo style and stop with the baby steps! My only holdback is that we have rental houses and will be putting a couple on the market in the spring. So here's my goal: if I don't use up the supplies during the prep of those two houses, they will be gotten rid of!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 29, 2015, 04:50:13 PM
More stuff to be donated today- an illustration I don't like (was a gift ), hangers (because my wardrobe keeps getting smaller!), fancy silk rose ribbon, a couple charms, quilting ruler, skirt I made 16 years ago, stack of random tarot cards , all the elastic and velco in sewing box, lid to cooking pot I don't hav anymore. There's always more! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 30, 2015, 05:29:50 AM
So it’s about a month since I read and acted on the Kondo book, I thought people might enjoy an update. If not, just scroll ahead, this might be long!

The biggest revelation is that I am STILL folding all of my (non-hanging) clothes including underwear! She said to give it a try, and I did… and I really like it. I don’t even ball socks anymore - they take up less space folded and I do feel it’s better for the elastic. I never thought I would be this person, but I actually enjoy putting things away neatly now!

I thought I would give up on the underwear, and also start just throwing my loungewear into its dedicated drawer. But I haven’t. Each night, I take off what I was wearing, and fold / roll it and put it away. This is huge. I used to just step out of it and leave it on the floor. About two years ago I cleared out a whole drawer just for loungewear, and got in the habit of just throwing it in there, all balled up. I hardly recognise myself. 

I cleared out so much stuff from the bottom of my hanging area I can see the carpet, and I hadn’t realised how bad it looked with stuff crammed under there. Now the two boxes left, despite being attractive, are annoying me, I want to see the carpet! Must find a home for them. I’ve also cut down my clothes a lot, so having ample hanging space is really nice - easier to get stuff out and put it away without wrinkling.

We had unseasonably cold weather on Monday, so I pulled down my one remaining bag of ‘off-season’ clothes. Turns out there were only 6 items in there, so I have now incorporated them into my hanging and folding space. I never would have thought I could have got ALL my clothes in - I used to pack away 4 or 5 large bags each season. Glad to never have to mess with that changeover again.

As for people saying that they felt they had more to wear after clearing out - I definitely don’t feel that way. There was stuff I didn’t like but was wearing for variety, and now it’s gone I feel like I am repeating outfits a lot, and need some new things for work. But I am enjoying my clothes more, and feel like the trade-off is worth it.

A few things that struck me about the book that I didn’t like and haven’t tried: I don’t empty my handbag each day and put it away. It has a ‘place’ where i put it when I get home, and I keep it clear of receipts and things, and empty it fully regularly, but moving things in and out each evening and morning when the contents is always the same seemed silly. Did anyone try this?

I also don’t nest handbags by occasion, as she suggests. To me, this goes against most of her other advice, which is not to hide things away where you forget about them. I have a shelf where all my bags live out in the open so I can see them. Now that I’ve weeded a few out it’s much more attractive.

I’m glad I bought the book. I thought I was doing well before (about 1000 things out of the house since January IIRCC) but I was losing steam and finding it harder and harder to find things to get rid of. I’m now up to 1400, so it’s definitely been a huge boost to decluttering, and that’s even more impressive results when you consider I’d got rid of all the easy stuff before reading the book. Thanks Marie!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 30, 2015, 11:40:26 AM
I went thru the top (papers) and bottom:(mementos) drawers and tossed about  a dozen each  papers and photographs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarahMD428 on July 30, 2015, 08:28:04 PM
Doesn't goodwill do that too? I've read before that they take all textiles (even if damaged, etc) and they sort them according to their condition for recycling or for sale at their stores.
How did I not know this?? I'm going to check with my Salvation Army. I live close to everything so it's not so much the driving distance as much as will it help a charity or not. Thanks for the tip!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on July 31, 2015, 01:12:43 AM
I've really been struggling lately. I've recently moved, and I got rid of a lot of things, and most everything else was boxed and bagged up. I've been at my new place for a month and most of it still is except for things I've pulled out. My room has a futon and is stacked with all the boxes and bags and now all the stuff I've pulled out has no where to go so it's a real mess.

I've been wanting to de-clutter even more to get rid of stuff (especially since I'm moving again) but every time I start, there's just very little room to pull things out so I just mentally shut down and never started.

This is what helped: Deciding to tackle the clothes first. I decided to use an infographic I had pinned on pinterest as my guide for a capsule wardrobe. I don't usually like other people's formulas (one dress, three skirts, etc) but it's helping me to focus. If I decide my wardrobe should have two dresses and one skirt later, I'll do that.

Before I would look at the clothes and think of how to best convince myself to get rid of it. Now I find it's been much easier for me to process clothes thinking about what I want to keep in the capsule vs what I want to get rid of. I yanked everything out of everywhere I could find and started going through it all. I've filled up some of the categories, but in order to cull things quickly, I'm not making final decisions yet. So in one part of my closet I have the recommended amounts of clothes, but at the other end, I'm hanging up what I call "contenders" to possibly replace the first things I've picked. Once I've gotten rid of the fluff and excess, I'll take a closer look at what works the most with other items and gives me the most flexibility.

I've also decided not to make final decisions on accessories and jewelry and shoes until the other items are decided, so I've put them to the side.

Here's a hangup I have that I'm hoping some of you can help me with:

What about all my camisoles/shapewear?

I love me some tummy-tucking, lump-smoothing shapewear, although I've had trouble finding ones that work with most outfits that don't have some kind of problem (like rolling up at the ends, or being to difficult to get on/off or not fitting right, or being to painful to deal with etc), so I have lots around. How much shapewear do you allow?

I also have a lot of camisoles, mostly for layering and modesty because I hate having my cleavage showing or worrying about shirts opening up when bending over, not to mention showing my underwear on the back end. I just hate having to worry about adjusting my clothes if I'm living my life outside of standing up straight and sitting at a desk. But I have way too many and I don't really want them as part of my capsule wardrobe. I'm thinking that what I should do is just start having stricter standards for necklines and shirt lengths so camisoles aren't necessary, but I still worry that I won't be able to have a working wardrobe without any. Anyone deal with this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 31, 2015, 05:33:53 AM
Here's a hangup I have that I'm hoping some of you can help me with:

What about all my camisoles/shapewear?

I love me some tummy-tucking, lump-smoothing shapewear, although I've had trouble finding ones that work with most outfits that don't have some kind of problem (like rolling up at the ends, or being to difficult to get on/off or not fitting right, or being to painful to deal with etc), so I have lots around. How much shapewear do you allow?

I also have a lot of camisoles, mostly for layering and modesty because I hate having my cleavage showing or worrying about shirts opening up when bending over, not to mention showing my underwear on the back end. I just hate having to worry about adjusting my clothes if I'm living my life outside of standing up straight and sitting at a desk. But I have way too many and I don't really want them as part of my capsule wardrobe. I'm thinking that what I should do is just start having stricter standards for necklines and shirt lengths so camisoles aren't necessary, but I still worry that I won't be able to have a working wardrobe without any. Anyone deal with this?
Here's my opinion on this.

The shapewear.  Try on every piece, and if there's something wrong with how it fits, get rid of it.  I think properly fitting shapewear can be great in a warddrobe, but poorly fitting will just make you frustrated.

Camisoles.  I like them personally.  Even without gapping, layering can be a good look in many outfits.  You'll need to cast a critical eye on what you have and decide if you really need and want the ones you have.  Maybe in the future though you can select new tops with an eye for ones that don't gap anywhere and stay put when you bend over.  But if that's not the sort of top you want, I don't see anything wrong with having maybe 5 camisoles.  5 will take you through a week, more if you wear more than once.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 31, 2015, 08:34:49 AM
Nice update, advicist! I've also been folding my clothes and putting them away, as opposed to hanging them over the back of a chair (gasp!). With all the space in my drawers, it's super easy.

I gave away all of my extra yarn and knitting supplies, but I've slowed down on decluttering. Need to get back to it and finish.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 31, 2015, 08:56:16 AM
I've really been struggling lately. I've recently moved, and I got rid of a lot of things, and most everything else was boxed and bagged up. I've been at my new place for a month and most of it still is except for things I've pulled out. My room has a futon and is stacked with all the boxes and bags and now all the stuff I've pulled out has no where to go so it's a real mess.

I've been wanting to de-clutter even more to get rid of stuff (especially since I'm moving again) but every time I start, there's just very little room to pull things out so I just mentally shut down and never started.

This is what helped: Deciding to tackle the clothes first. I decided to use an infographic I had pinned on pinterest as my guide for a capsule wardrobe. I don't usually like other people's formulas (one dress, three skirts, etc) but it's helping me to focus. If I decide my wardrobe should have two dresses and one skirt later, I'll do that.

Before I would look at the clothes and think of how to best convince myself to get rid of it. Now I find it's been much easier for me to process clothes thinking about what I want to keep in the capsule vs what I want to get rid of. I yanked everything out of everywhere I could find and started going through it all. I've filled up some of the categories, but in order to cull things quickly, I'm not making final decisions yet. So in one part of my closet I have the recommended amounts of clothes, but at the other end, I'm hanging up what I call "contenders" to possibly replace the first things I've picked. Once I've gotten rid of the fluff and excess, I'll take a closer look at what works the most with other items and gives me the most flexibility.

I've also decided not to make final decisions on accessories and jewelry and shoes until the other items are decided, so I've put them to the side.

Here's a hangup I have that I'm hoping some of you can help me with:

What about all my camisoles/shapewear?

I love me some tummy-tucking, lump-smoothing shapewear, although I've had trouble finding ones that work with most outfits that don't have some kind of problem (like rolling up at the ends, or being to difficult to get on/off or not fitting right, or being to painful to deal with etc), so I have lots around. How much shapewear do you allow?

I also have a lot of camisoles, mostly for layering and modesty because I hate having my cleavage showing or worrying about shirts opening up when bending over, not to mention showing my underwear on the back end. I just hate having to worry about adjusting my clothes if I'm living my life outside of standing up straight and sitting at a desk. But I have way too many and I don't really want them as part of my capsule wardrobe. I'm thinking that what I should do is just start having stricter standards for necklines and shirt lengths so camisoles aren't necessary, but I still worry that I won't be able to have a working wardrobe without any. Anyone deal with this?

Yeah, get rid of the shapeware that doesn't work. It's not useful, so why keep it?

About the stuff in boxes - you're getting by without it. When you do unpack it, that means there's a pretty good chance that you don't actually need that stuff. If you start unpacking with a list (mental or otherwise) of things that you've been looking for, keep those items and seriously consider disposing of other items in the box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 31, 2015, 12:31:56 PM
Great update, theadvicist! 

I am more and more motivated by my FIRE plan and the thought of moving across the Atlantic in a couple of years (and downsizing to 650 square feet).  I brought 4 items to the consignment store today since I remembered that they take home stuff: two decorative bowls, one glass salad bowl and a glass jug.  All large and heavy and not practical to move.  I was thinking about listing them on Craigslist but I think I have a much better chance of selling them through consignment.

Trying to sell a few other items through Craigslist and Facebook tag sale group but with no luck :-( 

Also trying to resist temptation to buy new clothes - that is definitely my biggest weakness...  I also need to gather the clothing I put aside for consignment and bring it in.  It's fall/winter stuff that doesn't fit any more.  I set it all aside in the spring but the store only took summer items then, so I will bring it in in the next couple of weeks.  Time to do another sweep through the closet, I think.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on July 31, 2015, 05:32:43 PM
I've really been struggling lately. I've recently moved, and I got rid of a lot of things, and most everything else was boxed and bagged up. I've been at my new place for a month and most of it still is except for things I've pulled out. My room has a futon and is stacked with all the boxes and bags and now all the stuff I've pulled out has no where to go so it's a real mess.

I've been wanting to de-clutter even more to get rid of stuff (especially since I'm moving again) but every time I start, there's just very little room to pull things out so I just mentally shut down and never started.

This is what helped: Deciding to tackle the clothes first. I decided to use an infographic I had pinned on pinterest as my guide for a capsule wardrobe. I don't usually like other people's formulas (one dress, three skirts, etc) but it's helping me to focus. If I decide my wardrobe should have two dresses and one skirt later, I'll do that.

Before I would look at the clothes and think of how to best convince myself to get rid of it. Now I find it's been much easier for me to process clothes thinking about what I want to keep in the capsule vs what I want to get rid of. I yanked everything out of everywhere I could find and started going through it all. I've filled up some of the categories, but in order to cull things quickly, I'm not making final decisions yet. So in one part of my closet I have the recommended amounts of clothes, but at the other end, I'm hanging up what I call "contenders" to possibly replace the first things I've picked. Once I've gotten rid of the fluff and excess, I'll take a closer look at what works the most with other items and gives me the most flexibility.

I've also decided not to make final decisions on accessories and jewelry and shoes until the other items are decided, so I've put them to the side.

Here's a hangup I have that I'm hoping some of you can help me with:

What about all my camisoles/shapewear?

I love me some tummy-tucking, lump-smoothing shapewear, although I've had trouble finding ones that work with most outfits that don't have some kind of problem (like rolling up at the ends, or being to difficult to get on/off or not fitting right, or being to painful to deal with etc), so I have lots around. How much shapewear do you allow?

I also have a lot of camisoles, mostly for layering and modesty because I hate having my cleavage showing or worrying about shirts opening up when bending over, not to mention showing my underwear on the back end. I just hate having to worry about adjusting my clothes if I'm living my life outside of standing up straight and sitting at a desk. But I have way too many and I don't really want them as part of my capsule wardrobe. I'm thinking that what I should do is just start having stricter standards for necklines and shirt lengths so camisoles aren't necessary, but I still worry that I won't be able to have a working wardrobe without any. Anyone deal with this?

I recommend Marie Kondos book . her method is incredibly helpful for many.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 31, 2015, 07:09:33 PM
Got rid of four more dresses today. Two were too small and one too big. Despite being more or less a constant clothing size it seems my clothes can't keep up with changes in body shape. One had a high neckline which tugged uncomfortably. I have no idea why I bought it I hate anything restrictive around my neck :-( I have a few more maybes to go through in my wardrobe (I am slow at this, I only want to consider a few items at a time). My wardrobe is looking much more organised and less stuffed :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on July 31, 2015, 07:23:48 PM
I love me some tummy-tucking, lump-smoothing shapewear, although I've had trouble finding ones that work with most outfits that don't have some kind of problem (like rolling up at the ends, or being to difficult to get on/off or not fitting right, or being to painful to deal with etc), so I have lots around. How much shapewear do you allow?

I also have a lot of camisoles, mostly for layering and modesty because I hate having my cleavage showing or worrying about shirts opening up when bending over, not to mention showing my underwear on the back end.

Get rid of shapewear that doesn't work for you.  Rolling & pain would be a flag to me that you may want to consider going one size up if that is possible (I see you're tall).  For camisoles, I'd probably set a target number to have - probably 8 (7 to wear, one to wear when washing) and then be ruthless.

To help you with the capsule wardrobe, since you don't have much space to bring it all out, I'd suggest an excel spreadsheet - tops across the top, bottoms along the side.  Put an X or colour in the combinations that work and you like.  Start with the work pieces.  Then try on the contenders for your capsule wardrobe.  That may help you be more comfortable around making final decisions instead of putting it off until you've gotten rid of the "fluff".  Being sure about identifying the "fluff" can be difficult when you haven't figured out your core capsule.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on July 31, 2015, 11:36:54 PM
I am down to about 160 items excluding gym wear and sleep wear and underwear (and accessories). This feels big enough to cover every conceivable situation and allow for heaps of variety but small enough that it all gets regular use over the course of a year. I suspect it could go smaller but I am not pushing for a for a capsule wardrobe, I like and wear all 160 so why not let natural attrition gradually do the work for me.it all fits in my one Ikea flat pack wardrobe. Obviously as I pull out things that don't work I will get rid of them but I think I have done nearly all my decluttering. Only a few more maybes to consider.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on August 02, 2015, 09:04:56 AM
Man. I'm making progress but very slowly.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind has this crystal clear mentality when I go through things. I realize I don't need or want them, and will be unlikely to need it in the future. The clarity is tangible and I can throw away/donate things with little or no detachment that I've previously agonized over.

However, it doesn't last long, and by the end of a clearing session I'll be making much less progress. "I know this is just one black sock and I've folded and put away 20 other pairs, but I'm SURE I'll find another one while I'm cleaning up..."

It's ok, I guess, because it just means I need to keep going and keep making progress. I kind of wish I could have a professional like Peter Walsh or Marie Kondo help me out. I have both of their books on audible. I've listened to Kondo's three different times, and am going through Walsh's now. While listening to these books can be motivating, it's not the same as someone being right there looking at YOUR stuff with you and pushing you as you begin to falter at the tough times.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nickels Dimes Quarters on August 02, 2015, 09:26:27 AM
Cleaning up today. Aside from the usual tidying and washing, I plan to get much more stuff out of the house to either give away to a charity or toss in the recycle bin.

As much as I've cleaned through cabinets and closets and drawers, it amazes me how much stuff there still is. Miles to go!

NDQ
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on August 02, 2015, 09:33:36 AM
This thread has been an inspiration!   I like to think I am organized, just because everything usually has a place.  Problem is, there is too much "everything".   I am working on editing my clothes (and husband's too), and so far have 3 bags for donation.  The closets are already looking better, and I'm not done yet.   I tried the Kondo method, and love how the dresser drawers look.  Hubby hasn't looked in his yet - I'm waiting for the WTF?  : )

I have been avoiding cleaning up the garage - over the winter, things just got tossed out there because it was so freaking cold. (-30C).  Now it's +30C with 80% humidity, and I am still making excuses because it's too hot.   I have resolved to throw out/sort/put away properly at least one thing every time I go in the garage.  I won't get hot and sweaty, and by the time it cools down and I can really clean up out there comfortably, there will be less to clean.

I had never heard of Marie Kondo - thanks to everyone for posting and getting me to get off my butt and clean up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 02, 2015, 09:37:41 AM
Man. I'm making progress but very slowly.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind has this crystal clear mentality when I go through things. I realize I don't need or want them, and will be unlikely to need it in the future. The clarity is tangible and I can throw away/donate things with little or no detachment that I've previously agonized over.

However, it doesn't last long, and by the end of a clearing session I'll be making much less progress. "I know this is just one black sock and I've folded and put away 20 other pairs, but I'm SURE I'll find another one while I'm cleaning up..."

It's ok, I guess, because it just means I need to keep going and keep making progress. I kind of wish I could have a professional like Peter Walsh or Marie Kondo help me out. I have both of their books on audible. I've listened to Kondo's three different times, and am going through Walsh's now. While listening to these books can be motivating, it's not the same as someone being right there looking at YOUR stuff with you and pushing you as you begin to falter at the tough times.

I don't know where u live, but I'm in NorCal USA and I do organizing & decluttering as a side hustle.
I another note, I think you can do it, it'll get easier to discern over time. And after the major purge of everything, you will see more later , all the time.
Also, it sounds like u are familiar with Marie Kondos method. But hav u done a thourogh and go round with it? If not, I and countless others hav had excellent progress with her method.
Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 02, 2015, 09:44:49 AM
I am doing several other gauntlets & one is to read through my bookshelf. This is really helping to lighten the book load:) . I read through several, but also donated some straight away because they had lost their lure.
Must mention, I did previously go through my books with the konmarie method and decreased by About 50%.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on August 02, 2015, 11:20:11 AM
TL:DR - less is more when grocery shopping

I'm continuing to eat the contents of my cupboard. I've got three weeks until my move.

This effort may shift the way I think about food.  I grew up in a large fammily and was very involved in cooking and shopping for 7 to 10 people.  I've been living alone or with a room mate for almost ten years.  I didn't think I really stockpiled, except a few items that were hard to find rurally. I like to keep around basic ingredients to a few things I enjoy, spices, baking supplies.  I've been consciously eating cupboard food for 6 months and I STILL have things left!  I have bought some things of course and I've had a productive little bucket garden. I like having a few options around.  That makes it easy to cook at home.  But this process of having much less in the pantry and buying as needed is blowing my mind. 

Perhaps it's even more about having less in the freezer and fridge.  I spent 6 months with just a mini fridge.  I bought meat when I planned to cook, at the left overs.  Always knew what was in the fridge.  Didn't have extra condiments hanging around.

Why did I tie hundreds of dollars up in food that I didn't eat? That I didn't even know I had, except that the cupboard was full.

It's ok to have empty space in the cupboard!

 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 02, 2015, 11:32:36 AM
TL:DR - less is more when grocery shopping

I'm continuing to eat the contents of my cupboard. I've got three weeks until my move.

This effort may shift the way I think about food.  I grew up in a large fammily and was very involved in cooking and shopping for 7 to 10 people.  I've been living alone or with a room mate for almost ten years.  I didn't think I really stockpiled, except a few items that were hard to find rurally. I like to keep around basic ingredients to a few things I enjoy, spices, baking supplies.  I've been consciously eating cupboard food for 6 months and I STILL have things left!  I have bought some things of course and I've had a productive little bucket garden. I like having a few options around.  That makes it easy to cook at home.  But this process of having much less in the pantry and buying as needed is blowing my mind. 

Perhaps it's even more about having less in the freezer and fridge.  I spent 6 months with just a mini fridge.  I bought meat when I planned to cook, at the left overs.  Always knew what was in the fridge.  Didn't have extra condiments hanging around.

Why did I tie hundreds of dollars up in food that I didn't eat? That I didn't even know I had, except that the cupboard was full.

It's ok to have empty space in the cupboard!

Excellent progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 02, 2015, 12:49:58 PM
Man. I'm making progress but very slowly.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind has this crystal clear mentality when I go through things. I realize I don't need or want them, and will be unlikely to need it in the future. The clarity is tangible and I can throw away/donate things with little or no detachment that I've previously agonized over.

However, it doesn't last long, and by the end of a clearing session I'll be making much less progress. "I know this is just one black sock and I've folded and put away 20 other pairs, but I'm SURE I'll find another one while I'm cleaning up..."


Maybe for you, it works better to do it in short bursts? I know for me, it does, especially when there are complicated emotions involved. I couldn't possibly go through all my clothing at once, for example. I did the Kondo method last week, but I limited it to one small category--the shirts that were hanging in my closet. Shirts in the bureau didn't get considered, nor did blazers or other things in the closet. By keeping it small, I was able to really sort through all the feelings attached to pieces of clothing without getting exhausted. I was able to get rid of several shirts (and a blazer) that I hated to wear but that I hadn't been able to discard.

I also noted a few items that I hadn't worn in a long time but wasn't sure about. These are on a list called "wear it and see." Yes, an actual list written down. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 02, 2015, 01:03:52 PM
I am doing several other gauntlets & one is to read through my bookshelf. This is really helping to lighten the book load:) . I read through several, but also donated some straight away because they had lost their lure.
Must mention, I did previously go through my books with the konmarie method and decreased by About 50%.

Two more books out & a stack of papers .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Gin1984 on August 02, 2015, 03:20:51 PM
Got rid of one more purse.  It is small potatoes, but it does seem to be adding up. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 02, 2015, 05:34:24 PM
My in-laws are talking about downsizing, and they've already asked for my help decluttering.

I have mixed feelings.

It's excellent they want to declutter (they need to whether or not they move).

It's challenging when my MiL asks for help because she wants 'objective' support, but then gets very easily offended if anything I do/say implies the home is messy (e.g. if I point out it would be easier to vaccum a certain corner of the lounge room if it weren't full of baskets of dusty magazines).

My BiL moved out and left behind three-quarters of his possessions, so he will resent not being able to use his parents' place for storage. My FiL will refuse to toss anything, not because he's a hoarder but he's just scatter-brained and won't devote more than 12 seconds of mental energy to the task

And they're already making excuses.

They haven't even listed their house for sale but I suggested they could start now, could play the Minimalist Game (toss one thing on the first of the month, two things on the second, etc). MiL is off work on sick leave for the next two months as she recovers from an operation. Under doctor's orders, she must stay off her feet, so she said she can't possibly start now.

By my thinking, she has two months at home and not much to do. There is no reason she can't have her husband bring her drawers, tubs, jewellery boxes, etc,  to sort through while she stays seated. But she just makes excuses so she can just get me to help next time we visit.

So we're in for the long haul.

On the upside, I started another round of the Minimalist Game on Friday (first of the month), and put together a whole bag of donations on the weekend to get me started.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on August 02, 2015, 06:27:27 PM
More stuff sold on eBay this week.  Took five packages to USPS on Saturday morning, then sold a pair of hiking boots purchased for a job I left in 2009 (yes, that means they hadn't been worn in 6 years), and just now sold a saddle carrier I've always hated because it is was way too bulky.  Have also been filling another tub to go to the thrift store - old printer, plus clothes that I felt guilty getting rid of before because I only wore them once or twice, but was never really comfortable or happy wearing.  Realized yesterday that I'm very close to being able to park my hamper inside the closet instead of out in the middle of the room.

I also finally got around to dyeing a couple pairs of white breeches with dye I bought like a year ago.  Was probably procrastinating out of fear of a poor result, but they turned out pretty good, although one pair is kind of flesh-toned now, so it will look like I'm riding around with no pants!

Left today for a work trip, but I have a hit list of items to put on eBay and Craigslist when I get home.  I need to figure out what to do with the shop next.  We have a 12x16' shop that houses our riding mower (I know, face punch me), tools and materials.  Then we have a 6x8' tin shed that has random crap plus the garden tiller and push mower.  If I could go through and decrapify both, everything would fit nicely and I could quit thinking about replacing the tin shed with a bigger garden shed, which would save us a solid $1500.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 02, 2015, 09:40:12 PM
The printer comment above just reminded me of something that I don't think has been mentioned. Goodwill will no longer take CRT monitors, but up to 19" can go to Best buy for recycling for free, at least here.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on August 02, 2015, 10:52:51 PM
Man. I'm making progress but very slowly.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind has this crystal clear mentality when I go through things. I realize I don't need or want them, and will be unlikely to need it in the future. The clarity is tangible and I can throw away/donate things with little or no detachment that I've previously agonized over.

However, it doesn't last long, and by the end of a clearing session I'll be making much less progress. "I know this is just one black sock and I've folded and put away 20 other pairs, but I'm SURE I'll find another one while I'm cleaning up..."

It's ok, I guess, because it just means I need to keep going and keep making progress. I kind of wish I could have a professional like Peter Walsh or Marie Kondo help me out. I have both of their books on audible. I've listened to Kondo's three different times, and am going through Walsh's now. While listening to these books can be motivating, it's not the same as someone being right there looking at YOUR stuff with you and pushing you as you begin to falter at the tough times.

I don't know where u live, but I'm in NorCal USA and I do organizing & decluttering as a side hustle.
I another note, I think you can do it, it'll get easier to discern over time. And after the major purge of everything, you will see more later , all the time.
Also, it sounds like u are familiar with Marie Kondos method. But hav u done a thourogh and go round with it? If not, I and countless others hav had excellent progress with her method.
Good luck!

I don't know what's stopping me from doing a complete "thorough" go-round with Marie Kondo's method. I think it's because she recommends diving in for a full weekend and getting it completely done, and long bouts of de-cluttering aren't working for me. I am using other tidbits from her book. I think her book has helped with getting me into the right mindset when it comes to having too many things. I don't stay in the mindset, but I at least know what it feels like now.

Also, because my room is so crowded, I don't feel like I can actually and adequately spread things out to take a good look. The existing clutter makes it difficult for me to process. Maybe my current roommates won't mind if I commandeer the living room to stack stuff I'm not ready to go through or maybe I could take all of my current clothes out there and spread things around as I'm trying to get rid of them....

I'm not close enough to you unfortunately, unless you're FIRE already and feel like taking a trip a couple of states over. All of my current earthly possessions (- bike and car) are in my tiny bedroom. I think it's like 8' x 10' and the place I'll be moving into is like 9' x 12'. I don't have any furniture or dressers yet because I still want to get rid of half my things. Plus, my brother is actually going to build me some custom furniture for the new place. I want it to look nice and sleek and not at all cluttery.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on August 02, 2015, 10:58:07 PM
I don't know what's stopping me from doing a complete "thorough" go-round with Marie Kondo's method. I think it's because she recommends diving in for a full weekend and getting it completely done, and long bouts of de-cluttering aren't working for me. I am using other tidbits from her book. I think her book has helped with getting me into the right mindset when it comes to having too many things. I don't stay in the mindset, but I at least know what it feels like now.

It's OK, actually, she doesn't say you have to do it in a single weekend. Or at least, that's not my interpretation. She does say to do it all at once, but I take that to mean that the process should have a beginning and an end, not that the time between the beginning and the end should be as short as possible. I think her intent is that decluttering shouldn't be something that's perpetually on your chore list, like cleaning the gutters or changing your oil; rather, it should be something you do only once and not again. But that doesn't mean you can't take whatever time with it that you need.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 03, 2015, 03:22:14 AM
I don't know what's stopping me from doing a complete "thorough" go-round with Marie Kondo's method. I think it's because she recommends diving in for a full weekend and getting it completely done, and long bouts of de-cluttering aren't working for me. I am using other tidbits from her book. I think her book has helped with getting me into the right mindset when it comes to having too many things. I don't stay in the mindset, but I at least know what it feels like now.

It's OK, actually, she doesn't say you have to do it in a single weekend. Or at least, that's not my interpretation. She does say to do it all at once, but I take that to mean that the process should have a beginning and an end, not that the time between the beginning and the end should be as short as possible. I think her intent is that decluttering shouldn't be something that's perpetually on your chore list, like cleaning the gutters or changing your oil; rather, it should be something you do only once and not again. But that doesn't mean you can't take whatever time with it that you need.

Good luck!
Maybe you could try one zone at a time. And zone doesn't have to equal bedroom it could equal one box under your bed, one shelf in your wardrobe, all of your shoes etc. This is how I have been approaching my decluttering and it seems to be working well. I do tend to revisit after the initial cull, I think seeing progress spurs me on to get rid of more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 03, 2015, 06:01:02 AM
Great to see how everyone here is tackling their stuff, I am impressed! Having a hard time getting rid of stuff myself, especially clothes and books.

Clothes: I do not outgrow them, they are good quality, and they are still mystyle, and I still like to buy something new every now and again, so my clothes collection just keeps expanding. I still have the same size as 25 years ago and still have some nice quality items from that time that I do not want to get rid of. I am now at the point that I will have to do the "one in, one out" policy if I buy something new, which has prevented me from buying new stuff for the past year. I still wear everything on a regular basis. Also a difficult point: souvenir/band t-shirts that are hardly worn but I want to keep for sentimental reasons but this is one stack of approximately 20 shirts so I am not going to worry over them. Still wondering what to do with 25 pairs of socks given away for free on airlines. Not good quality but good enough for wearing/washing 4 or 5 times before falling apart. Not sure a thrift store would be happy with them, as they are such poor quality. They look lovely stacked the Marie Kondo way but as I never wear them (no socks or high quality hiking socks when hiking), I should absolutely get rid of them. Note to self: leave on airplane in future, even though free socks appeal to my frugal mindset.

Books: I love re-reading books and in the past was very choosy when buying books, so the majority of what I have I do not want to get rid of. However I now have 7 bookcases full and also need to start applying "one in, one out". To soften the blow I will just move a couple of boxes of books to the attic, and decide on them later. Not true de-cluttering but hey, books!

I have a very limited amount of knick-knacks, and most of the ones left I have been given when I was young and they hold sentimental value. Everything without sentimental value has been given away to thrift stores by now so I am quite OK on that front.

I would welcome all tips on how to sort/store DIY tools. I have my electric tools in small cases, neatly labelled and stacked on shelves, but  I have a ton of screwdrivers-not-part-of-a-boxed-set, hammers, tape measures, screws, saws, pliers, plugs, hooks, sandpaper, paintbrushes, electric plugs and wiring etc. and I have not yet found the perfect way of sorting them. I have no garage so everything has to fit into Ikea Pax cupboards.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on August 03, 2015, 06:44:18 AM
Kondo does say "all at once" means a house would take around 6 months.

When she says to get it done in one sitting I interpret her as meaning to put aside a set amount of (manageable for you) stuff (such as all your tops or all your winter gear), go throught it all without taking a break and then finish tidying up and then afterwards go do something else, rather than do a little, leave a pile for later and thus ending up tidying the same pile for a longer amount of time. The time stretch (at least for me) makes it feel like The Stuff is taking over and so I'd rather cram it all back inside the closet to never have to see it, ever again (until next round of tidying...). My two cents on the concept.

The "pile at parents house" has been my challenge this summer. An old bisycle and several boxes of old cartoons is now removed (sold). I still need to sort through several boxes of old clothes. Will only save hand-made items that may realisticly be used by a child today. Some of those items, while lovely, are not practical for actual use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on August 03, 2015, 07:28:21 AM
Kondo does say that everything should take no more than 6 months, so she's not suggesting the entire house get done in a weekend.  She suggests zones (e.g. clothes, or even just pants if "clothes" isn't manageable).  I think her biggest caveat to that is that you want to make sure you have every last bit of that item in the area when you go through it.  So if you are doing pants, you need to have every single pair, not all of them except the 4 that are in the wash and that one pair you keep in your car and the random pair on the floor of the bathroom.  When you do pants, you must do *all* pants.  When you do toiletries, you need to gather all of them in one space, rather than only doing the once in the main bath but not the powder room and the extra you keep tucked in a cabinet. 

We continue to purge, donate, and sell.  The move is coming up and we are beginning to dump all our 220v appliances.  Treadmill and transformers sold, bringing in $200.  I have a few asks out to friends, but by the end of the week everything else will be listed on the various Facebook yard sale groups for the areas. 

Husband worked on paperwork yesterday and tossed a ton and organized the rest.  In the process of moving stuff around into various piles for the move (not all our stuff is going to one place), I discovered that I can't find the lid to my 110v crockpot.  It's been sitting in the basement for 2.5 years while we live in 220v land, waiting for our return to the States.  In the past, I'd have held on to it, imagining the lid would turn up eventually.  And it might.  But it isn't worth it.  Out it goes, and I'll buy a new one when we are back in the land of 110v, as soon as I find one in a thrift store. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 03, 2015, 08:00:37 AM
Great to see how everyone here is tackling their stuff, I am impressed! Having a hard time getting rid of stuff myself, especially clothes and books.

Clothes: I do not outgrow them, they are good quality, and they are still mystyle, and I still like to buy something new every now and again, so my clothes collection just keeps expanding. I still have the same size as 25 years ago and still have some nice quality items from that time that I do not want to get rid of. I am now at the point that I will have to do the "one in, one out" policy if I buy something new, which has prevented me from buying new stuff for the past year. I still wear everything on a regular basis. Also a difficult point: souvenir/band t-shirts that are hardly worn but I want to keep for sentimental reasons but this is one stack of approximately 20 shirts so I am not going to worry over them. Still wondering what to do with 25 pairs of socks given away for free on airlines. Not good quality but good enough for wearing/washing 4 or 5 times before falling apart. Not sure a thrift store would be happy with them, as they are such poor quality. They look lovely stacked the Marie Kondo way but as I never wear them (no socks or high quality hiking socks when hiking), I should absolutely get rid of them. Note to self: leave on airplane in future, even though free socks appeal to my frugal mindset.

Books: I love re-reading books and in the past was very choosy when buying books, so the majority of what I have I do not want to get rid of. However I now have 7 bookcases full and also need to start applying "one in, one out". To soften the blow I will just move a couple of boxes of books to the attic, and decide on them later. Not true de-cluttering but hey, books!

I have a very limited amount of knick-knacks, and most of the ones left I have been given when I was young and they hold sentimental value. Everything without sentimental value has been given away to thrift stores by now so I am quite OK on that front.

I would welcome all tips on how to sort/store DIY tools. I have my electric tools in small cases, neatly labelled and stacked on shelves, but  I have a ton of screwdrivers-not-part-of-a-boxed-set, hammers, tape measures, screws, saws, pliers, plugs, hooks, sandpaper, paintbrushes, electric plugs and wiring etc. and I have not yet found the perfect way of sorting them. I have no garage so everything has to fit into Ikea Pax cupboards.
Socks: I would try donating to a women's refuge. Some of these women having nothing but the clothes on their backs so the socks would likely be appreciated as it's not normally the sort of thing that would be donated as a used item.
Band t-shirts: why not wear them??? This is my weekend wardrobe. If you don't like the fit I can post instructions for turning them into cute tank tops. Also the memory of the concert is the sentimental thing, the tshirt only serves to remind you of the memory. If you aren't wearing it it's not serving that purpose.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 03, 2015, 08:01:11 AM
Great to see how everyone here is tackling their stuff, I am impressed! Having a hard time getting rid of stuff myself, especially clothes and books.

Clothes: I do not outgrow them, they are good quality, and they are still mystyle, and I still like to buy something new every now and again, so my clothes collection just keeps expanding. I still have the same size as 25 years ago and still have some nice quality items from that time that I do not want to get rid of. I am now at the point that I will have to do the "one in, one out" policy if I buy something new, which has prevented me from buying new stuff for the past year. I still wear everything on a regular basis. Also a difficult point: souvenir/band t-shirts that are hardly worn but I want to keep for sentimental reasons but this is one stack of approximately 20 shirts so I am not going to worry over them. Still wondering what to do with 25 pairs of socks given away for free on airlines. Not good quality but good enough for wearing/washing 4 or 5 times before falling apart. Not sure a thrift store would be happy with them, as they are such poor quality. They look lovely stacked the Marie Kondo way but as I never wear them (no socks or high quality hiking socks when hiking), I should absolutely get rid of them. Note to self: leave on airplane in future, even though free socks appeal to my frugal mindset.

Books: I love re-reading books and in the past was very choosy when buying books, so the majority of what I have I do not want to get rid of. However I now have 7 bookcases full and also need to start applying "one in, one out". To soften the blow I will just move a couple of boxes of books to the attic, and decide on them later. Not true de-cluttering but hey, books!

I have a very limited amount of knick-knacks, and most of the ones left I have been given when I was young and they hold sentimental value. Everything without sentimental value has been given away to thrift stores by now so I am quite OK on that front.

I would welcome all tips on how to sort/store DIY tools. I have my electric tools in small cases, neatly labelled and stacked on shelves, but  I have a ton of screwdrivers-not-part-of-a-boxed-set, hammers, tape measures, screws, saws, pliers, plugs, hooks, sandpaper, paintbrushes, electric plugs and wiring etc. and I have not yet found the perfect way of sorting them. I have no garage so everything has to fit into Ikea Pax cupboards.
Socks: I would try donating to a women's refuge. Some of these women having nothing but the clothes on their backs so the socks would likely be appreciated as it's not normally the sort of thing that would be donated as a used item.
Band t-shirts: why not wear them??? This is my weekend wardrobe. If you don't like the fit I can post instructions for turning them into cute tank tops. Also the memory of the concert is the sentimental thing, the tshirt only serves to remind you of the memory. If you aren't wearing it it's not serving that purpose.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 03, 2015, 08:02:04 AM
Having almost no luck selling stuff. (I think I don't want strangers coming to my house for under $20... so maybe I list too high?)

But have gotten rid of a lot through donating. :)
And I took a stack of 25 magazines to a neighbor!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 03, 2015, 08:09:39 AM
My mom made me a bean bag when I was a kid out of my old t-shirts.  I think she too, wanted to get rid of my t-shirts and this way I'd agree.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 03, 2015, 08:13:28 AM
Having almost no luck selling stuff. (I think I don't want strangers coming to my house for under $20... so maybe I list too high?)


For smaller, easily portable items, arrange to meet your buyer in a public place (I usually ask any potential buyer to meet at the parking lot of my local Target - it's always busy and well lit, even after dark) - this way you can list less expensive items and actually sell them without having people come to your house.  For bulky items, like furniture, I always make sure that I am not alone in the house when I have someone come in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 03, 2015, 08:34:36 AM
TL:DR - less is more when grocery shopping

I'm continuing to eat the contents of my cupboard. I've got three weeks until my move.

This effort may shift the way I think about food.  I grew up in a large fammily and was very involved in cooking and shopping for 7 to 10 people.  I've been living alone or with a room mate for almost ten years.  I didn't think I really stockpiled, except a few items that were hard to find rurally. I like to keep around basic ingredients to a few things I enjoy, spices, baking supplies.  I've been consciously eating cupboard food for 6 months and I STILL have things left!  I have bought some things of course and I've had a productive little bucket garden. I like having a few options around.  That makes it easy to cook at home.  But this process of having much less in the pantry and buying as needed is blowing my mind. 

Perhaps it's even more about having less in the freezer and fridge.  I spent 6 months with just a mini fridge.  I bought meat when I planned to cook, at the left overs.  Always knew what was in the fridge.  Didn't have extra condiments hanging around.

Why did I tie hundreds of dollars up in food that I didn't eat? That I didn't even know I had, except that the cupboard was full.

It's ok to have empty space in the cupboard!

Can you please have a get together with my roommate? She's got a hoarder's mindset and doesn't realize it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 03, 2015, 08:47:06 AM

For smaller, easily portable items, arrange to meet your buyer in a public place (I usually ask any potential buyer to meet at the parking lot of my local Target - it's always busy and well lit, even after dark) - this way you can list less expensive items and actually sell them without having people come to your house.  For bulky items, like furniture, I always make sure that I am not alone in the house when I have someone come in.

It isn't worth the gas and time to GET to Target for a $10 item though.

I mean; I've been on the other end of this.  I drove to Costco to meet someone to get swaddles for a newborn. It was $10 for 5 of them.  But that was $100 worth of swaddles for $10; good deal for me. 

But for them? Totally not worth the drive. With the car she was driving and where she was coming from (I know because I balked at driving all the way out to her house) it was probably $5 in gas round trip. And she just met me, I paid, and she left. So it wasn't like she was going to Costco.

There are some things goodwill won't take; and I think I might just stick to freecycle for that.  It's easy to say "I'll be in and out all day; I will set the item on the porch".  You can't really do that with a sale.  (Or maybe I can just say "throw the $5 under the welcome mat". If they don't - it is really no different than if I just donated it... and I bet most honest people would.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 03, 2015, 08:53:37 AM
Great to see how everyone here is tackling their stuff, I am impressed! Having a hard time getting rid of stuff myself, especially clothes and books.

Clothes: I do not outgrow them, they are good quality, and they are still mystyle, and I still like to buy something new every now and again, so my clothes collection just keeps expanding. I still have the same size as 25 years ago and still have some nice quality items from that time that I do not want to get rid of. I am now at the point that I will have to do the "one in, one out" policy if I buy something new, which has prevented me from buying new stuff for the past year. I still wear everything on a regular basis. Also a difficult point: souvenir/band t-shirts that are hardly worn but I want to keep for sentimental reasons but this is one stack of approximately 20 shirts so I am not going to worry over them. Still wondering what to do with 25 pairs of socks given away for free on airlines. Not good quality but good enough for wearing/washing 4 or 5 times before falling apart. Not sure a thrift store would be happy with them, as they are such poor quality. They look lovely stacked the Marie Kondo way but as I never wear them (no socks or high quality hiking socks when hiking), I should absolutely get rid of them. Note to self: leave on airplane in future, even though free socks appeal to my frugal mindset.

Books: I love re-reading books and in the past was very choosy when buying books, so the majority of what I have I do not want to get rid of. However I now have 7 bookcases full and also need to start applying "one in, one out". To soften the blow I will just move a couple of boxes of books to the attic, and decide on them later. Not true de-cluttering but hey, books!

I have a very limited amount of knick-knacks, and most of the ones left I have been given when I was young and they hold sentimental value. Everything without sentimental value has been given away to thrift stores by now so I am quite OK on that front.

I would welcome all tips on how to sort/store DIY tools. I have my electric tools in small cases, neatly labelled and stacked on shelves, but  I have a ton of screwdrivers-not-part-of-a-boxed-set, hammers, tape measures, screws, saws, pliers, plugs, hooks, sandpaper, paintbrushes, electric plugs and wiring etc. and I have not yet found the perfect way of sorting them. I have no garage so everything has to fit into Ikea Pax cupboards.

Ok, even for me that's a ridiculous number of books. I too love re-reading books. My suggestion: mark all your books somehow (sticky note, etc). Then make an effort to go through and re-read your books.  Remove the sticky note when you do. Those you can keep. After a while, you'll find that there's books you just don't want to read for whatever reason, or ones you don't like anymore. That's your goodbye pile. No guilt needed.

If the books are reference - do you actually refer to them? If not, add to the goodbye pile.

And my friend just made a quilt out of all her old college shirts. It's on her bed, being used. If you don't quilt, I'm sure you can find someone who does who'd be willing to help, or you could learn!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 03, 2015, 08:58:54 AM

For smaller, easily portable items, arrange to meet your buyer in a public place (I usually ask any potential buyer to meet at the parking lot of my local Target - it's always busy and well lit, even after dark) - this way you can list less expensive items and actually sell them without having people come to your house.  For bulky items, like furniture, I always make sure that I am not alone in the house when I have someone come in.

It isn't worth the gas and time to GET to Target for a $10 item though.

I mean; I've been on the other end of this.  I drove to Costco to meet someone to get swaddles for a newborn. It was $10 for 5 of them.  But that was $100 worth of swaddles for $10; good deal for me. 

But for them? Totally not worth the drive. With the car she was driving and where she was coming from (I know because I balked at driving all the way out to her house) it was probably $5 in gas round trip. And she just met me, I paid, and she left. So it wasn't like she was going to Costco.

There are some things goodwill won't take; and I think I might just stick to freecycle for that.  It's easy to say "I'll be in and out all day; I will set the item on the porch".  You can't really do that with a sale.  (Or maybe I can just say "throw the $5 under the welcome mat". If they don't - it is really no different than if I just donated it... and I bet most honest people would.)

I hear you.  My method would not work well if you are in a rural location.  I just use Target because it's convenient for me (maybe a mile from where I live), but any other public, well lit place will do (grocery store, the mall, etc.)  I always specify my approximate location in my listings so people know how far they would have to drive.  Having said that, I generally don't list anything under $15 because I think it's just not worth the effort - stuff like that gets donated.  Sometimes I also list things under the "Free" category on Craigslist and just leave them outside on the porch or in front of the garage to be picked up.  It works well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 03, 2015, 09:04:22 AM

I hear you.  My method would not work well if you are in a rural location.  I just use Target because it's convenient for me (maybe a mile from where I live), but any other public, well lit place will do (grocery store, the mall, etc.)  I always specify my approximate location in my listings so people know how far they would have to drive.  Having said that, I generally don't list anything under $15 because I think it's just not worth the effort - stuff like that gets donated.  Sometimes I also list things under the "Free" category on Craigslist and just leave them outside on the porch or in front of the garage to be picked up.  It works well.

I'm not exactly rural, but I live in a bedroom community of a small city; so nothing is near my house.

There is a consignment shop I've dropped a few things off at, but they are so picky about what they take.  But it's out of the house. I just need to keep reminding myself that is the goal!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on August 03, 2015, 09:51:21 AM
My community is having a multi-family yard sale this Saturday. I'm hoping we can get rid of a bunch of stuff at this event. We have some furniture, lots of CD's and DVD's, and random stuff like knick knacks and reptile terrariums. Right now I'm trying to convince the kids to get their unwanted junk from their rooms in boxes to take out there.

My biggest worry is that I've never been on the selling end of a yard sale before. Any tips from seasoned veterans on this?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 03, 2015, 10:02:01 AM
My biggest worry is that I've never been on the selling end of a yard sale before. Any tips from seasoned veterans on this?

Put stickers on EVERYTHING. Don't count on "remembering" the price you wanted. 

If the multiple families will be all selling together, color code to know whose stuff is what, and peel each sticker off the item and put it onto a ledger, and at the end of the day, you know how much each person gets from the cash box. (Make a note on the ledger if the price of an item was haggled down.)

Be ready at least an hour before your ad says you will open.
And be firm that your house does NOT have public restrooms.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 03, 2015, 10:03:19 AM
I don't know what's stopping me from doing a complete "thorough" go-round with Marie Kondo's method. I think it's because she recommends diving in for a full weekend and getting it completely done, and long bouts of de-cluttering aren't working for me. I am using other tidbits from her book. I think her book has helped with getting me into the right mindset when it comes to having too many things. I don't stay in the mindset, but I at least know what it feels like now.

It's OK, actually, she doesn't say you have to do it in a single weekend. Or at least, that's not my interpretation. She does say to do it all at once, but I take that to mean that the process should have a beginning and an end, not that the time between the beginning and the end should be as short as possible. I think her intent is that decluttering shouldn't be something that's perpetually on your chore list, like cleaning the gutters or changing your oil; rather, it should be something you do only once and not again. But that doesn't mean you can't take whatever time with it that you need.

Good luck!
Maybe you could try one zone at a time. And zone doesn't have to equal bedroom it could equal one box under your bed, one shelf in your wardrobe, all of your shoes etc. This is how I have been approaching my decluttering and it seems to be working well. I do tend to revisit after the initial cull, I think seeing progress spurs me on to get rid of more.

One small zone at a time is an excellent idea, although I found it helpful to pull everything out a go through one by one rather than to look at things on a shelf for example and reduce. More tens to be discarded this way I've found.
Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: catccc on August 03, 2015, 12:37:30 PM
I can't remember if I have posted to this thread or not.  But I've just started another month of the "30-day Minimalist Game," as it has been coined by Joshua Fields Milburn and Ryan Nicodemus at theminimalists.com.  I call it MinChal, just because that is the shorthand I put at the top of the list in my phone to keep track.  I played by myself, unsure of how I'd perform.  I updated the little list in my phone with the date and the items that left my home.  I was pretty flexible with myself, giving credit for items tossed in excess of that date's number for a future date, and allowing goodwilled items to sit around for up to a week, so I could make the trip less frequently.  I counted any little piece of junk I could find, unless it was something like trash created that day to be tossed immediately.  (i.e. junk mail did not count.)  If I fell behind I'd give myself a day or two to tackle something big and catch up.

http://www.theminimalists.com/game/ (http://www.theminimalists.com/game/)

I "played" in June and July, getting to the 21st and 23rd, respectively, before quitting.  Towards the end of each challenge I was counting out birthday candle stumps in June, and dead batteries in July.  I also got rid of some more "impressive" things, like lots of clothes, unused kitchen equipment, etc.

Amazingly, there still seems to a good bit of "stuff" in the house.  And I should note that we were already comparatively low on stuff.  We d have 2 kids, and they add to the stuff, but we try to keep it minimal.

Anyway, all in all, it is fun method for getting rid of stuff.  A simple goal and anything goes.  I don't feel like I need to "finish" an area.  Just hit the number for the date, and you are good to go.  I'm going to re-start every month until a day that I imagine includes looking around my house and having a magical feeling of time and space for the things that matter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on August 03, 2015, 10:25:52 PM
My biggest worry is that I've never been on the selling end of a yard sale before. Any tips from seasoned veterans on this?

Put stickers on EVERYTHING. Don't count on "remembering" the price you wanted. 

If the multiple families will be all selling together, color code to know whose stuff is what, and peel each sticker off the item and put it onto a ledger, and at the end of the day, you know how much each person gets from the cash box. (Make a note on the ledger if the price of an item was haggled down.)

Be ready at least an hour before your ad says you will open.
And be firm that your house does NOT have public restrooms.

Thank you for the tips! Especially that last one had not even crossed my mind, but now I have thought up the closest public rest room if it comes up so I can quickly send folks on their merry way.

How much cash should I have on hand for making change?

Each child did pretty well today filling up a box or two with stuff to go out, so that was a small victory.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 04, 2015, 04:19:41 AM
I can't remember if I have posted to this thread or not.  But I've just started another month of the "30-day Minimalist Game," as it has been coined by Joshua Fields Milburn and Ryan Nicodemus at theminimalists.com.  I call it MinChal, just because that is the shorthand I put at the top of the list in my phone to keep track.  I played by myself, unsure of how I'd perform.  I updated the little list in my phone with the date and the items that left my home.  I was pretty flexible with myself, giving credit for items tossed in excess of that date's number for a future date, and allowing goodwilled items to sit around for up to a week, so I could make the trip less frequently.  I counted any little piece of junk I could find, unless it was something like trash created that day to be tossed immediately.  (i.e. junk mail did not count.)  If I fell behind I'd give myself a day or two to tackle something big and catch up.

http://www.theminimalists.com/game/ (http://www.theminimalists.com/game/)



I keep reading about people playing that game, it sounds good. I'm not sure I have enough stuff to play it at this point haha. I've read their most recent book and really enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on August 04, 2015, 09:57:08 AM
Man. I'm making progress but very slowly.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind has this crystal clear mentality when I go through things. I realize I don't need or want them, and will be unlikely to need it in the future. The clarity is tangible and I can throw away/donate things with little or no detachment that I've previously agonized over.

However, it doesn't last long, and by the end of a clearing session I'll be making much less progress. "I know this is just one black sock and I've folded and put away 20 other pairs, but I'm SURE I'll find another one while I'm cleaning up..."

It's ok, I guess, because it just means I need to keep going and keep making progress. I kind of wish I could have a professional like Peter Walsh or Marie Kondo help me out. I have both of their books on audible. I've listened to Kondo's three different times, and am going through Walsh's now. While listening to these books can be motivating, it's not the same as someone being right there looking at YOUR stuff with you and pushing you as you begin to falter at the tough times.

I don't know where u live, but I'm in NorCal USA and I do organizing & decluttering as a side hustle.
I another note, I think you can do it, it'll get easier to discern over time. And after the major purge of everything, you will see more later , all the time.
Also, it sounds like u are familiar with Marie Kondos method. But hav u done a thourogh and go round with it? If not, I and countless others hav had excellent progress with her method.
Good luck!
Riverffashion, how did you get started on this side hustle? It sounds cool and something I'd like to try. I sent you a pm as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 04, 2015, 11:58:02 AM
I brought another bunch of clothes to the consignment store.  They rejected a few items.  It is hit or miss with this store: among the rejected items were 3 or 4 that I brought in before and was specifically told to bring back once they start accepting fall clothing which is now!  Oh well.  They are going straight to Goodwill and not back into my closet ;-)  I think I have reduced my closet by 40-50% by now but there are still a few items that need to be weeded out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 04, 2015, 12:21:52 PM
I brought another bunch of clothes to the consignment store.  They rejected a few items.  It is hit or miss with this store: among the rejected items were 3 or 4 that I brought in before and was specifically told to bring back once they start accepting fall clothing which is now!  Oh well.  They are going straight to Goodwill and not back into my closet ;-)  I think I have reduced my closet by 40-50% by now but there are still a few items that need to be weeded out.

Ha.  Did you point that out to them?  What did they say?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 04, 2015, 12:27:04 PM
The one thing I like about the consignment store I use is that they will donate rejected items for you. Yes, that means they get the tax benefits, not me- but we never remember to take them, so the net result is they are out of my closet.

They have amazing sales though, so I think people only ever shop when things are 50% or 75% off. Which means I usually make 20 or 30 cents an item... with the few items that get accepted...

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 04, 2015, 01:02:54 PM
The one thing I like about the consignment store I use is that they will donate rejected items for you. Yes, that means they get the tax benefits, not me- but we never remember to take them, so the net result is they are out of my closet.

They have amazing sales though, so I think people only ever shop when things are 50% or 75% off. Which means I usually make 20 or 30 cents an item... with the few items that get accepted...

Yes, this one donates as well, so I don't have to pick up anything that hasn't sold.  So that is a definite plus - things are gone for good once I bring them in.

I brought another bunch of clothes to the consignment store.  They rejected a few items.  It is hit or miss with this store: among the rejected items were 3 or 4 that I brought in before and was specifically told to bring back once they start accepting fall clothing which is now!  Oh well.  They are going straight to Goodwill and not back into my closet ;-)  I think I have reduced my closet by 40-50% by now but there are still a few items that need to be weeded out.

Ha.  Did you point that out to them?  What did they say?

I did not have the strength for this today ;-)  I noticed it depends on the person who is actually looking through the items.  I may try them again with another batch.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on August 04, 2015, 02:11:01 PM
The one thing I like about the consignment store I use is that they will donate rejected items for you. Yes, that means they get the tax benefits, not me- but we never remember to take them, so the net result is they are out of my closet.

They have amazing sales though, so I think people only ever shop when things are 50% or 75% off. Which means I usually make 20 or 30 cents an item... with the few items that get accepted...

Wouldn't it work out better to donate to Goodwill direct and get the tax benefits? I've only done consignment twice for higher-end things ($200+) but after that I just switched to ebay/craigslist. If I can't get more than $5 out of it, I'd just donate it..
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 04, 2015, 02:15:52 PM
The one thing I like about the consignment store I use is that they will donate rejected items for you. Yes, that means they get the tax benefits, not me- but we never remember to take them, so the net result is they are out of my closet.

They have amazing sales though, so I think people only ever shop when things are 50% or 75% off. Which means I usually make 20 or 30 cents an item... with the few items that get accepted...

Wouldn't it work out better to donate to Goodwill direct and get the tax benefits? I've only done consignment twice for higher-end things ($200+) but after that I just switched to ebay/craigslist. If I can't get more than $5 out of it, I'd just donate it..


Yeah, this is why I just donate virtually all of my items except furniture.  I don't really have expensive items I'm shedding (clothes to cheap vases to cheap wine glasses to old candleholders is my usual gamut).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Emilyngh on August 04, 2015, 04:47:28 PM
The one thing I like about the consignment store I use is that they will donate rejected items for you. Yes, that means they get the tax benefits, not me- but we never remember to take them, so the net result is they are out of my closet.

They have amazing sales though, so I think people only ever shop when things are 50% or 75% off. Which means I usually make 20 or 30 cents an item... with the few items that get accepted...

Wouldn't it work out better to donate to Goodwill direct and get the tax benefits? I've only done consignment twice for higher-end things ($200+) but after that I just switched to ebay/craigslist. If I can't get more than $5 out of it, I'd just donate it..

This is assuming that one itemizes.   Most people (around 60%, I believe) take the standard deduction.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 04, 2015, 10:49:25 PM
Man. I'm making progress but very slowly.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind has this crystal clear mentality when I go through things. I realize I don't need or want them, and will be unlikely to need it in the future. The clarity is tangible and I can throw away/donate things with little or no detachment that I've previously agonized over.

However, it doesn't last long, and by the end of a clearing session I'll be making much less progress. "I know this is just one black sock and I've folded and put away 20 other pairs, but I'm SURE I'll find another one while I'm cleaning up..."

It's ok, I guess, because it just means I need to keep going and keep making progress. I kind of wish I could have a professional like Peter Walsh or Marie Kondo help me out. I have both of their books on audible. I've listened to Kondo's three different times, and am going through Walsh's now. While listening to these books can be motivating, it's not the same as someone being right there looking at YOUR stuff with you and pushing you as you begin to falter at the tough times.

I don't know where u live, but I'm in NorCal USA and I do organizing & decluttering as a side hustle.
I another note, I think you can do it, it'll get easier to discern over time. And after the major purge of everything, you will see more later , all the time.
Also, it sounds like u are familiar with Marie Kondos method. But hav u done a thourogh and go round with it? If not, I and countless others hav had excellent progress with her method.
Good luck!
Riverffashion, how did you get started on this side hustle? It sounds cool and something I'd like to try. I sent you a pm as well.

It's something I've always enjoyed . I believe I posted flyers everywhere , in the small town I lived in at the time ( now I post business cards ). After the first couple people, it became more about referrals, which really helps so people know they're getting someone whose trustworthy and good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 05, 2015, 01:46:56 AM
(sigh) I could sure use your help, riverffashion...I'm overwhelmed by my stuff and have zero time for the declutterring that is so badly needed in our home with many children.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 05, 2015, 07:10:52 AM

Wouldn't it work out better to donate to Goodwill direct and get the tax benefits? I've only done consignment twice for higher-end things ($200+) but after that I just switched to ebay/craigslist. If I can't get more than $5 out of it, I'd just donate it..

Yes, if we itemize, but despite the much flaunted mortgage interest deduction, it has never worked out better for us to itemize* (we do our tax deductions each way every year)- so it doesn't make a difference.

*Maybe we did 1 year, I don't remember. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on August 05, 2015, 07:25:20 AM
You know, I remember a few years ago reading a blog (my efforts at googling it have failed) where the writer basically said the easiest way she could get out of the clutter in her life was to get rid of everything, including the sentimental stuff. And years later, if at some point she thought "What did I ever do with that such-and-such?" she'd just think "Oh yeah, we lost that in the house fire" and move on with life. It was a way to mentally separate those things from herself as a person... they weren't her identity... and she was able to deeply minimize and move on with life with no regrets.

Sometimes (quite often) I think about getting rid of everything I have and just starting over after an "imaginary house fire." I probably won't ever do it, but it makes me realize what a stronghold material possessions can take in your life.

I actually recently came across what I think is the article you read. It's on a site called Houzz and I think her name is Rachel.

Here's the kicker: it wasn't a mind game she made up. Her house actually DID burn down. She grew and learned from it and she used it for purchases she had wanted to make but didn't at the time. I think one example was a rug. At one point she thought, "I should have bought it when I had the chance" but then would remember it was pre-fire, so if she had, she would have lost it anyway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on August 05, 2015, 08:53:21 AM
I actually recently came across what I think is the article you read. It's on a site called Houzz and I think her name is Rachel.

It definitely wasn't there, but I swear I can't find the original article. Doesn't matter, really, the principle is the same.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 05, 2015, 09:04:23 AM
You know, I remember a few years ago reading a blog (my efforts at googling it have failed) where the writer basically said the easiest way she could get out of the clutter in her life was to get rid of everything, including the sentimental stuff. And years later, if at some point she thought "What did I ever do with that such-and-such?" she'd just think "Oh yeah, we lost that in the house fire" and move on with life. It was a way to mentally separate those things from herself as a person... they weren't her identity... and she was able to deeply minimize and move on with life with no regrets.

Sometimes (quite often) I think about getting rid of everything I have and just starting over after an "imaginary house fire." I probably won't ever do it, but it makes me realize what a stronghold material possessions can take in your life.

I actually recently came across what I think is the article you read. It's on a site called Houzz and I think her name is Rachel.

Here's the kicker: it wasn't a mind game she made up. Her house actually DID burn down. She grew and learned from it and she used it for purchases she had wanted to make but didn't at the time. I think one example was a rug. At one point she thought, "I should have bought it when I had the chance" but then would remember it was pre-fire, so if she had, she would have lost it anyway.

I read that too.  Puts things into perspective.  She said there were a few things she truly missed like pictures.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 05, 2015, 09:12:29 AM

I read that too.  Puts things into perspective.  She said there were a few things she truly missed like pictures.

A friend who lost all of his possessions in a flood said pictures were the only thing he regretted losing.
He didn't have anytime to clear anything out because he didn't realize his house was in danger; the city called the zone too late (he lived WELL out of any flood zone, this flood was historic, well past the 500-year flood lines)- and he was out knocking on doors to get people to evacuate from other high risk areas.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 05, 2015, 11:50:14 AM

I read that too.  Puts things into perspective.  She said there were a few things she truly missed like pictures.

A friend who lost all of his possessions in a flood said pictures were the only thing he regretted losing.
He didn't have anytime to clear anything out because he didn't realize his house was in danger; the city called the zone too late (he lived WELL out of any flood zone, this flood was historic, well past the 500-year flood lines)- and he was out knocking on doors to get people to evacuate from other high risk areas.

I have a roommate and there are 3 basic things that I really struggle with her about: she's heat intolerant and unwilling to learn to adjust; she's a bit of a slob; and she has way too much stuff (which is half the slob problem). Seriously, she's a magpie. She's also paranoid about security and safety, even though she's never lived in an unsafe area in her life.

So she was arguing with me about the security system (which we have because I put up with it, but never turn it on), and said that there's all sorts of things she'd be really upset about if she lost them. I countered with what if the house burns down? That didn't go over well...

Me, I'm well aware. I'd like to grab my 2 cats, laptop, file box, purse, and keys. Yeah, I wouldn't be happy, but I'd survive and I know it. She doesn't even know it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 05, 2015, 12:40:17 PM
I actually started a thread asking what one item people would grab from their home (assuming their family and pets were safe - although a number of people ignored that "rule" and mentioned they'd get their family or pets out).  Makes you think about what's important, and how you can preemptively protect it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 05, 2015, 01:59:11 PM
I actually started a thread asking what one item people would grab from their home (assuming their family and pets were safe - although a number of people ignored that "rule" and mentioned they'd get their family or pets out).  Makes you think about what's important, and how you can preemptively protect it.

I may be the least sentimental person on the planet, but leaving aside living people, there's nothing I'd grab except for convenience reasons: wallet, cell phone, personal documents like birth certificates/marriage licenses.

I like my stuff, it makes my life easier and is useful, but if I lost it all tomorrow, my biggest concern would be the aggravation of replacing it all.

If pets and my GF was safe, I'd probably grab my box of documents. Passport, Birth Certificates, etc. Now that you mention it though, if my house burned down, and my pets and GF were safe (and she grabbed my documents), I'd initially go for the gasoline...:)
(To jurors who may or may not read this later, that was a joke)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 05, 2015, 05:05:43 PM
Sold a coffee table and end table today. They were too big for my room so I got a smaller coffee table to replace it and used an extra end table I already had.  I like the new look and I have one less piece of furniture in the house! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 06, 2015, 01:40:37 AM
Also a difficult point: souvenir/band t-shirts that are hardly worn but I want to keep for sentimental reasons but this is one stack of approximately 20 shirts so I am not going to worry over them.
Just a gentle facepunch, I don't even own 20 tshirts even if you count the big ones I stole from DH to be pjs. And DH doesn't own 20 tshirts even if you count his undershirts.
The 20 shirts are a 30 year collection, so I do not think it is too bad, and they were all bought directly from the bands to support them. It is one of three things I do to support the bands I love: buying the music, going to the gig and then buying some merchandise. Probably not mustachian but all to support them. Have to admit that I just crowdfunded the CD for another band I want to help grow and yes, I chose the larger pledge of CD with T-shirt, again... Happy to be facepunched for that :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 06, 2015, 01:53:03 AM
Socks: I would try donating to a women's refuge. Some of these women having nothing but the clothes on their backs so the socks would likely be appreciated as it's not normally the sort of thing that would be donated as a used item.
Band t-shirts: why not wear them??? This is my weekend wardrobe. If you don't like the fit I can post instructions for turning them into cute tank tops. Also the memory of the concert is the sentimental thing, the tshirt only serves to remind you of the memory. If you aren't wearing it it's not serving that purpose.
Great idea on the socks, did not think about the fact that this would not be a regularly donated item, but of course people will usually wear socks until threadbare, these are all brand new, even if not good quality.

I do wear the band shirts in the weekend, but as I have 20 and it is only t-shirt weather for about 5 months of the year, wear is limited to once a year or so. My solution to get more joy out of the memories: Fold them a bit Marie Kondo style. I fold them with the front picture clearly visible, then roll them into cylinders with the middle of the front picture facing upward, this makes more picture visible than if I would finish the folding true Kondo style. Then I put these rolls in a drawer. I now have a drawer with 2 x 10 rolled up t-shirts where I can see a bit of the front picture of each one! So every time I open up the drawer I do not have to rummage for what fits my mood, but I can easily pick the one I want and at the same time glance over all the others as well.

Love your suggestion on turning shirts into tank-tops, I may look at a couple of the bulkier male sized shirts to transform.

Ordered the Marie Kondo book this week to become a bit more structured in how I apply her techniques. As the paper book and the e-book were priced exactly the same I opted for the paper book, so that I can give it away after reading, it seems like a good book to share with friends who may also benefit from it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 06, 2015, 01:54:52 AM
Okay, I read the Kondo book and then Kondoed our dresser. I blame all of you.

Do you love that it looks like a box of jelly beans now? I am ridiculously gleeful every time I open a drawer, post KonMari.  :-D
I recognise this so much! Yesterday evening I just had to grin when I opened my nightwear drawer, which is now folded KonMari style. It is such a change, I am quite surprised about the effect it has.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 06, 2015, 02:11:51 AM
Ok, even for me that's a ridiculous number of books. I too love re-reading books. My suggestion: mark all your books somehow (sticky note, etc). Then make an effort to go through and re-read your books.  Remove the sticky note when you do. Those you can keep. After a while, you'll find that there's books you just don't want to read for whatever reason, or ones you don't like anymore. That's your goodbye pile. No guilt needed.
No autonomously growing goodbye pile unfortunately, I re-read everything I still have. Even when sorting through the books I want to get rid of, I end up on the couch re-reading them and then deciding I do not want to let go yet. I understand why people would want to chuck out books they do not read, and I do so with books I have been given and/or are not really my style, my issue is that I read and re-read a lot, I cycle through all my books in a period of 4-5 years. The one-in, one-out hopefully works. I have to chuck out books not because I do not like them or because I do not read them, but because there is another book that I like better. I just have to get accustomed to the fact that I like and re-read more books than I am happy to own in paper form. Replacing paper with e-books may be a good way to de-clutter as well. Anyone here who is doing that?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 06, 2015, 02:24:59 AM
I actually started a thread asking what one item people would grab from their home (assuming their family and pets were safe - although a number of people ignored that "rule" and mentioned they'd get their family or pets out).  Makes you think about what's important, and how you can preemptively protect it.

I'm obviously alone in this, but if I thought my house was on fire I wouldn't stop for anything!

In fact, I once genuinely did think I was in a fire. My then boyfriend (now husband) and I were repainting my apartment on a very hot summers day. It was on the 4th floor, and probably the furthest unit from one of the two fire exits, so I was conscious about fire safety.

Well, this day, we were painting away, and so hot. So I was actually painting in my underwear. Suddenly there was an overwhelming smell of smoke and burning. I said, "Oh my god, fire! Get out!". My husband actually said, "Put some clothes on!!" and I was like, "dude we're evacuating, I'm not stopping for clothes!" and he said, "But we're going to have to wait outside on that busy street and you're in your underwear" and I said "At least I'll be alive!", and ran for the door. As it happened on the way out I passed the coat hooks, so grabbed a coat to save my modesty.

I stood, on the very busy road, in underwear and a coat (I looked very odd given it was such a hot day). It turned out that someone in a different apartment had simply burnt some toast, but due to the redecorating works I was doing there was no filter on my extractor hood, so the smoke that was vented up from their apartment was released straight into mine.

So I can genuinely say I wouldn't stop for anything :) No way I would have gone back into the bedroom for clothes, I literally only took the coat because I saw it as I was running the hell out of there in bra and knickers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on August 06, 2015, 07:21:54 AM
Just deleted all my saved craigslist searches. It's an effort to pick the stuff up and honestly I don't need anything more. I think when/if I do want something (after this new round of debt goes away! gah), I will buy it mindfully in the future. Instead of being sort of packratty or accepting things that then I let go of anyway or store for ages waiting for its moment.

Lots of stuff waiting for my thredup bag though, including a small cull on my black tops and black leggings/yoga pants. Not sure how much of anything they'll take but I figure it ups my odds of getting more money, plus it's not being used with me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on August 06, 2015, 08:29:16 AM
I was looking around my apartment, feeling overwhelmed by Stuff again so I've decided to do a big clear out.

So far I have a bag of clothes to go to H&M for recycling and two bags of books to give to the local library. After that, I want to go through the linen cupboard, winter clothes, kitchen stuff and then those giant tubs of "important" papers etc.

We will move at the end of the year so I want to get rid of a lot of stuff and sell a lot of things as well.
As we are in the Philippines, due to fairly desperate poverty, I can easily find homes for everything I don't need. This makes me happy as I know the things will be used by people who really need them.




Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 06, 2015, 08:31:48 AM
I've got a mental block around jeans. I don't know why. I've cleared out SO many clothes, and yet, I just can't bring myself to tackle the jeans. Is it because they were expensive? Hard to find ones that fit? Remind me of happy times? Please can someone give me a pep talk about why I should go through them and get rid of some (probably got, hmmm, about 10 pairs total). I wear jeans probably 5 times a month.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on August 06, 2015, 08:58:18 AM
I've got a mental block around jeans. I don't know why. I've cleared out SO many clothes, and yet, I just can't bring myself to tackle the jeans. Is it because they were expensive? Hard to find ones that fit? Remind me of happy times? Please can someone give me a pep talk about why I should go through them and get rid of some (probably got, hmmm, about 10 pairs total). I wear jeans probably 5 times a month.

You don't need to get rid of your jeans.  Just try them on.  Are you wearing the same pairs all the time?  Are some languishing?  If so, why?  Just go through the process/exercise without a required action at the end. Then it should be clear what to do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 06, 2015, 12:20:58 PM
Ok, even for me that's a ridiculous number of books. I too love re-reading books. My suggestion: mark all your books somehow (sticky note, etc). Then make an effort to go through and re-read your books.  Remove the sticky note when you do. Those you can keep. After a while, you'll find that there's books you just don't want to read for whatever reason, or ones you don't like anymore. That's your goodbye pile. No guilt needed.
No autonomously growing goodbye pile unfortunately, I re-read everything I still have. Even when sorting through the books I want to get rid of, I end up on the couch re-reading them and then deciding I do not want to let go yet. I understand why people would want to chuck out books they do not read, and I do so with books I have been given and/or are not really my style, my issue is that I read and re-read a lot, I cycle through all my books in a period of 4-5 years. The one-in, one-out hopefully works. I have to chuck out books not because I do not like them or because I do not read them, but because there is another book that I like better. I just have to get accustomed to the fact that I like and re-read more books than I am happy to own in paper form. Replacing paper with e-books may be a good way to de-clutter as well. Anyone here who is doing that?

I researched it. Too many of the books I would want weren't available at the time. Also, I don't like the e-readers, bit of a luddite regarding books. My solution has been to be ruthless about the # of books I have.

For you though it might be helpful. Even if you can only get half your books in e format, that would be a big help to you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on August 06, 2015, 01:59:24 PM
I've got a mental block around jeans. I don't know why. I've cleared out SO many clothes, and yet, I just can't bring myself to tackle the jeans. Is it because they were expensive? Hard to find ones that fit? Remind me of happy times? Please can someone give me a pep talk about why I should go through them and get rid of some (probably got, hmmm, about 10 pairs total). I wear jeans probably 5 times a month.

If they all fit and feel good to wear, I'd just keep them and wear a few pairs at a time until they wear out.  But if you try them all on and some don't feel quite right, I'd give them the boot.  I just did this with a pair I had that I rarely wore because they were just a shade too short and a tiny bit too low-rise, so I never felt 100% comfortable in them.  I find this freeing because I don't have that twinge of guilt that I *should* wear them when I pass over them on my shelf.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on August 06, 2015, 03:28:33 PM
I got rid of a shirt and a hat I wasn't using much. I realized it's because I have similar items that I like more and use more often. There are some sketchy for profit drop bins around our neighborhood but I went ahead and used that rather than letting them sit around any longer.

I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on August 06, 2015, 04:52:49 PM
I've been in Canada for over two months now - I traveled with what I could carry on plus one checked bag and I am not missing much.

I have a feeling I will have a lot of stuff to declutter once I get home...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 06, 2015, 09:41:51 PM
I've been in Canada for over two months now - I traveled with what I could carry on plus one checked bag and I am not missing much.

I have a feeling I will have a lot of stuff to declutter once I get home...

Isn't it wonderful how the decluttering mindset is always there now?
I rid myself of several things in my suitcase on vacation, clothing and books mostly. And had a list in mind for when I returned... :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on August 07, 2015, 07:26:13 AM
When I packed for BC I realized that most of my "good" t shirts are not ones I want to wear unless there is no choice.  They are now demoted to gardening t shirts (that way I am at least presentable if people come over) and I know I need to actually go shopping for new ones.  Of course I have now demoted my worst gardening shirts to grubby/painting shirts, and the really horrible ones have hit the garbage.

I've been in Canada for over two months now - I traveled with what I could carry on plus one checked bag and I am not missing much.

I have a feeling I will have a lot of stuff to declutter once I get home...

Isn't it wonderful how the decluttering mindset is always there now?
I rid myself of several things in my suitcase on vacation, clothing and books mostly. And had a list in mind for when I returned... :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on August 07, 2015, 08:03:49 AM
I am no longer interested in all my home decorating magazines because I'd rather have space to make the pretty things I want, and they're all too full of ads. I might buy myself some new ones if I feel like it later, but these aren't bringing me joy any more. It's nice to see my focus change.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 07, 2015, 08:48:35 AM
I am no longer interested in all my home decorating magazines because I'd rather have space to make the pretty things I want, and they're all too full of ads. I might buy myself some new ones if I feel like it later, but these aren't bringing me joy any more. It's nice to see my focus change.

Library!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 07, 2015, 12:09:57 PM

I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 07, 2015, 01:37:59 PM

I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: catccc on August 07, 2015, 01:38:56 PM
Okay, so there's lots of kondo talk on this thread. 

I'm on the waitlist for her book at the library.  I've read a very little bit about her "method," and I'm disappointed to see (admittedly in limited searches) that all everyone raves about is folding things up and putting them in the drawers vertically.  I've been doing this for years, ever since realizing that baby clothes don't do well in stacks.  (My kids are 6 and 4 now.)

Is there anything else that I might find life changing in her book, or is it just all about the damned folding and whether things you own "spark joy?"  (I mean, good tips, but a whole book devoted to these two points?)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 07, 2015, 01:47:49 PM
Okay, so there's lots of kondo talk on this thread. 

I'm on the waitlist for her book at the library.  I've read a very little bit about her "method," and I'm disappointed to see (admittedly in limited searches) that all everyone raves about is folding things up and putting them in the drawers vertically.  I've been doing this for years, ever since realizing that baby clothes don't do well in stacks.  (My kids are 6 and 4 now.)

Is there anything else that I might find life changing in her book, or is it just all about the damned folding and whether things you own "spark joy?"  (I mean, good tips, but a whole book devoted to these two points?)

Her decluttering methods of doing everything at once were useful, and the anecdotal stories were kind of fun. You are getting at the library, and I think most value from it is the mindset people get while spending the time to actually read it. Also, she spends so much time on confronting the kind of excuses people commonly give, that it's worth it there. I'm not a huge believer (although the folding was awesome) in her totally, but there is value there. I don't know that I would recommend buying it, but from the library...why the hell not?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 07, 2015, 01:59:24 PM
I just googled Kondo and saw a video of her folding a sock drawer. The fact that all the things in it were not the same height REALLY bothered me.

I guess DH's anal retentive folding has finally got me.  Even though laundry has always been my chore, he made me change how I folded things to meet his expectations. To be fair, his way is pretty good.  I can't use the exact same folds on men's clothes as women's clothes though, because the end result has to be that all the things are the same dimensions in the drawer.

Now the only thing I won't fold is my underwear. I did for awhile and decided life is too short. I still fold his, I don't think I could get away with just throwing them in the drawer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 07, 2015, 02:37:38 PM
Okay, so there's lots of kondo talk on this thread. 

I'm on the waitlist for her book at the library.  I've read a very little bit about her "method," and I'm disappointed to see (admittedly in limited searches) that all everyone raves about is folding things up and putting them in the drawers vertically.  I've been doing this for years, ever since realizing that baby clothes don't do well in stacks.  (My kids are 6 and 4 now.)

Is there anything else that I might find life changing in her book, or is it just all about the damned folding and whether things you own "spark joy?"  (I mean, good tips, but a whole book devoted to these two points?)

The method is (potentially) life-changing because it focuses on working through the emotions attached to things. You deal with every *thing* and all the feelings, memories, etc. around it. The "does it spark joy" question is not a yes-or-no question. Rather, it opens up a space for you to consider all the feelings you may have about something.

You aren't discarding unwanted  items so much as you are discarding the *baggage* they have.

By dealing with all of one category at a time, you see the whole picture. (You can make the category as small as you want. If doing all the clothes is too much, you can do all the shoes, or all the pants, or all the long-sleeved shirts--whatever suits your tolerance.)

Folding clothes is a small part of the book and you don't have to do it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 07, 2015, 09:48:10 PM
I tossed a pair of jeans today that were at least one size too big. I have another pair I probably should toss (half a size too big) but then I will have no thick winter jeans, so I put them on the maybe pile... Currently they get occasional use camping etc but I am not sure if that is enough to justify owning them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 07, 2015, 10:03:03 PM
Another 2 books out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on August 08, 2015, 02:14:29 AM
I donated a small pile of things today: old magazines, a bag of clothes, a set of sheets, some curtains, a storage container, a bicycle basket, and a book.
 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 08, 2015, 06:40:44 AM
I have done such intense decluttering over the last couple of years that I actually was thinking the other day that there wasn't anything else I wanted to be rid of ( besides books as I read them ) , but now I'm thinking I'll probably come up with more before too long - its just like that :) . but I'm very happy with what I hav now and really there's nothing that I miss and nothing that I need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 08, 2015, 10:49:05 AM
Sold 3 things from the doll collection list!  (I have about 15 I would like to go.)

Price was slightly lower than I wanted; but still not nearing rock bottom.

Today's goal is to have the guest room closet 100% cleared out so we can get started on baby room closet in a few months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on August 08, 2015, 11:59:11 AM
I've offloaded like ten books by sending them to friends and relatives. Thank goodness for book rate.


I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!

When the compost turns to dirt, cup it in your hands every evening and whisper to it how much you appreciate it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 08, 2015, 12:03:20 PM
I've offloaded like ten books by sending them to friends and relatives. Thank goodness for book rate.


I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!

When the compost turns to dirt, cup it in your hands every evening and whisper to it how much you appreciate it.

And let the dirt be taken by the wind all across the earth? :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on August 08, 2015, 01:49:51 PM
$200 at yard sale and the leftovers to charity. Yay for me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on August 08, 2015, 03:25:29 PM
I'm very happy with what I hav now and really there's nothing that I miss and nothing that I need.

That sounds like a pretty great place to be!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 08, 2015, 03:59:26 PM
I've offloaded like ten books by sending them to friends and relatives. Thank goodness for book rate.


I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!

When the compost turns to dirt, cup it in your hands every evening and whisper to it how much you appreciate it.

And let the dirt be taken by the wind all across the earth? :)

That would be a waste of good compost. Put it in the garden, on the tomato plants. When you eat the tomatoes, the compost will run through your veins.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Loretta on August 08, 2015, 04:00:44 PM
I'm using up some toiletries and cleaning products this weekend.  These 2 areas are big for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on August 08, 2015, 04:15:45 PM
I have gotten serious this week about decluttering.  I have gotten rid of about 100 books (to libraries), lots of clothing (mostly t-shirts), blankets and comforters, and some knick knacks.  Also, my recycling bin is now full (cardboard, paper, plastic).  Thankfully, not much has ended up in the trash.

My house feels like it can breathe again.

Question:  what is the best thing to do with plastic that is not recyclable?  landfill or burn it?

Has anyone here sent cassette and VHS tapes to GreenDisk (or a similar service)?  If so, were you happy with the result?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 08, 2015, 04:32:43 PM
I've offloaded like ten books by sending them to friends and relatives. Thank goodness for book rate.


I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!

When the compost turns to dirt, cup it in your hands every evening and whisper to it how much you appreciate it.

And let the dirt be taken by the wind all across the earth? :)

That would be a waste of good compost. Put it in the garden, on the tomato plants. When you eat the tomatoes, the compost will run through your veins.

Right . but the compost would eventually scatter.
And most likely land on some other ground and be of use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sheepstache on August 08, 2015, 04:59:23 PM
I've offloaded like ten books by sending them to friends and relatives. Thank goodness for book rate.


I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!

When the compost turns to dirt, cup it in your hands every evening and whisper to it how much you appreciate it.

And let the dirt be taken by the wind all across the earth? :)

That would be a waste of good compost. Put it in the garden, on the tomato plants. When you eat the tomatoes, the compost will run through your veins.

Right . but the compost would eventually scatter.
And most likely land on some other ground and be of use.

I've got it. I'll use it to grow cotton and make a new pair of pants.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 08, 2015, 07:23:28 PM
Thank you, all you inspiring and hilarious de-clutter bugs! You push me to get rid of more and more. Tonight I am listing things on craigslist. What does not sell this week will be donated.

Edited to add that this afternoon while I was doing yard work, a couple came to pick up the stack of Japanese quilting magazines. They were so happy to get them and I was so happy to say goodbye. Win-win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: scottish on August 08, 2015, 08:24:32 PM
This is a great thread!    My daughter is moving out in September and my son is 2 years behind her.   I want to start decluttering so that we'll be ready to go.

I listened to Marie Kondo's book over the last 2 weeks (audiobook on my commute to work).   At first I thought she was nuts - folding underwear and socks?    But her other ideas are excellent.    If it doesn't 'bring you joy' why are you keeping it?     (Well my tools don't really bring me joy, but I keep them so I don't have to pay people to do trivial jobs.)

I donated 4 boxes of books to the library today (8 cubic feet down, how many to go?)   I can't believe it feels good!   I've had some of those books for 30 years.   And I haven't used them for 30 years either.    We actually have empty shelf space on 2 of our bookcases now.

I'm finding this change easy because I've always been a little obsessive/compulsive about being organized.    DW not so much.   Any ideas on how to get her engaged in this process?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 08, 2015, 09:48:58 PM
I've offloaded like ten books by sending them to friends and relatives. Thank goodness for book rate.


I don't know if this counts as getting rid of something per se. A pair of khakis got too stained to wear as nice office pants so I rolled up the legs and used them as capris on days I had to paint at work. They wore out on one side of the butt and I used the extra fabric rolled up in one of the legs to patch it. Finally, while exercising at lunch, they split completely. I'm now harvesting most of the fabric to patch up another pair of work pants.

So I haven't so much gotten rid of it as dismantled it to the point of its no longer being an item.


Use the remnants to make rag paper. After you've used both sides of the paper, shred it for lining the hamster cage. When it's dirty, compost it.

Great zero waste ideas!

When the compost turns to dirt, cup it in your hands every evening and whisper to it how much you appreciate it.

And let the dirt be taken by the wind all across the earth? :)

That would be a waste of good compost. Put it in the garden, on the tomato plants. When you eat the tomatoes, the compost will run through your veins.

Right . but the compost would eventually scatter.
And most likely land on some other ground and be of use.

I've got it. I'll use it to grow cotton and make a new pair of pants.

Lol nice .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on August 09, 2015, 01:44:06 AM
I'm late but I'd love to join the party. I live with hubby and 2 small boys in an old 80sqm villa in NZ. I am a full time mum and feel like I spend all day dealing with stuff -washing, sorting, tidying, retidying and retidying again. We built attic storage so we wouldn't suffocate in our possessions. And I have had a first round of Marie Kondo but need to get back into. The biggest problem is that the first time around I wasn't sure that the family would cope with minimalism so instead of getting rid of stuff I put it in the attic. The house looks pretty good but I feel an oppressive weight from above and I know what it is -all that crap I should have gotten rid of because nobody missed anything. I need some moral support for the task at hand. I have been reading through this epic thread and you guys are amazing. The big driver for me is that I want to stay in our current home which we own mortgage free and put our cash into investments but we need to feel comfortable in our home to do that and that means keeping the clutter under control.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 09, 2015, 03:36:20 AM
If you haven't taken the stuff out of the attic in tweleve months I would take it all to the op shop without even opening the box. Because think about what stuff would you go more than 12 months not needing and then suddenly need (the only things I can think of are baby things for families planning another child, ski clothes for people who don't live on cold climates but enjoy ski holidays and maybe some tools/camping equipment though I suspect if you are mustachian the later two would at least obtain annual use.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 09, 2015, 10:59:20 AM
I have done such intense decluttering over the last couple of years that I actually was thinking the other day that there wasn't anything else I wanted to be rid of ( besides books as I read them ) , but now I'm thinking I'll probably come up with more before too long - its just like that :) . but I'm very happy with what I hav now and really there's nothing that I miss and nothing that I need.

Hahaha . well, I got inspired this morning and gathered a couple jewelries, 3 books, a tank top, some charms I don't like , and a terrible version of vanilla room spray. I also was searching for some specific photos and threw out maybe 3 more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 10, 2015, 07:27:53 AM
Had a sudden realisation today of some cosmetics that went missing last time I moved house and felt sad I dont have them anymore. I managed to nitbthink of them for over a year and now urgh... I hope I don't feel like that about stuff I decluttered, although today I had another regret (namely, why did I toss out my only track pants even though they were threadbare and covered I. Paint stains. It's really cold today**!!) Two steps forward a quarter of an inch back???
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on August 10, 2015, 07:43:44 AM
This weekend I started to face the books. I love books and my overflowing 'library', but I don't want to move them on upcoming move to LCOL area. First pass was all my old technical books. Off to recycling they went. So sad that these don't have value anymore...but must admit I don't know why I held on to old calculus textbook.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CommonCents on August 10, 2015, 08:22:28 AM
Had a sudden realisation today of some cosmetics that went missing last time I moved house and felt sad I dont have them anymore. I managed to nitbthink of them for over a year and now urgh... I hope I don't feel like that about stuff I decluttered, although today I had another regret (namely, why did I toss out my only track pants even though they were threadbare and covered I. Paint stains. It's really cold today**!!) Two steps forward a quarter of an inch back???

Sounds like the track pants needed to go regardless, and maybe you'll decide that you should replace them.  If you replace 2% of what you throw out, you're still ahead.  Re the cosmetics, if it took you a year to think about them, I don't think they're truly missed, but if they are, then consider it a learning opportunity to hone your decluttering muscles, in knowing what you will and won't regret tossing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 10, 2015, 10:07:10 AM
DD cleaned out her bathroom cabinet yesterday and tossed some almost empty shampoo bottles, hair products and expired meds.  She reorganized the rest of her stuff using an extension shelf I used to have in my closet but didn't need any more.

I haven't done any real decluttering lately (although I started another Goodwill bag with the clothes that the consignment store rejected).  I'd like to focus on it again but may wait until DD is gone back to university in September. 

I have unraveled a cashmere sweater and salvaged the yarn for a future knitting project.  I also washed and repaired the slipcovers I have on a couple of chairs in the kitchen.  My cat uses the chairs as her scratching posts (ugh, I have tried everything but I don't know how to stop her from doing that!) so there were a lot of pulls, loose threads and small holes on the sides.  And lots of cat hair!  I was prepared to just throw them out but I thought I would give cleaning them a try first.  The instructions said they are dry clean only but I washed them on delicate, hang them up to dry and ironed them.  I trimmed all the loose threads and darned the holes.  They look good!  Now, if I can only train the cat not to scratch them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 10, 2015, 11:17:54 AM
DD cleaned out her bathroom cabinet yesterday and tossed some almost empty shampoo bottles, hair products and expired meds.  She reorganized the rest of her stuff using an extension shelf I used to have in my closet but didn't need any more.

I haven't done any real decluttering lately (although I started another Goodwill bag with the clothes that the consignment store rejected).  I'd like to focus on it again but may wait until DD is gone back to university in September. 

I have unraveled a cashmere sweater and salvaged the yarn for a future knitting project.  I also washed and repaired the slipcovers I have on a couple of chairs in the kitchen.  My cat uses the chairs as her scratching posts (ugh, I have tried everything but I don't know how to stop her from doing that!) so there were a lot of pulls, loose threads and small holes on the sides.  And lots of cat hair!  I was prepared to just throw them out but I thought I would give cleaning them a try first.  The instructions said they are dry clean only but I washed them on delicate, hang them up to dry and ironed them.  I trimmed all the loose threads and darned the holes.  They look good!  Now, if I can only train the cat not to scratch them!
I have had pretty strong success putting my cat's scratching post exactly in front of my $800 couch that she likes to scratch. With the post just there she will use it instead. The second the post moves a metre away she will go for the couch. Cats are weird.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 10, 2015, 11:22:08 AM
Had a sudden realisation today of some cosmetics that went missing last time I moved house and felt sad I dont have them anymore. I managed to nitbthink of them for over a year and now urgh... I hope I don't feel like that about stuff I decluttered, although today I had another regret (namely, why did I toss out my only track pants even though they were threadbare and covered I. Paint stains. It's really cold today**!!) Two steps forward a quarter of an inch back???

Sounds like the track pants needed to go regardless, and maybe you'll decide that you should replace them.  If you replace 2% of what you throw out, you're still ahead.  Re the cosmetics, if it took you a year to think about them, I don't think they're truly missed, but if they are, then consider it a learning opportunity to hone your decluttering muscles, in knowing what you will and won't regret tossing.
Thanks. Yeah, I think the trackies deserve to be replaced after a decade of faithful service. Tossing before replacing may not have been the smartest thing in this particular instance. I am gonna sit on the cosmetics and resist the urge to replace immediately. If I still want them in a week or two I will replace them (I have hit a cycle of swearing louder makeup again). It did send a strong message to me that one you bring something into your life, even though you may view it as a "one time purchase" there can be a hedonic adaptation thing that effectively makes it an ongoing purchase. So this will make more wary of bringing new items into my life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 10, 2015, 11:26:08 AM
DD cleaned out her bathroom cabinet yesterday and tossed some almost empty shampoo bottles, hair products and expired meds.  She reorganized the rest of her stuff using an extension shelf I used to have in my closet but didn't need any more.

I haven't done any real decluttering lately (although I started another Goodwill bag with the clothes that the consignment store rejected).  I'd like to focus on it again but may wait until DD is gone back to university in September. 

I have unraveled a cashmere sweater and salvaged the yarn for a future knitting project.  I also washed and repaired the slipcovers I have on a couple of chairs in the kitchen.  My cat uses the chairs as her scratching posts (ugh, I have tried everything but I don't know how to stop her from doing that!) so there were a lot of pulls, loose threads and small holes on the sides.  And lots of cat hair!  I was prepared to just throw them out but I thought I would give cleaning them a try first.  The instructions said they are dry clean only but I washed them on delicate, hang them up to dry and ironed them.  I trimmed all the loose threads and darned the holes.  They look good!  Now, if I can only train the cat not to scratch them!
I have had pretty strong success putting my cat's scratching post exactly in front of my $800 couch that she likes to scratch. With the post just there she will use it instead. The second the post moves a metre away she will go for the couch. Cats are weird.

I tried a variety of scratching posts, pads, etc.  I had a scratching post right in front of the chair in the kitchen. She completely ignores all that stuff and goes after the chairs, the couch and the rugs on the floor...  Otherwise, she is an awesome cat so I usually just make a loud noise if I catch her in the act (clap my hands and yell NO!) and forgive her ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 10, 2015, 11:29:15 AM

I have had pretty strong success putting my cat's scratching post exactly in front of my $800 couch that she likes to scratch. With the post just there she will use it instead. The second the post moves a metre away she will go for the couch. Cats are weird.

It's like how people will use a trash can right in front of them, but won't walk 15 feet to one they can clearly see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 10, 2015, 12:02:17 PM
I just googled Kondo and saw a video of her folding a sock drawer. The fact that all the things in it were not the same height REALLY bothered me.

I guess DH's anal retentive folding has finally got me.  Even though laundry has always been my chore, he made me change how I folded things to meet his expectations. To be fair, his way is pretty good.  I can't use the exact same folds on men's clothes as women's clothes though, because the end result has to be that all the things are the same dimensions in the drawer.

Now the only thing I won't fold is my underwear. I did for awhile and decided life is too short. I still fold his, I don't think I could get away with just throwing them in the drawer.

You are much more tolerant than me! My attitude would be that if he was so particular about how the clothes were folded than he could do the laundry himself.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 10, 2015, 12:06:10 PM
This is a great thread!    My daughter is moving out in September and my son is 2 years behind her.   I want to start decluttering so that we'll be ready to go.

I listened to Marie Kondo's book over the last 2 weeks (audiobook on my commute to work).   At first I thought she was nuts - folding underwear and socks?    But her other ideas are excellent.    If it doesn't 'bring you joy' why are you keeping it?     (Well my tools don't really bring me joy, but I keep them so I don't have to pay people to do trivial jobs.)

I donated 4 boxes of books to the library today (8 cubic feet down, how many to go?)   I can't believe it feels good!   I've had some of those books for 30 years.   And I haven't used them for 30 years either.    We actually have empty shelf space on 2 of our bookcases now.

I'm finding this change easy because I've always been a little obsessive/compulsive about being organized.    DW not so much.   Any ideas on how to get her engaged in this process?

Just do your thing. As change becomes noticeable, then she may decide on her own to get involved. You can also try putting the Kondo book on tape on when she's home and you're working. May help inspire her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 10, 2015, 12:09:43 PM
DD cleaned out her bathroom cabinet yesterday and tossed some almost empty shampoo bottles, hair products and expired meds.  She reorganized the rest of her stuff using an extension shelf I used to have in my closet but didn't need any more.

I haven't done any real decluttering lately (although I started another Goodwill bag with the clothes that the consignment store rejected).  I'd like to focus on it again but may wait until DD is gone back to university in September. 

I have unraveled a cashmere sweater and salvaged the yarn for a future knitting project.  I also washed and repaired the slipcovers I have on a couple of chairs in the kitchen.  My cat uses the chairs as her scratching posts (ugh, I have tried everything but I don't know how to stop her from doing that!) so there were a lot of pulls, loose threads and small holes on the sides.  And lots of cat hair!  I was prepared to just throw them out but I thought I would give cleaning them a try first.  The instructions said they are dry clean only but I washed them on delicate, hang them up to dry and ironed them.  I trimmed all the loose threads and darned the holes.  They look good!  Now, if I can only train the cat not to scratch them!
I have had pretty strong success putting my cat's scratching post exactly in front of my $800 couch that she likes to scratch. With the post just there she will use it instead. The second the post moves a metre away she will go for the couch. Cats are weird.

The cat may like the rope or carpet posts. May like horizontal vs vertical. May not like the current location of legal scratching targets. You  need to experiment to see what will work out. And it can change with age. My older cat never liked horizontal, but I just got one from my mom and it's a huge hit now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 10, 2015, 12:20:35 PM
Got my first bag from ThredUp. Put clothes in it, sealed it, and put it out on the porch for pickup. Suddenly realized I had left out some of the main things I wanted to get rid of. Grabbed the bag and brought it back inside. The items left out are the ones that will probably bring the most $, so I don't want to forget them. I just got so excited last night I forgot. :)

If I open the bag and reseal it with tape, does anyone know if ThredUp will still accept it? Or do I need to order a new kit?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on August 10, 2015, 12:36:31 PM
NLB, I bet they'll still take it. I'm waiting on a kit now--does it fit a lot?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 10, 2015, 01:51:13 PM
NLB, I bet they'll still take it. I'm waiting on a kit now--does it fit a lot?

Yes, it's a *huge* bag.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on August 10, 2015, 02:59:38 PM
DD cleaned out her bathroom cabinet yesterday and tossed some almost empty shampoo bottles, hair products and expired meds.  She reorganized the rest of her stuff using an extension shelf I used to have in my closet but didn't need any more.

I haven't done any real decluttering lately (although I started another Goodwill bag with the clothes that the consignment store rejected).  I'd like to focus on it again but may wait until DD is gone back to university in September. 

I have unraveled a cashmere sweater and salvaged the yarn for a future knitting project.  I also washed and repaired the slipcovers I have on a couple of chairs in the kitchen.  My cat uses the chairs as her scratching posts (ugh, I have tried everything but I don't know how to stop her from doing that!) so there were a lot of pulls, loose threads and small holes on the sides.  And lots of cat hair!  I was prepared to just throw them out but I thought I would give cleaning them a try first.  The instructions said they are dry clean only but I washed them on delicate, hang them up to dry and ironed them.  I trimmed all the loose threads and darned the holes.  They look good!  Now, if I can only train the cat not to scratch them!
I have had pretty strong success putting my cat's scratching post exactly in front of my $800 couch that she likes to scratch. With the post just there she will use it instead. The second the post moves a metre away she will go for the couch. Cats are weird.
I had a log sitting on a scrap of carpet for my cat.  About 95% of the time she'd go out of her way to use the log and leave my furniture alone.  It was a log with bark still on it, completely dried and without pesky bugs.  I think I dried it in a garage for a year or so before bringing it inside.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on August 10, 2015, 05:07:24 PM
Okay, I read the Kondo book and then Kondoed our dresser. I blame all of you.

Do you love that it looks like a box of jelly beans now? I am ridiculously gleeful every time I open a drawer, post KonMari.  :-D
I recognise this so much! Yesterday evening I just had to grin when I opened my nightwear drawer, which is now folded KonMari style. It is such a change, I am quite surprised about the effect it has.

it's nice, right? i'm living out of a suitcase now, so rolling makes more sense than rectangular folding (not enough vertical space), but still, i think the impact is the same. every time i look in my suitcase, i feel tidy and pleased, and i know where everything is.

my only trouble is that a lot of my wardrobe is black (mostly tops) and they can be hard to distinguish from each other at a glance.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 11, 2015, 12:07:03 AM
Two more books out.
I might add, books are a hard one for me too. But its gotten easier. I bagan reading through my stock ( inspired by another gauntlet ) and I've since read and donated most after . there's others I want to hang onto ( nonfiction type ) , but when I finish the "new" reads ( one more ), I will begin rereading the others  and we'll see... :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 11, 2015, 04:24:22 AM

my only trouble is that a lot of my wardrobe is black (mostly tops) and they can be hard to distinguish from each other at a glance.

Miss madge, this is my trouble too! I used to differentiate between things by location - so long sleeves top at the back, short sleeve at the front. But now I've done everything by colour (darkest at back to lightest at front), I pull out a black top and have to check which it is and refold. I think I need to take Marie a bit less literally and go back to my old system :)

Last night I got rid of another body lotion. I also pulled out some SPF and decided I either need to use it or get rid of it. I was going to buy a new bottle of my favourite stuff - I've given myself a few days to test these ones and see if like them enough to use them. If I buy a new one they are going.

And I've just thrown out a load of paperwork. I have been resisting this a lot, but suddenly, today, it just clicked. I don't need it, I never refer to it, GONE!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 11, 2015, 08:35:20 AM
Not my house, but I provided a reason for my parents to clean out their garage! The garage needs some work, and to do some of it the old fridge which is being used as storage needs to be moved. As a late birthday present, I bought them a $15 shelving unit for the garage. Dad's put it together, and they're going to organize and properly dispose of a bunch of hazardous waste type stuff. Then the old fridge will go out entirely!

Then I'll go help fix the garage... and depending on what's left I might be able to get rid of more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on August 11, 2015, 09:59:47 AM
I had a bunch of things in my donate pile that weren't worth selling.  I brought to a family reunion last weekend. Let all the kids go through it and gave some specific things to specific people. Got rid of everything! Was fun to watch the kids excited about things I haven't used in so long.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on August 11, 2015, 02:51:58 PM
Now that I've sold nearly all the collectible stuff that was worth selling, I'm moving on to photos. Today I've discarded 155 old photo prints. So many are blurry or duplicates, and I'm really culling the herd. When I get them down to a reasonable quantity, I'll scan them and discard most of the rest. It's a tiring process though. As Marie Kondo mentions in her book, processing the emotions surrounding your possessions is a big part of "tidying". And I can't think of many things that bring up memories the way old photographs do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ClassyCat on August 11, 2015, 08:08:59 PM
I recycled a TON of old school papers. It's almost painful how many pages of notes I went through during college, but at least it feels good recycling them. I need to go through my closet again because I know my tastes have changed and there's stuff I'll no longer wear. I refuse to buy new hangers, so it forces me to get rid of something else anytime I get a new item.

I also need to get rid of my Breyer horses. I was embarrassingly obsessed with horses as a kid so I have my collection leftover from that. I'm wondering how well they'll sell on Craigslist.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 11, 2015, 10:30:00 PM
Two more books out.
I might add, books are a hard one for me too. But its gotten easier. I bagan reading through my stock ( inspired by another gauntlet ) and I've since read and donated most after . there's others I want to hang onto ( nonfiction type ) , but when I finish the "new" reads ( one more ), I will begin rereading the others  and we'll see... :)


Three more books out (excellent )
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on August 11, 2015, 10:53:47 PM
Spent a whole morning without kids in the attic. There unfortunately is useful stuff up there like clothes that the kids will grow into. But managed to fill the car with things for the recycling centre -old toys, clothes,  books and kitchenware and took it straight there. Felt great and will do it again as soon as I can. I feel better that the items will get a second life. But they have languished in my attic far too long. About a quarter through the job so more work ahead.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on August 11, 2015, 11:17:16 PM
Recently joined the local Buy Nothing group. Today, got rid of my first item - a set of clothespins. I had ambitions to line dry my stuff outside, but I think that will not happen; whatever I hang dry I can do on my indoor racks.

Next up: multiple extraneous kitchen items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 12, 2015, 08:21:47 AM
I also need to get rid of my Breyer horses. I was embarrassingly obsessed with horses as a kid so I have my collection leftover from that. I'm wondering how well they'll sell on Craigslist.

My roommate may end up buying some of those from you. And I will silently cringe.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on August 12, 2015, 11:34:13 AM
When she stopped by this week, I had my 25 year old daughter go through an old cardboard box of toys that ended up moving with us last year when we downsized to an apartment. She picked out a couple of things out of the box that she still wanted, and her brother kept a couple of small toys, then this morning I disposed of the rest of them including the big Uhaul box they were in. The remainders were too stained and old, mostly soft toys, to donate, so I trashed them.

This frees up space in the hall cupboard to put my vacuum away, so it will help the apartment look better too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 12, 2015, 11:04:44 PM
On a weekender in Melbourne (aka shopping capital of Australia) and noticed the 100 outfits in 100 days challenge (about using what you have) combined with decluttering has made me view shopping very differently. I did purchase two items but they were both items that have been on my want/need list for a long time (a lightweight travel towel, I only have one and need a second one for when I do two consecutive gym days. I could just use a standard towel but as the old one is very close to retirment anyway, this will be primary towel and the old one the backup). And then trail runners. Currently hiking in steel caps (work boots that work bought for me for site visits) so really needed something more suitable. Both were heavily discounted :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 13, 2015, 05:30:26 AM
On a weekender in Melbourne (aka shopping capital of Australia) and noticed the 100 outfits in 100 days challenge (about using what you have) combined with decluttering has made me view shopping very differently. I did purchase two items but they were both items that have been on my want/need list for a long time (a lightweight travel towel, I only have one and need a second one for when I do two consecutive gym days. I could just use a standard towel but as the old one is very close to retirment anyway, this will be primary towel and the old one the backup). And then trail runners. Currently hiking in steel caps (work boots that work bought for me for site visits) so really needed something more suitable. Both were heavily discounted :-)

Yeah MMM has ruined shopping for me too! But I guess that's a good thing :)

It's very satisfying to buy something which you have been needing and researching for a long time. Much more satisfying (and fun) than my old way of "want it? buy it!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 13, 2015, 06:17:21 AM
So true :-) really excited to bust these bad boys out on my next hike :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on August 13, 2015, 01:15:38 PM
Question: What do you do with random wires/cables? Can they be recycled or do they go straight to landfill?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on August 13, 2015, 02:56:04 PM
Question: What do you do with random wires/cables? Can they be recycled or do they go straight to landfill?
Anything with metal in it can go into one pile or bin, then periodically call the metal pickers.  They will take anything with significant metal content and take it apart for recycling.

Win-win-win, it's out of your house, it's recycled, and someone makes money off of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 14, 2015, 02:15:02 AM
Question: What do you do with random wires/cables? Can they be recycled or do they go straight to landfill?

Check with your municipality but I can take them to my local 'household recycling centre' (formerly known as the dump) and put with all other electricals to be recycled.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 14, 2015, 07:14:16 AM
Boxes magically disappeared from my house!

We saved about 20 boxes from our last move "just in case the need pops up". Well, it's been 3 years, and we've only had need for one of them, so I was going to put them on freecycle.

Until a neighbor posted on the neighborhood facebook page "Does anyone have boxes?"

I do! I do!

And now they are gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: veronica mars rover on August 14, 2015, 08:34:01 AM
I'm about to do another declutter weekend.  In the Tidying Up book, it mentions that you should never have to declutter again, if you do it properly.  Has this been anyone's real experience?  I find that I have to purge every three months anyway and I'm mostly bagging up garbage, recyclables, and kid items (for Goodwill).

I don't mind, really.  I make a party of it.  But does anyone ever really stop the flow of new clutter coming in?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 14, 2015, 08:42:54 PM
Another three books. Gone. Awesome.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on August 14, 2015, 08:56:29 PM
Donated 5 boxes of books to my library yesterday.  Would have taken 6, but their maximum is 5 per day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 14, 2015, 09:17:20 PM
Another three books. Gone. Awesome.

I am actually down to one box worth of books and dwindling... :) fab progress everybody
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on August 15, 2015, 12:01:05 AM
I am not sure if you ever finish.  I've gotten it all together a few times, but always moved soon after.  So my house is now really de cluttered and organized.  My plan is to stay at least 5 years.  I'll get back to you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 15, 2015, 12:52:19 AM
Read Marie Kondo's book last night and whereas I like the principle behind it, I can't relate to the book. First of all, just throwing everything away rather than find a good home for it goes against my nature. She even discourages giving away stuff as you saddle others with it. The option to sell it does not even come up.

The way she treated books before finally deciding on throwing them away is horrendous (tearing out pages to file them???) and she clearly does not understand people who love to re-read books. 30 is a lot and 100 the maximum? I read that every year just in re-reading my favourites.

I do not think she has ever held a hammer in her life so nothing on storing tools or DIY stuff, which is what I badly need some tips on as I have a hard time keeping that stuff sorted.

It is a book about a lady and other ladies with lots of lady stuff (how many handbags do you need?) and as I am not a lady I found it hard to relate. However, the generic principle behind it is OK and her folding/storing of clothes is brilliant.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 15, 2015, 06:34:16 AM
Read Marie Kondo's book last night and whereas I like the principle behind it, I can't relate to the book. First of all, just throwing everything away rather than find a good home for it goes against my nature. She even discourages giving away stuff as you saddle others with it. The option to sell it does not even come up.

The way she treated books before finally deciding on throwing them away is horrendous (tearing out pages to file them???) and she clearly does not understand people who love to re-read books. 30 is a lot and 100 the maximum? I read that every year just in re-reading my favourites.

I do not think she has ever held a hammer in her life so nothing on storing tools or DIY stuff, which is what I badly need some tips on as I have a hard time keeping that stuff sorted.

It is a book about a lady and other ladies with lots of lady stuff (how many handbags do you need?) and as I am not a lady I found it hard to relate. However, the generic principle behind it is OK and her folding/storing of clothes is brilliant.

I think, as with any other book of this kind, take and use what works and speaks to you, and don't worry about the rest. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on August 15, 2015, 11:00:45 AM
I think there is a way to think about Marie Kondo that is very enjoyable.  First, you have a book written by someone from a completely different culture.  I know she is very successful, and therefore not "average", but she isn't intellectual, and it is rare for me to read a book by an author from a completely different culture who is more "every man."  And I enjoy reading about a woman who cares about how relaxed her socks are when they are resting in her drawer.  Because how she thinks about her socks actually is a big part of the book - how do you treat, experience, and interact with the objects you surround yourself with.  And how they experience you. 

No, I doubt she owns tools.  And I have no idea what the second-hand market is like in Japan.  I do think she is rather frugal, saying you don't need to buy any organizers.  Instead encouraging the use of shoe boxes and things you already have.  I was planning on buying some things to organize with, but it turned out I already had everything I needed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 15, 2015, 04:08:11 PM
I'm about to do another declutter weekend.  In the Tidying Up book, it mentions that you should never have to declutter again, if you do it properly.  Has this been anyone's real experience?  I find that I have to purge every three months anyway and I'm mostly bagging up garbage, recyclables, and kid items (for Goodwill).

I don't mind, really.  I make a party of it.  But does anyone ever really stop the flow of new clutter coming in?
I think if you change your mentality about what comes into the house and your lifestyle stays the same it would be ok. But most people even if they change their mentality about what enters the house, will still be subject to lifestyle changes that make things redundant ( eg an injury, having children, gaining new interests at the expense of old ones) would all serve to make multiple items in the average house change from being useful to being clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ready2Go on August 15, 2015, 05:34:04 PM
Another successful decluttering day.  DH working the garage with enthusiasm now that he can see possibility of parking his car inside this winter! Had a pickup of lots of old remodeling supplies and tools;  DS decided that he is ready to get rid of all his toy trucks, cars, legos and train sets.   Whoo-hoo!!  Toy trucks and cars went to thrift shop.  I told him he can have any money we get for selling the legos and train sets on ebay, so that is a job for tomorrow, but it will be gone in a week.  We should get at least $500 for all that stuff... which sadly tells you how nuts we have been with legos and Thomas the Train sets.  And then, neighborhood boys decided to have a garage sale tomorrow so kids are packing up even more stuff.  Our house is almost looking like its staged for a sale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 16, 2015, 11:46:10 AM
I do enjoy the overall vision she promotes, just need to look past all the handbag stuff :-) and it inspired me to declutter my walk-in closet this weekend.

It now looks pretty enough to go into a magazine after my attempt at a Konmari makeover, and I have three empty shelves. I gave away one small bag of clothes to the local freecycle store, plus 100 clothes hangers and a pair of shoes that did fit, but were just not comfortable. Then I went on to donate a very thick bedspread that is very nice and warm but a pain to wash and therefore did not get used a lot, I donated that to the animal shelter along with a drinking fountain my cats did not like. Then on to the freecycle bookstore where I donated two boxes of books. Mostly not "my" books but hand me downs from others, but I managed to part with some I now have as an ebook. I firmly refused the ladies' offer to have a look around to see if there were any books I wanted...

The only thing I bought were two baskets for my underwear drawer. I have a bra drawer which is now all folded, but I can't bring myself to fold my thongs, it is just not possible to make a sensible package of something with so little fabric. So now I have two baskets, one for nice ones, one for plain ones, the rest of the drawer is for swimwear and other items not deserving a drawer all by themselves.

And I hung up two mirrors on the doors of my my closet that had been standing in the corner for 5 years. One I have had since I was 10, the other I rescued from the trash. So much space now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shamantha on August 16, 2015, 11:59:47 AM

I don't mind, really.  I make a party of it.  But does anyone ever really stop the flow of new clutter coming in?
I find that when it comes to knick-knacks, I have stopped them coming in already over 15 years ago, and since then have been decluttering what I accumulated until that time, so that works well. Once I get my tools sorted I will get better with that, as I will always be able to find what I need I will not end up with duplicate stuff in three different areas of the house. (Why do I never, ever have enough screws of the right size for any given job?)

With paperwork I tend to slip up and do not clear out when I should, for example receipts and warranties, so I need to purge every couple of years. I was thinking of starting to file them by expiry year, then every year I can just chuck out the whole expired folder.

Food tends to accumulate so eating all the food in the freezer and cupboards is a regular occurrence to keep it under control. And books, well, let's just not talk about books ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 16, 2015, 12:13:05 PM
I do enjoy the overall vision she promotes, just need to look past all the handbag stuff :-) and it inspired me to declutter my walk-in closet this weekend.

It now looks pretty enough to go into a magazine after my attempt at a Konmari makeover, and I have three empty shelves. I gave away one small bag of clothes to the local freecycle store, plus 100 clothes hangers and a pair of shoes that did fit, but were just not comfortable. Then I went on to donate a very thick bedspread that is very nice and warm but a pain to wash and therefore did not get used a lot, I donated that to the animal shelter along with a drinking fountain my cats did not like. Then on to the freecycle bookstore where I donated two boxes of books. Mostly not "my" books but hand me downs from others, but I managed to part with some I now have as an ebook. I firmly refused the ladies' offer to have a look around to see if there were any books I wanted...

The only thing I bought were two baskets for my underwear drawer. I have a bra drawer which is now all folded, but I can't bring myself to fold my thongs, it is just not possible to make a sensible package of something with so little fabric. So now I have two baskets, one for nice ones, one for plain ones, the rest of the drawer is for swimwear and other items not deserving a drawer all by themselves.

And I hung up two mirrors on the doors of my my closet that had been standing in the corner for 5 years. One I have had since I was 10, the other I rescued from the trash. So much space now!

I haven't folded my thongs either, I thought it ridiculous. In fact my whole gouchie drawer is in disarray ( although all in one drawer ). However, I hav read so many comments about how positive people's experiences hav been with folding socks that I think I'll giv tidying up the whole drawer a go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 16, 2015, 08:38:57 PM
i posted earlier about being asked to help my in-laws declutter as they prepare to downsize.

I spent the weekend with them and I bagged up 45 shopping bags of stuff for either bin, sell, or donate.

My mother-in-law was so excited by the progress, but we didn't address any of 'her' areas yet. We cleaned out the pantry, one baking drawer (she hardly ever bakes so she binned 80 per cent of her old baking trays without hesitation), my husband's childhood bedroom, laundry, guest bathroom  and one TV unit.

Yet to tackle her 'problem areas: her bathroom, clothes, linen press (she loves linen), coffee mugs (she loves coffee mugs), etc.

She resisted a couple of things I mentioned. She has a mismatched set of everyday cutlery, then a set of good matching cutlery that she looks after so well it goes back into the box it came in. The good cutlery became a necessity because my brother-in-law, when he lived at home, would nick forks for his lunch so she was always replacing them. And this is why she says she needs both sets. But he moved out of home three years ago. Get rid of the old stuff, enjoy using the lovely matching cutlery every day, and save all that space.

They've never lived in an apartment before so they're in for a massive learning curve.

When we tidied the laundry I threw out about 10 blown floodlight bulbs in their boxes - they were in the habit of putting the blown bulb back in the cupboard! In an apartment they won't have the luxury of being - well, essentially being too lazy to throw out empty boxes.

I'll keep working on her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 17, 2015, 03:58:08 AM
I'm about to do another declutter weekend.  In the Tidying Up book, it mentions that you should never have to declutter again, if you do it properly.  Has this been anyone's real experience?  I find that I have to purge every three months anyway and I'm mostly bagging up garbage, recyclables, and kid items (for Goodwill).

I don't mind, really.  I make a party of it.  But does anyone ever really stop the flow of new clutter coming in?

I do think I will only do this one big clean up. Maybe that's naive.

But since finding MMM I honestly never buy anything that I don't need and need to use straight away. I don't stockpile things anymore, so no cheap shower gel in the cupboard that I might forget about / let spoil / decide I don't like after all.

I used to enjoy shopping for stationery and makeup. No more. If I need something, I will buy it, but only to replace something, never to accumulate more. I am happy with the number of things I have, I don't want the number of things to go up.

I was at a fair recently and someone tried to give me a wristband. I was surprised at how strongly I said, "no thank you". I just don't want any stuff coming into my house. I don't browse second hand shops, I only go on ebay to replace something, I bin junk mail at the door and request to be taken off lists.

I think it can work if you just totally stop bringing anything in (except consumables). For a few years now straight after Christmas I've bagged stuff up to be donated straight away (sounds cruel, but honestly, no-one ever notices, and I don't even want stuff I CHOSE to be coming into my house, a lot of what people buy me is not something I need / want / will enjoy). Their -intent- is to give me joy, releasing these items to others who will enjoy them is honouring their intention more than holding onto them out of misplaced guilt.

I don't keep receipts / warranties etc as consumer protection laws are very good here and you don't need those kind of records, but in any case, it's extremely rare for me to buy something 'first hand' anyway. I reconcile bank statement and shred immediately. I don't keep paper things that just end up in piles. If I want to try a recipe I try it NOW and file it if I like it. Brochures / catalogues / magazines don't come into the house, if I want something to read, I get it from the library. I will buy DVDs on ebay, but we watch it and resell straight away. I don't want my house to become my 'To Do' list as it has been in days of old.

Obviously, I don't have kids. And my husband isn't a shopper (although his workshop is a different beast, but I leave it totally to him). Also, if you declutter RUTHLESSLY it's over more quickly. There's a lot of stuff I've got rid of on a third or fourth pass. That drags it out for sure, but she's right, when I've got to the right amount of stuff in a category for me, I just know.

So for me, the key in maintaining will be 1) no shopping (easy now I'm a MMM convert) 2) being ruthless with gifts coming into the house 3) stopping paper / trinkets / freebies at the door, so they never come in, and I don't have to clear them out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on August 17, 2015, 05:56:00 AM

I think it can work if you just totally stop bringing anything in (except consumables). For a few years now straight after Christmas I've bagged stuff up to be donated straight away (sounds cruel, but honestly, no-one ever notices, and I don't even want stuff I CHOSE to be coming into my house, a lot of what people buy me is not something I need / want / will enjoy). Their -intent- is to give me joy, releasing these items to others who will enjoy them is honouring their intention more than holding onto them out of misplaced guilt.

I had this revelation/concern an at art fair this weekend in my neighborhood. DH and I thought it might be a cute place to get Christmas gifts, but as we walked around we thought about how particular we are about things coming into our home, and how a really nice art print or fancy necklace might be nice from our perspective but might not be the receiver's cup-of-tea.

I think I'm going to tell my family members that, in an effort to cut down on Christmas consumption, I'll be making a donation to the charity of their choice as their gift--and that I highly encourage them to do the same for me (or go sans gift completely!) rather than buying a bunch of stuff I don't want/need. **this will be phrased much better before the conversation occurs**

I understand the impetus to give gifts--I'm absolutely that kind of person--but the sooner these conversations are had, the sooner we can forego the gifts and focus on other, more important aspects of the holiday. (Like food. Also wine. Mostly family.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 17, 2015, 07:08:32 AM
I got rid of a couple of items from the basement by posting them on Craigslist/Free Stuff: some leftover wire shelving pieces and two thermostats that I replaced a couple of years ago with programmable ones.  I tried selling the thermostats for a few dollars but no takers.  In the free section, they were gone within minutes.  I am down to 4 or 5 items to be sold.  And I have another batch of clothes ready to go to the consignment store and another bag getting ready for Goodwill.  I have also gone through all my shoes and decided to donate one pair and consign another.  I am starting to feel much better about the contents of my closet ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 17, 2015, 07:16:13 AM
I ordered a bag for ThredUp today.

Does anyone know if they only take seasonal stuff? 
Like, I have a bunch of short sleeve shirts right now, but my local consignment is only taking long sleeves.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jooles on August 17, 2015, 12:43:30 PM
Thanks for the inspiration.  Time to downsize some more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Emilyngh on August 17, 2015, 05:13:09 PM
I ordered a bag for ThredUp today.

Does anyone know if they only take seasonal stuff? 
Like, I have a bunch of short sleeve shirts right now, but my local consignment is only taking long sleeves.

They buy out of season stuff, but it's my experience that they seem to be more likely to buy something in season.   Ie., they won't reject something that's really good b/c it's out of season, but if you have a more borderline/questionable item it might be more likely to be bought in season (so fall stuff now).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bearded Man on August 17, 2015, 05:29:47 PM
I got rid of six trash bags worth of crap yesterday. I've told the gf that I want us to get rid of 5 boxes/trash bags a month if not more, for the next 12 months.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on August 19, 2015, 03:39:53 AM
Gave some furniture polish and light globes to my mum. Both relate to items I no longer own (broken lamps and a wooden chair) but will be appreciated by her. 3 more items out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on August 19, 2015, 05:53:32 AM
I've been a fairly ruthless declutterer for a few years now (I'm a big fan of Brooks Palmer (http://clutterbusting.com/) - his blog and books were literally life changing for me). And you know that fear of throwing something out and then needing it again in the future? Well, I finally hit ONE thing that I regretted getting rid of, and that was floss sticks that DH bought for me when I couldn't use my hands properly for a few weeks a few years ago. I needed them last week post-surgery when again I couldn't really use either hand for a few days.

But really, that's been it out of everything I've gotten rid of.

tl;dr: be brave and ruthless! You won't regret it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on August 20, 2015, 02:08:56 AM
Another bag of clothes ready to go out. My wardrobe is looking pretty lean right now.

I found a home for my 2 bags of books that have been sitting around for a few weeks. A local animal charity (that does low cost vet care/de-sexing street cats and dogs) is doing a book sale so those will go to a good cause.

I looked through my winter stuff but there is not much to throw out. We live in Asia so any winter gear gets used for max two weeks a year. It will last forever at this rate!

I have some DVDs to go out next.

Some random stuff like an old laptop and a pair of prescription glasses needs to find a home next. I don't throw out much here as the need for everything is so very dire. It takes me a bit longer but I always find a place that really wants the stuff and that is nice :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on August 20, 2015, 03:14:58 PM
Decent progress this week. Took a bag of fall clothes to the consignment shop, sold a few items on eBay, and tidied all my sewing and office supplies, donating or tossing a good portion. My photo scanning project continues...I love the ScanSnap which is a document scanner but you can also feed stacks of photos through it. I've scanned and discarded about 2,500 photos and have a few hundred left to go. One big item left to declutter is a collectible car, but so far no buyer. I'm thinking it might behoove me to have it inspected by a mechanic, to give buyers extra confidence.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on August 21, 2015, 05:42:42 AM
Decent progress this week. Took a bag of fall clothes to the consignment shop, sold a few items on eBay, and tidied all my sewing and office supplies, donating or tossing a good portion. My photo scanning project continues...I love the ScanSnap which is a document scanner but you can also feed stacks of photos through it. I've scanned and discarded about 2,500 photos and have a few hundred left to go. One big item left to declutter is a collectible car, but so far no buyer. I'm thinking it might behoove me to have it inspected by a mechanic, to give buyers extra confidence.

Scanning photos/docs is a Godsend.

Just out of curiosity, what kind of car is it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 21, 2015, 05:49:36 AM
I have gotten rid of alot of stuff Before and have a pretty minimalistic household. However one storage was left where we had som boxes that needed sorting. So I did it last night. It felt great. I will be able to sell alot of textbooks from University I will never use again. Some I will discard and a few I will bring into the Bookshelf.

This is a great stoarge with around 10 degrees celcius during the Winter. I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there. Some clothes as well for seasonal storage. I will also move my gun cabinet there, don't really need my shotgun in the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 21, 2015, 06:41:18 AM
I have gotten rid of alot of stuff Before and have a pretty minimalistic household. However one storage was left where we had som boxes that needed sorting. So I did it last night. It felt great. I will be able to sell alot of textbooks from University I will never use again. Some I will discard and a few I will bring into the Bookshelf.

This is a great stoarge with around 10 degrees celcius during the Winter. I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there. Some clothes as well for seasonal storage. I will also move my gun cabinet there, don't really need my shotgun in the house.

"I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there."
This must be a slip;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on August 21, 2015, 08:37:48 AM
I have gotten rid of alot of stuff Before and have a pretty minimalistic household. However one storage was left where we had som boxes that needed sorting. So I did it last night. It felt great. I will be able to sell alot of textbooks from University I will never use again. Some I will discard and a few I will bring into the Bookshelf.

This is a great stoarge with around 10 degrees celcius during the Winter. I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there. Some clothes as well for seasonal storage. I will also move my gun cabinet there, don't really need my shotgun in the house.

"I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there."
This must be a slip;)

I would love to have a storage place to keep my pain.  : )
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 21, 2015, 08:41:12 AM
I have gotten rid of alot of stuff Before and have a pretty minimalistic household. However one storage was left where we had som boxes that needed sorting. So I did it last night. It felt great. I will be able to sell alot of textbooks from University I will never use again. Some I will discard and a few I will bring into the Bookshelf.

This is a great stoarge with around 10 degrees celcius during the Winter. I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there. Some clothes as well for seasonal storage. I will also move my gun cabinet there, don't really need my shotgun in the house.

"I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there."
This must be a slip;)

I would love to have a storage place to keep my pain.  : )

I know!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 21, 2015, 08:42:07 AM
I have gotten rid of alot of stuff Before and have a pretty minimalistic household. However one storage was left where we had som boxes that needed sorting. So I did it last night. It felt great. I will be able to sell alot of textbooks from University I will never use again. Some I will discard and a few I will bring into the Bookshelf.

This is a great stoarge with around 10 degrees celcius during the Winter. I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there. Some clothes as well for seasonal storage. I will also move my gun cabinet there, don't really need my shotgun in the house.

"I keep pain, a freezer, canned items out there."
This must be a slip;)

I would love to have a storage place to keep my pain.  : )

I know!

Or better yet, donate? Or acceptable to trash ? Hahaha
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 21, 2015, 11:36:24 AM
Well you never know egen you need pain. Or paint as keep there :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 21, 2015, 12:11:03 PM
Well you never know egen you need pain. Or paint as keep there :)

I just went through some old paint, and also tried to paint my dog house with some of it. It was not easy, and it doesn't look good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 21, 2015, 12:14:20 PM
What was wrong with it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 21, 2015, 12:47:46 PM
What was wrong with it?

It was chunky. The enamel (I'm assuming) solidified.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 21, 2015, 01:26:26 PM
To bad. I use only few color outside. All the details on my house is black. Windowframes, fence and so on. I just use same paint for all of it, then it wont have time to go bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 21, 2015, 01:47:04 PM
To bad. I use only few color outside. All the details on my house is black. Windowframes, fence and so on. I just use same paint for all of it, then it wont have time to go bad.

I only use two colors outside. All of the thrown away paint (or used in the dog run) was before my time, but was fine for all of the colors around. I didn't even think about how long it takes for paint to go bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on August 21, 2015, 05:36:08 PM
Decent progress this week. Took a bag of fall clothes to the consignment shop, sold a few items on eBay, and tidied all my sewing and office supplies, donating or tossing a good portion. My photo scanning project continues...I love the ScanSnap which is a document scanner but you can also feed stacks of photos through it. I've scanned and discarded about 2,500 photos and have a few hundred left to go. One big item left to declutter is a collectible car, but so far no buyer. I'm thinking it might behoove me to have it inspected by a mechanic, to give buyers extra confidence.

Scanning photos/docs is a Godsend.

Just out of curiosity, what kind of car is it?

It's a 1969 Mercedes sedan with 6 cylinder gas engine, automatic transmission. Has low miles and we're the second owners.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 22, 2015, 12:04:39 PM
My so got rid of two large boxes of DVDs and books, she is seeing the light (at least some of it ;))

Things kept in boxes are very seldom worth saving. I can't really think of something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on August 22, 2015, 12:54:25 PM
My so got rid of two large boxes of DVDs and books, she is seeing the light (at least some of it ;))

Things kept in boxes are very seldom worth saving. I can't really think of something.

I have a big box of sports and fitness things I really need to sort through. I dig through it every now and then when I need something specific, but not that often. I fear it will be hard to get rid of most of the things in the box, even though I don't use them enough.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 22, 2015, 02:55:44 PM
Got rid of the glider our realtor gave us.
It's been in the garage since we put it away last winter.
Just not our style.

Goal is to get rid of at least 20 things this weekends, so 19 to go.
I imagine the rest will be much smaller!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 22, 2015, 05:23:50 PM
*Got rid of a stack of old printed off recipes from the internet (from the 90's!)

*Put away homeschool books not being used this year and gave away ones that we have outgrown and won't use again
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 22, 2015, 06:32:43 PM
I pulled out 71 books (from our collection of 2500 or so). I love books. But there were quite a few that no longer spoke to me. Also had a lot of books I *ought* to read--I gave myself permission not to read them, ever (unless I want to). I'll take most to the Recycle book store. Anything they don't take gets donated to the library sale.

Plus a 20-volume encyclopedia of gardening that was foisted on me at a yard sale. It's actually worth something. Trying to work up the nerve to sell on eBay for the first time ever.

Posting this to hold myself accountable for actually getting the books out of the house. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on August 23, 2015, 03:02:59 AM
A change in personal circumstances is giving me motivation to have another clean out of the stuff that I 'store'
This time hopefully with an even more practical approach to what I will actually use in the future or not!
Now to try and find some time to tackle this. (Part of the stuff is stored in a room that we have a guest in intermittently at present. Its week on / week off, so I have to work round this, or dump everything in the lounge) Wish me luck
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 23, 2015, 02:07:26 PM
Husband did a major garage cleaning!  YAY!

We sold his mountain bike. He said "just see if someone on freecycle will take it"- I told him, I'm going to list it on my buy & sell for $50 and see what happens. Him: No one is going to pay $50 for a bike on the internet.  Within 3 minutes I had an offer for $40 and within an hour it was gone.

The sad part: the bench we gave away to a neighbor is sitting in the driveway, he is picking it up tonight.  The woman who picked up the bike asked us if it was for sale. I told husband we should try selling that, and he didn't think it was worth selling.

Oh well, we've benefited from neighborhood kindness, so giving some things away is probably good.

But the trashcan overflowth!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: eeho on August 23, 2015, 08:33:24 PM
I joined a local trading group on Facebook and traded an old foam mattress, a laptop case on wheels that I've never used and a dress that was given to me by a friend that has never fit. In return I now have about 8 blocks of delicious chocolate!

I brought two blocks as my contribution to supper at my choir rehearsal and one block into work as my contribution to the snack jar; saving me money that I would have spent finding something to bring in.

I think I may be getting addicted to trading, soon I'll have no furniture, but I will have a s**tload of chocolate!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 23, 2015, 09:42:26 PM
I joined a local trading group on Facebook and traded an old foam mattress, a laptop case on wheels that I've never used and a dress that was given to me by a friend that has never fit. In return I now have about 8 blocks of delicious chocolate!

I brought two blocks as my contribution to supper at my choir rehearsal and one block into work as my contribution to the snack jar; saving me money that I would have spent finding something to bring in.

I think I may be getting addicted to trading, soon I'll have no furniture, but I will have a s**tload of chocolate!

Sounds like a great tradeoff to me! And perfect for your contributions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 23, 2015, 09:45:01 PM
Several more books out.
BTW, has anyone else noticed how wildly popular this thread is? There are pages and pages and pages of posts! I'd say this gauntlet has been a success.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on August 24, 2015, 02:02:49 AM
BTW, has anyone else noticed how wildly popular this thread is? There are pages and pages and pages of posts! I'd say this gauntlet has been a success.

Haha, yes, and I'm rather proud of starting this thread. :p :D

I haven't been active in these parts lately, as I did get rid of quite a lot of stuff when I moved interstate last year, but I'm looking around now and there are definitely still things that I can clear out, so I might try to get back into this!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on August 24, 2015, 02:31:51 AM
My so got rid of two large boxes of DVDs and books, she is seeing the light (at least some of it ;))

Things kept in boxes are very seldom worth saving. I can't really think of something.
Oh, I can. I live in a small space and keep my gift-wrapping supplies, winter clothes, future gifts and so on in boxes. Another holds my tools (hammer and screwdrivers can live on your bookshelf if you just put them in a pretty box). I'd say my single most usefull tip for small-space living is this: put all items relating to task/hobby A into a box you can easily lift down when needed and replace on it's shelf in a jiffy. My whole "office" is a box. Same with my "hobby room".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 24, 2015, 02:44:45 AM
BTW, has anyone else noticed how wildly popular this thread is? There are pages and pages and pages of posts! I'd say this gauntlet has been a success.

Haha, yes, and I'm rather proud of starting this thread. :p :D

I haven't been active in these parts lately, as I did get rid of quite a lot of stuff when I moved interstate last year, but I'm looking around now and there are definitely still things that I can clear out, so I might try to get back into this!
Limeandpepper, my goal is to 'graduate' from this thread and never need it again! If you haven't needed to come here, you're doing well :)

A handbag and a filofax sold on Ebay over the weekend. The handbag was a nice brand, and I thought it would sell well. Went for £5. The Filofax I wasn't even going to list, because, errrrr, who still uses a filofax? Went for £40!!! I just can't predict what will sell.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 24, 2015, 05:15:51 AM
I've just collected another bag of clothes to donate. I was keeping some nightwear that I really won't use so it can be used for recycling.

I just went through the fridge and had to get rid of a bit of houmous and I froze some leftover olives. Hopefully they can go into a pasta dish or something.:P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 24, 2015, 11:31:14 AM
Spent the weekend at my parents, and did oh so much on Saturday. I hurt now, but it's worth it. End results:

-30 yr old nonworking fridge out of the garage and into the trash
-gigantic window a/c that came from somewhere and ended up in the attic in the trash
-Bunch of trash from the garage is now in the trash.
-The 20+ containers of various fluids are sorted out. The ones to keep are neat in milk crates, ready to be put on the new shelving once I go back and fix up the garage. There's a giant pile of all sorts of stuff to go to hazardous waste pickup or habitat for humanity
-2 bags of top soil are spread out where they were intended to go, last year.
-1 bag of cobblestones are spread out where they were intended to go, 10 years ago.
-one car load (trunk and backseat), packed tetris-style, taken to Salvation Army.

It was too hot in the attic to work, so the stuff up there can stay until it cools off some.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 24, 2015, 11:38:37 AM
-one car load (trunk and backseat), packed tetris-style, taken to Salvation Army.

Is there another way to pack?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on August 24, 2015, 12:40:44 PM
Awesome thread!  I'm  in.  :D

This weekend I sifted through 2 dresser drawers because they were so stuffed attempting to find something specific was becoming rather frustrating.  I am going to donate numerous items, tossed several more, and put several old, clean socks into the rag pile.  I halfheartedly skimmed through two more drawers.  They'll have to wait.

I'm going to start a used DVD/VHS drive for our local VA home via Facebook.  We have hundreds of movies.  Now, to get DH on board....

From the pantry I finished the last of the almond flour, and from the freezer 3 overripe bananas.  The former went into breakfast pizzas, and the latter into banana bread.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 24, 2015, 01:11:18 PM
-one car load (trunk and backseat), packed tetris-style, taken to Salvation Army.

Is there another way to pack?
Yeah, if you're not short of space you just stack stuff right way up, leaving empty space between things that aren't perfect squares. I took 'Tetris-style' to mean things in upside down, stuff rotated to make sure every gap is filled. Ie, the car was totally packed full of stuff, as opposed to a 'full' car load, which, with stuff just right way up, would contain a lot of empty space or air.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Britan on August 24, 2015, 02:44:33 PM
I started the process of kondo'ing my stuff in the apartment this weekend, and got through clothes, books and papers before the puppy woke up. All attention has to go to him when he's up and on the carpet though, so I've got misc. stuff and mementos/photos to go!

This weekend I got rid of:
* 1 shirt (now 13 including work out clothes)
* 1 pair of pants/shorts (now 7 including work-out clothes)
* 2 "hanging items" (now 13)
* 16 socks/stockings (now 7)
* 0 bags (now 2)
* 3 accessories (scarves) (now 8)
* 1 bathing suit and 1 set of pajamas (now 1 set of each)
* 2 shoes (now 6)

This includes clothes and shoes, etc. for all seasons, so now my whole wardrobe fits in less than half my studio apartment closet, and I don't need any "off season storage".

* 2 books (now have 4)
* Like SO many papers omigosh I don't even guys.

I'm so happy, now that I've gone through my stuff, that I remembered which outfits I love and started wearing them more, and which books I love, and made a point to display and start reading them again!

I am dreading the next category... I have so much miscellaneous stuff spread out in disparate places. Next time I get a couple hours to myself, I'm going to tackle electrical equipment (game systems, cameras, etc), household equipment (sewing stuff), and household supplies (TP, paper towels, my 17+ bottles of different cleaning solutions I somehow have). Board games could be its own category...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 24, 2015, 04:14:51 PM
-one car load (trunk and backseat), packed tetris-style, taken to Salvation Army.

Is there another way to pack?
Yeah, if you're not short of space you just stack stuff right way up, leaving empty space between things that aren't perfect squares. I took 'Tetris-style' to mean things in upside down, stuff rotated to make sure every gap is filled. Ie, the car was totally packed full of stuff, as opposed to a 'full' car load, which, with stuff just right way up, would contain a lot of empty space or air.

Ah, I've read about this "not short of space" thing. :) Makes sense though. I never actually thought of packing any other method. Thanks for the clarification. Oh, fun fact: I just recently learned that you aren't supposed to do that with refrigerators.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 24, 2015, 05:40:06 PM
-one car load (trunk and backseat), packed tetris-style, taken to Salvation Army.

Is there another way to pack?
Yeah, if you're not short of space you just stack stuff right way up, leaving empty space between things that aren't perfect squares. I took 'Tetris-style' to mean things in upside down, stuff rotated to make sure every gap is filled. Ie, the car was totally packed full of stuff, as opposed to a 'full' car load, which, with stuff just right way up, would contain a lot of empty space or air.

You are correct. The sad thing is that they have enough to fill a small moving truck, minimum that will have to be gotten rid of eventually. That's what 20 years in one place will do to you, even if you're not a hoarder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 25, 2015, 02:28:28 AM

Ah, I've read about this "not short of space" thing. :) Makes sense though. I never actually thought of packing any other method. Thanks for the clarification. Oh, fun fact: I just recently learned that you aren't supposed to do that with refrigerators.

You're welcome :) I didn't know that about refrigerators - is it because you need air flow around items? I've always thought freezers were more efficient when they were full, and obviously transplanted that information and assumed it applied to 'fridges as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 25, 2015, 03:06:54 AM
I really like the decluttering process. I have been doing it for the last two years or so. I really shows in my waredrobe. I have given away jackets and some pants that did not fit. T-shirts I kept because I used them for training and so in. But now they start to fall apart and are being replaced as well. I will only have T-shirts in White and navy blue.

The garage is the only Place where I don't declutter as aggressive. I have alot of thing from the former owners as Nails, screws and so on. I am keeping the best stuff because it gets used on a regular basis.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 25, 2015, 07:25:03 AM

Ah, I've read about this "not short of space" thing. :) Makes sense though. I never actually thought of packing any other method. Thanks for the clarification. Oh, fun fact: I just recently learned that you aren't supposed to do that with refrigerators.

You're welcome :) I didn't know that about refrigerators - is it because you need air flow around items? I've always thought freezers were more efficient when they were full, and obviously transplanted that information and assumed it applied to 'fridges as well.

Freezers are more efficient when full.  Fridges, as you said, need airflow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on August 25, 2015, 07:31:09 AM
I love reading everyone's decluttering, it always keeps me inspired and pushing forward.  Did anyone declutter collectibles such as Lenox porcelain dolls and dept 56 Christmas houses?  I have a boatload and really don't want to go the ebay or craiglist route.  I have called a couple of consignment shops but they didn't seem interested and the ones that were, were not paying upfront.  I would rather get paid upfront and have that be the end.  No one seems to want this type of stuff anymore.  Any ideas anyone can share?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on August 25, 2015, 07:35:41 AM
I culled out another round of books, clothes and various items around the house and took them to goodwill or gave to any family member that was interested.  Slowly but surely, I am getting through some stuff. Although, sometimes I have half a mind to just donate it all.  I have been decluttering for about 9 years now and just getting tired of it all. I am not a hoarder but, boy, was I a shopper. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on August 25, 2015, 08:25:46 AM
A phrase has been on repeat in my head for a while:

Quote
If you wouldn't buy it today, get rid of it.

I just listed a bunch of stuff on Kijiji that I haven't used in years.

Traditional archery gear. (http://www.kijiji.ca/v-view-details.html?requestSource=b&adId=1096769777) I wouldn't use this particular gear if I had the choice; I may consider different gear. (Asiatic longbow, crossbow)
Paintball gear - half sold so far. (https://www.kijiji.ca/v-view-details.html?requestSource=b&adId=1097572007) Friends have enough to outfit a team.
Camping gear.SOLD! (https://www.kijiji.ca/v-view-details.html?requestSource=b&adId=1095841908) I like air-conditioning, WiFi, and not being bitten by bugs. Plus, friends have gear I can use since I'll probably camp with them, not solo. If solo, I'd need a much smaller tent anyway.
Sofa bed. (https://www.kijiji.ca/v-view-details.html?requestSource=b&adId=1095752529) (guests can use an air-mattress, for the few of them I ever have)

I have no "knick knacks" in my home so there's not a heck of a lot to actually downsize.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 25, 2015, 02:47:27 PM

Ah, I've read about this "not short of space" thing. :) Makes sense though. I never actually thought of packing any other method. Thanks for the clarification. Oh, fun fact: I just recently learned that you aren't supposed to do that with refrigerators.

You're welcome :) I didn't know that about refrigerators - is it because you need air flow around items? I've always thought freezers were more efficient when they were full, and obviously transplanted that information and assumed it applied to 'fridges as well.

As Iowajes mentioned, Freezers are more efficient when full. There are people around here (and other places) that throw in gallon jugs of water to ensure that the efficiency is met. Also, freezers that open from the top are more efficient than stand up units. I had an energy audit done, and borrowed the IR goggles to see what happened when I opened the freezer. All the cold air just fell out. What I was referring to was transporting fridges. I just got a new one (a bit ago) and wanted to lay it down. The freon or refrigerant doesn't do well laying down, at least as fridges are designed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: be on August 25, 2015, 04:27:29 PM
Purged a bookcase and got rid over over 1/2 of the books to donate to the local library.  Also have about 1 bag of clothes to donate.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: be on August 25, 2015, 04:37:51 PM
Oh I forgot to add, I'm very proud to say, I said no thank you to my neighbor who was also clearing out clutter.  They were getting rid of a desk, chair, shoe rack, and multiple plastic containers.

Great stuff, but I would have had to clean out more to fit it. Also to be honest I really couldn't use it.  However we did find a neighbor who could, so score all around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 25, 2015, 08:59:07 PM
Sold my Dave Ramsey money makeover stuff for $40. Got a lot of good out of it, and now a new family can too.

Threw away a shoddily constructed, dusty garment bag that has hung on way too long in our basement. Neither of us has used a garment bag in years. Why, O why do I hang on to this crap? It was so good to see it go away!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on August 26, 2015, 02:40:40 AM
I made some more progress on clothes. I don't have much to begin with, so I still agonize over some things that MAY be useful later. I still managed to fill a garbage bag for donating pretty full today and started a new one. I dumped all the clothes I could find on my bed and started going through them. Some stuff I hung up in my closet to keep, but after seeing it several times as I hung other things up helped me to  realize that I didn't want some things after all.

Slow, but making progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 26, 2015, 07:24:21 AM
Another batch of clothing is in my car and will be brought to the consignment store at lunch today.  I also have a few items to return - I was tempted by a pair of shoes at Nordstrom Rack enough to buy them but when I got home and pulled out all of the other fall/winter shoes I already own, I think I need to return them ;-)  Unless I get rid of some of the older pairs that are starting to wear out....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dcheesi on August 26, 2015, 07:59:35 AM
I "Konmaried" the heck out of my book collection this weekend. I overfilled a huge box with books to donate; I'm going to have to move them into multiple smaller boxes because it's too heavy to lift!

The only issue I ran into is what to do with long book series --do I keep only the books that I particularly liked, or do I keep the whole set? I wound up keeping the more serialized sets (e.g. Dresden Files), and cherry-picking from the ones that are more standalone or broken into sub-series (Discworld, Xanth).

I was also surprised by some of the books that *weren't* there, including the original paperbacks from one of my first fantasy series, with the original artwork. Not sure where those went, but I'm bummed that they're gone :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on August 26, 2015, 09:08:32 AM
Just discovered that my local public library no longer takes donations of books.

Its a cost saving measure, apparently.



Yeah, me too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dcheesi on August 26, 2015, 09:35:06 AM
I thought the whole point was to re-sell those books for a profit? I guess maybe book fairs aren't doing so well lately?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 26, 2015, 10:05:05 AM
Our library stopped taking donations.

They got so much junk that it cost them more in employee time in sorting it, and then they had to deal with the disposal, which isn't free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 26, 2015, 12:56:57 PM
Another batch of clothing is in my car and will be brought to the consignment store at lunch today.  I also have a few items to return - I was tempted by a pair of shoes at Nordstrom Rack enough to buy them but when I got home and pulled out all of the other fall/winter shoes I already own, I think I need to return them ;-)  Unless I get rid of some of the older pairs that are starting to wear out....

The consignment store took all of my pieces but one.  And I got a check for $130 for items sold previously :-)  I also have a batch of winter stuff that I can bring in after October 1. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 27, 2015, 03:29:21 AM
We have a village fete every year and have decided to stop doing a book stall. We were selling books at 5 for £1, because it was the only way to get rid of them, and last year, at a well attended fete, we made £19 on that stall (the raffle took around £900, for comparison). It takes a lot of effort to lug all the books around, set them up on tables, store donations all year etc, it just wasn't worth it. Used books are readily available and very cheap already. I think the market is saturated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on August 28, 2015, 10:43:31 AM
This month was a winner.  I ended a relationship and then moved out; got rid of stuff while I was packing (and have been getting rid of stuff for months), have another big box or so for the thrift shop, and have been Freecycling random things out of the donation box.  All my books are in one bookshelf now and I've already started reading down the unread ones.  By the end of tomorrow, my empty packing boxes and the donation box will all be out of my apartment.

When I put my closet back together I turned all my hangars.  Whatever isn't turned again by Christmas gets a new lease in someone else's closet.  Hello, August.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on August 28, 2015, 08:31:57 PM
Finished two shelves in my kitchen today. Asked the hard questions as to why I was keeping a couple of platters that I don't use only because they were wedding presents. They are now in the pile to donate. Have got DH somewhat on board. There is a small area of his stuff to tackle at some stage, he is getting much better at being ruthless. Got a bit more planned for tomorrow so hopefully I can report more progress then.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 30, 2015, 05:16:02 AM
I got rid of an unwanted chair yesterday, the person came and collected it from the house too.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on August 30, 2015, 01:43:29 PM
Alleycat: I was in the same spot with some expensive porcelain dolls, & other collectibles I no longer wanted & really don't bring a lot of $ on ebay. I gave them away to people that were doing silent auction fundraisers for other people to raise $ for medical bills. My items went well at the auctions & I felt good that I had helped someone.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 30, 2015, 02:05:01 PM
Got rid of 15 cans of paint that came "free" with our last house. (previous owners couldn't be bothered to pick up their trash!)  I cannot believe we still had those sitting around the garage.

Also got rid of a bit of clutter in the basement.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 30, 2015, 02:27:54 PM
Got rid of a set of sheets/duvet cover.  I realized that the duvet cover doesn't really fit my duvet well so it's going.  I was actually planning to get rid of another set that I haven't used in a while but I put it on yesterday and it is actually very nice.  Much better than the "too small" one.  Also gave my DD's swim backpack to my DD's boyfriend (he's a swim coach so he'll either use it himself or give to some kid on his team).

Just a few items left in the basement and they are not selling on craigslist so I may just donate them instead.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on August 30, 2015, 03:24:11 PM
This thread inspired me while reading it so went thru my stuff & filled my trunk. I always think that I have done my best & nothing left to de-clutter but still manage to find stuff every time I try.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 30, 2015, 09:49:20 PM
I pulled out 71 books (from our collection of 2500 or so). I love books. But there were quite a few that no longer spoke to me. Also had a lot of books I *ought* to read--I gave myself permission not to read them, ever (unless I want to). I'll take most to the Recycle book store. Anything they don't take gets donated to the library sale.

Plus a 20-volume encyclopedia of gardening that was foisted on me at a yard sale. It's actually worth something. Trying to work up the nerve to sell on eBay for the first time ever.

Posting this to hold myself accountable for actually getting the books out of the house. :)

Added a few more to the pile, and took them ALL to the library for donation. YEAH. Decided it was not worth the effort (this time) to try to sell them at the bookstore; I just wanted them OUT. Also a box of clothes to Goodwill. Then I dusted and straightened up about half of our remaining ~2000 books. They look much brighter and nicer. Now eyeing a few more that I don't think I really ever want to read.

Culled out some boring glass vases, broken mugs, mugs from the company I used to work for, a mug from the apartment complex I moved to in 1989. A few old family knickknacks that were sent to me because no one else wanted them. Guess what--neither do I. That made room in the display cabinet for some cups I really like but that were hidden away and never got used.

It's like giving away  seven bags of bad feelings.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on August 30, 2015, 10:18:12 PM
I pulled out 71 books (from our collection of 2500 or so). I love books. But there were quite a few that no longer spoke to me. Also had a lot of books I *ought* to read--I gave myself permission not to read them, ever (unless I want to). I'll take most to the Recycle book store. Anything they don't take gets donated to the library sale.

Plus a 20-volume encyclopedia of gardening that was foisted on me at a yard sale. It's actually worth something. Trying to work up the nerve to sell on eBay for the first time ever.

Posting this to hold myself accountable for actually getting the books out of the house. :)

Added a few more to the pile, and took them ALL to the library for donation. YEAH. Decided it was not worth the effort (this time) to try to sell them at the bookstore; I just wanted them OUT. Also a box of clothes to Goodwill. Then I dusted and straightened up about half of our remaining ~2000 books. They look much brighter and nicer. Now eyeing a few more that I don't think I really ever want to read.

Culled out some boring glass vases, broken mugs, mugs from the company I used to work for, a mug from the apartment complex I moved to in 1989. A few old family knickknacks that were sent to me because no one else wanted them. Guess what--neither do I. That made room in the display cabinet for some cups I really like but that were hidden away and never got used.

It's like giving away  seven bags of bad feelings.

Wow, 2,000 is A Lot of books. You cut down from 2,500?
So I'm curious to know more about these books. What sort of books, have you read most of them, how you came to hav them, etc.
I've always been an avid reader (and collecter) as well, but recently cut back to approx 30 ( with a lot of encouragement from this thread and gauntlet called Read your Bookshelves ). A few years ago I must hav had 300+ and steadily dwindling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 30, 2015, 11:53:14 PM
My so got rid of two large boxes of DVDs and books, she is seeing the light (at least some of it ;))

Things kept in boxes are very seldom worth saving. I can't really think of something.
Oh, I can. I live in a small space and keep my gift-wrapping supplies, winter clothes, future gifts and so on in boxes. Another holds my tools (hammer and screwdrivers can live on your bookshelf if you just put them in a pretty box). I'd say my single most usefull tip for small-space living is this: put all items relating to task/hobby A into a box you can easily lift down when needed and replace on it's shelf in a jiffy. My whole "office" is a box. Same with my "hobby room".
Of course! I meant kept in boxes in storage over a long time. I also have things in boxes. Winter clothing and so on. It is a good idea to invest in really good plastic boxes with snap on lids. Then mice can't get there and it does not smell.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 31, 2015, 01:46:34 AM
It's a bank holiday today so I'm going to go through our two DIY boxes to see what I can get rid of as I know we haven't touched them in months apart from to get out an energy efficient light bulb.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on August 31, 2015, 06:28:53 AM

It's like giving away  seven bags of bad feelings.

Yes.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on August 31, 2015, 09:30:04 AM
This month was a winner.  I ended a relationship and then moved out; got rid of stuff while I was packing (and have been getting rid of stuff for months), have another big box or so for the thrift shop, and have been Freecycling random things out of the donation box.  All my books are in one bookshelf now and I've already started reading down the unread ones.  By the end of tomorrow, my empty packing boxes and the donation box will all be out of my apartment.

When I put my closet back together I turned all my hangars.  Whatever isn't turned again by Christmas gets a new lease in someone else's closet.  Hello, August.

This is great!  Congratulations!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 31, 2015, 09:32:36 AM
I didn't find anything to declutter today in the DIY boxes as my hub says we need everything there. Annoying.:(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jooles on August 31, 2015, 12:46:49 PM
Selling something today and making $$.  I LOVE getting rid of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on August 31, 2015, 12:53:46 PM
For those of you who like the Raptitude blog, his latest post is all about decluttering.

http://www.raptitude.com/2015/08/konmari/ (http://www.raptitude.com/2015/08/konmari/)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on August 31, 2015, 01:24:25 PM
Raptitude is great!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on August 31, 2015, 05:14:59 PM
^^^ great article on raptitude - I have been waiting for that Kon Mari book for two months now. I'm digging in my heels and waiting for it to arrive from the library - one of these days. I will not buy it, until I know it will click with me.
Meanwhile, I am stuck - just stuck, looking at the damn paper clutter boxes and feeling bad and inept, every time I look at them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on August 31, 2015, 09:47:09 PM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 31, 2015, 09:53:33 PM

Wow, 2,000 is A Lot of books. You cut down from 2,500?
So I'm curious to know more about these books. What sort of books, have you read most of them, how you came to hav them, etc.
I've always been an avid reader (and collecter) as well, but recently cut back to approx 30 ( with a lot of encouragement from this thread and gauntlet called Read your Bookshelves ). A few years ago I must hav had 300+ and steadily dwindling.

My husband and I both read a lot and both are book people. I love books. Many books I have read (and re-read) are like old friends to me. I rarely get rid of books (until now). It doesn't bother me to have a lot of books, if they carry good feelings.

My husband has a lot of 20th-century US literature, from classes he took, and math books. I have a lot of dictionaries and word books. We have a ton of books for learning foreign languages. We both really want to learn more languages when we aren't working so much.  I have lots of old medical books. History. Politics. Sociology. Memoirs. Fiction. English. References of all kinds. Etc.

The funny thing is, I am ALSO an avid user of the library. I haven't bought more than a fraction of all the books I've actually read.

The books I'm discarding now are generally ones that I felt I *should* read, or should have read, or that I wish I had read back when I was interested in the subject--they create in me feelings of guilt, of falling short, and so on. Books that I feel I must preserve as a duty to my past, or my parents' or grandparents' past.

I'm not trying to be minimalist. My goal for now is to purge the things that actually make me feel *bad*.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on August 31, 2015, 09:55:03 PM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(

They allow you to experience the joy of giving gifts easily and spontaneously?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 01, 2015, 12:48:45 AM
I have a truck coming to pick up thrift store donations Sept 8th -- a great way to get me moving on decluttering!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on September 01, 2015, 03:04:52 AM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(
I have a gift box as well as the "trimmings": cards, envelopes, gifttags and wrapping paper, on hand at all times. While they do not exactly give me joy they do provide me with calm. I've done the "running around in panic" trying to get gift together for a family who are all of the type to invite me saturday night for a birthday party on sunday afternoon. And backup gifts makes me verry, verry happy when that invite comes.

So perhaps your gift box is the same? Either in regards to stress saved, money saved, time saved or worry saved the fact that you have them on hand gives you a positive feeling?

I continue the tidying of old things left at my parents house. Went through my (large) collection of cuddly toys this weekend. Kept only a select few. Also keeping good-quality toys that will last another generation or 3. Next out is clothes. So hard since a lot of the clothes I wore were hand-made my my grandmother. She was a great seamstress, but the clothes still are outdated. And also they make me fell fuzzily happy just to look at. Oh, well...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 01, 2015, 03:43:02 AM
I threw away some toiletries as they were used up. I'm decluttering some hair later, getting a haircut.:P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on September 01, 2015, 05:55:30 AM
Threw out an old medicine (expired) and put six more books in the donate pile (books continue to be my single biggest struggle).

Now to figure out how to get four giant bags of stuff to the donation center 2 miles away... without a car! (Maybe I'll hit up a driver friend in exchange for making him/her dinner.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 01, 2015, 06:07:21 AM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(

I'll let David from Raptitude speak for me (from the article above).

Quote from: David Cain
The process isn’t perfect. You find a lot of things that you need to keep, yet spark no joy. To help address this I keep a running list of things I eventually want to replace with a more pleasing version.
[...]
It’s easy to forget about the joy criterion once you’re in the middle of it, and slip back into asking “Should I keep this or not?” which is not the same question as “Does it spark joy?” If you forget what you're doing, you might end up keeping things because you think you should, or because they are “worth something”, or because you “might need it”, and suddenly you're getting nowhere but not realizing it. Trust the process, and don’t forget the purpose. The real benefits are emotional, and so the process is all about assessing your emotional relationship to each thing.
[...]
Probably the most common reason people keep things they’re not using is because they “have value”— meaning they once cost money. But the real value in things is the experience they create for us. Even things with a monetary value can lower the quality of our experience in a lot of ways, by making us feel guilty, taking up space, or keeping us preoccupied with goals we’re not really committed to. And the money is already gone anyway. The important question is always “What does it feel like to own this?”
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 01, 2015, 07:52:31 AM
Our old microwave (our house came with a new one) went to Goodwill.
I had a buyer but they flaked for 3 days and so I said screw it!

I wanted to take it to the consignment shop (it works great, is clean and looks fine) but they said only if it was less than 3 years old.  That seems insanely brand new.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on September 01, 2015, 08:31:50 AM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(

Do those generic gifts give joy to the recipient?  Do they nod a smile politely then put it in their thrift store donation box? Is there a way you can change your gift giving to make less clutter for both you and the recipient? 

Consumable gifts?  Experiential gifts?







Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 01, 2015, 11:38:41 AM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(

Do those generic gifts give joy to the recipient?  Do they nod a smile politely then put it in their thrift store donation box? Is there a way you can change your gift giving to make less clutter for both you and the recipient? 

Consumable gifts?  Experiential gifts?
Almost all gifts give the recipients joy. Most of them are toys or books - I try to get educational ones but some kids prefer the noise blasting ones. It definitely saves me time and effort and running around at the last minute. I guess I'll cull out down to a smaller box and stop at that!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 01, 2015, 11:39:15 AM
I konmaried most of my house and the feeling has been great. I'm now sorting the gift box. This is a box where I keep generic gifts and toys for last minute gifts and toys. Having the box saves me so much time and effort in not having to worry about getting gifts. I regularly use the gifts from the box and replenish them as well. Once this challenge started I've been gifting exclusively from the gift box. Though I've made a dent I've got a long way to go. How do I konmari the gift box? All are good useful things but they don't bring me joy. But since they are not meant for me, do they have to give me joy to be in the house? Seems very confusing to me :(

Do those generic gifts give joy to the recipient?  Do they nod a smile politely then put it in their thrift store donation box? Is there a way you can change your gift giving to make less clutter for both you and the recipient? 

Consumable gifts?  Experiential gifts?
Almost all gifts give the recipients joy. Most of them are toys or books - I try to get educational ones but some kids prefer the noise blasting ones. It definitely saves me time and effort and running around at the last minute. I guess I'll cull out down to a smaller box and stop at that!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pachnik on September 01, 2015, 01:44:41 PM
I did some kondo'ing of the sentimental stuff today.  So I am sending a small Ming tree, I think it is called, to the thrift store.  It was from my grandpa who died 20 years ago.  I have other things from him and grandma.  Little ornaments that I still enjoy and that spark joy.

So far I've sent 2 grocery store bags to the thrift store with at least 2 more to go.  My bedroom closet looks great. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on September 01, 2015, 09:09:18 PM
This Saturday I will be taking as much stuff as I can to the Germantown Park n Ride flea market. It it will fit in my 2009 Honda Fit, I am going to try to sell it.
I do this with a friend. What does not sell will be donated to the WARL thrift shop. If you are a DC area resident and find yourself there, stop by and say hi. Look for two women and the cutest dog ever!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on September 02, 2015, 05:56:02 AM
Took about 8 boxes of stuff to the thrift store yesterday.  This included some t-shirts, candles, mugs, glasses, cassette tapes, placemats, crockery, and other random kitchen stuff.  I also took another box of books (6 total this summer) to the library.  My house feels better!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 03, 2015, 02:52:32 AM
Still plodding on. I cannot believe there is still stuff that needs to go. I am now up to 1500 items out of the house this year.

I've also used up a few things which were bugging me - an eyeliner I loved and didn't want to finish because it has been discontinued, a handcream which was too greasy, and some reels of thread which were bad quality. It felt good to finish and discard of the remainders of those things (they don't go on my checklist by the way. Only things I throw away or donate, not stuff that gets used up).

I am down to three bottles of shampoo (that sounds like loads, I know, but I used to have three or four on the go at once, AND ones in stock). I am feeling kind of anxious because one is very low, and another is a tiny bottle. But I will wait until I am down to two before restocking. Yes, it would be nice to only use one, but I have sensitive skin, and too much of one thing leads to eczema, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 03, 2015, 03:31:56 AM
I am using up the last of my bath salts tonight, I won't buy that brand again as they were quite crap.

I threw away some handles, they were handles to the cat carriers I have but I never use them so out they went.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 03, 2015, 07:14:23 AM
http://www.becomingminimalist.com/clutterfree-habits/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+becomingminimalistcom+%28becomingminimalist.com%29
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 05, 2015, 05:44:28 AM
Still plodding on. I cannot believe there is still stuff that needs to go. I am now up to 1500 items out of the house this year.

Wow! Well done.

But I will wait until I am down to two before restocking. Yes, it would be nice to only use one, but I have sensitive skin, and too much of one thing leads to eczema, unfortunately.

Oh yes, I know this well. I have a variety of different sunscreens in the cupboard because I will often get a rash on my face if I use the same one too many days in a row (it's not eczema - just stupidly sensitive skin). Going without sunscreen in summer is not an option in Oz.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarahMD428 on September 05, 2015, 12:58:35 PM
This month was a winner.  I ended a relationship and then moved out; got rid of stuff while I was packing
Good for you. It sounds like you are freeing a lot of blocked energy!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on September 05, 2015, 05:39:43 PM
At the flea market today I made $33, had a delightful day with a friend and her cute dog, and got rid of about 50 things! Win, win, win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on September 05, 2015, 06:58:51 PM
I finally managed to make some money from my old stuff! I sold my daughter's Pack & Play for $40, my Fitbit that I never use for $70, and I have someone picking up baby clothes for $10 on Monday. I also have a bunch more baby stuff on craigslist, but if it doesn't sell by the end of the month, it'll go to consignment.

I've also cleaned out the kids' closet and toys - filled up a huge black trash bag with stuff. I don't know where it all comes from. I have 2 kids sharing a 11'x12' bedroom. One kid isn't even here most of the year - he lives with his dad during the school year. But during breaks when he's with me, he accumulates a ridiculous amount of stuff. The baby stuff isn't so bad - yet.

This week, I need to list more stuff for sale (camping gear and a couple of Thirty-One brand things) and take some kids' books to consignment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on September 05, 2015, 10:59:33 PM
My decluttering got to a "good space" where I didn't feel overwhelmed by stuff and then stopped in its tracks. After reading the thread, time to try again. I know there are still lots of things that are neither beautiful not practical in my house. 26 days into my no repeat work outfits challenge might also be the right time to consider the items which havent made it out of the closet yet and consider why as well as the items I didn't feel worked when I did wear them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on September 06, 2015, 03:44:09 AM
I anxiously asked the family member who gave us our dining table today if we could get rid of it. I've been trying to do this for the last 3 years,  but I assumed it was significant... Nope! She said go ahead and give it away! If we can sell it on Gumtree, great and keep the money! Wow that is a BIG relief!

We have a kerbside pickup in 4 weeks, so we're pushing to work out exactly what we want to get rid of before then.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on September 06, 2015, 07:51:52 AM
2 pairs of underwear and two tops in the trash. The undies were gifts I didn't like (and that's one thing there is no second hand market for!) And the tops were old, one had a number of holes, the other just looked super "tired".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on September 06, 2015, 10:43:15 AM
We keep and reuse more than most here, but I'm going through drawers and tossing everything that hurts to wear. I am now  officially too old to suffer for fashion, have been for years but haven't done a full purge (and if I were honest, a lot of things hurt now that wouldn't have a few years ago because of...resettlement of mass). :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NataliaDuma on September 06, 2015, 12:47:10 PM
If you are getting rid of your stuff, consider bringing them to consignment shops and even get the chance to earn even for a much lesser price from what you may have shelled out to buy that item. You can not only free up on your space at home but you can also add up to your savings in a way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ADV_CJ on September 06, 2015, 12:57:25 PM
I just got rid of a set of wheels & tires and a truck bed tent that's been sitting in my garage for the last four years.  We don't even own a truck anymore, so it was time to see this go bye bye.  My parents came visit this weekend, so they hauled them home.  They have an 92 Silverado that would benefit from both of these. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on September 06, 2015, 05:55:52 PM
Two garbage bags of clothes and shoes to Salvation Army today, woohoo! Last week I threw out tons of plastic food containers. I love decluttering!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on September 06, 2015, 08:34:16 PM
 YESTERDAY'S DE-CLUTTERING

UNEXPECTED CASH

1. I de-cluttered the desk in my home office. Found a gift card that is 3 years old and still has cash on it. Used it to pay the cell phone carrier.

NO JUNK MAIL

2. I'm still pretty good at not bringing junk mail to my desk. I sort it near the kitchen trash can. The next best thing would be to have a trash can or recycle bin near the mailbox so that the junk mail never makes it into the house.

REMEMBER THE DEAD, BUT STILL LIVE YOUR LIFE

3. Sorted through a VHS collection and brought 2 bins down to 1 by ridding myself of the ones from a deceased colleague. Nice guy, but the very idea of his belongings in my house... Well, I didn't like that feeling. All of the movies of his that I would want to keep are available on DVD or digital download, so to the donation bin they go.

I hadn't dealt with this in years. Meanwhile, I've packed that collection with my other stuff and moved to a new place... twice! What baggage! You find ways to commemorate your friends other than keeping unwanted possessions.

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

4. Last year, I knocked down my bins of childhood memorabilia by half. Yesterday, I knocked it down by half again. I opened the last remaining one for the first time in a decade or so. The school papers meant little to me, which was a relief. It was easier than I thought to let them go. I kept a few pages on which an instructor had left a nice note, but otherwise, it is now gone. My storage space is much nicer to see.

THE OUTFIT CONTROLLED MY LIFE TOO MUCH

5. There is this one outfit that I would store with my out-of-season clothes. Twice a year, I'd take it out and think of the great moments I had in it, then put it away again. I no longer wear it and this ritual was depressing. It was as if I was telling myself life cannot get any better in that area than those few moments spent in this ensemble so many years ago. I carefully folded it and placed in the donation bag. You'd think it was the national flag, I was so solemn while folding it. Yes, THE OUTFIT needed to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 06, 2015, 10:13:57 PM
@C.K. that was an amazing way of looking at things. Thank you for that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 06, 2015, 10:44:56 PM
YESTERDAY'S DE-CLUTTERING

UNEXPECTED CASH

1. I de-cluttered the desk in my home office. Found a gift card that is 3 years old and still has cash on it. Used it to pay the cell phone carrier.

NO JUNK MAIL

2. I'm still pretty good at not bringing junk mail to my desk. I sort it near the kitchen trash can. The next best thing would be to have a trash can or recycle bin near the mailbox so that the junk mail never makes it into the house.

REMEMBER THE DEAD, BUT STILL LIVE YOUR LIFE

3. Sorted through a VHS collection and brought 2 bins down to 1 by ridding myself of the ones from a deceased colleague. Nice guy, but the very idea of his belongings in my house... Well, I didn't like that feeling. All of the movies of his that I would want to keep are available on DVD or digital download, so to the donation bin they go.

I hadn't dealt with this in years. Meanwhile, I've packed that collection with my other stuff and moved to a new place... twice! What baggage! You find ways to commemorate your friends other than keeping unwanted possessions.

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

4. Last year, I knocked down my bins of childhood memorabilia by half. Yesterday, I knocked it down by half again. I opened the last remaining one for the first time in a decade or so. The school papers meant little to me, which was a relief. It was easier than I thought to let them go. I kept a few pages on which an instructor had left a nice note, but otherwise, it is now gone. My storage space is much nicer to see.

THE OUTFIT CONTROLLED MY LIFE TOO MUCH

5. There is this one outfit that I would store with my out-of-season clothes. Twice a year, I'd take it out and think of the great moments I had in it, then put it away again. I no longer wear it and this ritual was depressing. It was as if I was telling myself life cannot get any better in that area than those few moments spent in this ensemble so many years ago. I carefully folded it and placed in the donation bag. You'd think it was the national flag, I was so solemn while folding it. Yes, THE OUTFIT needed to go.

That's am interesting perspective of belongings of a deceased friend- which I respect and also of course decluttering is awesome.
I upcycle a substantial amount of old clothing, lace, blankets etc into couture dresses and handbags- much of which were given to me from friends - from there deceased loved ones. So, to each his own . :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 06, 2015, 11:02:01 PM
We're now a week into spring down under, so it's time to turn out the cupboards and see what can be tossed!

Over the weekend I pulled out and lined up all my shoes, then all my husband's.

I tossed one pair of worn out work shoes I had forgotten about (I had saved them in case I had trouble wearing in my new pair).

My husband relinquished one pair of shoes for charity (barely worn skate shoes, not really his style, and his next birthday is 30), two pairs for the bin, and discovered one pair that he forgot he had and had been planning to 'replace'.

Vacuumed the carpet in the bottom of the wardrobe, washed the shoe hanger, returned everything to its place, and am still in the stage of admiring my handiwork whenever I open the cupboard.

I rounded up a few items of clothing and made up a bag which we dropped to a charity shop.

And I sorted a couple of drawers and produced two bags of paper rubbish.

The next thing on my spring clean agenda is to clean the windows (I woke up this morning in a real hurry to do that but had to, you know, get ready for work), but after that, I will be sorting out our folded clothes.

I have also found a new home for two underbed storage tubs that are empty because decluttering always beats organising systems. The tubs are going to live with people who have not yet learnt that lesson. I'm happy, because it means they're not going to waste, and not taking up room under my spare bed that could be filled with glorious, peaceful ... nothing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on September 07, 2015, 03:20:05 AM
@C.K. that was an amazing way of looking at things. Thank you for that.

You're welcome, jordanread.


That's am interesting perspective of belongings of a deceased friend- which I respect and also of course decluttering is awesome.
I upcycle a substantial amount of old clothing, lace, blankets etc into couture dresses and handbags- much of which were given to me from friends - from there deceased loved ones. So, to each his own . :)

I would take the items of a friend's deceased relative if I were not close to that person. There would be no memories attached.

I'm still discovering how not to clutter my life with certain family rituals for the deceased. While these rituals are cathartic for everyone else, they grieve me more. I leave with a heaviness that I cannot describe. And I'm expected to participate regularly. I wish they would let me mourn in my own way.

But not to participate means to them that you neither care about the dead nor about those remaining. In short, a mild form of disdain for you shows up in the family. The only thing to do is be extremely busy or move far enough away that they don't expect you to show up every time. I'm going for the latter, by January.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 07, 2015, 04:01:29 AM
This is my favourite thread on this forum. <3

I've been given a LOT of stuff in the past month (have some health issues, have been given lots and lots of gifts). It's all been a bit overwhelming. So I've set up a new donation box next to the front door which is helping with the feelings of being overwhelmed with stuff. I've been given lots of brochures about the health issues I have too. Also not helping with the feelings of Too Much Stuff. Reading about other people giving stuff away is vicariously calming for some reason.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 07, 2015, 04:39:10 AM
This is my favourite thread on this forum. <3

I've been given a LOT of stuff in the past month (have some health issues, have been given lots and lots of gifts). It's all been a bit overwhelming. So I've set up a new donation box next to the front door which is helping with the feelings of being overwhelmed with stuff. I've been given lots of brochures about the health issues I have too. Also not helping with the feelings of Too Much Stuff. Reading about other people giving stuff away is vicariously calming for some reason.

Sorry to hear about your health issues Astatine. Hope you get things under control soon.

I decided to sort through my vases on Friday night. I'd been putting it off for a while, then all of a sudden I needed to do it -now-. I was amazed at many I have collected over the years, through deliveries and gifts of flowers, and how few I actually liked. Rounded up a lot to be donated. Listed a couple of things on Ebay - they get one shot then off they go.

I'm finding myself with less tolerance for relisting things. I guess it's because of the high value stuff is gone. But also because there is a mental cost to having the ebay box sitting there.

Along with the vases were decorative candles. One I've kept as I like the scent and will use it up. The rest I got rid of. I don't like burning any candles other than beeswax in the house, and I make those myself for cheap.

I was also struck by how gross most of the vases were because they weren't in constant use. I keep them on a high shelf in the utility room, and many of them had dead bees in them etc and lots of cobwebs. More proof that stuff I don't need and use but keep is only to my detriment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on September 07, 2015, 04:15:21 PM
I heard from ThredUp! For my bag of clothes . . . $9.32. Oh well, $9 beats having unwanted clothes in the closet.

I'm visiting my brother's house. It feels so different from mine. There is a lot of art--and a lot of clean surfaces with maybe a vase or a photo on them. I'm realizing yet again that we have way too much crap just sitting out. The space is full of stuff and furniture and stuff I don't even like. Oh, when I get back home . . . I don't even mind having the stuff (some of it), but I really don't need to look at the coffee mugs and the decanter and the corkscrews and the old espresso pot and the small tray of Euros and the . . . every single bloody day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 08, 2015, 03:41:40 AM
NoraLenderbee, I can so relate to loving the clear surfaces.

I cleared off the top of a bookshelf (not even the top shelf, just the top), and, so no-one would put anything else on it, I put a wedding photo on it. I love seeing it. It gives me such encouragement that I have been able to maintain that one spot as only for that photo.

I'm spreading that approach and introducing clutter free shelves one at a time (up to 3 now). Feels like such progress!

Last night I threw out 4 sample tubes of glue we got free. It just didn't work. Seriously. I read the instructions, did everything right, and yet every single thing I tried to glue it didn't hold, so it's gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 08, 2015, 07:04:00 AM
I heard from ThredUp! For my bag of clothes . . . $9.32. Oh well, $9 beats having unwanted clothes in the closet.


I've been going through my closet and I'm not sure it is going to be worth sending to ThredUp. I don't have anything that is a brand name.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pachnik on September 08, 2015, 10:12:48 AM
Okay, I am pleased to post that I Konmari'd my dresser, including the underwear drawer.  I can't believe I am this excited about tidying up.  I always liked decluttering but not the straightening out what was left part of this.  So my dresser and closet are done.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on September 08, 2015, 10:22:23 AM
I just joined our neighborhood's Buy Nothing FB group.  I'm going to try to start rounding up some of our stuff to give away.  Woohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on September 08, 2015, 10:47:17 AM
Got DH to take a first swipe at his clothes (man, has he been holding out). Threw out three shirts since none were salvageable for the thrift store. They NEEDED. TO. GO. It was all I could get him to part with for now.

I have three bags of stuff, plus three pots and pans and a pair of shoes, to take to the thrift store. Now to see if I can finagle a friend with a car into "going thrifting" with me...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ash7962 on September 08, 2015, 11:00:56 AM
Woo! just caught up to this thread after leaving off months ago at an early 20s page.  Its taken me about 2 weeks to read all the posts, and it has been amazing for my decluttering.  You guys have inspired me to do two things: first while going through KonMari steps 1-3 I had been placing things in garbage or paper bags so I finally got most of it out of the house totally, and second I finished the sorting part KonMari's Komono section.  So thanks everyone for that!  Now I'm left with another set of items on my entry way table to get out of the house, but I feel like I have the end in sight.  The best thing about all the decluttering is that I'm starting to feel like my apartment's natural cleanliness level has increased.  Now that I don't have to spend as much time putting things away before I get to the cleaning (or.. moving it to another surface for a few minutes), I can clean more easily and more frequently without feeling stressed or burnt out by it all.  I feel like I'll have another bump up in cleanliness once I fully finish the decluttering and I can redirect that energy.  Not to mention the fact that I won't constantly have the "on the way out" pile sitting around. 

Final steps for me will be to finish getting rid of my last "out" pile and then getting rid of the large plastic storage totes I'm no longer using!  I also need to ponder is how to reorganize the things I've decided to keep (especially knitting supplies).  They currently sit in an ugly, out of place 3 drawer plastic storage unit I got for free, but I have so much shelf space now I'm thinking about just decorating an old amazon cardboard box to be pretty and using that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on September 08, 2015, 11:14:12 AM
Hadn't done anything for a while, but with the appearance of a new clothing drop-box nearby, we've been back at it. Dropped off 4 bags of clothes this weekend, got more coming.

I'm going to buy jeans that actually fit me, and get rid of everything that doesn't.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 09, 2015, 08:46:20 AM

Final steps for me will be to finish getting rid of my last "out" pile and then getting rid of the large plastic storage totes I'm no longer using!  I also need to ponder is how to reorganize the things I've decided to keep (especially knitting supplies).  They currently sit in an ugly, out of place 3 drawer plastic storage unit I got for free, but I have so much shelf space now I'm thinking about just decorating an old amazon cardboard box to be pretty and using that.
I've had good luck covering cardboard boxes with either cheap fabric or wall paper from the charity shop and strong double sided tape (I think it was carpet tape). I found I had to do the inside as well to give it a finished look. They've held up very well, but it's not stuff I access that often.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 09, 2015, 08:53:54 AM
I had the serious urge to tidy up my husband’s dresser.

I tried to focus on Marie’s idea that if I want to tidy other people’s stuff I have messes of my own to deal with. So I decluttered even more stuff from the utility room, reorganised things to make often-used items easier to access. I tried, I really did, but in the end I couldn’t resist.

I’ve konmaried all his t-shirts, jumpers (British usage!), shorts, trousers and jeans. Suddenly, his dresser which was so crammed I refuse to put his clothes away in it has room to spare. I did not remove / throw out a single item (I wanted to! But I held firm).

He may love it, because now he can see what he has. He may hate it, and if that’s the case I will not be offended or upset if he goes back to how it was. But if he likes it, I would be happy to put his clean clothes away as it’s easy now. (I do laundry in our household, but I have never put anything of his away due to the stuffed drawers).

I do hope he likes it, but I’m also trying not be ‘invested’ in the outcome as I don’t want to be manipulative. I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that I hope that now he can see everything he has, he will get rid of few things he doesn’t like or wear. Watch this space…

PS Still folding all my underwear! About two months and counting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on September 09, 2015, 09:33:58 AM
I am pretty minimalistic, but I still end up with things hiding in drawers, closets, etc. And I still have clothes that I've stopped wearing. New, fail proof way to purge a LOT of those things without a second thought: BEDBUGS.

My roommate found bedbugs last Friday and we have been methodically bagging and removing everything. Everything will be cleaned, steamed, and/or treated before coming back in. Without hardly blinking, I have trashed bag after bag of items that are not worth the trouble. So...yay?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mm1970 on September 09, 2015, 01:06:23 PM
Haven't read Marie Kondo's book, but kind of want to.

Anyway, I've been wanting a bigger house. But I'm cheap, and it's a lot of work, and I like my 'hood.  We have a 2BR, 1BA, 1100 sf house with no garage, attic, or basement.  But we do have an 8x10 shed.

So in the last few weeks (culminating with the 3 day weekend):

1. We bought bunk beds for the boys on our local FB used page.  It's twin on top and full on bottom with drawers underneath and along the stairs on the side.
2. We got rid of our old queen mattress (that the toddler was sleeping on), plus the old rug in the boys room (it no longer fit), plus an old bookshelf that my spouse has had since the early 90's.
3. We traded dressers with the boys because ours fit better in their room after they got the bunk beds.
4.  This meant we went through all the dresser drawers.  Bagged up 3 bags of clothing (4?)  Clothing that the boys grew out of.  Post-baby clothing that was too big.  Pre-baby clothing that is too small.  (I've been trying to lose the last 5 pounds for 10 months.  These shirts are so tight on the shoulders, I just don't think I should keep them).  We also went through two tubs of hand me downs for the boys, to replenish their stashes and set aside stuff to grow into.
5.  Moved the computer desk into our bedroom.  We should get a new one that fits better, but haven't found a good candidate (except for a used one on FB but I didn't win that one).  Current computer desk is 20 years old.
6.  This means we have extra space in the living room, yay!  Moved a few area rugs around.

All in all, the boys room especially is less cluttered.  We still need to go through toys and some more clothing.  It's so freeing.  I never realized how much stress having all those clothes that don't fit me was having on me.  Stupid.  "Maybe they will fit some day".  Who cares!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on September 09, 2015, 08:00:41 PM
Mm1970,  I have been Kondo-ing to prevent buying a bigger house. The cost of the book is definitely worth it to avoid that enormous expense.  My boys (3 &5) will be sharing a room indefinitely but I'm ok with that as it means I can be a sahm. The plan was originally to buy a bigger house and me go back to work to help pay for it. But I like this declutter/stay put/not going back to work plan much better!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 10, 2015, 03:12:22 AM
mm1970 definitely get the Kondo book - small investment compared to a bigger house! And congrats on everything you've done so far.

MandyM so sorry to hear about the bedbugs. What a pain. Hope you get it all sorted.

DH LOVED the kondo'd drawers! Phew. He also 'rediscovered' two lovely jumpers he'd forgotten about, and got rid of 5 things, because once everything was clear to see it was easy to spot things he didn't like / wear. Fantastic!

I got rid of some shoes which were ugly but I thought they'd be comfortable. Turns out they were neither. I count stuff as soon as it goes in the donate bag / box so I have a car full to drop off this weekend! It's amazing to have it out of the house, it will feel great to get it out of the car as well.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on September 10, 2015, 03:53:36 AM
Attacked the dreaded under the bed space. Consolidated two memory boxes into one (was able to dispose of a number of items) and gave everything a general tidy up and reorganisation. Under the bed is my hardest section as many of the items are small and sentimental so it's the slowest one to tackle. Still going with it, but making solid progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 10, 2015, 05:21:15 AM
Today I threw away three tea towels that were falling to bits.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Villanelle on September 10, 2015, 05:45:22 AM
Selling all our 220v appliances today in anticipation of the move, as well as some storage stuff.  I'm nearly giving a lot of it away, just to have it gone, and I'll still have made $220 if the rest of the people show up as promised.  Not too shabby!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on September 10, 2015, 07:09:13 AM
MandyM so sorry to hear about the bedbugs. What a pain. Hope you get it all sorted.

Thanks. It really is a pain to deal with, but I am trying to look on the bright side. We have gotten rid of so much stuff. And selfishly, I'm happy that my roommate is uber paranoid - she has cleared out a lot of things that she has been unwilling to in the past.

Also, I'm glad I'm on MMM. The financial aspect of this whole thing isn't hardly a second thought. $100+ for mattress covers: bought. Vacuum to use and toss at the end: bought. Steamer: bought.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on September 10, 2015, 01:55:19 PM
2 big boxes of stuff out of here yesterday. I'm finally getting back in the groove after being set back by 2 injuries (and accompanying surgeries) in 8 months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on September 10, 2015, 03:38:17 PM
Tended to a lower kitchen cupboard that has been a toss an item in quickly and shut the door to avoid things spilling onto the floor:

Relocated a use once-a-year toaster.  I really should rid of it completely....
Tossed two items
Two items went into DH's garage
Approximately 8 items soaked, cleaned, dried, and put into the donate pile.  We accumulated numerous water bottles from our various volunteer activities over the years.
Cleaned and dried the beautiful crystal vase and put it back into the cupboard.  It is only one of two I kept from a purge earlier this year.
Took out the shelf liner and wiped down both shelves.  Waited for them to dry, put the shelf liner back, and neatly placed remaining items back into the cupboard.  Ahhhh... Sweet relief!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on September 10, 2015, 09:11:53 PM
I haven't had much success lately. I did sell my daughter's pack & play for $40. I listed a bunch more baby stuff on a local facebook buy/sell page, but no bites yet, just one lowball attempt. Then tonight I was looking on eBay and found out that the same things are selling there for more than I've been asking, so I'm in the process of listing it there instead.

theadvicist, I am exactly where you were wrt husband's clothes. He has SO MUCH, and I refuse to put away his laundry because it's such a mess. But he rarely puts it away, either, so there's always at least 1, usually 2 or more, piles of clean folded clothes sitting around the bedroom. I might konmari his drawers and see if it makes a difference. In the past I've straightened up and folded his stuff, but he would just dig through the stacks and make a mess, which bothered me, because it seemed like an insult to my work. So I think I'll take your approach and just do it once and see if it sticks.

My kitchen stuff needs to be the next category to konmari. I have a teeny-tiny kitchen and a zillion things that I never use. We have a crock-pot that got used once and then stopped working. A cupcake display thing that was used once, at our wedding 4 years ago, and has been sitting in the box ever since. An ice cream maker that was a wedding present, and I don't want it because I'm no longer friends with the person who gave it, so, y'know, negative associations. Et cetera. I'd love to toss our mismatched dishes and silverware and get a nice basic matching set, but that costs money, so I've been putting it off. I've done little bits with the kitchen, but I really need to set aside an afternoon and just do the whole thing in one go.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on September 13, 2015, 09:57:41 AM
Sometimes, downsizing means buying something new that does the job of multiple other items.

Latest: several backpacks & sling bags - a runner's day/hydration pack, an alpine sling bag, and a camera bag - downsized in favour of this sling pack (http://www.hazard4.com/products/packs/slings/plan-b).

So, all these:

(http://www.rei.com/zoom/xx/bb1107b1-814b-4c25-b96a-309b6badad68.jpg/330) (http://thumbnail.image.rakuten.co.jp/@0_mall/coretown/cabinet/66193781.jpg?_ex=300x300&s=2&r=1) (http://images2.opticsplanet.com/365-240-ffffff/opplanet-kata-bags-nbsp-t-216-torso-pack-xl-kt-t-216.jpg)

To this:

(http://thumbnail.image.rakuten.co.jp/@0_mall/captaintoms/cabinet/03222526/img61033310.jpg)

It doubles as a bug-out-bag, and archery accessory sling, with some first aid gear, hydration pack etc.

Three bags now down to one and it's adaptable for other tasks. (MOLLE webbing allows expansion too)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tariskat on September 13, 2015, 11:03:29 AM
This month was a winner.  I ended a relationship and then moved out; got rid of stuff while I was packing
Good for you. It sounds like you are freeing a lot of blocked energy!

I hadn't thought of it that way, but yes!!  Life is a lot smoother and cleaner this way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 13, 2015, 03:55:41 PM
This month was a winner.  I ended a relationship and then moved out; got rid of stuff while I was packing
Good for you. It sounds like you are freeing a lot of blocked energy!

I hadn't thought of it that way, but yes!!  Life is a lot smoother and cleaner this way.

Now that's real deal decluttering! Always an excellent time to get rid of things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: northernlights on September 13, 2015, 09:17:10 PM
Cleaned out two dressers and have two more trash bags for Goodwill. This makes about 15 bags this year! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 14, 2015, 03:25:38 AM
Dropped all the bags off at the charity shop (didn't peek!) and it felt good. I don't know how stuff I don't want is still coming out of the woodwork but it is.

Some of my good work in the utility has been undone - I was so pleased at how empty the shelves were after my decluttering - until a friend brought round a big cool box we had left at theirs. Whoops. Still, the shelves are much less full than they were 10 days ago - even with the cool box back in place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 14, 2015, 04:31:30 AM
I got a gift this weekend and it came in a pretty box that I would have kept in the past but it went straight into the recycling bin.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on September 14, 2015, 05:44:07 AM
Husband took two bags to goodwill, then sorted out five shirts that should go as well (there is a major clean out pending for his clothes ...). Home is at a state of calm at the moment. All clean, put away, and relaxed
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 14, 2015, 05:55:12 AM
I got a gift this weekend and it came in a pretty box that I would have kept in the past but it went straight into the recycling bin.:)
Well done! So tempting to keep the pretty boxes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 14, 2015, 06:01:41 AM
I got a gift this weekend and it came in a pretty box that I would have kept in the past but it went straight into the recycling bin.:)
Well done! So tempting to keep the pretty boxes!

Haha, thanks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on September 14, 2015, 12:27:07 PM
Tossed an old broom handle and a rusty handsaw left behind by my former roommate. Donated a linen dress and a free drawstring backpack I got for walking a 5K.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on September 14, 2015, 05:11:16 PM
Sometimes, downsizing means buying something new that does the job of multiple other items.

It doubles as a bug-out-bag, and archery accessory sling, with some first aid gear, hydration pack etc.

Three bags now down to one and it's adaptable for other tasks. (MOLLE webbing allows expansion too)

Ha! I did almost the same thing.  I sold most of the old bags although I'm having a hard time with the one that has my initials monogrammed on it.  Think school age bookbag.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on September 15, 2015, 05:52:54 AM
Sometimes, downsizing means buying something new that does the job of multiple other items.

It doubles as a bug-out-bag, and archery accessory sling, with some first aid gear, hydration pack etc.

Three bags now down to one and it's adaptable for other tasks. (MOLLE webbing allows expansion too)

Ha! I did almost the same thing.  I sold most of the old bags although I'm having a hard time with the one that has my initials monogrammed on it.  Think school age bookbag.  :)

I still have the monogrammed backpack that I got as a high school freshman! I still use it several times a year, so it gets to stay. Sadly, the zippers are getting a bit wonky...it might be on its last years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on September 15, 2015, 06:30:04 AM
Spent the weekend at my parents, and did oh so much on Saturday. I hurt now, but it's worth it. End results:

-30 yr old nonworking fridge out of the garage and into the trash
-gigantic window a/c that came from somewhere and ended up in the attic in the trash
-Bunch of trash from the garage is now in the trash.
-The 20+ containers of various fluids are sorted out. The ones to keep are neat in milk crates, ready to be put on the new shelving once I go back and fix up the garage. There's a giant pile of all sorts of stuff to go to hazardous waste pickup or habitat for humanity
-2 bags of top soil are spread out where they were intended to go, last year.
-1 bag of cobblestones are spread out where they were intended to go, 10 years ago.
-one car load (trunk and backseat), packed tetris-style, taken to Salvation Army.

It was too hot in the attic to work, so the stuff up there can stay until it cools off some.
Two bags kids clothes, fish tank and box of books all out this weekend. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pachnik on September 15, 2015, 06:39:24 AM
I wonder if thrift stores are noticing receiving more stuff these days with the popularity of the Marie Kondo tidying up book?  Next time I drop by, if I remember to, I will ask someone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on September 15, 2015, 12:08:49 PM
I wonder if thrift stores are noticing receiving more stuff these days with the popularity of the Marie Kondo tidying up book?  Next time I drop by, if I remember to, I will ask someone.
  In my Puget Sound town, I've noticed a huge increase in donations to our thrift store. Every time I go there to drop things off, the donation room is full to bursting. And I go in there pretty often. ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on September 15, 2015, 12:10:32 PM
I notice a spring/fall increase, as people start getting ready for summer/winter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 16, 2015, 02:26:55 AM
I've just emptied the bins and the recycling was taken out.

I need to de-flea my pets today so that stuff will be thrown out afterwards

Im going to look through the fridge and cupboards and check that there is nothing out of date.

I'm making a pasta bake with leftover veggies.

I wonder if thrift stores are noticing receiving more stuff these days with the popularity of the Marie Kondo tidying up book?  Next time I drop by, if I remember to, I will ask someone.

I thought the same thing.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 16, 2015, 11:47:33 AM
I just took all the pieces to hang at my art show yesterday, after that chaos of working & preparing for months, I need a good tidying again. (Rent a rent, so bedroom and art studio in one! It's a good things my belongings are minimal- ha-ha). Already have a bag to donate and haven't even started.
Also my roommate is way messy, throws her stuff around all over the place ( including the middle of the stairs! ). Anyway, I told her I'd help her ( she's told me she needs help, has a hard time letting go of things ). She said in the past she told a friend to just start tossing things, so I said I can do that! So I tidyied up the back porch a bit, only spendy maybe 15 minutes (!) But already have a huge bin of paperwork to recycle and a huge bag to donate. Excellent progress. I foresee a massive declutteer. Excited to soon hav a clear home environment :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RunningWithScissors on September 17, 2015, 09:22:21 AM
Hubby and I installed a DIY epoxy floor in the garage this past weekend, which meant everything - EVERYTHING - had to be moved outside.  Needless to say, it was a great opportunity to declutter and get rid of those 'keep it just in case' items and the duplicates of tools.  Took too-small kids bikes to the bike recycle shop, extra tools were sold on Kijiji and I finally installed the two bags of insulation left over from renovations in the garage ceiling. Most of our garden tools and big but rarely used construction tools are stored under the new deck we built this year.   We'd previously sold one of our two cars, so now there's only one car, a shelving unit and two bikes in the garage.  Looks awesome!

My husband was tempted by some shiny pre-fab garage storage systems, but he's agreed that a simpler system is just as good.  Why pay $12 for a specialized broom hanger that needs a proprietary rail system when you can just drill a hole in the broom handle and hang it on a nail?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 18, 2015, 02:12:30 AM
I'm making up a food parcel to donate to a local food bank in the next couple of weeks.

I am buying a new candle decoration so I will look for something old to donate in it's place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 18, 2015, 02:26:40 AM
DH walked out of the door last night with a pair of shoes and said, "throwing these out, add it to your list" Yay! More proof that tidying your own stuff does rub off on people, I had not mentioned or hinted about the worn-out shoes at all (in fat I hadn't even noticed them).

RunningWithScissors we also had to empty the garage a few weeks ago, and weeded things out as we went. When we put it all back in, we were looking for a pile that we had missed, because, where was everything?! So glad to have got rid of some of the bulkier stuff because now it's easier to get my bike out. I've just realised I forgot to mark anything off my list though :( Oh well, if I'm at 1500 and that includes nothing from the garage clear up, it only shows I  have a way to go. I wonder if I can make it to 2015 by year end, it's definitely getting harder!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 18, 2015, 05:45:04 AM
Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 18, 2015, 05:59:25 AM
Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.

Donate. It hurts, but the money is gone. Seeing them will just remind you that you feel you misspent it.

I used to work in a charity shop, and non-mainstream stuff went the fastest, and for good money for the charity. People can walk into any high street store to buy mainstream stuff. They often sought us out for the fact we had more 'out there' stock.

Also, sorry to hear about your medical treatments - I wish you all the best.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 18, 2015, 07:38:12 AM
Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.

Do you have a consignment store near you?  I've had great luck with consignment for clothes and shoes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on September 18, 2015, 01:31:21 PM
Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.

No advice, but can you post a picture or link? I'm really curious what the unusual boots look like. I bet they're awesome.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 19, 2015, 03:31:33 AM
I just gave a tin of soup to a family member ( I bought it accidentally as I didn't realise it had milk in it and I don't have dairy) and I threw away a costume necklace that I never wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 19, 2015, 06:00:57 AM
Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.

Donate. It hurts, but the money is gone. Seeing them will just remind you that you feel you misspent it.

I used to work in a charity shop, and non-mainstream stuff went the fastest, and for good money for the charity. People can walk into any high street store to buy mainstream stuff. They often sought us out for the fact we had more 'out there' stock.

Also, sorry to hear about your medical treatments - I wish you all the best.

Thank you so much. They will go to a charity shop this week. That was the kick up the arse I needed.

Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.

Do you have a consignment store near you?  I've had great luck with consignment for clothes and shoes.

I'm reasonably sure they don't exist in my city. Just did a quick google to check and there's nothing obvious (or maybe consignment stores are called something else in Australia?) There is minimal market for second hand clothes here (except vintage stuff that appeals to hipsters). The charity shops are drowning in excessive amounts of clothes, and the recycle shed at the rubbish tip gives all its secondhand clothes away for free (they charge a small amount for shoes though).

Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

So I decided to get rid of them about 3 or 4 months ago (I got DH to ask me if I love and want to keep them and my spontaneous answer was no). They've been sitting in the lounge room near the front door ever since. I could potentially sell them for $20 but I don't have the energy cos I'm going through some full-on medical treatments for the next 6 months or so.

Help me get rid of them please... Should I just donate them to charity? They are very unusual boots, not at all mainstream.

No advice, but can you post a picture or link? I'm really curious what the unusual boots look like. I bet they're awesome.

I have no mental energy for that, sorry.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 19, 2015, 01:31:10 PM
I went thru my stack of illustrations, collages, and magazine clippings & recycled about half.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on September 19, 2015, 02:19:41 PM
I'm going to be back home tomorrow after almost four months in Canada. I have five days before I leave again...since I've been living with a suitcase and two backpacks' worth of stuff all summer, I'm curious how much i will be able to get rid of this week!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on September 20, 2015, 09:56:35 AM
Last weekend was Recycle Rendezvous in our town. You could put stuff out on your lawn for others to take for free. Got rid of tons of stuff. Couldn't believe the stuff that went. Cassette tapes? Who uses them any more? The stuff that was left has been sitting in the garage. Called a charity yesterday and they will be coming to pick it up. Feels good to get rid of so much stuff all in one fell swoop. Already looking forward to next year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 20, 2015, 11:07:29 AM
More crap out... some extras that came with an electrical device I bought binned, recycling taken out and used up toiletries binned.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 20, 2015, 12:51:00 PM
My roommate asked me to help her declutter- to just throw things out, which I thought amazing. Anyway, I've donated two trash bags so far & two trash bags also in the recycling. She hasn't noticed a thing yet! So as I feel like it, I'll keep going . might add that I cannot believe some of the things she's left outside on the patio- what seems to me like important documents, etc. I am happy to help & happier to be working toward a tidy home environment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on September 21, 2015, 04:08:39 AM
Went through the stach of papers last night. Old bils from my former house? Yes, I had saved those. And lugged them to my new home.  *facepalm*
Now, at least, they are gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 21, 2015, 04:52:29 AM

Thank you so much. They will go to a charity shop this week. That was the kick up the arse I needed.


You're welcome, I've had a few gentle arse kickings on this thread, and it really helps!

In the UK we call a consignment store a 'Dress Agency', dunno if it might be the same down under.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 21, 2015, 07:46:32 AM
I sold a humidifier on Craigslist over the weekend.  I have a sneaking suspicion that the buyer thought they were buying a dehumidifier because they mentioned something about a basement?  Their English was not that good.  Oh well, my listing description was correct and I had clear pictures of it in the listing.

Now I am down to just 2 or 3 items that I would like to sell.  I'll list them one more time and if they don't go, I will donate them.  I also prepared another batch of clothing for the consignment store.  I will bring them in later this week.  And my pile of stuff for Goodwill is steadily growing.  Should be ready to be dropped off next weekend.  Where is all this stuff coming from????
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 22, 2015, 11:19:15 AM
I decided to bring the new batch of clothing to consignment today since it was ready to go and taking up room in my coat closet.  While there, I tried on a couple of pairs of pants but ended up not buying anything, and I collected a check for $83 for items that sold over the last couple of weeks. 

I also went through the drawer in the bathroom holding my hair dryer, brushes and hair products, and realized that I have 4 different products for curly hair, in addition to products I actually use.  I used to have curly hair but it stopped curling when my hormones started changing due to perimenopause about 4 years ago... Out they go!  The more I look through various drawers and closets, the more I find to get rid of.  I really should do a Marie Kondo style purge :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on September 22, 2015, 12:14:30 PM
This sad thread about hoarding making firefighting harder inspired me to go home and work on my mini-hoard:

http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/antimustachian-wall-of-shame-and-comedy/hoarding-making-firefighting-harder/

A pair of sandals, a fleece jacket, some old work shirts, and a travel pillow have been added to my donation pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on September 23, 2015, 03:03:13 AM
A couple of old dog toys thrown away today.

The more I look through various drawers and closets, the more I find to get rid of.  I really should do a Marie Kondo style purge :-)

You should! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 23, 2015, 10:14:46 AM
Still going thru my roommates stuff, another three garbage bags full out - total of 5 now! Two huge bags of recycling out . and she hasn't noticed s thing missing! (She told me to just start throwing things away. Good fun :) .loving an increasingly tidier, more serene environment .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 23, 2015, 11:26:20 AM
This month marks one year since I began my purge.  I notice a few things have shifted and a few are still the same. 

Most of the house is pretty spotless and tidy.  It seems that once an area is dealt with and Kondoed I resist recluttering it.  When I walk into our bedroom and there is something out of place I quickly tidy it.  It is sort of like being inhabited by an alien: seeing my arms reach out and put things away.

I adore (ADORE!!!) the Mari Kondo style of folding clothes.  It has changed how I view my clothes.  Taking out a carefully folded packet gives me a lovely feeling.  I feel as though I am someone who cares about her possessions, not someone who lets them get all scrunched up.  I carefully selected what stays and what went so everything left is loved and appreciated.  This feels new to me.

Walking into the kitchen and seeing things on the counters feels icky so I don't let things accumulate much any more.  Such a delicious feeling.

I still have a pile of "to be dealt with" stuff. Dealing with that and not having it accumulate again will feel amazing. it is in the same spot it has been in for a year.  It all requires more attention such as scanning.  Scanning seems to be my bugbear.  Only one closet in the house left to do plus the one remaining pile of stuff.  I have put this off for some time.  I have never lived without clutter and I wonder if I have resistance to getting rid of the final bits?

My new habits seem to be ingrained but time will tell.  I am very aware of my love of visual order now and how clutter messes with my serenity (this from someone who used to have piles of paper and clothes next to her bed).  I feel a new peace when I am at home. When I survey a room and it is tidy I feel a wave of ease come over me.

How are things with the rest of you?  Notice any shifts in behaviour?  Are you loving your new life?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 23, 2015, 11:53:13 AM
This month marks one year since I began my purge.  I notice a few things have shifted and a few are still the same. 

Most of the house is pretty spotless and tidy.  It seems that once an area is dealt with and Kondoed I resist recluttering it.  When I walk into our bedroom and there is something out of place I quickly tidy it.  It is sort of like being inhabited by an alien: seeing my arms reach out and put things away.

I adore (ADORE!!!) the Mari Kondo style of folding clothes.  It has changed how I view my clothes.  Taking out a carefully folded packet gives me a lovely feeling.  I feel as though I am someone who cares about her possessions, not someone who lets them get all scrunched up.  I carefully selected what stays and what went so everything left is loved and appreciated.  This feels new to me.

Walking into the kitchen and seeing things on the counters feels icky so I don't let things accumulate much any more.  Such a delicious feeling.

I still have a pile of "to be dealt with" stuff. Dealing with that and not having it accumulate again will feel amazing. it is in the same spot it has been in for a year.  It all requires more attention such as scanning.  Scanning seems to be my bugbear.  Only one closet in the house left to do plus the one remaining pile of stuff.  I have put this off for some time.  I have never lived without clutter and I wonder if I have resistance to getting rid of the final bits?

My new habits seem to be ingrained but time will tell.  I am very aware of my love of visual order now and how clutter messes with my serenity (this from someone who used to have piles of paper and clothes next to her bed).  I feel a new peace when I am at home. When I survey a room and it is tidy I feel a wave of ease come over me.

How are things with the rest of you?  Notice any shifts in behaviour?  Are you loving your new life?


Wintersun, your transformation sounds fantastic!

I was tidy and neat to begin with but I did have a lot of stuff.  What I have learned over the last few months is that it's fine to let go of things.  For me, the biggest lesson from Mari Kondo  was to recognize when things have served their purpose.  And then to thank them for their service and let them go.  There was one line in her book that really resonated with me - I don't recall the exact words but it was an example of an article of clothing that didn't suit but you held on to it.  Not every item of clothing you buy has to be worn to death.  She said to recognize its real purpose as teaching you what color or cut didn't work for you and then let go because the item DID serve its purpose. 

Oh, and I do love her folding style.  It's magic, it works and it sticks with you!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 23, 2015, 12:09:11 PM
ZiziPB,  hello fellow MK folding friend!!! (waves)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 23, 2015, 02:34:32 PM
I'm so excited, we are having an all city large trash day this weekend.  I have plans of getting rid a bunch of the larger things that I can't throw away normally such as the broken screen door and the blue barrel that we made into a horse for an event but haven't used since.

The only hitch in my plan is my husband has been ordered by a doctor to not lift anything over 5 pounds until the middle of October.  So I'm on my own for this.  Wish me luck, I'll need it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JROH on September 23, 2015, 08:11:00 PM
I just wanted to send a quick thank you for this thread!  I have been lurking for quite some time and am an aspiring minimalist at heart.

DH and I are welcoming twins into our two bedroom home in about three weeks and I was so nervous about the influx of stuff for the babies.  I have spent the last few weeks clearing out my own clutter and encouraging DH to do the same.  While I don't think we have an equal number of things going out as coming in, we are definitely streamlining our own lives to make room for two more humans.  Also we have been extremely picky about what we have purchased/ registered for the twins in hopes of keeping things to a minimum.  I feel very good about our choice to continue to live small as opposed to upgrading our house, car, and lifestyle simply because that is the status quo.

Thank you for your inspiration!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on September 23, 2015, 08:37:09 PM
Hi JROH, living small with kids can certainly be done and feel quite luxurious as well. My boys are a boisterous 3 and 5 and we plan to stay in our 2.5 bed indefinitely. I can tidy from hurricane level mess to immaculate in 15 mins and a thorough house clean takes an hour. You will have to put up with everyone assuming you plan to upsize or asking 'how you do it?' as if you were scaling Mt Everest with a baby on each hip. Most kid stuff is optional with the exception of your love, time and attention and if you keep your stuff minimal you will have an abundance of this to share. You will find there is a Manufactured Product for every parenting issue like teething, sleeping etc but most of them don't work and the phase soon passes. A deep breath and a sense of humour can cure most things without expense.  Best of luck for the adventures ahead!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 25, 2015, 02:25:24 AM
This month marks one year since I began my purge.  I notice a few things have shifted and a few are still the same. 

Most of the house is pretty spotless and tidy.  It seems that once an area is dealt with and Kondoed I resist recluttering it.  When I walk into our bedroom and there is something out of place I quickly tidy it.  It is sort of like being inhabited by an alien: seeing my arms reach out and put things away.

I adore (ADORE!!!) the Mari Kondo style of folding clothes.  It has changed how I view my clothes.  Taking out a carefully folded packet gives me a lovely feeling.  I feel as though I am someone who cares about her possessions, not someone who lets them get all scrunched up.  I carefully selected what stays and what went so everything left is loved and appreciated.  This feels new to me.

Walking into the kitchen and seeing things on the counters feels icky so I don't let things accumulate much any more.  Such a delicious feeling.

I still have a pile of "to be dealt with" stuff. Dealing with that and not having it accumulate again will feel amazing. it is in the same spot it has been in for a year.  It all requires more attention such as scanning.  Scanning seems to be my bugbear.  Only one closet in the house left to do plus the one remaining pile of stuff.  I have put this off for some time.  I have never lived without clutter and I wonder if I have resistance to getting rid of the final bits?

My new habits seem to be ingrained but time will tell.  I am very aware of my love of visual order now and how clutter messes with my serenity (this from someone who used to have piles of paper and clothes next to her bed).  I feel a new peace when I am at home. When I survey a room and it is tidy I feel a wave of ease come over me.

How are things with the rest of you?  Notice any shifts in behaviour?  Are you loving your new life?

Wintersun, it sounds like we are feeling similarly, although I don't think I'm quite as far along as you. I started at the end of January. My bedroom also now feels calm and relaxing, and I make the bed as soon as I get up, and hate to have anything out of place. I also find myself dusting and vacuuming much more frequently, because I get pleasure out of it looking nice. Never thought I'd say those words!

However, not everywhere in the house is like that yet, I still have work to do.

I'm also still folding MK style, and loving it. Even the underwear! But I have stopped organising everything by colour - dark and the back to light at the front, as she suggests. I just found it was harder to see what I had. 2 black t-shirts next to each other morph into one, but if I can see them distinctly I can recall what is different about each of them and why I like them.

The hardest part for me is using things up and not immediately replacing them. With most things I'm finishing them and THEN seeing if I miss them / need them. But I'm pretty much at the point now where everything is 'necessary' (used loosely, because, you know first world and all that), so when I empty something I immediately want a new one, even if I won't need it for a couple of months (eg hair dye. I'm used to having a current one, and one in stock. Now, I've finish everything I have in the house... but I still won't need the replacement for weeks or months). Forcing myself to wait.

Re scanning, would it be quicker / easier / acceptable to take photos instead? If you are just looking to 'take a copy' just in case, and will likely never look at it, I often find this sufficient, and far faster, using a camera, iphone, or ipad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 25, 2015, 08:47:37 AM
I'm so excited, we are having an all city large trash day this weekend.  I have plans of getting rid a bunch of the larger things that I can't throw away normally such as the broken screen door and the blue barrel that we made into a horse for an event but haven't used since.

The only hitch in my plan is my husband has been ordered by a doctor to not lift anything over 5 pounds until the middle of October.  So I'm on my own for this.  Wish me luck, I'll need it!
This is coming along nicely.  I have until tonight to get things out to the curb.  I am amazed at the crap we've been ignoring in the picnic shelter and the shed.  Just so much crap that we put out there "just for now".  Ugh, that's a terrible phrase!  I have a significant pile including the screen door, a bunch of styrofoam (that the recycling people won't take despite the recycle symbol on it, pet peeve of mine), several moldy throw rugs, a bunch of completely worn out outdoor cushions, the cardboard boxes that went with the styrofoam, some old iron scrollwork that we tore out years ago, an old table, some plastic lawn furniture that's falling apart...

So much more to go.  I'm going to be one tired puppy by the end of today!  I have to go to work for 3 hours now, and do the grocery shopping, and I have a customer coming over for a hem job tonight.  I hope I can get all the things out that I wanted to.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on September 26, 2015, 06:25:29 PM
I'm settling into my new apartment.  Did some significant letting go of things in the past two years, but I'm at maintenance level now.

Today I was browsing online for organizing and small space living ideas.   I was overwhelmed by so many clever ways to pile stuff and hide stuff and stack stuff and decorate stuff and make stuff look cute and just kept wondering why these super cooler bloggers didn't ever stop buying stuff!  Oh the excess! 

Walls of shelves built just to display purses and shoes!  Cute racks to hold scarf collections.  How many scarves can a person wear at a time?!

I am so grateful for the excess I have.  I am so privileged. I am also so glad that I don't have 20 extra boxes of toothpaste and 5 bottles of shampoo and half a dozen pairs of black riding boots because they are just too cute to resist.

I have what I need and I'm pretty happy with that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on September 26, 2015, 07:33:58 PM
At a community yard sale we sold some bits and bobs and made $35. The money is just incidental, getting this crap out of my basement was the important thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on September 26, 2015, 10:01:47 PM
PMG, I agree, it is amazing the organizing of excess that we do.  I was pretty surprised that after I did a hard decluttering, how many fewer storage hacks I needed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 27, 2015, 04:52:33 AM
I am still organizing and getting rid of stuff...  It seems never ending. 

Yesterday, I Konmaried the last drawer in my bedroom.  I did underwear and socks before.  This drawer holds gym clothes.  I got rid of two tops there. 

I also went through my knitting yarns and managed to reduce them to 2 bins.  I used the third bin to pack away some summer clothes that are currently one size too small.  If I don't fit into them next spring, they will go.  I got rid of everything that was two sizes too small.  I prepared a couple more items for the consignment store and finished the pile for Goodwill.  I think I will bring it in today.  I still have way too many sweaters.  I hit a wall in that category, so I decided to wait until spring and then give away any I have not worn by then. 

I went through my cleaning supplies and tools.  What do I do with dusters and mops I don't use?  Can they be donated or should I just throw them out?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on September 27, 2015, 07:00:00 AM
What do I do with dusters and mops I don't use?  Can they be donated or should I just throw them out?

Lots of non-profits would accept cleaning supply donations, especially the smaller ones. Humane societies are what stick out in my head.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on September 27, 2015, 12:06:53 PM
Humane society will also welcome old blankets, etc since they use them for dog beds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 27, 2015, 02:32:37 PM
This is a small one, but I finally used the epoxy finish kit that I bought for a project like 2 years ago.  It's been annoying me every time I open the cupboard and see it there nagging me to finish the project, and now it's done. 

My eBay adventures are almost complete, so a bunch of boxes I was saving for shipping went into the recycling. 

Just did all my laundry and feel like my dresser drawers are still too full.  Might have to take another run at culling, but I wear almost everything in there, so maybe I just need to focus on attrition and blocking new stuff from coming in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 27, 2015, 03:16:12 PM
The large trash cleanout went well, everything left on the curb was picked up by either the trash pickers (after the metal, there wasn't anything salvageable other than that) or the borough.  I didn't get everything I wanted up there, ran out of steam, but I did get a very large pile gone!

One amusing thing I "decluttered".  While cleaning out the shed I found a 5 foot long snake skin, probably from the black snake I saw in there a few months ago.  Well, I think snake skins are cool, so I posted a pic on facebook.  A friend said her sister would love that as a christmas present, so I asked her for shipping costs and mailed it to her!  Decluttered a snakeskin!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 27, 2015, 06:26:43 PM
I'm going through cancer treatment at the moment (not posting for sympathy - just for context!) and about 2-3 months in, I got given a metric shit ton of brochures and booklets about living with a cancer diagnosis. There is soooo much. (and it was stuff that would have been helpful in the first couple of weeks, not 2 or 3 months in when I was coping much better and mostly come to terms with it) I feel like I'm drowning in the stuff so today's decluttering will be doing a major cull and donating any of the more substantial booklets/books.

One amusing thing I "decluttered".  While cleaning out the shed I found a 5 foot long snake skin, probably from the black snake I saw in there a few months ago.  Well, I think snake skins are cool, so I posted a pic on facebook.  A friend said her sister would love that as a christmas present, so I asked her for shipping costs and mailed it to her!  Decluttered a snakeskin!

Oh wow, that's so cool. (as long as the snake was not too venomous - we have some scarily deadly snakes around here)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on September 27, 2015, 07:05:14 PM
Yesterday morning I sorted out one of  the kitchen cupboards of death!!! Didn't get rid of much (some tuppaware without lids/bottoms) but it now doesn't pounce out and attack me every time I open the cupboard. I did the worst one but I will try the others today.

On another note while i have been 90% successful in maintaining order the underwear draw refuses to be tidy!!! Folding underwear is sooooo not instinctive for me!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on September 27, 2015, 08:22:22 PM
My unmentionables drawer is the tidiest it has ever been, in my whole life.  I had 4 shoebox size clear plastic containers (bought them about 5 years ago for $1/pc at Big Lots.) and they fit perfectly.  So now I have separate places for underwear, bras, light socks and dark socks.  I felt kind of weird putting a picture of my stuff on the Internet, so I emptied the bins with underwear and bras.  I don't fold, but it still feels tidy to me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on September 27, 2015, 08:26:05 PM
Called the city and got a special trash visit where they took away an enormously heavy TV my son had left in my basement.  We got it out to the backyard and it has been sitting there for about a year!  Now it is gone gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 28, 2015, 05:18:21 AM
I can't believe that the Marie Kondo book has gotten so popular. Interesting article (http://www.raptitude.com/2015/09/busyness-is-a-kind-of-debt/) over at Raptitude, and this time he talks about decluttering time and emails. Good stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 28, 2015, 06:56:35 AM
The large trash cleanout went well, everything left on the curb was picked up by either the trash pickers (after the metal, there wasn't anything salvageable other than that) or the borough.  I didn't get everything I wanted up there, ran out of steam, but I did get a very large pile gone!

One amusing thing I "decluttered".  While cleaning out the shed I found a 5 foot long snake skin, probably from the black snake I saw in there a few months ago.  Well, I think snake skins are cool, so I posted a pic on facebook.  A friend said her sister would love that as a christmas present, so I asked her for shipping costs and mailed it to her!  Decluttered a snakeskin!

Wow, a five foot snake skin!! So cool to pass that on.. I'm glad someone will enjoy that. Would freak me out probably ha-ha:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 28, 2015, 07:32:51 AM
This isn't the first time I've found a 5 foot long snake skin in the shed :-)  I thought at the time that the first one was from a huge garter snake I had been seeing around.  They rarely get to be 5 feet long, it was a beautiful snake!  Dark blue with yellow/green stripes down its length.

Don't worry, black snakes are common around here, and I've never heard of anyone being hurt by one.  I like having snakes in our shed, it's not vermin tight and that helps keep the mice and chipmunks to a minimum.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 28, 2015, 07:51:57 AM
Brought the pile of stuff that was ready to go to Goodwill yesterday but I forgot a lamp that I set aside for donation.  It will have to wait for the next batch.  I brought the extra cleaning tools to Goodwill and they had no problem taking them.

It's harder now to find things to get rid of, but I also noticed that I have no trouble letting go of a number of things that I kept previously "just in case".  I feel like I need to revisit all the previously decluttered areas.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on September 28, 2015, 11:42:49 AM
ATMO it's way easier to get rid of things the second time around if they're already in the maybe pile the first time. Maybe is a timid vote for getting rid of something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 28, 2015, 12:16:57 PM
This isn't the first time I've found a 5 foot long snake skin in the shed :-)  I thought at the time that the first one was from a huge garter snake I had been seeing around.  They rarely get to be 5 feet long, it was a beautiful snake!  Dark blue with yellow/green stripes down its length.

Don't worry, black snakes are common around here, and I've never heard of anyone being hurt by one.  I like having snakes in our shed, it's not vermin tight and that helps keep the mice and chipmunks to a minimum.

Cool:). Rarely see a snake where I live, but there are harmless garter snakes, also rattle snakes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: C. K. on September 28, 2015, 04:44:30 PM
Shelves in the bathroom had too many items on them, items that I did not use all the time.

I placed most of the items into an easy-to-reach, out-of-sight storage area. I then used a tray on the shelf on which to keep the things I use regularly. If it cannot fit on the tray, then it cannot come out of storage.

 I didn't need to make those other items so handy. The bathroom shelves are far more organized and a pleasure to see in the morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Silvie on September 28, 2015, 09:36:25 PM
Inspiring thread. Commenting so I can follow it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on September 30, 2015, 08:27:32 AM
Six more items of clothing out the door following a critical analysis of the 100 day challenge so far (43 selfies down, 57 to go).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 30, 2015, 08:49:15 AM
So a bit of a backstory that kind of shows how happy I am that my little brother is finally going this route. My brother has a relatively large house, with a 2 car garage. I don't have a garage. Before I went car free, I was doing all of my work in the street or the driveway. He has so much junk in his garage, he can't get his car in there. While doing his brakes, he called me to complain  that it started raining, and he couldn't finish. I just laughed at him since he actually has a garage. Well, last week he mentioned that he needed to really clean it out. He's a truck driver, so spends 10-12 hours a day on the road. So I grabbed the Marie Kondo book in audio format and burnt it to CD for him. He started listening to it, and is on board so far. That is huge!!!

Also, while I went to burn the CD, I started going through the files on my computer and began a deep clean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on September 30, 2015, 09:43:27 AM
Ok, so I'm usually pretty good decluttering and Getting Rid of Stuff. However, I am stuck on a pair of boots. I bought them about a year before I discovered MMM and was in a phase of trying to break free of fear of deprivation and miserliness. DH encouraged  me to splurge a little on myself, so I bought some awesome looking boots that were ... wait for it ... $300 (might even have been more). I have never spent so much on a pair of shoes! Not even my expensive runners come close. I love these boots but they hurt my feet and ankles so much. They are full-on chunky so stretching them is not an option.

I actually just recently purchased boots for over $300, for the first time. See, what happened was, I went to r/BuyItForLife and started reading about what boots would last a long, long time, because I'm sick of shoes that die in a year. From there I ended up at r/GoodyearWelt (goodyear welt being one of the, if not the, most durable methods of shoe construction) and got recommendations for manufacturers whose stuff really just frickin lasts. I'm expecting the shoes to arrive today.

The entire reason I started wearing leather boots was because I was told a good pair will last you 10 years or more. Well, clearly the $60 ones I bought last year were not a good pair. I don't just mean sole wear (those can be replaced), but a wearing upper too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 30, 2015, 10:03:31 AM
Dog brought home fleas after staying at the neighbor's house for a week.  (UGH! 10 years and we've never had a flea!!!)

Took this as an opportunity to throw away anything I didn't want to bother to wash.  The house isn't infested yet (I haven't had a bite so far) and I do not want it to be- so EVERYTHING is being washed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 30, 2015, 10:31:55 AM
Tidied the break room at work yesterday, looking quite lovely. AND now ppl will know what we hav & stop stocking up.  there must be a million napkins & plastic wear.
Also, coworkers & I decluttered some cabinets. Several books & hair tools donated (work in beauty salon ). Lots of papers, etc recycled. Owner of salon was going to throw everything in the TRASH so I told her I'd take care of it. Omg, with all the options in the area where I live , how appalling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 30, 2015, 10:46:23 AM
Still going thru my roommates stuff, another three garbage bags full out - total of 5 now! Two huge bags of recycling out . and she hasn't noticed s thing missing! (She told me to just start throwing things away. Good fun :) .loving an increasingly tidier, more serene environment .

So the other morning I went into the kitchen and it was in worst ever state ive seen it. Wish u could post the video, but my phone doesn't hav the capability. Mess of food preparing, dirty dishes, cabinets left open, garbage on floor, recycling needed emptying, dishes in dish drain, carpet iin corner as if kicked over.... When I later morning ran into her in the kitchen I said, "I love you but this is ridiculous". Mind you, she's a really peaceful, gentle person with this being her flaw. It was hard to confront her. But when I moved in and get former roommate (with a two year old) moved out, she said she was looking forward to a tidy house. Being tidy myself I was happy to hear this. So as you can imagine I became quickly appalled.
In any case, comment seems to hav had an effect, because when I came home, was spotless- kitchen & dining room. And the next day the laundry area was cleaned up, bathrooms, hallways becoming cleared, book cabinets decuttered and sorted....!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on September 30, 2015, 10:48:11 AM
I have been rocking and rolling this week.   Settling into my new place.  Not much left to purge, though I did toss a few hair ties I don't like and have a book for the thrift shop. 

I made a platform bed with storage under it a few weeks ago.  Most of what faces out is made from cube storage shelves.   I initially bought several half shelves and storage baskets to match it, but when I unpacked the shelf units and saw all the cardboard I realized that I might as well make my own "baskets."   The cardboard is double corrugated and very heavy duty, so I doubled it up and made my own half shelves too.  I used tools and glue and fabric I already had on hand.  The fabric was given to me when a friend cleaned out her closets.  It's a pretty neutral but is cheap and not worth putting into a quilt, so it's perfect for a storage container!  I put cute little drawer pull handles on them.  So far I've made the equivalent of about $100 worth of target storage bins and baskets for free, mine might even be sturdier. 

In the process of doing this I've rearranged 3/4 of my possessions and found out I even have some empty storage space in my 290 sq feet.  Wha!?!?

These shelves hold my clothing, my sewing supplies, my books, school supplies, extra toilet paper and even some cooking supplies.

I still have a few boxes to make and I'll live with this set up for a month or so and see how it works. 

I'm pretty dang pleased.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 30, 2015, 10:53:08 AM
I have been rocking and rolling this week.   Settling into my new place.  Not much left to purge, though I did toss a few hair ties I don't like and have a book for the thrift shop. 

I made a platform bed with storage under it a few weeks ago.  Most of what faces out is made from cube storage shelves.   I initially bought several half shelves and storage baskets to match it, but when I unpacked the shelf units and saw all the cardboard I realized that I might as well make my own "baskets."   The cardboard is double corrugated and very heavy duty, so I doubled it up and made my own half shelves too.  I used tools and glue and fabric I already had on hand.  The fabric was given to me when a friend cleaned out her closets.  It's a pretty neutral but is cheap and not worth putting into a quilt, so it's perfect for a storage container!  I put cute little drawer pull handles on them.  So far I've made the equivalent of about $100 worth of target storage bins and baskets for free, mine might even be sturdier. 

In the process of doing this I've rearranged 3/4 of my possessions and found out I even have some empty storage space in my 290 sq feet.  Wha!?!?

These shelves hold my clothing, my sewing supplies, my books, school supplies, extra toilet paper and even some cooking supplies.

I still have a few boxes to make and I'll live with this set up for a month or so and see how it works. 

I'm pretty dang pleased.

290sq. ft. ? That sounds so lovely to me. Hate to say my areas COL is the highest in U.S. , so my cheap room in condo with two roommates is the way to go for me for now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Helvegen on September 30, 2015, 11:14:43 AM
I've started the decluttering process, because we decided we are going to be RVing full-time next fall.

I am getting rid of my pressure cooker, crockpot, and rice cooker because Instant Pot.

As soon as I get my new and smaller, but much higher quality, block of knives, will be CLing my old knife block.

I really need to get rid of some glasses. I have no idea why we have four cabinet shelf spaces for glasses for three people.

I have some odd multiples of kitchen gadgets like two pasta forks. Got me.

I have two dresses, and pant suit, and some dress shoes I need to get rid of. I also need to clean out the coat closet. Lots of pullovers and coats in there that are just way too big now.

Hard, but I am going to have to pare down my books to the bare minimum.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 30, 2015, 11:20:12 AM
I've started the decluttering process, because we decided we are going to be RVing full-time next fall.

I am getting rid of my pressure cooker, crockpot, and rice cooker because Instant Pot.

As soon as I get my new and smaller, but much higher quality, block of knives, will be CLing my old knife block.

I really need to get rid of some glasses. I have no idea why we have four cabinet shelf spaces for glasses for three people.

I have some odd multiples of kitchen gadgets like two pasta forks. Got me.

I have two dresses, and pant suit, and some dress shoes I need to get rid of. I also need to clean out the coat closet. Lots of pullovers and coats in there that are just way too big now.

Hard, but I am going to have to pare down my books to the bare minimum.

Awesome! RVing sounds really fun. And a super fantastic motivation to do massive declutter. I suspect you will love the paired down look :).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on September 30, 2015, 12:00:49 PM
Took two giant bags to the Brown Elephant yesterday (all I could carry on public transit). Down to one giant bag and some odds and ends.

Well, it was all, until I took another swipe at my closet and bookshelves. Seven books and six items of clothing later, it just went back up to two bags and some odds and ends...

I'm aspiring to a Project333-esque wardrobe now. It's painful, but also wonderful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Helvegen on September 30, 2015, 12:19:02 PM
Awesome! RVing sounds really fun. And a super fantastic motivation to do massive declutter. I suspect you will love the paired down look :).

I'm looking forward to it. I am trying to think in terms of what I need to survive and thrive. I think I'll miss my chest freezer the most. Obviously no way that thing is getting in an RV! Now that I think about it, the huge reason I have the thing in the first place is to store freezer meals, bread dough, etc because I don't have time to cook from scratch meals every night anymore like I did before I went back to work. I have to batch make them on the weekends and freeze them. When we go RVing, I don't think this will be an issue anymore. Problem solved? :p
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 30, 2015, 01:00:32 PM
Awesome! RVing sounds really fun. And a super fantastic motivation to do massive declutter. I suspect you will love the paired down look :).

I'm looking forward to it. I am trying to think in terms of what I need to survive and thrive. I think I'll miss my chest freezer the most. Obviously no way that thing is getting in an RV! Now that I think about it, the huge reason I have the thing in the first place is to store freezer meals, bread dough, etc because I don't have time to cook from scratch meals every night anymore like I did before I went back to work. I have to batch make them on the weekends and freeze them. When we go RVing, I don't think this will be an issue anymore. Problem solved? :p

I'm guessing that means you can't store anywhere for free. If you can find time to cook to eat up your stock before you go would be good (prevent waste & spend less). Did you already get rid of the crock pot and pressure cooker? Could help take the pressure off you. And obviously donate or sell all those kitchen items before you leave.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on September 30, 2015, 01:06:05 PM
Decluttered and organized 3 drawers (2 misc mementos, my supplements, a couple tools. And one bathroom items), as well as 3 shoeboxes with sewing and art supplies. Everything nice and neatly organized now & several photos and papers out. Also found a claim for funds from some sort of class action lawsuit expiring 10/6/15! Wow, filed online just in time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 02, 2015, 09:18:11 AM
Another batch of stuff going to consignment today.  I also returned 3 clothing items that I bought recently but decided they didn't quite work for me after all.  I really don't need more clothes but keep on being tempted by new stuff....  Need to work on that.

I am planning to go through my hall closet and my papers over the weekend.  And I have to list my remaining 3 items on Craigslist.

Now the hardest part will be not to allow new stuff into the house ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on October 02, 2015, 11:56:52 AM
I found a swivel-headed wrench on the way to work. Can I bring it home? It will be useful, and making a "find" sparks joy in me. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on October 02, 2015, 12:52:45 PM
(other)Nora, I say keep it! I love picking stuff up and then if it serves no purpose it's so easy to let it go later, because you know you didn't spend anything on it so there's no weird psychological reason to justify the cost by hanging onto it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on October 02, 2015, 01:01:37 PM
Another batch of stuff going to consignment today.  I also returned 3 clothing items that I bought recently but decided they didn't quite work for me after all.  I really don't need more clothes but keep on being tempted by new stuff....  Need to work on that.

I am planning to go through my hall closet and my papers over the weekend.  And I have to list my remaining 3 items on Craigslist.

Now the hardest part will be not to allow new stuff into the house ;-)

Don't go shopping. Just don't walk into the store. Don't go to the website. can't buy it if you don't have the opportunity. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 02, 2015, 06:06:24 PM
We have a kerbside pickup this week. I'm considering getting rid of:
- 2 blue couches
- 2 office chairs
- a bookcase
- assorted outdoor chairs
- dining table

This will leave us with room to replace those items in ways that work for us. I've tried selling the old items but no one was interested, and they don't work for us but it is scary to get rid of so much large furniture at once!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on October 02, 2015, 06:57:41 PM
Be strong anatidaev.  At one point we had 7 couches in out house.  Believe me when I say that it's much easier to gain a couch than it is to get rid of 1 (or 5).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 02, 2015, 08:23:19 PM
We have a kerbside pickup this week. I'm considering getting rid of:
- 2 blue couches
- 2 office chairs
- a bookcase
- assorted outdoor chairs
- dining table

This will leave us with room to replace those items in ways that work for us. I've tried selling the old items but no one was interested, and they don't work for us but it is scary to get rid of so much large furniture at once!

It will be so fabulous to create a space you love!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 02, 2015, 11:47:23 PM
We have a kerbside pickup this week. I'm considering getting rid of:
- 2 blue couches
- 2 office chairs
- a bookcase
- assorted outdoor chairs
- dining table

This will leave us with room to replace those items in ways that work for us. I've tried selling the old items but no one was interested, and they don't work for us but it is scary to get rid of so much large furniture at once!

It will be so fabulous to create a space you love!
I got all psyched up, then realised it's not for 2 more weeks. So, I have time to plan for more stuff to go...

Edited to add: just real the "rules" and they won't take anything longer than 1.5m, which is several of my items. Will try anyway, and might have to hire something to take them to the tip if they don't :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Liz on October 03, 2015, 09:13:29 AM

I am getting rid of my pressure cooker, crockpot, and rice cooker because Instant Pot.


I keep looking at the Instant Pot but cannot pull the trigger for some reason.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 03, 2015, 11:23:36 AM
Finally rid of the microwave I thought I had a buyer for a few months ago, but they flaked multiple times- then I never took it to goodwill.

The best part- I freecycled it to someone who seems genuinely thrilled to have a microwave. Man, I take a lot for granted.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on October 03, 2015, 12:21:00 PM
I found 2 spare DVD players along with our VHS player in the closet. I'm copying the VHS tapes over to DVD and will soon be able to get rid of all these spares, along with a whole shelf of VHS tapes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarahMD428 on October 04, 2015, 09:34:37 AM
I haven't had much success lately. I did sell my daughter's pack & play for $40. I listed a bunch more baby stuff on a local facebook buy/sell page, but no bites yet, just one lowball attempt. Then tonight I was looking on eBay and found out that the same things are selling there for more than I've been asking, so I'm in the process of listing it there instead.

My kitchen stuff needs to be the next category to konmari. I have a teeny-tiny kitchen and a zillion things that I never use. We have a crock-pot that got used once and then stopped working. A cupcake display thing that was used once, at our wedding 4 years ago, and has been sitting in the box ever since. An ice cream maker that was a wedding present, and I don't want it because I'm no longer friends with the person who gave it, so, y'know, negative associations. Et cetera. I'd love to toss our mismatched dishes and silverware and get a nice basic matching set, but that costs money,
Maybe if you sell the cupcake tower and ice cream maker you can put that $ towards new dishes. Maybe you/DH can send a company wide email at work to see if you can get a hassle free sale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Elle 8 on October 04, 2015, 12:26:17 PM
I took a big step last week.  I took a leather coat and two cashmere sweaters to the consignment shop.  They've been too tight for a few years now, but every fall I'd put them on.  Nope, they did not magically grow to fit me over the summer.  But I held on to them anyway thinking I will lose those 20 pounds.  Now it was time to let them go, but hard because…  leather and cashmere!  My closets now have some wiggle room which is nice.  I've gotten rid of other things too but those three items were hard to let go of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 05, 2015, 08:50:54 AM
I took a big step last week.  I took a leather coat and two cashmere sweaters to the consignment shop.  They've been too tight for a few years now, but every fall I'd put them on.  Nope, they did not magically grow to fit me over the summer.  But I held on to them anyway thinking I will lose those 20 pounds.  Now it was time to let them go, but hard because…  leather and cashmere!  My closets now have some wiggle room which is nice.  I've gotten rid of other things too but those three items were hard to let go of.

Elle, I know the feeling exactly!  I gained weight over the last couple of years and could not fit into several of my nice cashmere and merino sweaters.  It was so hard to let them go!  I also consigned several very nice handbags in the spring.  Bringing them to the consignment store really hurt, even though they were sitting in my closet unused.  But it was a temporary feeling and it passed quickly.  I am now enjoying the empty space in my closet and the simplicity of having less.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: redfreddie3 on October 06, 2015, 09:06:21 PM
Four trash bags full of clothing, purses and shoes out of my house today into happy new homes.  Makes me a little sick to think of the money wasted.  Also recycled several of the clothing hangers I was using in my daughter's closet by dropping them off at the children's consignment shop, they were happy to have them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 07, 2015, 03:18:47 AM
Yay, another bag of clothing out today.

I was in the bath last night and got out and just did a quick throw away of stuff from my one big chest of drawers. It makes me feel good to look in there afterwards and see everything so minimalist and neat.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: frompa on October 08, 2015, 09:22:49 AM
Hi all, this thread is remarkable.  I read the Marie Kondo book a few months ago and then got rid of about six bags of old clothes -- just as the winter stuff was going into the attic, and the summer stuff coming into my bedroom.   Now, with this next change of seasons already here, it's time for another purge.

 You are motivational; inspiring, even!

 For me, the key is being present because I can live in clutter and mess and not consciously notice, though after having read the MK book, I found myself occasionally seeing where I was and saying to myself "Hmm, there's really nothing on this table that needs to be here.  I can toss those papertowels I used under last week's iced tea, that folder of our travel papers can be tossed now that the trip is over, and these three books need to go in the give away pile."  Amazing both how easy it is to live shut down, and how transformative opening my eyes can be.  You all are eye openers! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: relena on October 12, 2015, 11:58:29 AM
I got rid of 4 giant trash bags of clothes!

I haven't finished the marie kondo book on audio yet (the waitlist for the library ebook has 29 ppl ahead of me!) lucky for me, i went over to the next county and joined that library (now number 4 on the waitlist)

I also put aside 2 large boxes of boxes to donate to the library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 12, 2015, 06:41:25 PM
I got rid of 4 giant trash bags of clothes!

I haven't finished the marie kondo book on audio yet (the waitlist for the library ebook has 29 ppl ahead of me!) lucky for me, i went over to the next county and joined that library (now number 4 on the waitlist)

I also put aside 2 large boxes of boxes to donate to the library.

Ha! I was wait listed 126! Took several months to get to me but is worth it :). Also, before I read I actually did a lot of reading online about the Konmari Method and tidied before I even read the book . there are a lot of details in the book however that are not always found in a blog.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 13, 2015, 06:34:29 AM
We have a kerbside pickup this week. I'm considering getting rid of:
- 2 blue couches
- 2 office chairs
- a bookcase
- assorted outdoor chairs
- dining table

This will leave us with room to replace those items in ways that work for us. I've tried selling the old items but no one was interested, and they don't work for us but it is scary to get rid of so much large furniture at once!

It will be so fabulous to create a space you love!
I got all psyched up, then realised it's not for 2 more weeks. So, I have time to plan for more stuff to go...

Edited to add: just real the "rules" and they won't take anything longer than 1.5m, which is several of my items. Will try anyway, and might have to hire something to take them to the tip if they don't :(
Decided to keep 1 couch and 1 office chair, but the rest is gone. As well as a large flat piece of plywood (which, if I find a project for such a thing, I will simply ask around/gumtree/buy another one). Also a cute little wheelbarrow garden decoration that went rusty and paint started peeling (not suitable for the outdoors despite the advertising) and a coffee table I picked up off gumtree and was using as a planting bench.

Vaguely upset at giving away Grandparents-In-Laws dining table even though they didn't want it and neither did anyone on Gumtree. The office chair and couch that we put out are already gone by a verge-picker, so I'm actually really happy about that. Yay!

The rest of the stuff in our house is all small things that either need electronics disposal or will fit in our bin, so I'm so happy!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 13, 2015, 02:28:59 PM
Earlier this year I had to change medicines (blood test showed I needed to come off them). So I had 3 boxes of tablets I was never going to use so yesterday we took them to the local pharmacy for disposal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 13, 2015, 04:08:09 PM
Still going thru my roommates stuff, another three garbage bags full out - total of 5 now! Two huge bags of recycling out . and she hasn't noticed s thing missing! (She told me to just start throwing things away. Good fun :) .loving an increasingly tidier, more serene environment .

So the other morning I went into the kitchen and it was in worst ever state ive seen it. Wish u could post the video, but my phone doesn't hav the capability. Mess of food preparing, dirty dishes, cabinets left open, garbage on floor, recycling needed emptying, dishes in dish drain, carpet iin corner as if kicked over.... When I later morning ran into her in the kitchen I said, "I love you but this is ridiculous". Mind you, she's a really peaceful, gentle person with this being her flaw. It was hard to confront her. But when I moved in and get former roommate (with a two year old) moved out, she said she was looking forward to a tidy house. Being tidy myself I was happy to hear this. So as you can imagine I became quickly appalled.
In any case, comment seems to hav had an effect, because when I came home, was spotless- kitchen & dining room. And the next day the laundry area was cleaned up, bathrooms, hallways becoming cleared, book cabinets decuttered and sorted....!


I am so happy to say that my roommate has seriously caught the decluttering bug! :). Everyday some new area is clean and tidy or some piece of furniture or stack of books donated. And the kitchen is always spotless.
At my recommendation she has ordered Marie Kondos book from the library.
She says she is really enjoying the process:). As well as the clean & clear space as well. The biggest thing for her was this: she has a lot of stuff passed on from family. I asked her if she likes them. I told her that if she donates or sells the things she doesn't like, it doesn't mean she doesn't love her family. So she has let go of a substantial amount of this type.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 14, 2015, 06:27:01 AM
I need motivation to get on this again. My biggest issue is I don't have a good place to get rid of stuff that really needs to go.  No one takes books, and I don't want to drive 45 minutes to the nearest half price books!  (And I guess textbooks I just take the cover off and put them into recycling?)

And I have got to get the "baby's room" emptied out. There is an actual deadline on that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 14, 2015, 07:17:18 AM
I took a big step last week.  I took a leather coat and two cashmere sweaters to the consignment shop.  They've been too tight for a few years now, but every fall I'd put them on.  Nope, they did not magically grow to fit me over the summer.  But I held on to them anyway thinking I will lose those 20 pounds.  Now it was time to let them go, but hard because…  leather and cashmere!  My closets now have some wiggle room which is nice.  I've gotten rid of other things too but those three items were hard to let go of.

how much did you get for them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 14, 2015, 07:19:20 AM
Hi all, this thread is remarkable.  I read the Marie Kondo book a few months ago and then got rid of about six bags of old clothes -- just as the winter stuff was going into the attic, and the summer stuff coming into my bedroom.   Now, with this next change of seasons already here, it's time for another purge.

 You are motivational; inspiring, even!

 For me, the key is being present because I can live in clutter and mess and not consciously notice, though after having read the MK book, I found myself occasionally seeing where I was and saying to myself "Hmm, there's really nothing on this table that needs to be here.  I can toss those papertowels I used under last week's iced tea, that folder of our travel papers can be tossed now that the trip is over, and these three books need to go in the give away pile."  Amazing both how easy it is to live shut down, and how transformative opening my eyes can be.  You all are eye openers!

This is so me. Minus the paper towel thing. I do collect takeout napkins.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 14, 2015, 07:20:52 AM
I got rid of 4 giant trash bags of clothes!

I haven't finished the marie kondo book on audio yet (the waitlist for the library ebook has 29 ppl ahead of me!) lucky for me, i went over to the next county and joined that library (now number 4 on the waitlist)

I also put aside 2 large boxes of boxes to donate to the library.

Check to see if your library is connected with Hoopla. I could listen to the book instantly on there, rather than get in the long line waiting for the book. It was all a resource connected to my library card.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 14, 2015, 07:22:55 AM
I need motivation to get on this again. My biggest issue is I don't have a good place to get rid of stuff that really needs to go.  No one takes books, and I don't want to drive 45 minutes to the nearest half price books!  (And I guess textbooks I just take the cover off and put them into recycling?)

And I have got to get the "baby's room" emptied out. There is an actual deadline on that.

the local library doesn't take books?

sell your textbooks online. Bookscouter connects you with the highest price.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 14, 2015, 07:24:27 AM
I got rid of magazines. I have been getting subscriptions to over 10 different magazines for free. Didn't read a single one of them. Just collecting. Took them to my local library. Cancelled subscriptions online.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on October 14, 2015, 07:31:49 AM
I need motivation to get on this again. My biggest issue is I don't have a good place to get rid of stuff that really needs to go.  No one takes books, and I don't want to drive 45 minutes to the nearest half price books!  (And I guess textbooks I just take the cover off and put them into recycling?)

And I have got to get the "baby's room" emptied out. There is an actual deadline on that.
Libraries usually take books then sell them as a fundraiser.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 14, 2015, 07:35:24 AM

Libraries usually take books then sell them as a fundraiser.

Ours will not. They got too much junk so they discontinued accepting any donations; their sale is just old copies of their own books. It just put the onus of getting rid of them on the library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 14, 2015, 09:15:13 AM
Can you donate the books instead? Goodwill and savers takes books, though I haven't seen textbooks in there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on October 14, 2015, 09:20:13 AM
Yesterday, I placed ads in our local paper for my queen sized futon and a bedliner from my new truck.  Since the slide in camper didn't play well with the bedliner, the bedliner was removed.  It is now sitting in my yard, but really needs to find a new home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 14, 2015, 11:17:57 AM
Still going thru my roommates stuff, another three garbage bags full out - total of 5 now! Two huge bags of recycling out . and she hasn't noticed s thing missing! (She told me to just start throwing things away. Good fun :) .loving an increasingly tidier, more serene environment .

So the other morning I went into the kitchen and it was in worst ever state ive seen it. Wish u could post the video, but my phone doesn't hav the capability. Mess of food preparing, dirty dishes, cabinets left open, garbage on floor, recycling needed emptying, dishes in dish drain, carpet iin corner as if kicked over.... When I later morning ran into her in the kitchen I said, "I love you but this is ridiculous". Mind you, she's a really peaceful, gentle person with this being her flaw. It was hard to confront her. But when I moved in and get former roommate (with a two year old) moved out, she said she was looking forward to a tidy house. Being tidy myself I was happy to hear this. So as you can imagine I became quickly appalled.
In any case, comment seems to hav had an effect, because when I came home, was spotless- kitchen & dining room. And the next day the laundry area was cleaned up, bathrooms, hallways becoming cleared, book cabinets decuttered and sorted....!


I am so happy to say that my roommate has seriously caught the decluttering bug! :). Everyday some new area is clean and tidy or some piece of furniture or stack of books donated. And the kitchen is always spotless.
At my recommendation she has ordered Marie Kondos book from the library.
She says she is really enjoying the process:). As well as the clean & clear space as well. The biggest thing for her was this: she has a lot of stuff passed on from family. I asked her if she likes them. I told her that if she donates or sells the things she doesn't like, it doesn't mean she doesn't love her family. So she has let go of a substantial amount of this type.

Wow. Now roomie has purged former boyfriends old dresser withbad memory's of Ex -he apparently walked out after a year, on Christmas, never said anything, never saw again.. And I noted she kept the dresser by her bed! Unconsciously of course, interesting indeed. This is a big move for her, so happy for her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 14, 2015, 11:24:23 AM
Can you donate the books instead? Goodwill and savers takes books, though I haven't seen textbooks in there.

We don't have a savers. I'll have to call Goodwill again- they told me only children's books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on October 14, 2015, 01:54:21 PM
I think the garbage people at my parent's hate it when I visit. This past weekend, did some work on the garage that resulted in a big pile of rotted wood to be picked up.

Then we finished painting the garage earlier than I expected, so I did some things around the house for them, and got one of the old metal kitchen cabinets out of the attic and into the trash. Please don't ask why they have it, never mind the other two. Ran out of energy then, but I I do plan to get the other cabinet out of the attic and toss it.

Maybe I can get rid of a couple of chairs in the attic that mom doesn't want. Those will go to goodwill or somewhere though, she'll never stand for them to be tossed.

The last time I was there, I threw out an old fridge!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 15, 2015, 03:03:08 PM
I think the garbage people at my parent's hate it when I visit. This past weekend, did some work on the garage that resulted in a big pile of rotted wood to be picked up.

Then we finished painting the garage earlier than I expected, so I did some things around the house for them, and got one of the old metal kitchen cabinets out of the attic and into the trash. Please don't ask why they have it, never mind the other two. Ran out of energy then, but I I do plan to get the other cabinet out of the attic and toss it.

Maybe I can get rid of a couple of chairs in the attic that mom doesn't want. Those will go to goodwill or somewhere though, she'll never stand for them to be tossed.

The last time I was there, I threw out an old fridge!


Idk what the rules are in Chicago, but where I live wood is recyclable as long as not covered in creosote. Also, if the mechanic piece of a fridge is removed is also excepted.
And chairs along with just about any functional or decorative item is excepted at goodwill & salvation army. Even fridges as long as they function (obviously).
Anyway, I know the rules and laws for everything are different everywhere. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on October 15, 2015, 04:21:23 PM
Can you donate the books instead? Goodwill and savers takes books, though I haven't seen textbooks in there.

We don't have a savers. I'll have to call Goodwill again- they told me only children's books.
Do you have a Free Little Library near you?  I have two that I pass when I walk my dog, so I drop off books as soon as I finish reading them. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on October 15, 2015, 05:47:45 PM
I think the garbage people at my parent's hate it when I visit. This past weekend, did some work on the garage that resulted in a big pile of rotted wood to be picked up.

Then we finished painting the garage earlier than I expected, so I did some things around the house for them, and got one of the old metal kitchen cabinets out of the attic and into the trash. Please don't ask why they have it, never mind the other two. Ran out of energy then, but I I do plan to get the other cabinet out of the attic and toss it.

Maybe I can get rid of a couple of chairs in the attic that mom doesn't want. Those will go to goodwill or somewhere though, she'll never stand for them to be tossed.

The last time I was there, I threw out an old fridge!


Idk what the rules are in Chicago, but where I live wood is recyclable as long as not covered in creosote. Also, if the mechanic piece of a fridge is removed is also excepted.
And chairs along with just about any functional or decorative item is excepted at goodwill & salvation army. Even fridges as long as they function (obviously).
Anyway, I know the rules and laws for everything are different everywhere.

They're in Michigan, I'm in Chicago. It'd be a lot easier for me if they were here! There are pickers who take things. I know that the metal stuff was picked up by someone before trash day in the past, and the fridge didn't work so whoever took it is welcome to recycle it. A lot of stuff is picked up, and I think that there's something done with wood as well.

The problem with the chairs is that they're big - thus harder to fit into the car. Plus, they're in the attic. Which is reached by the narrow, steep, and twisty back staircase. Not fun. But the point of this is that when they have to move, it's slightly easier to move them. Though I'm sure it'll still be a nightmare. Mom's on board in general, and sis and I had gone through the attic with her so we know what can go without a fight.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 15, 2015, 06:36:19 PM
I think the garbage people at my parent's hate it when I visit. This past weekend, did some work on the garage that resulted in a big pile of rotted wood to be picked up.

Then we finished painting the garage earlier than I expected, so I did some things around the house for them, and got one of the old metal kitchen cabinets out of the attic and into the trash. Please don't ask why they have it, never mind the other two. Ran out of energy then, but I I do plan to get the other cabinet out of the attic and toss it.

Maybe I can get rid of a couple of chairs in the attic that mom doesn't want. Those will go to goodwill or somewhere though, she'll never stand for them to be tossed.

The last time I was there, I threw out an old fridge!


Idk what the rules are in Chicago, but where I live wood is recyclable as long as not covered in creosote. Also, if the mechanic piece of a fridge is removed is also excepted.
And chairs along with just about any functional or decorative item is excepted at goodwill & salvation army. Even fridges as long as they function (obviously).
Anyway, I know the rules and laws for everything are different everywhere.

They're in Michigan, I'm in Chicago. It'd be a lot easier for me if they were here! There are pickers who take things. I know that the metal stuff was picked up by someone before trash day in the past, and the fridge didn't work so whoever took it is welcome to recycle it. A lot of stuff is picked up, and I think that there's something done with wood as well.

The problem with the chairs is that they're big - thus harder to fit into the car. Plus, they're in the attic. Which is reached by the narrow, steep, and twisty back staircase. Not fun. But the point of this is that when they have to move, it's slightly easier to move them. Though I'm sure it'll still be a nightmare. Mom's on board in general, and sis and I had gone through the attic with her so we know what can go without a fight.

I see what you mean. Sounds like they have a good system for pickup where they live in Michigan. .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 17, 2015, 10:36:02 AM
I went thru my fabric again and donated half(stock is small because I just used it all up in preparation for an art show. I must be more discerning about what I accept ( I upcycle only- using donations from friends , fiund, and my worn out clothing articles, wirn blankets, etc ).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 18, 2015, 07:51:33 PM
Piled up 14 books that had come into my life without me seeking them out. Many had been on my bookshelf - unread - for more than two years. My parents are planning a garage sale, so I will drop them off there.

Tossed a pair of used shoelaces I had apparently saved 'just in case'. Tossed them without another thought.

Started a new bag for charity. Added a pair of new airline pants courtesy of my husband. (We're coming into summer in Australia so he won't need as many pairs of long pants. He flies 80+ times a year; if he wants more comfy pants to dag around the house in, he can pick them up on an international flight before next winter.)

Also added a fairly new t-shirt of mine that was a bad judgment call on my part. Not hanging onto the shirt, not hanging onto the guilt.

I have become 'the decluttering person'. Last week a friend's husband posted an article about decluttering to my Facebook page. And when I visit a certain friend now she tells me about decluttering her wardrobe or the kids' toys, etc. I'm thrilled for her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on October 18, 2015, 10:05:13 PM
I painted my bathroom today.  I had de cluttered all my clothes I didn't like.  I had to paint naked.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on October 18, 2015, 11:28:00 PM
I haven't had much success lately. I did sell my daughter's pack & play for $40. I listed a bunch more baby stuff on a local facebook buy/sell page, but no bites yet, just one lowball attempt. Then tonight I was looking on eBay and found out that the same things are selling there for more than I've been asking, so I'm in the process of listing it there instead.

My kitchen stuff needs to be the next category to konmari. I have a teeny-tiny kitchen and a zillion things that I never use. We have a crock-pot that got used once and then stopped working. A cupcake display thing that was used once, at our wedding 4 years ago, and has been sitting in the box ever since. An ice cream maker that was a wedding present, and I don't want it because I'm no longer friends with the person who gave it, so, y'know, negative associations. Et cetera. I'd love to toss our mismatched dishes and silverware and get a nice basic matching set, but that costs money,
Maybe if you sell the cupcake tower and ice cream maker you can put that $ towards new dishes. Maybe you/DH can send a company wide email at work to see if you can get a hassle free sale.

This is a good idea!

I might actually keep the cupcake tower; I'm planning to use it for my DD's birthday party next month. But I don't HAVE to use it; I can put cupcakes on a plate or something. Plus, using it twice in 5 years isn't really getting good use out of it. IDK.

My work actually has internal classified ads that I've used to sell things in the past; I'm at work now so I'll go ahead and list everything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 19, 2015, 03:43:09 AM
Going to go ahead and get rid of all the magazines. They are not getting read. I have been cancelling the subscriptions as new issues have come in. Ugh, I have no time to read them. oh well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 19, 2015, 06:42:09 AM
Sent a giant bag of clothes to Schoola. 
Happy to have it out of the garage :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ash7962 on October 19, 2015, 08:19:27 AM
Some of you have said you've had trouble getting rid of books.  I actually just recycled some of mine.  The Chicago Public Library doesn't take book donations (due to volume received and it being more work to process donations than just buy them) and my local used book store denied them, so I just recycled.  There were a few text books that were a few editions out of date (aka useless) so those got recycled too.  I don't think its bad to recycle books that aren't in demand.  They're probably available at the library anyway (probably in a newer edition), if its not in demand you're probably not preventing a new one from being printed by offering yours second hand, and lastly since your book has already been made the materials have already been used so no use feeling guilt about recycling.  In general its good to try to find new homes for things, but sometimes its just time to toss stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on October 19, 2015, 08:26:32 AM
I painted my bathroom today.  I had de cluttered all my clothes I didn't like.  I had to paint naked.

Bwahahaha! How awesome. I usually keep a pair of clothes that I absolutely love (but don't mind destroying) for painting and the like. That being said, painting naked is something I love to do. Good thing I'm not an artist, and only do painting a few times every decade or so.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on October 19, 2015, 03:14:07 PM
I got rid of 4 giant trash bags of clothes!

I haven't finished the marie kondo book on audio yet (the waitlist for the library ebook has 29 ppl ahead of me!) lucky for me, i went over to the next county and joined that library (now number 4 on the waitlist)

I also put aside 2 large boxes of boxes to donate to the library.

Check to see if your library is connected with Hoopla. I could listen to the book instantly on there, rather than get in the long line waiting for the book. It was all a resource connected to my library card.

This was a great tip for me. I had no idea. I've been listening to it since lunchtime, while I groomed my dog....

Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on October 19, 2015, 05:12:43 PM
I painted my bathroom today.  I had de cluttered all my clothes I didn't like.  I had to paint naked.

LOL. I made sure to keep some "grungy" clothes so I don't frighten the neighbors while I'm gardening.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on October 19, 2015, 09:13:39 PM
PSA: If anyone is looking for motivation to get rid of stuff, Hoarders is now on Netflix.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on October 19, 2015, 11:37:02 PM
Hi all, I hate to ask this question but I'm going to anyway -anyone have declutters remorse?  Thrown out tonnes then wished you hadn't? Not just having to buy another pair of socks because you culled your sock drawer a bit too enthusiastically. But actual lasting regrets? I'm doing KonMarie but honestly I feel like I could throw everything away. I'm struggling to find joy in any of my things. Which of course begs the question why did I buy so much shit in the first place. I'm a Sahm and feel up to my ears in stuff -lots.of it that's not mine. I guess for decades I have mistakenly thought shopping (especially second hand) would make me happy but it didn't but I now have a house load to clear out. Please help reassure me that at the end of the process I will feel better -because doing the clearing out feels pretty draining.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on October 20, 2015, 05:37:32 AM
Kiwi, trust us, you will feel better!  Start with one area, see how you feel.  I know you won't regret it.

Do be cautious about other people's things though, I wouldn't want you to cause strife in your household!  Maybe start someplace neutral like the medicine cabinet or kitchen cabinets.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 20, 2015, 06:39:32 AM
re: remorse.

No.  You won't.  There might be an occassional item that flits through your mind, but at the same time you'll remember the mess you used to deal with and the clean space you have now and you'll be just fine with having let it go. 

Irreplaceable things are worth taking ones time with, they are where regret may happen.  But replaceable things can be culled without mercy.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 20, 2015, 07:11:55 AM
Hi all, I hate to ask this question but I'm going to anyway -anyone have declutters remorse?  Thrown out tonnes then wished you hadn't? Not just having to buy another pair of socks because you culled your sock drawer a bit too enthusiastically. But actual lasting regrets? I'm doing KonMarie but honestly I feel like I could throw everything away. I'm struggling to find joy in any of my things. Which of course begs the question why did I buy so much shit in the first place. I'm a Sahm and feel up to my ears in stuff -lots.of it that's not mine. I guess for decades I have mistakenly thought shopping (especially second hand) would make me happy but it didn't but I now have a house load to clear out. Please help reassure me that at the end of the process I will feel better -because doing the clearing out feels pretty draining.

I've gone pretty drastic - 1600 things gone this year and counting - and can honestly say I haven't regretted getting rid of a single thing. I couldn't even tell you what most of them were, even though I painfully deliberated about whether to get rid of about half of them.

I did try to put on a trouser suit this morning and couldn't find the trousers (like, anywhere!) so I am a bit worried I got rid of those...! But I just can't imagine I did, I like and wear them, plus the jacket only goes with them, so surely I would have donated both?! Hoping they turn up, and if they don't, oh well, it's not like I'll go naked. The space and mental space I have gained would be well worth one pair of trousers.

I keep reminding myself that if it's something I really miss I can rebuy it. And you know what? I haven't wanted to, ever. It's been so liberating to throw it all out that shopping (with the exception of fabric shopping for my hobby, dressmaking) has lost all appeal.

What I have done, however, is taken the opportunity to replace some things with nicer versions. Fewer, better quality things was the aim, and as I whittle my stuff down I can see what I genuinely use frequently, and then I feel fine spending a little money making that frequent usage more satisfying. Seeing things I love and use in my home really does make it feel like a nicer place!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rubic on October 20, 2015, 08:02:39 AM
re: remorse.

No.  You won't.  There might be an occassional item that flits through your mind, but at the same time you'll remember the mess you used to deal with and the clean space you have now and you'll be just fine with having let it go. 

Irreplaceable things are worth taking ones time with, they are where regret may happen.  But replaceable things can be culled without mercy.   

100% in agreement.  Out of the hundreds and hundreds of items I've culled in the past 6 months (maybe 50 garbage bags of stuff, $2000 worth of ebay sales, and various items freecycled), I miss exactly two items:
In compensation for the above losses, I now have an great feeling of serenity whenever I walk into my home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on October 20, 2015, 10:22:53 AM
I have donated I would say about 70% of my belongings.  All and every category got hit.  I am not sure what I was thinking with all that shopping. I guess it is an addiction like everything else.  I don't miss a thing and love the space and peace it has created.  Although, I still have too much. Sometimes I have half a mind to get rid of it all and just start over. I wont do it at this point, but it gets tempting.  I really only want what I use and love.

The only thing I would say to people just starting out especially when it comes to clothes, make sure you are looking at what you are getting rid of. A few times I thought I was reaching for something else and ended up tossing some loved pieces in my haste.  Would I take everything back to get them back, heck no. 

I am really dragging my feet on collectibles though. I have a ton of lenox porclain collectibes and they are basically worth nothing.  I want to take them all and just donate them but I am not able to pull that bandaid just yet. Has anyone dealt with their collectibles?  What did you do?

Good luck to all. It is definitely a journey.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 20, 2015, 10:57:24 AM
A few months ago I realized that I'd given away something that would have again been useful to me, and had a day or two of regret.  Now I can't even remember what it was.

I can't wait to spend some time this winter taking another sweep through the house.  I won't get rid of DHs stuff, but some of it might end up in his junk room when hes gone skiing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on October 20, 2015, 12:08:50 PM
I only regret selling one thing - we had an XBox 360 and Kinect and sold them when we downsized to the smaller apartment, assuming I wouldn't have space to play dance games anymore due to the layout of the place. Well, it turns out that by mounting the TV on the wall and flipping up the Murphy bed, I have a perfect size square for dance games. We picked up a Wii U and I've been rocking out to Just Dance 2015, but it's not the same :( Oh, and I never got to play this awesome game: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDqXjVzXFw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDqXjVzXFw)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 20, 2015, 03:27:34 PM
I donated about 90% of my things for the first time at 19. I had decided to wander for a while, sleep outside, and at friends houses, at the beach. I said to my friends, take whatever you want. One took the hunting knife collection. One took a lot of clothing.   One took a lot of my cds. Etc. I kept a backpack full iof stuff, plus 2 paperbags full. purged about 75% again at 21. Again at 30 about 75% with the konmarie method. Each time I decluttered I had accumulated more of course, but wiith this last time, I am hiping ill be more discerning....
In regards to regrets, really only a few. All are books, mostly kids and young adult. And this is only because I haven't been able to find them again! Some books are extremely rare, but cèst la vie. I figure if I'm meant to read them again, I'll come upon them someday. Otherwise, I hav donated many many other books and don't miss them, hav got a couple from the library to reread.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on October 20, 2015, 03:49:39 PM
I have no idea how many things I've tossed/donated/whatever (never thought to count!), but I have never missed anything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on October 20, 2015, 04:17:38 PM
Thanks so much everyone, I feel reassured. What amazing efforts you have all made. I did my overseas experience in my early 20's with a single backpack for a year and a half and that time was all about experiences. I guess I want to recapture that foot loose feeling -as much as is possible with hubby and 2 kids. You know, I want to say, nice weather tomorrow, let's go camping, grab the well organized pile of camping gear and go. At the moment such things require a weeks planning...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on October 20, 2015, 05:09:06 PM
Every time I've gotten rid of a bunch of stuff that wasn't literally clothing that didn't fit, I've had regrets. Usually something minor within a week or two, but then the more serious regrets come to light over time. Just today I was talking to a student about a book I sold back decades ago, literally because I needed the money to buy food. I've regretted the loss ever since, though I made the right decision,the only one I could at the time.


With most getting-rid-offs, I've regretted, either an item that I couldn't replace, lit that book, or the money it later cost me to replace the replaceable. I don't tend to accumulate, so that's likely a part of it. Other than things breaking or wearing out or a more recent unfortunate tendency for changes in weight to mean I can't wear clothing, I really have a use for every item I own.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 20, 2015, 09:39:02 PM
I decluttered about 2000+ items and haven't missed any in six months. Start with clothing so you can practice the decluttering with minimal loss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on October 20, 2015, 10:49:02 PM
Just today I was talking to a student about a book I sold back decades ago, literally because I needed the money to buy food. I've regretted the loss ever since, though I made the right decision,the only one I could at the time.

I agree - this is literally the only thing I've ever been sorry I got rid of. I had more money as an undergraduate than as a grad student, and so there were a number of books from my undergrad studies that I sold in the next couple of years. I'd love to have them all back, but, one needs to eat. Oh well!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 21, 2015, 02:42:57 AM
Over the past 2 or 3 years, I've gotten rid of about 3/4 of my belongings. No regrets except for not doing it sooner. Unfortunately you can't really tell I've done this cos DH is a packrat. He's gotten rid of about half of his stuff and it's still a lot of stuff.


Today's effort: donated 5 magazines and a hat to the oncology waiting room. There are boxes of free hats knitted by volunteers in all the wards (cos chemo often makes you lose your hair). One of the hats I was recently gifted was really not my style so I paid it forward.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on October 21, 2015, 02:57:09 AM
Most of my things to jettison are clothes for me and the kids that my mum has bought from the op shop and either aren't my style, don't fit or kids have grown out of. There is a lot of kitchen/house stuff in the attic that I decided wasn't essential for the house (so obviously should go). I have tonnes of books but aside from a couple from my childhood I don't feel sentimental.  Am using the library lots and thinking about getting a tablet for reading ebooks/kids homework. Have lots of unfinished projects that need to go because they remind me that I struggle to finish what I start (which probably explains many well intentioned book purchases that I can't now enthuse myself to read. Will keep camping items/a few spare plates, towels, mugs for guests and a small box of sentimental items but the rest will be going.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 21, 2015, 05:56:49 PM
Hi Kiwi

I am discovering the joys of fewer things. Recently I had two big things to prep for and I knew where everything was. In fact I had all the gear for one thing all stored together. 😊 My husband was so appreciative that he could reach it all without moving stuff.

Not one large regret- just a small one - wishing I had kept old shoes for painting.

I have found a surprise cache of small useless objects today and am feeling annoyed that I need To clear once more.

It really does seem to be permanent. I was in a gourmet cooking store this week and looked at all the stuff (while a friend shopped) and I got a twinge of acquisitiveness which faded quickly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on October 21, 2015, 10:02:22 PM
Hi wintersun, that is great to hear. My hubby is a hoarder of books and papers but at least he is tidy and it's limited to one corner of the attic. I have been the shopper and am messy/disorganized so most of the problem is mine. I am loving the tidiness and ease of finding things in the areas I have done.  I am glad to see it is permanent.  Perhaps the colossal effort involved in sorting, deliberating, piling up then rehoming/throwing out makes us much more reluctant to take on new possessions.  A long but awesome journey ahead...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 22, 2015, 09:08:24 AM

It really does seem to be permanent. I was in a gourmet cooking store this week and looked at all the stuff (while a friend shopped) and I got a twinge of acquisitiveness which faded quickly.

This is a great phrase! I definitely still suffer from this too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on October 22, 2015, 09:21:24 AM
I'm still doing well after my big decluttering 2 months ago.  I have missed a few things, and have maybe spent $50 buying back stuff I got rid of...  But, having a cleaner, neater, more organized home has been completely worth it.  Even though I had to paint the bathroom naked because I threw away my painting clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on October 22, 2015, 10:13:32 AM
After realizing how many blankets we had, I pulled 5 out and gave them away.  There are still some more that should go, waiting on DH to talk to his sister about taking the sleeping bags for her kids to camp with.

Also, started recycling my old (worthless) textbooks a few at a time.  Pulling off the covers on the hardbacks was easy with a utility knife.  I don't want to toss them all at once so the recycle bin doesn't get too heavy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on October 22, 2015, 12:49:34 PM
After realizing how many blankets we had, I pulled 5 out and gave them away.  There are still some more that should go, waiting on DH to talk to his sister about taking the sleeping bags for her kids to camp with.

Also, started recycling my old (worthless) textbooks a few at a time.  Pulling off the covers on the hardbacks was easy with a utility knife.  I don't want to toss them all at once so the recycle bin doesn't get too heavy.

can't sell them online?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on October 22, 2015, 12:59:04 PM
After realizing how many blankets we had, I pulled 5 out and gave them away.  There are still some more that should go, waiting on DH to talk to his sister about taking the sleeping bags for her kids to camp with.

Also, started recycling my old (worthless) textbooks a few at a time.  Pulling off the covers on the hardbacks was easy with a utility knife.  I don't want to toss them all at once so the recycle bin doesn't get too heavy.

can't sell them online?
They are science textbooks from almost 20 years ago, too much has changed in the research for them to be worth anything.  I may try selling a few that won't be outdated like the calculus one and "On The Origin Of Species".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on October 23, 2015, 11:55:41 PM
It's spring here in New Zealand and I'm having a traditional spring clean. Every nook and cranny of our house is getting an overhaul and I'm being really ruthless.  Already have about 2 full car loads of stuff to take away. Not lots of junk as I have decluttered before but just too much of everything.  My boys (3 & 5) had 30 pairs of hand me down trousers and shorts, and the stationary drawer had 50 pens and 20 pencils. We have an overabundance in every category in every room. So a big job but I've made a big dent today. I have bought lots of it from the local tip shop so will be taking it back there for people who will actually use the stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on October 24, 2015, 04:15:40 PM
Got rid of the bookshelve in my bedroom today. It was full of not-read yet books, some of the, having lived on one shelves for years. I am taking the books to them
Title free library in my neighborhood. I have transitioned to electronic books from my public library. I have gotten rid of two height bookshelves in my basement. There are 3 to go. Goal is to empty one tomorrow. Ink what the end point will be with the books (I don't want to get rid of all of them).

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KMMK on October 24, 2015, 04:54:19 PM
Moving halfway across the country into a furnished apartment really helps one declutter. I've reduced all my possessions to fit in about 24 cubic ft or about a closet worth.
I put a picture of my possessions on my blog: http://www.livelikeyou.ca/decluttering-moving-prep/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on October 24, 2015, 05:38:31 PM
Just cleared out a grocery bag full of old tupperware containers. We bought some new ones, and the cabinet was overflowing... also chunked 2 bags of jigsaw puzzles my mom "had to get for us" from garage sales. None of my kids like puzzles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on October 24, 2015, 06:33:03 PM
Took a bag of non-donatable clothes and some assorted metal pieces to a recycle center.  Not much, but it's more stuff out of the house!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 24, 2015, 08:50:32 PM
Sold a horse blanket on Craig's list yesterday, put the old iron in the donate pile.  I hardly ever iron, why did I think I needed a spare.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 25, 2015, 03:22:52 PM
Meadowlark, I had to laugh at the bought of you naked painting your loo. Such a funny image!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 25, 2015, 05:00:31 PM
Re-organised four shelves and four drawers. Came up with a bag of rubbish and a bag for charity.

I then allocated one empty drawer to store thermals, beanies, etc. We're now in summer, so it's better to have it out of the way, and if we do need it to travel it makes life easier to be able to grab it all from one place.

And in case I'm hit by a bus or something and my husband needs to find his gloves, I even labelled the drawer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on October 25, 2015, 07:37:04 PM
The consignment shop gave me $12.50 for the jumperoo. That kind of stung, considering I paid $60 for it less than a year ago, but it wasn't moving on fb or craigslist, so I decided something is better than nothing. They didn't want my other baby stuff - bottle warmer and playmat - because they don't buy/sell those at all for whatever reason. I'm going to try the other shop tomorrow; pretty sure they'll take it. If not, back to fb/cl. I also have one of these (https://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=AwrB8pZUgi1Ww14Ahoo2nIlQ;_ylu=X3oDMTIzZXNyODJwBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1nBG9pZAMxZjU1Yjg4NDk0ODEwYjE0YzA0MmFiNjIxZTUxODI0NARncG9zAzE5BGl0A2Jpbmc-?.origin=&back=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.swagbucks.com%2F%3Ft%3Di%26q%3Dmylittleseat&w=1008&h=1008&imgurl=ep.yimg.com%2Fay%2Fduematernity%2Fmy-little-seat-travel-highchair-seaside-stripe-36.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.duematernity.com%2Fmy-little-seat-travel-highchair-seaside-stripe.html&size=435.9KB&name=%3Cb%3EMy+Little+Seat%3C%2Fb%3E+Travel+Highchair+-+Seaside+Stripe+|+Maternity+Clothes&p=my+little+seat&oid=1f55b88494810b14c042ab621e518244&fr2=&fr=&rw=my+little+seat&tt=%3Cb%3EMy+Little+Seat%3C%2Fb%3E+Travel+Highchair+-+Seaside+Stripe+|+Maternity+Clothes&b=0&ni=162&no=19&ts=&vm=p&tab=organic&sigr=12ftceg2q&sigb=11c14p2ir&sigi=12hp0f8lj&sigt=12bopi81t&sign=12bopi81t&.crumb=Q3muH/4G3gJ&hsimp=yhs-prodege_001&hspart=prodege&type=search_6&vm=p&param1=5205996&param4=1748060176), which was given to me. I didn't think it was worth anything, but it turns out they're going for $15-30 on ebay! So that's where it's headed; I'll never use it.

I sorted through the bottle cabinet the other day and got rid of several incomplete bottle/nipple sets, pacifiers, and other small things we don't need anymore. It's kind of sad because I was kind of hoping we'd have at least one more baby, and getting rid of baby things means accepting the reality that we almost certainly won't.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 26, 2015, 02:50:53 AM

I sorted through the bottle cabinet the other day and got rid of several incomplete bottle/nipple sets, pacifiers, and other small things we don't need anymore. It's kind of sad because I was kind of hoping we'd have at least one more baby, and getting rid of baby things means accepting the reality that we almost certainly won't.

Sorry to hear you're struggling tofuchampion. Decluttering can be surprisingly upsetting as we let go of idea of who and what we thought we would be as well as the material things.

I did my crafting stuff (er... again again). Why was I keeping half that stuff? Why did I think I needed 15 paintbrushes? Because they came in a set, apparently. I kept 5, one of each general size. The rest went to charity. Lots of things gone. I thought it would get harder to find stuff to cull, but it's almost getting easier as I realise I used to have 4 times that amount and don't miss anything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on October 26, 2015, 06:07:17 AM
We organized the closet yesterday and tossed out another bag of clothes. The dresser is now empty. I put it up for sale. If nobody picks it up by the end of the week it will be recycled. We have a small apartment and I want more space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 26, 2015, 06:12:25 AM
Moving halfway across the country into a furnished apartment really helps one declutter. I've reduced all my possessions to fit in about 24 cubic ft or about a closet worth.
I put a picture of my possessions on my blog: http://www.livelikeyou.ca/decluttering-moving-prep/

Wow!:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on October 26, 2015, 03:30:28 PM
At the salon, I organized and majorly decluttered the color room. Half the tint bowls and tint brushes out(there were like 30 bowls and 100 brushes). I recycled the decrepid . I also recyclabled several empty bottles of randoms.
Organized the break room as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on October 26, 2015, 09:46:11 PM

I sorted through the bottle cabinet the other day and got rid of several incomplete bottle/nipple sets, pacifiers, and other small things we don't need anymore. It's kind of sad because I was kind of hoping we'd have at least one more baby, and getting rid of baby things means accepting the reality that we almost certainly won't.

Sorry to hear you're struggling tofuchampion. Decluttering can be surprisingly upsetting as we let go of idea of who and what we thought we would be as well as the material things.


Idk if I'd call it struggling... just a little twinge of sadness.

KMMK - woah! Way to go! I did something similar back in 2009 - moved to another state with only what I could pack into my Chevy Aveo. I slept on an air mattress for a year... and it was great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 26, 2015, 10:14:30 PM
Moving halfway across the country into a furnished apartment really helps one declutter. I've reduced all my possessions to fit in about 24 cubic ft or about a closet worth.
I put a picture of my possessions on my blog: http://www.livelikeyou.ca/decluttering-moving-prep/

Wow!:)

Wow! That's amazing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on October 27, 2015, 06:03:24 AM
Cleaned out my desk. Got rid of old revisions (basically stacks of papers hanging out), a non-working FitBit (it was my second one that crapped out, so it wasn't worth it for me to call and request a new one), re-attached a metal thing to Fido's kennel, corralled our loose batteries, and re-homed some old notebooks (after pulling out some pages that had lists of... well, it looked like a game of VERY ADULT Scattergories in neither mine nor DH's handwriting...)

It took about 10 minutes to get everything done, and while it's a small part of the apartment it made me feel productive and a little lighter!

(Now if I can convince DH to clean out HIS desk...)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 27, 2015, 08:01:35 AM
Cleaned up my desk at work. Went through all the boxes I had and returned anything I wasn't using. Now I'm down to one small storage cabinet. Feel very very good!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on October 27, 2015, 02:32:31 PM
Jumped back on the fly lady bandwagon - in the living room this week I got rid of about 45 magazines, 10 juvenile DVDs, and threw away a white plastic kitchen bag of miscellaneous leftovers and broken bits. Also found a $50 gift card that still had $50 on it (Target). It may be one of the kids, but I am keeping it for a cleaning fee. ( I know they have no idea it is there since it has Christmas theme.) Sue me! :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 29, 2015, 06:12:27 AM

I did my crafting stuff (er... again again). Why was I keeping half that stuff? Why did I think I needed 15 paintbrushes? Because they came in a set, apparently. I kept 5, one of each general size. The rest went to charity. Lots of things gone. I thought it would get harder to find stuff to cull, but it's almost getting easier as I realise I used to have 4 times that amount and don't miss anything.

I woke up and realised, huh, why do I need even 5 paintbrushes? I DON'T. If I ever need one (unlikely) I'll buy the right one then. Threw them all in the donate bag. And got rid of everything else in the 'craft' bin. A few things went to stationery, everything else, donated. If I really wanted to make jewellery, I would have made it by now. I am not short of time, I'm short of space.

Now that bin has gone elsewhere, where it can hold stuff I actually need and like and use, and the space on the shelf, is just glorious space.

On target for 2015 things gone in 2015.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on October 29, 2015, 12:59:16 PM
Moving halfway across the country into a furnished apartment really helps one declutter. I've reduced all my possessions to fit in about 24 cubic ft or about a closet worth.
I put a picture of my possessions on my blog: http://www.livelikeyou.ca/decluttering-moving-prep/

Wow!:)

+1!! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 01, 2015, 08:52:08 PM
I'd been collecting certain items at the request of various friends (plastic shopping bags, egg cartons, empty spirit bottles, etc). I dropped all that off on the weekend so that was a small load off.

Lately I feel like there has been a lot of getting bags ready to sell/donate/toss and not a lot of actual getting rid of stuff.

I think it's time to forget eBay for a while and just donate, donate, donate to get stuff out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 01, 2015, 10:02:16 PM
Did a couple hours of decluttering and organizing in the break room at work today .let's just say all the cabinets are junk drawers- useless junk, not the donating kind. Six bags recycling out. One bag trash out. So satisfying.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 01, 2015, 10:39:43 PM
We did some serious furniture rearrangement on the weekend. Now I can see the clutter everywhere. Hopefully I can get on with actual cleaning for our rent inspection and save the removal of irritating clutter to the week after.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 01, 2015, 10:59:50 PM
Good luck with the inspection!

I forgot to post my recent decluttering. D'oh! I donated the expensive boots and a box of stuff* that had been sitting next to the front door for I don't know how many months. We gave it all to a local charity fundraiser thingy last week.

* glass teacup and saucers that were a recent gift but I don't like drinking hot drinks out of glass nor teacups and saucers, a top that was uncomfortable, some op shop glassware and a few books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on November 02, 2015, 12:55:17 AM
It probably isn't very mustachian but I've decided to take everything I need to get rid of to the tip shop 5 mins down the road.  Yes, I could probably make money if I invested the time but I really just want to be rid of everything and time spent listing stuff and managing sales is time not spent sorting and getting rid of clutter. I have bought a lot from the tip shop over the years and a lot of people who are hard up shop there, it is run by the local council so is not for profit and they sell stuff cheap so it is affordable for all. I took a whole car boot full of stuff there on the weekend (mostly books), then realised I need an extra sleeping bag for a camping trip this weekend and found one there for $5!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 02, 2015, 12:56:57 AM
It probably isn't very mustachian but I've decided to take everything I need to get rid of to the tip shop 5 mins down the road.  Yes, I could probably make money if I invested the time but I really just want to be rid of everything and time spent listing stuff and managing sales is time not spent sorting and getting rid of clutter. I have bought a lot from the tip shop over the years and a lot of people who are hard up shop there, it is run by the local council so is not for profit and they sell stuff cheap so it is affordable for all. I took a whole car boot full of stuff there on the weekend (mostly books), then realised I need an extra sleeping bag for a camping trip this weekend and found one there for $5!

I think it's quite mustachian. You're keeping stuff out of landfill, reducing your overall impact on the environment. And helping others find stuff they need at affordable prices. It's not just about the money :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on November 02, 2015, 01:24:31 AM
Thanks Astatine, you turned my feeling lazy into warm and fuzzies :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on November 02, 2015, 06:32:22 AM
It probably isn't very mustachian but I've decided to take everything I need to get rid of to the tip shop 5 mins down the road.  Yes, I could probably make money if I invested the time but I really just want to be rid of everything and time spent listing stuff and managing sales is time not spent sorting and getting rid of clutter. I have bought a lot from the tip shop over the years and a lot of people who are hard up shop there, it is run by the local council so is not for profit and they sell stuff cheap so it is affordable for all. I took a whole car boot full of stuff there on the weekend (mostly books), then realised I need an extra sleeping bag for a camping trip this weekend and found one there for $5!

I think it's quite mustachian. You're keeping stuff out of landfill, reducing your overall impact on the environment. And helping others find stuff they need at affordable prices. It's not just about the money :)

Good point.  I will sell stuff on ebay that I barely make any money on.  I'd rather do that than throw it in the trash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 02, 2015, 03:11:10 PM
It probably isn't very mustachian but I've decided to take everything I need to get rid of to the tip shop 5 mins down the road.  Yes, I could probably make money if I invested the time but I really just want to be rid of everything and time spent listing stuff and managing sales is time not spent sorting and getting rid of clutter. I have bought a lot from the tip shop over the years and a lot of people who are hard up shop there, it is run by the local council so is not for profit and they sell stuff cheap so it is affordable for all. I took a whole car boot full of stuff there on the weekend (mostly books), then realised I need an extra sleeping bag for a camping trip this weekend and found one there for $5!

I think it's quite mustachian. You're keeping stuff out of landfill, reducing your overall impact on the environment. And helping others find stuff they need at affordable prices. It's not just about the money :)

Good point.  I will sell stuff on ebay that I barely make any money on.  I'd rather do that than throw it in the trash.

If you've got the mental/emotional energy for that. :) I don't. But luckily my city also has recycling sheds at the rubbish tips and they take nearly everything, so it's just one trip out there vs dealing with ebay (which I've never used as a buyer or a seller). I also use freecycle, which is less effort than ebay. If I lived somewhere where they weren't options, I suspect I wouldn't bother with trying to sell stuff and things may end up in landfill. I balance mental health vs my personal values.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on November 05, 2015, 10:27:29 AM
It probably isn't very mustachian but I've decided to take everything I need to get rid of to the tip shop 5 mins down the road.  Yes, I could probably make money if I invested the time but I really just want to be rid of everything and time spent listing stuff and managing sales is time not spent sorting and getting rid of clutter. I have bought a lot from the tip shop over the years and a lot of people who are hard up shop there, it is run by the local council so is not for profit and they sell stuff cheap so it is affordable for all. I took a whole car boot full of stuff there on the weekend (mostly books), then realised I need an extra sleeping bag for a camping trip this weekend and found one there for $5!

I think it's quite mustachian. You're keeping stuff out of landfill, reducing your overall impact on the environment. And helping others find stuff they need at affordable prices. It's not just about the money :)

Good point.  I will sell stuff on ebay that I barely make any money on.  I'd rather do that than throw it in the trash.

If you've got the mental/emotional energy for that. :) I don't. But luckily my city also has recycling sheds at the rubbish tips and they take nearly everything, so it's just one trip out there vs dealing with ebay (which I've never used as a buyer or a seller). I also use freecycle, which is less effort than ebay. If I lived somewhere where they weren't options, I suspect I wouldn't bother with trying to sell stuff and things may end up in landfill. I balance mental health vs my personal values.

I did the same. I donated most things.  I just don't have the patience to deal with all the posting and selling and mailing.  I wanted things out of the house and I figured others could use it.  I didn't throw anything away that was usable and in good shape. It all got donated, with the exception of a few things which got sold.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 05, 2015, 12:00:48 PM
Tuesday night I was out of town for work and talking to my husband on the phone.  He was scrounging around the house for stuff to donate for a fundraiser auction at work.  I had him toss in a few things I was planning to get rid of, and he was rummaging around down in the basement and brought some of his stuff.  Then yesterday I got home and he had a pile of stuff to take to the annual ski sale, and was posting a motorcycle helmet on Craigslist.  I don't know what sparked this, but he is usually totally complacent about getting rid of stuff.  Really exciting!

I've been reading the KonMari book and starting to fill up a big box with random stuff that escaped my last bout of decluttering.  I have probably almost $1,000 worth of horse gear to sell on eBay and should have time to get it all listed soon.  Next we need to corral all our household hazardous waste/old electronics and get them gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JAYSLOL on November 07, 2015, 09:15:58 PM
Ok, so this is going to be way worse than the average post in this thread, so please apply face punches as necessary...

Over the last 3.5 years i've purchased 10 storage lockers of various sizes at auction as a fun hobby/side hustle.  I've been pretty good (at least initially) about getting rid of the leftover junk that builds up after moving all the easy to sell items, however in the last few months i've been too busy (excuse alert!) with my day job and family to hold a proper garage sale or spend much time organizing and listing all the little things and throwing out the junk.

The last unit i bought over this summer was larger than usually (or should have) bought and was very disorganized.  I've already made my money back and then some on it, but still have an entire bedroom of the house and most of a cube van full of stuff that needs time-consuming organization and listing for sale, or donation or trash.  I also personally have WAY more stuff than i need without all the extra locker junk and will embark on a mission over the next few months to get rid of all leftover locker items and much of my un-needed/un-used personal things. 

My goals are to sell at least $1000 worth of stuff by the end of November, to have the bedroom completely cleaned out by the end of January and to have gone through and sold, donated or thrown out ALL unnecessary possessions by the end of February. 

Wish me luck
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 07, 2015, 09:33:15 PM
Today I've put several water bottles into recycling. (I get a new one every hospital visit and the empties have been accumulating at home)

Threw out some out packaging that's no longer needed. Also threw out some instructions for something I no longer own.

I've also started a new donate box. Nearly full! We'll take it to the recycling shed at the rubbish tip next time we're out that way. So far, the donation box has:

- a children's book (bought from an op shop as a gift but realised it's to tatty to use as a gift)
- 2 of my tops (one looks dowdy, the other is uncomfortable)
- candle plus 2 fake candles that I bought for a party
- old digital camera that I got from freecycle ages ago and never used
- a bag that some medical stuff came in

DH is going through his boxes of memoriabilia/sentimental stuff. A few things have made it into the recycling bin. It's mostly a consolidation exercise so we can fit some work stuff under the bed. (we're working from home for the next 5 or 6 months and there isn't space for some of the work stuff we have to have)

Wish me luck

Good luck! On the plus side, I assume you have no emotional attachment to the stuff. Hopefully that means it's just a matter of getting organised and not having to fight with/manage sentimal reactions to the stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JAYSLOL on November 07, 2015, 10:02:12 PM
Today I've put several water bottles into recycling. (I get a new one every hospital visit and the empties have been accumulating at home)

Threw out some out packaging that's no longer needed. Also threw out some instructions for something I no longer own.

I've also started a new donate box. Nearly full! We'll take it to the recycling shed at the rubbish tip next time we're out that way. So far, the donation box has:

- a children's book (bought from an op shop as a gift but realised it's to tatty to use as a gift)
- 2 of my tops (one looks dowdy, the other is uncomfortable)
- candle plus 2 fake candles that I bought for a party
- old digital camera that I got from freecycle ages ago and never used
- a bag that some medical stuff came in

DH is going through his boxes of memoriabilia/sentimental stuff. A few things have made it into the recycling bin. It's mostly a consolidation exercise so we can fit some work stuff under the bed. (we're working from home for the next 5 or 6 months and there isn't space for some of the work stuff we have to have)

Wish me luck

Good luck! On the plus side, I assume you have no emotional attachment to the stuff. Hopefully that means it's just a matter of getting organised and not having to fight with/manage sentimal reactions to the stuff.


Yeah, it is WAY easier to be ruthlessly unemotional with someone else's former belongings!  Good practice for me for when i get around to going through my own stuff.  I'm posting things as reply :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on November 07, 2015, 10:19:59 PM
PAPER has been building up since we moved house a few months ago - ugh! I neex to sit down and put an hour or two into sorting, filing and shredding.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on November 08, 2015, 03:24:00 PM
Took three giant bags to Brown Elephant yesterday: 25+ books, some clothing (I checked: they textile recycle anything they can't resell--yay!), and a few other miscellaneous items.

I also got DH to clear out his desk, including some digital recyclables.

At this point, unless I can continue parting with books (an ongoing process) we've reached an impasse. (DH won't go through his closet, and I'm not going to ask again.)

I'll do an apartment run-through again at the beginning of 2016. Maybe I'll be more inclined to give up some books or clear out some old papers then (or can convince DH to do the same).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 08, 2015, 04:28:26 PM
I've got some stuff happening in life right now, but the part that is applicable here is that I am going to start putting miscellaneous (unused) items in a box. If it's not missed, I'm getting rid of it one way or another. Now just debating on whether to tell the SO. :) I'll have more details later that I'll post here. Minimalism is becoming a much larger part of my life, and I might even end up taking it to the extreme.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on November 09, 2015, 11:50:28 AM
I've got some stuff happening in life right now, but the part that is applicable here is that I am going to start putting miscellaneous (unused) items in a box. If it's not missed, I'm getting rid of it one way or another. Now just debating on whether to tell the SO. :) I'll have more details later that I'll post here. Minimalism is becoming a much larger part of my life, and I might even end up taking it to the extreme.
Have you read Marie Kondo's book?  A few sections helped me when dealing with my husband.  First, I don't show him the things I'm getting rid of (that are mine).  Second, I don't get rid of his items for him. 

Since I've taken a hands-off approach to my husband's things, he's parted with more than when I was pushing him to get rid of things.  I do itemize everything and donate it, so he only has to decide that he wants to get rid of an item.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 09, 2015, 04:24:41 PM
Last year I condensed our paperwork down to a single binder.

On the weekend I went through it and pulled out anything no longer needed (e.g. last year's rego papers, etc). Ended up with a stack of papers about an inch high, which I shredded at work this morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 10, 2015, 05:37:58 AM
I'm really losing decluttering steam :( And it's not that my possessions are pared down as much as I want them to be, unfortunately.

Marie Kondo said you will know when you have the right amount of stuff for you, and I know she's right because I've reached that point with makeup and toiletries. It just feels perfect and I love it.

But to get to that point with clothes is harder for me. I have got rid of so much... but I haven't been able to replace it as quickly with things that 'give me joy'. Anyone else found this? I am actually struggling to find work outfits each morning, and yet I'm still wearing loads of things I don't even like. If I got rid of everything except the joy givers I think I'd be nude! And I don't want to spend a fortune buying new joyous items. Anyone else have this problem?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on November 10, 2015, 06:28:42 AM
^Can you pick out your favourite outfits and see what you like about them and then try to only buy clothes like them. Maybe get a friend round to see how you look, or take photos and see which things and colours suit you.

I'm finding it hard to find stuff to declutter at the moment.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on November 10, 2015, 06:44:01 AM
theadvicist, can you arrange a clothing swap? Bring the stuff that you don't like, and see if you find new items that work from your friend's cast-offs. Do you know why you're not liking what's on hand?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on November 10, 2015, 07:17:17 AM
The old tv is out of the house - I really hope the person who is supposed to pick it up does so today.  For something with such a thin footprint, it has taken an inordinate amount of mental energy with copious second guessing and procrastination.

This is the problem with a big house & a basement.  There is no impetus to get rid of things, we always have the space.  And it's easy to say 'just in case'.  I wonder if for the SO it's the equivalent of a stocked pantry/freezer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on November 10, 2015, 12:21:51 PM
Your help and encouragement needed!  Through a roundabout way, I came across someone local who buys music records and albums, and even offered to buy my record player if I have one (which I do).  From my youth and being a DJ for a short while, I have over 200 albums, over 50 45s, and 200 cassette tapes.  The problem?  I don't seem to be ready to sell them.  They are organized in the hall closet, and I play the records once a year or so.  The cassettes never.  What would you do?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on November 10, 2015, 02:08:30 PM

 I am actually struggling to find work outfits each morning, and yet I'm still wearing loads of things I don't even like. If I got rid of everything except the joy givers I think I'd be nude! And I don't want to spend a fortune buying new joyous items. Anyone else have this problem?

Yes. I have a bunch of work clothes that don't spark joy (or that I like but that also have something wrong with them that keeps me from feeling good about them). I am thinking of them as a new category--stuff that isn't what I ultimately want, but that serves a purpose well enough for now. It's like the "functional" category of stuff, except that in my mind, I explicitly label it as something that will be let go of when circumstances permit. That might be when I find a replacement that I love, or when it wears out, or when i don't need it any more. Consciously putting the items in this category means that although I still wear them, the emotions have been processed, the decision has been made, and I can wear them just as useful clothes without the baggage. And the minute that they are no longer useful, I can discard them without revisiting them.

I'm still trying out this idea, but it seems to relieve the stress of having to wear clothes that aren't joy-givers. It also helps me discriminate between items that are "I don't mind wearing this until I find something better" and items that are "y'know, I really *don't* like wearing this"--so I can discard the latter.

Like AerynLee, I'm picky, and I'm an odd size, so it's hard to find replacements that are just right. My whole life, I've worn anything that was passable just to have *something* to wear. It's going to be a step-by-step process to get to a closet of joy-sparkers only. Meanwhile, being able to articulate the difference seems to help.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 10, 2015, 02:14:52 PM
Your help and encouragement needed!  Through a roundabout way, I came across someone local who buys music records and albums, and even offered to buy my record player if I have one (which I do).  From my youth and being a DJ for a short while, I have over 200 albums, over 50 45s, and 200 cassette tapes.  The problem?  I don't seem to be ready to sell them.  They are organized in the hall closet, and I play the records once a year or so.  The cassettes never.  What would you do?

Mountain, let it go. Enjoy the space, and the reduced dusting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on November 10, 2015, 02:28:58 PM
Your help and encouragement needed!  Through a roundabout way, I came across someone local who buys music records and albums, and even offered to buy my record player if I have one (which I do).  From my youth and being a DJ for a short while, I have over 200 albums, over 50 45s, and 200 cassette tapes.  The problem?  I don't seem to be ready to sell them.  They are organized in the hall closet, and I play the records once a year or so.  The cassettes never.  What would you do?
Get rid of the cassettes for sure - you don't listen to them anyway.
Go through the 200 albums and pull out the ones you don't love, or you have CDs of. Get rid of those.
If you still have a lot of albums left after purging, I don't see any problem with keeping them if you actually listen to and enjoy them.  If you only have a few left, it might be worth just making a list of them and replacing them with CDs when you see them on sale or if family members ask what you want for holiday/birthday gifts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on November 10, 2015, 04:17:08 PM
TheAdvicist - I'm in the same boat as you with clothes. And for me at least it's not as easy as going out and buying new (or thrift store) ones that I love because I'm so picky I can go shopping and not find one thing I love.
One thing I'm going to look into doing is creating a "uniform" where I find polo's or something similarly generic and buy a bunch in different colors. While I still won't love my work clothes at least I won't dread wearing the ones I'm keeping just so I'm not going to work nude
My husband made a comment when I went through my clothing that I wouldn't have anything to wear.  I struggled for a few weeks, but I bought my favorite items slightly used on eBay.  They were more than a thrift shop, but way less than new.  Also, they're the exact same year (sometimes things shift season to season) as my favorite pair.  It's ridiculous, but true.  I also instituted a work uniform and bought 10 of my favorite tops in various colors.  Now I don't shop unless I need to replace something. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on November 10, 2015, 10:52:47 PM
I love the idea of a work uniform.  I went to the thrift store and bought 3 more pairs of black pants. I already had 1 and I work 4 days a week.  Sometimes I will wear a dress, or other colored pants, but now my goto everyday is to grab black pants, my black shoes, any shirt and I am done.  It really has made it simple.

We are having white elephant gifts for Christmas at work, and the requirement is that you don't buy anything, it has to be something you already have.  I love it.  I told everyone I was giving them expired Metamucil.  Unfortunately, I don't actually own that.  But I am going to have fun choosing something!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fbeyer on November 11, 2015, 01:28:52 AM
Your help and encouragement needed!  Through a roundabout way, I came across someone local who buys music records and albums, and even offered to buy my record player if I have one (which I do).  From my youth and being a DJ for a short while, I have over 200 albums, over 50 45s, and 200 cassette tapes.  The problem?  I don't seem to be ready to sell them.  They are organized in the hall closet, and I play the records once a year or so.  The cassettes never.  What would you do?
Is the rest of your house decluttered?
Have you meticulously gone through, and reflected on, every single thing you own and now you're just left with dealing with the music?

Material detachment is a mental muscle you have to train. Starting with emotionally insignificant stuff is equivalent to the low weights. Getting rid of your sentimentals is the 400 pound deadlift; there is no easy way to do it, you have to do it right, no one can help you, and you have to be freakin' strong to do it.
If you still haven't pared down your stacks of papers; get it done first!
If you still haven't pared down your wardrobe; get it done!
If you still haven't pared down your kitchen; get it done!
If you still haven't pared down your movies; get it done!
If you still haven't pared down your books; get it done!

By the time you've gone through that and know why, to great detail why you've kept and especially why you've thrown away all those things again, you are in much better mental shape to handle sentimental items like photographs, letters and music.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on November 11, 2015, 10:43:24 AM
I have the same problem with clothes. I got rid of a ton and still have plenty left but I don't love it all and for me, that is okay.  For now I am wearing what I have and just adding a few pieces here and there as I go along. I am super fickle with clothes but as I add, I am making sure that I really like it and will wear it. 

I have been decluttering for a number of years now.  I am still decluttering and would like to finally be done.  But that will be awhile yet.  My collectibles are harder to deal with since there really isn't a market for them anymore.

I have gone through stages of decluttering. I will get real into it and then wane off and then pick it up again.  It does get tiring. But, I will keep dealing with it until I am at a point I want.  I am not looking to be a "real" minimalist, but I want to get close.  I really don't want things stored in closets/rooms unless it is stuff I am really using.

Quite frankly, if I was younger, I would go the backpack route or own very little, just to feel the freedom from stuff, even for a minute. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on November 11, 2015, 12:06:26 PM
Thank you, Sibley, Always and Fbyer.

Your help and encouragement needed!  Through a roundabout way, I came across someone local who buys music records and albums, and even offered to buy my record player if I have one (which I do).  From my youth and being a DJ for a short while, I have over 200 albums, over 50 45s, and 200 cassette tapes.  The problem?  I don't seem to be ready to sell them.  They are organized in the hall closet, and I play the records once a year or so.  The cassettes never.  What would you do?
Is the rest of your house decluttered?  Things on display, yes.
Have you meticulously gone through, and reflected on, every single thing you own and now you're just left with dealing with the music?

Material detachment is a mental muscle you have to train. Starting with emotionally insignificant stuff is equivalent to the low weights. Getting rid of your sentimentals is the 400 pound deadlift; there is no easy way to do it, you have to do it right, no one can help you, and you have to be freakin' strong to do it.
If you still haven't pared down your stacks of papers; get it done first!  Done
If you still haven't pared down your wardrobe; get it done!  Working on it
If you still haven't pared down your kitchen; get it done!  Done, but can do more
If you still haven't pared down your movies; get it done!  Will need DH's assistance, since most are his
If you still haven't pared down your books; get it done! Done

By the time you've gone through that and know why, to great detail why you've kept and especially why you've thrown away all those things again, you are in much better mental shape to handle sentimental items like photographs, letters and music.

Thanks again.  Makes sense.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 11, 2015, 12:20:56 PM
I've got some stuff happening in life right now, but the part that is applicable here is that I am going to start putting miscellaneous (unused) items in a box. If it's not missed, I'm getting rid of it one way or another. Now just debating on whether to tell the SO. :) I'll have more details later that I'll post here. Minimalism is becoming a much larger part of my life, and I might even end up taking it to the extreme.
Have you read Marie Kondo's book?  A few sections helped me when dealing with my husband.  First, I don't show him the things I'm getting rid of (that are mine).  Second, I don't get rid of his items for him. 

Since I've taken a hands-off approach to my husband's things, he's parted with more than when I was pushing him to get rid of things.  I do itemize everything and donate it, so he only has to decide that he wants to get rid of an item.

I have read the book, and loved it (mostly). All of my stuff is now folded in her fashion. I mentioned a few things earlier in this thread (although now I realize how long this thread is), when I was really clearing it all up. I found that making a pile in the middle of the living room for stuff to go to Goodwill made the pile get magically bigger. Right now though, I'm pretty close to being fully optimized (and fully optimized when it comes to clothes). My main issue is that there is oh so much stuff, and almost none of it is used...ever. Hence the sneaky aspect of it all. Who knows, maybe after I hit the time thing, I'll run through it all prior to getting rid of it. We'll see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on November 11, 2015, 07:45:37 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 11, 2015, 08:13:45 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

When you say trashing functional stuff, you mean recycling or donating whenever possible right?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on November 11, 2015, 08:30:50 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

When you say trashing functional stuff, you mean recycling or donating whenever possible right?
No. That's why I haven't done it. I'm not sure on all the recycling places that'll take the stuff either.

Especially if it's items that are only a couple of dollars new and aren't really what you'd donate (like TV/phone cables and packets of envelopes and the like), or outdated tech accessories (I've got about four or five external hard drives).

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on November 11, 2015, 08:37:49 PM
Best buy takes used electronics, including chargers and other accessories I believe.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 11, 2015, 08:42:14 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

When you say trashing functional stuff, you mean recycling or donating whenever possible right?
No. That's why I haven't done it. I'm not sure on all the recycling places that'll take the stuff either.

Especially if it's items that are only a couple of dollars new and aren't really what you'd donate (like TV/phone cables and packets of envelopes and the like), or outdated tech accessories (I've got about four or five external hard drives).

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

All the Goodwill stores in my area accept just about anything- including outdated tech stuff/appliances, chords, envelopes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Kaikou on November 11, 2015, 09:07:04 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

no need to trash it. Goodwill, Craigslist, Freecycle... etc Rinse and repeat
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 12, 2015, 03:59:17 AM
Thanks for all the help on the clothing front everyone. I love the idea of seperating 'it will do for now' clothes mentally. I actually wish I had the space for a separate rail where I could hang the stuff I love and slowly add to it until I didn't need the other one.

I've had great luck with ebay as well. Beautiful, expensive, well made items that cost a fraction of retail - many of them have never even been worn. That's my go-to source for now, but even at £10 - £15 an item to get a fully functioning work wardrobe will be a decent investment.

And thanks for the advice on working out WHY I like certain items. I will select my favourites and consider which silhouettes, fabrics, colours etc I prefer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on November 12, 2015, 04:58:22 AM
I'm back! I had to take a break from decluttering during the gardening season (I look forward to the RE day when I have time for more than one hobby).

My bathroom, clothes, papers, kitchen appliances, sewing/knitting stash, and books remained decluttered nicely. Woohoo, Kondo!

Now, I have to tackle my gardening and biking supplies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on November 12, 2015, 09:07:00 AM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

no need to trash it. Goodwill, Craigslist, Freecycle... etc Rinse and repeat
I joined a No Buy Group in my area.  I've gotten rid of things.  But I've also received a few things that I would have spent money to purchase.  Win. Win. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on November 12, 2015, 10:30:57 AM
Random stuff thrown away, a tiny bit of chilli sauce as I couldn't remember when I opened it. I have an old set of curtains but I might use them as a sofa covering so I got them out to decide, if not they can go to recycling. A decorative box put into recycling, I was keeping it for my two bracelets but I thought that was just silly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on November 12, 2015, 12:03:50 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).



If Craigslist is fairly active in your area, put the functional stuff on the Free section. In my area, anything on Free gets hoovered up, unless it's something like an old mattress full of cat pee.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 12, 2015, 11:05:41 PM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).



If Craigslist is fairly active in your area, put the functional stuff on the Free section. In my area, anything on Free gets hoovered up, unless it's something like an old mattress full of cat pee.


Lol. Yup
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 13, 2015, 03:28:49 AM
I've had two buyers on ebay fail to pay recently. Annoying! One item I boxed and packed as soon as it was sold, so though I'm tempted to just donate it, I would have to unwrap it first, and it was glass so it's really well packed. I have relisted. The other I have done a second chance offer.

This never used to happen to me on ebay, but I've had it three times this year, and I've been selling less than before. Interesting trend that I hope does not continue.

I got of more jewellery I don't really wear, and a dress which I hate, yet wear quite a lot (why? It's comfy, I guess). Still pondering my work wardrobe. I think I am falling behind on 2015 in 2015, but I went through my books again and only found 1 to get rid of. Yet there still feels like there is too much stuff in my house. I'm going to have to be more ruthless.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on November 13, 2015, 06:50:47 AM
Your help and encouragement needed!  Through a roundabout way, I came across someone local who buys music records and albums, and even offered to buy my record player if I have one (which I do).  From my youth and being a DJ for a short while, I have over 200 albums, over 50 45s, and 200 cassette tapes.  The problem?  I don't seem to be ready to sell them.  They are organized in the hall closet, and I play the records once a year or so.  The cassettes never.  What would you do?

MountainGal,   Parent of 2 teenagers here...  Record players and vintage vinyl are hot with teens (and nostalgic parents of teens).   Cassettes are worth maybe a dollar for rare stuff but not much else... Your likely sitting on over $1500-$2500 in vinyl alone if you have the good DJ quality stuff (dance tunes, 80s rock, etc).  But the market will cool quickly as this batch of kids moves on.    Save your Tippy Top Ten records (for you) and then carry the lot to a college town used record store  on a weekday morning (before they get busy at lunch) and see what happens.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 13, 2015, 07:38:51 AM
I am bringing in another batch of stuff to the consignment store today.  I realized that I started to get rid of stuff in my closet about a year ago and managed to reduce the clothing by about half!  I still have some items that could go.  It's a big closet :-)

I'm slowly getting used to wearing my favorites more often.  I have this irrational fear of wearing out my favorite items and not being able to find something I like to replace them.  This causes me to "save" the things I like and wear things I don't really care for.  By the time I get back to the favorites, they either don't fit any more or are out of style.  Where is the logic in this??? 

So I'm trying to focus on wearing my favorites instead, and wearing them more often.  Today, I have on a pair of shoes I adore and a cashmere cardigan that I like a lot.  I wore them last Friday as well.  When I was getting dressed this morning, I had anxious thoughts floating in my head of what I'm going to do when these things wear out and what will people at work think seeing me in the same stuff two Fridays in a row ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on November 13, 2015, 11:18:55 AM
I went through an old box of photos, negatives (yes, that old), and various travel related memories from 2005 in the form of ticket stubs, maps, etc. and through out most of them. I saved a few photos to scan and a couple ticket stubs for my scrapbook. I can throw out the negatives right? In my entire life I've never ever used one, but I feel this irrational sense that I'm supposed to keep the negatives just in case! Absurd, I'm no professional photographer!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on November 13, 2015, 12:01:02 PM
I'm slowly getting used to wearing my favorites more often.  I have this irrational fear of wearing out my favorite items and not being able to find something I like to replace them.  This causes me to "save" the things I like and wear things I don't really care for.  By the time I get back to the favorites, they either don't fit any more or are out of style.  Where is the logic in this??? 

I had this problem before when I was saving my favorites in pristine condition because I didn't want them to get damaged. Then I got over it and decided to use all the good stuff, because they're meant to be used. The only downside to this is that I've had a few of my favorite items wear out because I literally used them almost every other day for years. Every now and then I search through eBay in the hopes of finding that specific pair of shoes, and that specific leather jacket that I had because I'm just sad that they're gone forever.

But it was great to open my wardrobe and know that I'm wearing my favorites everyday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 13, 2015, 01:19:25 PM
[...] Then I got over it and decided to use all the good stuff, because they're meant to be used. The only downside to this is that I've had a few of my favorite items wear out because I literally used them almost every other day for years. Every now and then I search through eBay in the hopes of finding that specific pair of shoes, and that specific leather jacket that I had because I'm just sad that they're gone forever.

But it was great to open my wardrobe and know that I'm wearing my favorites everyday.

First, I just stumbled across your recipe thread thing you did. That was awesome. Secondly, how the hell do you wear out real leather? I've tried. Never worked.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 13, 2015, 08:32:54 PM
[...] Then I got over it and decided to use all the good stuff, because they're meant to be used. The only downside to this is that I've had a few of my favorite items wear out because I literally used them almost every other day for years. Every now and then I search through eBay in the hopes of finding that specific pair of shoes, and that specific leather jacket that I had because I'm just sad that they're gone forever.

But it was great to open my wardrobe and know that I'm wearing my favorites everyday.

First, I just stumbled across your recipe thread thing you did. That was awesome. Secondly, how the hell do you wear out real leather? I've tried. Never worked.

It takes a long while, but it happens naturally with use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 14, 2015, 01:25:17 AM
I am bringing in another batch of stuff to the consignment store today.  I realized that I started to get rid of stuff in my closet about a year ago and managed to reduce the clothing by about half!  I still have some items that could go.  It's a big closet :-)

I'm slowly getting used to wearing my favorites more often.  I have this irrational fear of wearing out my favorite items and not being able to find something I like to replace them.  This causes me to "save" the things I like and wear things I don't really care for.  By the time I get back to the favorites, they either don't fit any more or are out of style.  Where is the logic in this??? 

So I'm trying to focus on wearing my favorites instead, and wearing them more often.  Today, I have on a pair of shoes I adore and a cashmere cardigan that I like a lot.  I wore them last Friday as well.  When I was getting dressed this morning, I had anxious thoughts floating in my head of what I'm going to do when these things wear out and what will people at work think seeing me in the same stuff two Fridays in a row ;-)

I've had to fight this as well over the years (thanks, childhood brainwashing from parents). But, who knows, you could be hit by a bus tomorrow. Or what is your favourite today may no longer be your favourite next year, or your tastes change, or you change size or shape. Wear what you love now. Trust that you will find future favourite things later if needed. The only day that matters is today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 14, 2015, 09:55:54 AM
Went thru two huge kitchen cabinets with my roommate- she was able to release things like graters, strainers, Tupperware missing tops or bottoms, party supplies like disposable plates and cutlery. Two bags donated, two recycled.
Also tidied my closet, bookshelf, sewing and art supplies, and memento scraps. (It was all rather minimal to begin with, e.g. had been already reduced to ~30 books now is ~25).
I've really become aware that the problem is "new" (read: castoffs -of which I am offered many and regularly!) stuff , I  must be more discerning. Also, sometimes I don't take the minute to put my things away, and fr there it continues. Insideous.
So, a few flight stubs out, a hospital pillow, some art supplies, a couple blouses and PJ bottoms, etc., a few books, etc. All donated except stubs which were recycled.
Closet is organized again, jewelry making stuff, currency collection, books, fabrics and art/sewing supplies, makeup & toiletries .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 14, 2015, 07:35:43 PM
Went through my kitchen and the "out" box if been meaning to go through with DH. Ditched random weird stuff that even the charity won't take. We have what I think are two retro pyrex casserole dishes. they've been turned into two lovely garden beds for my succulent propagation :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on November 15, 2015, 07:24:39 AM
Went thru two huge kitchen cabinets with my roommate- she was able to release things like graters, strainers, Tupperware missing tops or bottoms, party supplies like disposable plates and cutlery. Two bags donated, two recycled.
Also tidied my closet, bookshelf, sewing and art supplies, and memento scraps. (It was all rather minimal to begin with, e.g. had been already reduced to ~30 books now is ~25).
I've really become aware that the problem is "new" (read: castoffs -of which I am offered many and regularly!) stuff , I  must be more discerning. Also, sometimes I don't take the minute to put my things away, and fr there it continues. Insideous.
So, a few flight stubs out, a hospital pillow, some art supplies, a couple blouses and PJ bottoms, etc., a few books, etc. All donated except stubs which were recycled.
Closet is organized again, jewelry making stuff, currency collection, books, fabrics and art/sewing supplies, makeup & toiletries .

I deal with the same thing, since my annual trip home usually means an annual closet purge for my very consumptive mother and sister. I get lots of hand-me-downs in excellent condition, but then I get home and think "Did I really need another floral t-shirt?"

One thing I learned this year from my foray into minimalism is that there are actually five "Rs" of being green--and the first one is "refuse"! (As in, I know this cheap-o plastic pen is free, but do I really need another cheap-o plastic pen?) This is not to say hand-me-downs and secondhand options aren't ever good--they absolutely are!--but to refuse means to think long and hard about whether or not the piece, free or not, belongs in our lives. It's a good way to approach decluttering too.

Do you have a one-in, one-out rule for places where you find clutter finding its way back into your life? I have found this incredibly helpful for clothing. (My mom, bless her heart, is currently on a one in, two out in order to rein in her closet.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on November 15, 2015, 10:50:35 AM
I also like that mantra to refuse first - has been slowly helping me to gain control.

Got rid of about 5 boxes of stuff recently. I have decided to eliminate some entire categories and that has really helped. We gave away an entire set of 18 books by the same author, and have not been tempted to buy the newest release by them. I used to have supplies for every craft known, but now I'm deciding on my favorite few and getting rid of the others in batches.

Items recently refused: about 75% of what was offered at a recent travel trade show (I did accept the reusable bag. Plus candy which only lasted me a few days) I am proud I did not bring home any new notebooks, pens, flyers, or memo pads.

Also refused a lot of functional, but not needed by me, stuff from my sister who was down-sizing for a move overseas.  I said no to all the cleaning supplies, games, clothes, art supplies I knew I wouldn't use.  I did take a box of alcohol, 2 items of clothing that have already seen use, and some blank canvases that have already been given to a friend holding a 'paint nite' this month.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 15, 2015, 11:13:59 AM
Went thru two huge kitchen cabinets with my roommate- she was able to release things like graters, strainers, Tupperware missing tops or bottoms, party supplies like disposable plates and cutlery. Two bags donated, two recycled.
Also tidied my closet, bookshelf, sewing and art supplies, and memento scraps. (It was all rather minimal to begin with, e.g. had been already reduced to ~30 books now is ~25).
I've really become aware that the problem is "new" (read: castoffs -of which I am offered many and regularly!) stuff , I  must be more discerning. Also, sometimes I don't take the minute to put my things away, and fr there it continues. Insideous.
So, a few flight stubs out, a hospital pillow, some art supplies, a couple blouses and PJ bottoms, etc., a few books, etc. All donated except stubs which were recycled.
Closet is organized again, jewelry making stuff, currency collection, books, fabrics and art/sewing supplies, makeup & toiletries .

I deal with the same thing, since my annual trip home usually means an annual closet purge for my very consumptive mother and sister. I get lots of hand-me-downs in excellent condition, but then I get home and think "Did I really need another floral t-shirt?"

One thing I learned this year from my foray into minimalism is that there are actually five "Rs" of being green--and the first one is "refuse"! (As in, I know this cheap-o plastic pen is free, but do I really need another cheap-o plastic pen?) This is not to say hand-me-downs and secondhand options aren't ever good--they absolutely are!--but to refuse means to think long and hard about whether or not the piece, free or not, belongs in our lives. It's a good way to approach decluttering too.

Do you have a one-in, one-out rule for places where you find clutter finding its way back into your life? I have found this incredibly helpful for clothing. (My mom, bless her heart, is currently on a one in, two out in order to rein in her closet.)

Not exactly a one in, one out rule. But I do go thru my closet every time I receive more castoffs I love from coworkers. I  do the Konmarie method and donate several. So it all evens out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 15, 2015, 11:27:34 AM
I also like that mantra to refuse first - has been slowly helping me to gain control.

Got rid of about 5 boxes of stuff recently. I have decided to eliminate some entire categories and that has really helped. We gave away an entire set of 18 books by the same author, and have not been tempted to buy the newest release by them. I used to have supplies for every craft known, but now I'm deciding on my favorite few and getting rid of the others in batches.

Items recently refused: about 75% of what was offered at a recent travel trade show (I did accept the reusable bag. Plus candy which only lasted me a few days) I am proud I did not bring home any new notebooks, pens, flyers, or memo pads.

Also refused a lot of functional, but not needed by me, stuff from my sister who was down-sizing for a move overseas.  I said no to all the cleaning supplies, games, clothes, art supplies I knew I wouldn't use.  I did take a box of alcohol, 2 items of clothing that have already seen use, and some blank canvases that have already been given to a friend holding a 'paint nite' this month.

I strive for zero waste-. Refuse is also Bea Johnson's first line of offense against producing waste. I think more in terms of zero waste-, rather than decluttering, but I also am WAY into decluttering- like Marie Kondos I began with fascination as a small child .
I do not accept any freebies of things that are new - like samples (,shampoos, etc), or free gifts (like pens, paper,etc). I find pens, hairtyes, and Bobby pins all the time anyway so I never need to buy these items - & they have ALREADY been produced & I've picked up on floors etc like I do with money found.
In terms of used clothing I am offered, I sort thru and the ones i  love hav a pile, maybes(almost always no's) in another, and another for no's. Try everything on that left and must have great fit (not easy with many body types!) And very IMPORTANTLY - will I wear it? That's what gets me every time! So, must be realistic. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on November 15, 2015, 12:41:00 PM
We attacked the junk drawer and filing cabinet last night. It's all tidy and organized and easy to find things in now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on November 15, 2015, 12:55:37 PM
Just got Marie Condo's audiobook from the library, after waiting in line..

yesterday (before starting the book)  I managed to donate to a youth shelter 2 items that have value but weren't good for me
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Lynski on November 15, 2015, 01:20:15 PM
I hope you enjoy the Kondo book! It's been a big help to me in prioritizing what items I want to keep. I think that was a big shift in my thinking, not just what can I get rid of, but what to I actually want to keep.

I got rid of 4 boxes of stuff to the local thrift store yesterday. A big part of that was clothing. I'm embarrassed to say some items still had the tags on. I used to shop for clothes online, and it's so easy to get swayed by constant sales and coupons. "Oh, adding that shirt to my order is only $12 more and will qualify me for free shipping!" After cutting my clothing down to about half of what I used to own, I have a new rule that the only items that get added are ones that I have tried on in person, fit well and I'm in love with. I hate dealing with malls, so this has made me much more intentional with what I'm shopping for.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on November 15, 2015, 04:08:41 PM
Cleaned AND organized the kitchen pen/stamp/scissor/stuff drawer. Thankfully it has never been a real junk drawer, but sometimes it won't close. Now it closes and everything has a place!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 15, 2015, 06:44:48 PM
I declutter the crap out of my kitchen today.  Got rid of lots of old spices and other ingredients we won't use.  The cabinets are so clean and spacious now.

Last week I tried the clothes rolling thing.  I don't like the process but it is nice being able to see everything in the drawer.  Got rid of enough stuff to fit my hamper in the closet so it doesn't have to be out in the room.  Huge box of stuff overflowing ready to go to the thrift store.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 15, 2015, 08:06:40 PM
I declutter the crap out of my kitchen today.  Got rid of lots of old spices and other ingredients we won't use.  The cabinets are so clean and spacious now.

Last week I tried the clothes rolling thing.  I don't like the process but it is nice being able to see everything in the drawer.  Got rid of enough stuff to fit my hamper in the closet so it doesn't have to be out in the room.  Huge box of stuff overflowing ready to go to the thrift store.

The folding has really grown on me. So great to be able to see everything, also fits in drawer so much better. Only things I still do not fold are undergarments, but I do segregate each type in the drawer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on November 15, 2015, 10:05:36 PM
I spent part of this week helping a girlfriend clear out her late mother's home. There were three different rooms that were so full of boxes and possessions that you couldn't enter them. I threw away multiple bags of junk mail, catalogs, return address stickers, freebie notepads, business cards and so forth. We didn't even tackle anything that wasn't pure trash, as apparently much of it can be sold in bulk at the estate sale.

Long story short, I don't want to die surrounded by piles of credit card statements from six years ago and clothing I haven't worn in 25 years and junk I don't even remember ordering.

As such, some recent declutter work:
* Packed a bag of weird geegaws for "art tray" at preschool
* Selected three cookbook/garden books to list on Amazon or otherwise release
* Packed a bag for Goodwill including Cuisinart blades, 3 insulated lunchboxes with off-putting logos, a checkbook cover, an extra grater and an extra bottle opener
* Packed up an ugly but ultrawarm blanket for the homeless guy who lives under our nearest freeway overpass
* Poured four expired medications into the worm bin and recycled the plastic containers
* Collected all remaining tampons (I've switched to a menstrual cup) and will drop off in the women's bathroom at the library next time I go
* Tossed out a jar of some unidentifiable, unlabeled spice.
* Recycled 10 or so empty glass jars that I was saving for no particular reason.
* Threw away three Very Special and Important Rocks we'd been saving.
* Tossed gelatin, pectin, coconut milk and condensed milk that has never been used and will presumably not be used in the foreseeable future.
* Composted some frozen food scraps I was saving for smoothies. Let's get through the superexpensive frozen wild blueberries before we start blending up leftover strawberry tops, mmmkay?

Working on:
* I have too many reusable bags. I think I need to release all those with logos (I have a set of 6 or 7 plain black hemp ones that more than suffice for all my grocery needs) but I haven't managed it yet. The ones from Whole Foods have shoulder straps and are organic cotton! Argh. I know better. I'm going to ask my mom if she wants to take them.
* I kept some blackstrap molasses that I think I've had for five years. Added a little to the overnight oatmeal I'm making. It has a lot of iron and nutrients so if I can choke it down in oatmeal I'll let it stay in the house until it's used up.

The struggle is real.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 15, 2015, 11:22:50 PM
I spent part of this week helping a girlfriend clear out her late mother's home. There were three different rooms that were so full of boxes and possessions that you couldn't enter them. I threw away multiple bags of junk mail, catalogs, return address stickers, freebie notepads, business cards and so forth. We didn't even tackle anything that wasn't pure trash, as apparently much of it can be sold in bulk at the estate sale.

Long story short, I don't want to die surrounded by piles of credit card statements from six years ago and clothing I haven't worn in 25 years and junk I don't even remember ordering.

As such, some recent declutter work:
* Packed a bag of weird geegaws for "art tray" at preschool
* Selected three cookbook/garden books to list on Amazon or otherwise release
* Packed a bag for Goodwill including Cuisinart blades, 3 insulated lunchboxes with off-putting logos, a checkbook cover, an extra grater and an extra bottle opener
* Packed up an ugly but ultrawarm blanket for the homeless guy who lives under our nearest freeway overpass
* Poured four expired medications into the worm bin and recycled the plastic containers
* Collected all remaining tampons (I've switched to a menstrual cup) and will drop off in the women's bathroom at the library next time I go
* Tossed out a jar of some unidentifiable, unlabeled spice.
* Recycled 10 or so empty glass jars that I was saving for no particular reason.
* Threw away three Very Special and Important Rocks we'd been saving.
* Tossed gelatin, pectin, coconut milk and condensed milk that has never been used and will presumably not be used in the foreseeable future.
* Composted some frozen food scraps I was saving for smoothies. Let's get through the superexpensive frozen wild blueberries before we start blending up leftover strawberry tops, mmmkay?

Working on:
* I have too many reusable bags. I think I need to release all those with logos (I have a set of 6 or 7 plain black hemp ones that more than suffice for all my grocery needs) but I haven't managed it yet. The ones from Whole Foods have shoulder straps and are organic cotton! Argh. I know better. I'm going to ask my mom if she wants to take them.
* I kept some blackstrap molasses that I think I've had for five years. Added a little to the overnight oatmeal I'm making. It has a lot of iron and nutrients so if I can choke it down in oatmeal I'll let it stay in the house until it's used up.

The struggle is real.

A slight tangent perhaps, but iv'e also switched to a menstral cup. Greatly diminished waste  & is a big money saver- they supposedly last 10yrs. Excellent switch.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 16, 2015, 03:23:01 AM
Jengod, I helped a friend with her father's house (borderline hoarder). I came home and threw out so much of my stuff in response. It's eye opening, isn't it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 16, 2015, 07:18:05 AM
I have a bunch too, from when they first came out.  I find that I use my 2 nylon pocket shopping bags all the time (they are small enough to live in my purse) and the others only when I need extra bags.  I have been slowly getting rid of the bulky bags, they are useful for holding other give-aways (2fers).
http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=62658&cat=2,2260,47776&ap=1 (http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=62658&cat=2,2260,47776&ap=1)
http://www.mec.ca/product/5034-608/cactus-creek-pocket-shopping-bag-unisex/?f=10+50603 (http://www.mec.ca/product/5034-608/cactus-creek-pocket-shopping-bag-unisex/?f=10+50603)


Working on:
* I have too many reusable bags. I think I need to release all those with logos (I have a set of 6 or 7 plain black hemp ones that more than suffice for all my grocery needs) but I haven't managed it yet. The ones from Whole Foods have shoulder straps and are organic cotton! Argh. I know better. I'm going to ask my mom if she wants to take them.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 16, 2015, 07:48:16 AM
I am bringing in another batch of stuff to the consignment store today.  I realized that I started to get rid of stuff in my closet about a year ago and managed to reduce the clothing by about half!  I still have some items that could go.  It's a big closet :-)

I'm slowly getting used to wearing my favorites more often.  I have this irrational fear of wearing out my favorite items and not being able to find something I like to replace them.  This causes me to "save" the things I like and wear things I don't really care for.  By the time I get back to the favorites, they either don't fit any more or are out of style.  Where is the logic in this??? 

So I'm trying to focus on wearing my favorites instead, and wearing them more often.  Today, I have on a pair of shoes I adore and a cashmere cardigan that I like a lot.  I wore them last Friday as well.  When I was getting dressed this morning, I had anxious thoughts floating in my head of what I'm going to do when these things wear out and what will people at work think seeing me in the same stuff two Fridays in a row ;-)

I've had to fight this as well over the years (thanks, childhood brainwashing from parents). But, who knows, you could be hit by a bus tomorrow. Or what is your favourite today may no longer be your favourite next year, or your tastes change, or you change size or shape. Wear what you love now. Trust that you will find future favourite things later if needed. The only day that matters is today.

Thank you for this, Astatine, especially the bolded sentence.  I need to focus on that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miskalkulation on November 16, 2015, 09:06:29 AM
Wow, learning so many great ideas.  A couple of months ago, I took the plunge and started cleaning out closets.  I had been saving the kids jeans for years, hoping to do a rag quilt.  Finally, it is halfway done, trying to figure out how to finish it with the pockets in the squares, and incorporating some embroidery flowers into the bottom sash.  Giving it back to the youngest one for Christmas!! Thanks for all the ideas and motivation!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MoustacheKnittah on November 17, 2015, 02:35:39 PM
Just got Marie Condo's audiobook from the library, after waiting in line..

yesterday (before starting the book)  I managed to donate to a youth shelter 2 items that have value but weren't good for me

Have been doing a Konmari-light of my household. I don't think I want (or need) true minimalism, but it's definitely shifted the way I think about possessions and helped me get rid of a lot of the physical clutter that was also causing emotional clutter.

Random example: Had been driving around with a purse/bag in my car for about a year - my sister gave it to me stuffed full of yarn she didn't want any more. I gave the yarn to a local craft/makerspace (it wasn't great yarn, but good for teaching), but I couldn't ditch the bag even though it wasn't my taste. This past week, a woman in my community was assembling small bags with toiletries and necessities that could be handed out to women at a local shelter, so I FINALLY had a good place to donate it. Also took two coats that I had been meaning to get rid of but didn't want to just chuck in the regular donation bag, for SOME SILLY REASON. Ok! On to the next thing. I couldn't just give those things away, so I'm glad I was able to gift them to something I felt was more meaningful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on November 18, 2015, 12:54:04 AM
Renewed enthusiasm for decluttering from me since I have changed mindset.  From 'this could come in handy one day' to 'I trust that I'll be able to acquire this (probably secondhand) when the need arises.' I have had such a scarcity mentality when there is no need to - I have a tip shop 5 mins away and have seen everything under the sun there,  and yet I have been buying stuff and storing it in my 80sqm house waiting for some day. The questions have I used it in 6 months and will I use it.in the next 6 tell me all I need ti know. Reckon I can chuck the contents of the attic out with the exception of a couple of bags  of kid things. I'll finish my cuppa then back to it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on November 18, 2015, 12:15:04 PM
Focused space clearing lately:

A stack of egg cartons went to a friend who owns chickens.

Ping pong balls (purchased for a failed beer pong party several years ago) were sent to a friend who enjoys playing ping pong with his son.

A large bag of non-perishables are ready to be donated to the local Scouts holiday food drive.  A smaller bag of hotel shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc. went into the bag as well.

Have sent an email to a local Lions Club member to ask the location of used eyeglasses donation boxes.  Several pair are next to leave the house.  :)

Organized my back up stash of HBAs, including vitamins.  Will refrain from buying anything further until the stash is reduced a bit.

A huge stack of used pots, related containers, etc., (I washed them first) went to my flower shop owning friend for reuse.  Was going to give her several small glass candle holders from our wedding, but decided I am going to try my hand at a windowsill herb garden again.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on November 18, 2015, 09:22:38 PM
Freecycled a beautiful old oak dresser that wasn't pulling it's weight in my tiny house. Was a storage vessel but then I got rid of the contents! A lovely young woman moving in with her boyfriend collected it. The look of delight in her face to have secured something so lovely on her budget of zero made my day. Sure I could have sold it but then I wouldn't have the warm fuzzies. It's easy to forget in our abundance that there are others starting out who will really appreciate our lightly used hand me downs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on November 18, 2015, 09:23:25 PM
Freecycled a beautiful old oak dresser that wasn't pulling it's weight in my tiny house. Was a storage vessel but then I got rid of the contents! A lovely young woman moving in with her boyfriend collected it. The look of delight in her face to have secured something so lovely on her budget of zero made my day. Sure I could have sold it but then I wouldn't have the warm fuzzies. It's easy to forget in our abundance that there are others starting out who will really appreciate our lightly used hand me downs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on November 20, 2015, 09:49:24 PM
I've had two buyers on ebay fail to pay recently. Annoying! One item I boxed and packed as soon as it was sold, so though I'm tempted to just donate it, I would have to unwrap it first, and it was glass so it's really well packed. I have relisted. The other I have done a second chance offer.

This never used to happen to me on ebay, but I've had it three times this year, and I've been selling less than before. Interesting trend that I hope does not continue.

I've noticed this unfortunate trend toward flakiness with eBay buyers for the past couple years. One thing you can do is go into your Seller Account and set buyer preferences to the strictest settings possible. In my case, I require buyers to have a PayPal account, and a minimum of negative feedback or unpaid items. Also, I block any past deadbeat buyers from bidding on future items. I do think it has helped.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 21, 2015, 02:33:52 AM
My hubby and I spent today sorting lego from other tiny toy pieces, reviewing his sentimental items, and then consolidating his sentimental items to one box. Various other things were gone through at the same time, and now we have a whole extra room in our house!

Lots went in recycling, some went in the trash, and an overpriced shore rack/bench (was a whopping $140 when new :( ) is now on Gumtree!

The mounds of paper are next in line...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on November 21, 2015, 08:12:04 AM
I've noticed this unfortunate trend toward flakiness with eBay buyers for the past couple years. One thing you can do is go into your Seller Account and set buyer preferences to the strictest settings possible. In my case, I require buyers to have a PayPal account, and the minimum negative feedback and unpaid items. Also, I block any past deadbeat buyers from bidding on future items. I do think it has helped.

It also doesn't help that eBay almost always sides with the buyer if something goes wrong with the transaction.  Between this and the ever increasing fees, eBay is slowing putting themselves out of business.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 21, 2015, 09:00:19 AM
Yeah, I am going to reluctantly list some things in eBay today, but I really hate using it as a seller.  It seems like the Amazon book selling fees have gotten even more atrocious though.  It's really annoying that the shipping fees can't be adjusted, so the seller just has to eat the cost of shipping heavy books.  And what they pay with their buy back policy is a joke. 

Yesterday I sold a horse-related item through Facebook and when the buyer showed up, I pawned off a few other items on her that weren't worth the hassle of trying to sell.  She went away happy and my bag-o-crap shrank by almost half.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on November 21, 2015, 04:21:32 PM
Freecycled a beautiful old oak dresser that wasn't pulling it's weight in my tiny house. Was a storage vessel but then I got rid of the contents! A lovely young woman moving in with her boyfriend collected it. The look of delight in her face to have secured something so lovely on her budget of zero made my day. Sure I could have sold it but then I wouldn't have the warm fuzzies. It's easy to forget in our abundance that there are others starting out who will really appreciate our lightly used hand me downs.

This is such a beautiful story! What a wonderful way to let your dresser go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 23, 2015, 04:25:02 AM
Thanks for the tips on reducing ebay time wasters, I'll change my settings.

What annoys me is that, as a buyer, when I click to buy it says, "you are entering a legally binding agreement" yada yada. I have NEVER backed out on buying something, even if I had buyers remorse immediately. And yet, despite this warning when  you click to buy, ebay never makes a buyer go through with a purchase. If someone doesn't pay up... oh well.

I understand from their point of view they don't want to put people off buying through them by aggressively forcing people to pay for stuff they have decided they don't want. But if they're not going to enforce paying, they should at least have a 'Sorry, I changed my mind' button so that sellers know what's going on. As it is I'm sending payment reminders, and waiting for the day I resell something and the original 'buyer' comes back and says, 'But it was promised to me!'.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on November 23, 2015, 07:01:10 AM
Unloaded an old rocking chair and a vintage organ that were collecting dust in the basement.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on November 23, 2015, 05:59:06 PM
Thanks for the tips on reducing ebay time wasters, I'll change my settings.

What annoys me is that, as a buyer, when I click to buy it says, "you are entering a legally binding agreement" yada yada. I have NEVER backed out on buying something, even if I had buyers remorse immediately. And yet, despite this warning when  you click to buy, ebay never makes a buyer go through with a purchase. If someone doesn't pay up... oh well.

I understand from their point of view they don't want to put people off buying through them by aggressively forcing people to pay for stuff they have decided they don't want. But if they're not going to enforce paying, they should at least have a 'Sorry, I changed my mind' button so that sellers know what's going on. As it is I'm sending payment reminders, and waiting for the day I resell something and the original 'buyer' comes back and says, 'But it was promised to me!'.

I feel your frustration, and have never backed out of a sale as a buyer either. I forgot to mention another tactic, which is maybe what you're referring to about payment reminders? If the buyer hasn't paid within 48 hours after the item has been purchased, I open an unpaid item case. It's easy, you just click on the item sold, select Resolve a Problem and I've Sold an Item and Haven't Received My Payment Yet. (Alternatively, when you list your item for sale, you can select to have an unpaid item case opened automatically if the buyer doesn't pay within 48 hours). In previous years that would've seemed pushy as a seller. Nowadays, not at all. It nudges the slow payers to pay sooner and it exposes the deadbeats sooner as well, so you can relist your item, and eBay will refund you for any fees.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 24, 2015, 03:30:42 AM

I feel your frustration, and have never backed out of a sale as a buyer either. I forgot to mention another tactic, which is maybe what you're referring to about payment reminders? If the buyer hasn't paid within 48 hours after the item has been purchased, I open an unpaid item case. It's easy, you just click on the item sold, select Resolve a Problem and Haven't Received Payment from Buyer. (Alternatively, when you list your item for sale, you can select to have an unpaid item case opened automatically if the buyer doesn't pay within 48 hours). In previous years that would've seemed pushy as a seller. Nowadays, not at all. It nudges the slow payers to pay sooner and it exposes the deadbeats sooner as well, so you can relist your item, and eBay will refund you for any fees.

Thanks Practical Magic, I will try that next time!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on November 25, 2015, 11:49:03 AM
Lately: 

Tossed a few items from the master bathroom cupboard.

Gave a bottle of hair product back to my hairdresser.  I bought it from her several years ago and used it twice.  $17 down the drain.  :(

Last Saturday spent 4 hours here at the office filing and shredding.  What a grounded feeling to get those tasks complete.  Took several empty boxes to the recycle bin.

Bit the bullet and cut up my favorite, old, holey t-shirt to use for cleaning rags.

It will be interesting to see what I accomplish over the 4 day American holiday weekend.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 25, 2015, 05:28:57 PM
Finally sold a saddle on eBay.  I'd had it listed a couple times, sold once, but it fell through due to a listing error on my part.  I was about to donate the damn' thing just to get it out of my sight.  Still have about a dozen things listed on eBay.  I need to find a charitable horse-related organization to donate some of the other stuff to, since it's useful, but not worth enough to deal with the eBay hassle.

I've been reading the Kondo book and it helped me with paperwork today.  I ended up with a big stack that I'm currently feeding into the fire.  I also went through my photo albums, pruned out a bunch of duplicates and stuff I didn't care about so I could consolidate down to two albums.  Found about a dozen books to get rid of.  I also decided to finally get rid of the very nice vintage fondue pot my mom got me ~15 years ago that I've used precisely once.  It always gets tarnished so it isn't so great to display, either.  To my surprise, I opened it up and packed inside were salt and pepper shakers and sake cups I'd completely forgotten about.  My guess is that I packed them that way when we moved to this house.  Which was almost six years ago.  Also threw out about a dozen keys that didn't fit anything; I think most were to our old house, which we sold last year.  I'm off work the next four days and it's going to be cold/rainy/snowy, so I ought to make some great progress.  Friday I am going to get through the file cabinet come hell or high water, and get our 2015 tax documents pulled into one place so we're ready when our W-2's come in this year.  I also want to break down my aquarium and get it and my espresso machine listed on Craigslist this weekend.  Still adding to the donations pile in the garage and shaking my head at the crap I bought back when I earned less than half my current salary. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meadow lark on November 25, 2015, 11:54:40 PM
My 3 month report back on Konmaring my house - yes, it has pretty much stuck.  I was thinking about going through my stuff again to declutter, but I don't have much I can think of.  I also have done well for 3 months of implementing bedtime routines and morning routines to keep the house looking good.  I've slacked some the last month because I had bronchitis and no energy, but I am back!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 26, 2015, 03:25:56 AM
I am so much more motivated to clean my house since tidying up, anyone else found this? I am also weirdly houseproud - last week I bought some flowers (only £2 but still, I wouldn't usually) and I loved seeing them everyday, and yesterday I replaced them with a houseplant display thing.

I used to think flowers were just an annoyance, having to water, change the water, deciding when to throw them away, then actually discard which fills up the kitchen bin.

I'm also still folding everything. I had a week off from folding my knickers and decided I do prefer them folded!

One thing I have changed against Kondo's advice is that I have put away my summer clothes. Where I live there is no chance of wearing them, and my wardrobe is so much easier to navigate now. Yes, I could reduce all clothing further, but really, when I'm not going to wear them until May, they are just clutter that makes my life harder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on November 26, 2015, 04:35:41 AM

Gave a bottle of hair product back to my hairdresser.  I bought it from her several years ago and used it twice.  $17 down the drain.  :(


I would have used it for something else like shaving my legs or using it as laundry detergent.:)

My 3 month report back on Konmaring my house - yes, it has pretty much stuck.  I was thinking about going through my stuff again to declutter, but I don't have much I can think of.  I also have done well for 3 months of implementing bedtime routines and morning routines to keep the house looking good.  I've slacked some the last month because I had bronchitis and no energy, but I am back!


It's weird as I think I have gone through everything and then I look through a cupboard and think why am I keeping this random item?:P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gliderpilot567 on November 26, 2015, 11:33:56 AM
3 huge trash bags full of clothes I no longer wear, some practically new. I donated them two days ago. Probably 60 pounds and several cubic feet of encumbrance gone. Best of all some people who need them will have some clothes to wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on November 26, 2015, 09:52:09 PM
Great work everyone.  And Happy Thanksgiving to those of you in the USA. My last KonMari effort 6 months ago was tentative and I kept lots 'just in case', but after not touching it in the attic  in all that time it can go now. Likewise a huge stacks of books and several boxes of kitchenware. I'm giving a capsule wardrobe a try for the upcoming summer months. I've chosen about 30 items and have bagged the rest to stay in the attic.  Need to negotiate with hubby on photos and knickknacks. He'd happily have lots, I want none so we need to find a middle ground somewhere.  I have decided that plants growing in pots are too high maintenance given that I have plenty of room in garden beds so will be sorting that during rhe Christmas holidays. I have also made a list of things that I would like to upgrade - things that I need and use but where my current object falls short. I figure if I have minimal possessions I should eventually allow myself to have good quality versions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on November 27, 2015, 06:53:19 AM
I am planning to take another swoop through my house this weekend to find some things I can donate to the refugees that will be arriving in my city soon. So far I have a brand new set of measuring cups that I bought once because they were nice and colourful, but obviously didn't need because I have never even taken them out of the packaging. Also some random dishes and plastic containers and a brand new quilt that was an impulse buy. Makes me feel good to think that stuff that I have laying around my house not being used can be used by people that will arrive with absolutely nothing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on November 27, 2015, 07:03:37 AM
I am planning to take another swoop through my house this weekend to find some things I can donate to the refugees that will be arriving in my city soon.

Very nice.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on November 27, 2015, 07:22:17 AM
I had been resisting donating my hair dryer for years, but have finally worked up the courage to donate it!  We have a houseguest in the spare room/attic who should be leaving soon and I plan on giving it a thorough look over.  Its been the "place things go to die" storage area, so I want to get everything we actually use on the main floor.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 27, 2015, 02:52:18 PM
Cannot believe how much I was able to cut down on crap in our filing cabinets!  It now easily fits into less than half a drawer, and we have a big 4-drawer legal cabinet, so that left space to store some of our other stuff out of sight.  The office is starting to look much less cluttered. 

A big chunk of it was various warranties and instruction manuals, many for items we don't even own anymore.  The rest are available online, so no need to keep a paper copy.  Tax stuff is organized by year for the first time ever, so now I can just grab and chuck the whole file once we no longer need it for records purposes.

The last fish is gone from the aquarium and I'm getting ready to drain the tank and get the whole thing posted to Craigslist.  This one will be nice because it's decluttering a chore/maintenance item from my life permanently.

Keep up the good work everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on November 30, 2015, 09:50:24 AM
I am planning to take another swoop through my house this weekend to find some things I can donate to the refugees that will be arriving in my city soon. So far I have a brand new set of measuring cups that I bought once because they were nice and colourful, but obviously didn't need because I have never even taken them out of the packaging. Also some random dishes and plastic containers and a brand new quilt that was an impulse buy. Makes me feel good to think that stuff that I have laying around my house not being used can be used by people that will arrive with absolutely nothing.

This was also a great reason for me to go through my front closet again and get rid of a few more winter jackets that I love but never wear! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on November 30, 2015, 10:46:32 AM
Organized my sock drawer :) 
Got rid of a few pairs with holes, and a few that the calf was too tight.   Everything now fits nicely, and is arranged in dividers by size.

That makes me happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 30, 2015, 11:03:23 AM
I've been doing well on my decluttering mission but suffered a self-induced setback recently.  Namely, I've given in to frugal fatigue and did some shopping, primarily for clothes.  A friend also gave me a few sweaters when we were organizing her closet.  So now I feel like I have too much stuff again :-( 

I need to refocus and do some more purging this week.  I don't want to go into the holidays and the new year feeling overwhelmed by my stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on November 30, 2015, 02:48:40 PM
When I did my socks recently, I finally tossed all the singletons whose mate had been lost, including one of a pair of navy blue socks that I rather liked. So what does my husband find in his sock drawer yesterday? The other navy blue sock. Grr.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on November 30, 2015, 04:20:51 PM
When I did my socks recently, I finally tossed all the singletons whose mate had been lost, including one of a pair of navy blue socks that I rather liked. So what does my husband find in his sock drawer yesterday? The other navy blue sock. Grr.

It socks to be you ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on November 30, 2015, 06:15:41 PM
When I did my socks recently, I finally tossed all the singletons whose mate had been lost, including one of a pair of navy blue socks that I rather liked. So what does my husband find in his sock drawer yesterday? The other navy blue sock. Grr.

It socks to be you ;)

Ya I did the same thing recently with a pair of fuzzy house socks. Bummer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on December 01, 2015, 01:47:52 AM
Please can y'all stop enabling my single sock habit?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fbeyer on December 01, 2015, 03:21:01 AM
You know happens when all your socks are black? No more singletons. As soon as you can't find or fix whatever is missing/broken. Toss the one you can't fix and you can pair it with the one left over from last time you tossed something out.

Problem solved.

Capsule wardrobes are excellent.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 01, 2015, 04:10:54 AM
You know happens when all your socks are black? No more singletons. As soon as you can't find or fix whatever is missing/broken. Toss the one you can't fix and you can pair it with the one left over from last time you tossed something out.

Problem solved.

Capsule wardrobes are excellent.


 Yes, but this precludes Hello Kitty socks. So far, the primary advantage I have discovered to having tenure is that I get to wear Hello Kitty socks to work anytime I want.


 However, all of my husband's socks match exactly. Not only does this solve the problem with singletons, but it means there's no need to fold his socks, ever.  Fortunately, he's not particularly fond of Hello Kitty.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 01, 2015, 06:30:28 AM
You know happens when all your socks are black? No more singletons. As soon as you can't find or fix whatever is missing/broken. Toss the one you can't fix and you can pair it with the one left over from last time you tossed something out.

Problem solved.

Capsule wardrobes are excellent.

My husband's socks are all either white or black. But they don't match.
The white socks are all Hanes, and all say the same thing on the package, but when you buy them 5+ years apart, Hanes changes things.  So the ones that have black capital letters on the toes are a little longer than the black lowercase letter ones.  And now the new ones have red letters and more cushioning on the sole.  He can't stand to wear them together, so I STILL have to match socks; and they look nearly identical, which makes it much harder than matching mine, which are all handknit, and therefore crazy colors.

The ones with black capital letters are all about 10 years old now, so I might just throw them out. Most are really ratty and the elastic is pulling out. He's lost a lot to holes over the years (hence the two other styles)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 01, 2015, 07:00:59 AM
iowajes I find matching 'similar' socks much harder as well.

I bought 20 packs or whatever of identical socks, same day, same shop etc. They all aged differently! I know this sounds crazy, but it's true. So you end up with them feeling very different to wear, and therefore you want a pair in the same state of worn-ness (especially the elastic at the top. One tight, one loose is unbearable to me, but both of either is fine).

My friend bought me a pack of crazy coloured socks one birthday, and it made matching socks so much easier! Counter-intuitive, but that's my experience.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on December 01, 2015, 07:54:33 AM
iowajes I find matching 'similar' socks much harder as well.

I bought 20 packs or whatever of identical socks, same day, same shop etc. They all aged differently! I know this sounds crazy, but it's true. So you end up with them feeling very different to wear, and therefore you want a pair in the same state of worn-ness (especially the elastic at the top. One tight, one loose is unbearable to me, but both of either is fine).

My friend bought me a pack of crazy coloured socks one birthday, and it made matching socks so much easier! Counter-intuitive, but that's my experience.
There is (or was?) a sock store in Pittsburgh that sold sets of 3 color-coordinating patterned socks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on December 01, 2015, 02:00:02 PM
You know happens when all your socks are black? No more singletons. As soon as you can't find or fix whatever is missing/broken. Toss the one you can't fix and you can pair it with the one left over from last time you tossed something out.

Problem solved.


That's great if you like to wear the same-looking socks all the time. I enjoy socks in different colors, some dark, some plain, some bright, some patterned. I also have socks in different weights--thin for hot days, thicker for cold days--because they keep my feet comfortable. Managing my socks isn't a problem for me, so I'm not interested in simplifying this one aspect of my wardrobe.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on December 01, 2015, 02:09:03 PM

Gave a bottle of hair product back to my hairdresser.  I bought it from her several years ago and used it twice.  $17 down the drain.  :(


I would have used it for something else like shaving my legs or using it as laundry detergent.:)



Ah.  It wasn't that kind of product.  More like a sticky type spray to help texture while styling.  My hairdresser did end up trading me for a similar priced item.  :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on December 01, 2015, 02:26:36 PM
You know happens when all your socks are black? No more singletons. As soon as you can't find or fix whatever is missing/broken. Toss the one you can't fix and you can pair it with the one left over from last time you tossed something out.

Problem solved.

Capsule wardrobes are excellent.


 Yes, but this precludes Hello Kitty socks. So far, the primary advantage I have discovered to having tenure is that I get to wear Hello Kitty socks to work anytime I want.


 However, all of my husband's socks match exactly. Not only does this solve the problem with singletons, but it means there's no need to fold his socks, ever.  Fortunately, he's not particularly fond of Hello Kitty.

I love this.  :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 01, 2015, 03:39:25 PM
You know happens when all your socks are black? No more singletons. As soon as you can't find or fix whatever is missing/broken. Toss the one you can't fix and you can pair it with the one left over from last time you tossed something out.

Problem solved.

Capsule wardrobes are excellent.

When I run out of socks , I will do this, but can't justify buying more when I still have around 20 pairs of socks in good condition. Might add that I mostly wear boots so it doesn't actually matter if they match, so I actually didn't need to toss it. Live and learn . ha
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 02, 2015, 03:43:49 AM
Oops, I bought a few extra Christmas decorations so I had to free up some space.:D Two of my lamps broke at almost the same time this week so that helped!

I have collected up another bag of clothes for charity and included all the skirts that I will not fit into in the near future.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 05, 2015, 06:04:58 PM
Well, I am moving onca again. The easy part is I have less than a carload of stuff to put in my accord. . - minus the bed . pretty good.
However.
Of course I have taken it upon myself to capitalize on this golden opportunity to declutter. :). So far: a couple dozen clothing items out (I am VERY picky and almost never find anything I like, so it is very easy to donate). Half of my sewing/ art supplies stash ( left with a medium sized bag ). A couple makeup bags. A pair of shoes. Several books.some jewelry supplies, rocks, shells. I don't remember what else.
I also recyclabled a large bag of paperwork, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 05, 2015, 06:20:36 PM
Half a truck load of stuff to the thrift store today, and then another half truck load to Habitat ReStore.  Three items sold on eBay.  Ahhh... the house is starting to feel quite zen and I've gotten rid of some materials for projects I was never going to get around to, so now I don't feel like they're hanging over my head.  I think I'm getting close to the right amount of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on December 05, 2015, 07:12:36 PM
Gave a small bag of bric a brac to a local op shop on Friday (a few books, some kitchen stuff). However, they were drowning in clothes so they refused my t-shirt, scarf and shoes. I find it a bit depressing that my city is so drowning in fast fashion that the recycling shed at the rubbish tip just gives away clothes for free and some op shops have too much to cope with. So I took my clothes to one of the bigger op shops yesterday and luckily was able to donate there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on December 05, 2015, 08:47:52 PM
Threw out some semi broken hockey sticks.  Not sure what I was thinking about when I didn't toss them as soon they could no longer be safely used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: midweststache on December 05, 2015, 08:54:29 PM
Two more bags of books, three shirts/sweaters, a belt, and a pillow. We have 7 pillows for two people--only three of which we use. DH wants to keep them "for when we have visitors." We can sleep four people (including us) comfortably. So why do we need 7 pillows? I dunno. I'm continuing to pick my battles, and I've asked him to do a once-over on his books when we get back from Christmas.

I also asked for a new vacuum cleaner for Christmas, so our current one (working but not heavy-duty enough for Fido) one will go to donation. I also threw away some old coupons DH was keeping around that were cluttering up the counter.

Finally, I condensed two boxes in our storage unit so I could recycle one (cardboard; the other is a nice storage box). Our storage unit is about half full: a box fan we use in the summer, so basic tools, paint, and caulk for move-in, move-out, and the like. It's a standard condo storage locker in the basement. I may move our other upright fan down there for the winter, since we won't use it again until June.

The people with the locker next to us filled the whole thing, top to bottom, and have some old furniture or something outside their locker (which happens to be at the front of the unit in EVERYONE'S way). I consistently have to move a tent or something (that is theirs) from out in front of our locker door when I go to it. It's super-irritating when I go down there, but 1) I'm rarely down there, so I just need to let it go--there are bigger things to worry about--and 2) I'm a renter in a condo building. This is not my battle to fight.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 06, 2015, 01:56:51 AM
Bagged up a bunch of unfinished craft projects from the attic for donation.  Am making peace with being a starter not a completer. Included a half made baby quilt for my nephew who just turned 9. Was ruthless culling my cookbooks as I'm living paleo these days and had a bunch of baking books. I wanted to get rid of all except my 3 favorites but hubby has been lobbying me to keep them for 'when a baking phase comes around.' My thinking is that these books (and lots of other things) are like bell bottoms from the 60's. Sure, flared pants have come back since but they're different and you not going to want to use the old ones because the new ones will be significantly different. So if I decide I love baking again I will buy the best baking cookbook of the day and enjoy that. Logical or wasteful? Anyone have thoughts? I just want to be free of all this stuff but he's worried I'm going to pass through the minimalist phase and need to go shopping to buy back the stuff we just got rid of. I disagree as I feel this process has fundamentally changed my relationship with stuff and shopping.  Any conflicts like this in your home?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 06, 2015, 05:08:29 AM
Bagged up a bunch of unfinished craft projects from the attic for donation.  Am making peace with being a starter not a completer. Included a half made baby quilt for my nephew who just turned 9. Was ruthless culling my cookbooks as I'm living paleo these days and had a bunch of baking books. I wanted to get rid of all except my 3 favorites but hubby has been lobbying me to keep them for 'when a baking phase comes around.' My thinking is that these books (and lots of other things) are like bell bottoms from the 60's. Sure, flared pants have come back since but they're different and you not going to want to use the old ones because the new ones will be significantly different. So if I decide I love baking again I will buy the best baking cookbook of the day and enjoy that. Logical or wasteful? Anyone have thoughts? I just want to be free of all this stuff but he's worried I'm going to pass through the minimalist phase and need to go shopping to buy back the stuff we just got rid of. I disagree as I feel this process has fundamentally changed my relationship with stuff and shopping.  Any conflicts like this in your home?


 Sounds like he wants baked goods. :-)


I would not get rid of cookbooks, but then I don't have specific baking ones, either. I have one, the Fannie Farmer, and it's a classic that covers almost everything I need in terms of plain cooking. ( I also have a TVP cookbook from a thrift store because the FF is far too old to cover that.) I definitely don't think (general) cookbooks are the sort of thing that go out of style. Specific baking cookbooks, though? I can't really advise.


 In the more general sense, could your husband be concerned about the money it will cost to replace items later?


 I do wonder about the idea of throwing out all the baking cookbooks and planning to buy a new one someday. Is something wrong with the ones you have? Why would you plan to buy more when you have perfectly good ones?  Couldn't you just keep the single best one now? That would definitely save money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on December 06, 2015, 05:55:31 AM
and had a bunch of baking books. I wanted to get rid of all except my 3 favorites but hubby has been lobbying me to keep them for 'when a baking phase comes around.' My thinking is that these books (and lots of other things) are like bell bottoms from the 60's. Sure, flared pants have come back since but they're different and you not going to want to use the old ones because the new ones will be significantly different. So if I decide I love baking again I will buy the best baking cookbook of the day and enjoy that. Logical or wasteful?

If any of the family favourites are in those cookbooks, it would be a good thing to scan them somewhere, or put them into a binder.  While you'll be able to find "a recipe" for cranberry scones, it may not be the right recipe for what you're trying to recapture (or it might not include the notes of things you've changed).  I have some cookbooks I have been able to throw away with impunity, and a couple that I really wish I had thought to write down a few recipes first.  (My thought at the time was that I made the item so often, and the ratio was so easy, of course I'd remember it - this turned out not to be the case - I just remember the justifications.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 06, 2015, 06:08:08 AM
and had a bunch of baking books. I wanted to get rid of all except my 3 favorites but hubby has been lobbying me to keep them for 'when a baking phase comes around.' My thinking is that these books (and lots of other things) are like bell bottoms from the 60's. Sure, flared pants have come back since but they're different and you not going to want to use the old ones because the new ones will be significantly different. So if I decide I love baking again I will buy the best baking cookbook of the day and enjoy that. Logical or wasteful?

If any of the family favourites are in those cookbooks, it would be a good thing to scan them somewhere, or put them into a binder.  While you'll be able to find "a recipe" for cranberry scones, it may not be the right recipe for what you're trying to recapture (or it might not include the notes of things you've changed).  I have some cookbooks I have been able to throw away with impunity, and a couple that I really wish I had thought to write down a few recipes first.  (My thought at the time was that I made the item so often, and the ratio was so easy, of course I'd remember it - this turned out not to be the case - I just remember the justifications.)
We actually just put together a pile of cookbooks to pass on as well. We are first going to scan all the recipes from the that we actually use. I'm never going to make certain recipes, I just have no interest in the flavour/texture/whatever of that dish, no matter how otherwise good the book is. I've kept two baking books, and the rest will go,because I never use them. Recipes do go in and out of style, so if you've picked what you need and saved it somewhere the rest isn't likely to be used and can happily find a new home :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 06, 2015, 06:40:57 AM
I have two eyeshadow palettes but I threw one away as I don't like it very much.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 06, 2015, 11:05:44 AM
Bagged up a bunch of unfinished craft projects from the attic for donation.  Am making peace with being a starter not a completer. Included a half made baby quilt for my nephew who just turned 9. Was ruthless culling my cookbooks as I'm living paleo these days and had a bunch of baking books. I wanted to get rid of all except my 3 favorites but hubby has been lobbying me to keep them for 'when a baking phase comes around.' My thinking is that these books (and lots of other things) are like bell bottoms from the 60's. Sure, flared pants have come back since but they're different and you not going to want to use the old ones because the new ones will be significantly different. So if I decide I love baking again I will buy the best baking cookbook of the day and enjoy that. Logical or wasteful? Anyone have thoughts? I just want to be free of all this stuff but he's worried I'm going to pass through the minimalist phase and need to go shopping to buy back the stuff we just got rid of. I disagree as I feel this process has fundamentally changed my relationship with stuff and shopping.  Any conflicts like this in your home?

I've gotten rid of a bunch of cookbooks too.  There are literally millions of recipes available on the internet often with better photos, instructions and helpful reviews, so even if you do want to bake again, I doubt you'll miss your old books.  The only one I refer to frequently is my canning book to make sure I'm doing that safely.  Then I have a few others that I leaf through for inspiration now and then, but I haven't missed any that I've gotten rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 06, 2015, 11:20:33 AM
Thanks everyone,  I will check through and make sure I have the family favorite recipes saved. I agree that relying on your memory isn't always the best. I will definitely keep the comprehensive and multipurpose books but some like a special cafes fancy recipe book that was given to me and has 50 ingredients in each recipe - those will be going!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on December 06, 2015, 04:04:00 PM
Next Saturday, I'm flying back from NH to my house in AZ. I haven't lived there since May.

There will be so many things to declutter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on December 07, 2015, 08:42:10 AM
Today I'm selling my bass and amp to the guitar shop down the street. I bought it used 10+ years ago (and since I worked at the guitar store, got it at cost), but I haven't played in ~8 years, so time to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on December 07, 2015, 10:17:29 PM
Last weekend, I decluttered some more cookbooks, clothes, makeup, kitchen gadgets, toys, etc. Got a little bit in each area. Long way to go still but I also need to stop bringing things in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 07, 2015, 10:45:00 PM
I had pressed pause on decluttering, but with Christmas looming, people coming and going, stuff coming and going, etc, I would love a few days to turn out all the cupboards again.

Until I do have time, I have a list in my email of everything I want to get rid of.

And, while storage solutions are not the same as decluttering, we do have a gaslift bed coming which will buy me some breathing room to store things we only use seasonally, e.g. Christmas decorations, down jackets, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: $40Kby40 on December 08, 2015, 03:22:25 AM
I did some decluttering yesterday, mostly clothes and some other random stuff. I like  #s so the total things donated/trashed was 50 total. I really don't have that much to get rid of, but am thinking about doing this every Mon just to keep on top of things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on December 08, 2015, 07:40:40 AM
My office is likely going to move by April and I have been slowly going through bookshelves, cabinets, empty desks, etc and thinning out all the STUFF. We have about twice as much space here as we need and so things just accumulate everywhere. There have been a handful of people that have quit in the last few years and their files basically just get shifted to an empty office or shelf. It makes me crazy.

I talked to my boss about it and his approach is just to move it all and deal with it later (i.e. never). I don't exactly take direction well, because I tossed his idea with about 4 bookshelves of garbage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on December 08, 2015, 08:45:15 AM
My office is likely going to move by April and I have been slowly going through bookshelves, cabinets, empty desks, etc and thinning out all the STUFF. We have about twice as much space here as we need and so things just accumulate everywhere. There have been a handful of people that have quit in the last few years and their files basically just get shifted to an empty office or shelf. It makes me crazy.

I talked to my boss about it and his approach is just to move it all and deal with it later (i.e. never). I don't exactly take direction well, because I tossed his idea with about 4 bookshelves of garbage.

I do the same thing around my office.  I've been here almost the longest in my group so I know what's need and what's not.  My boss is a notorious packrat ( you would all faint if i posted a pic of his office) and wants to keep everything so the key is to toss stuff in small batches.  He never notices.  Most of it is stuff that can easily be found online.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 08, 2015, 10:59:18 AM
Ooh, I don't know why but I had never considered decluttering workplaces and the like. I am part of a parent run early childhood education co-operative. We have a whole basement of broken toys, guess someone was going to fix them some day... Will volunteer to clean that area over the holidays! I'm still going on the decluttering at home. I have undecideds that once I review a few times I realise are a no. Hubby was scared I was throwing out too much so he reviewed five big boxes for donation with me. He wanted to keep just 2 things. He feels better that I'm not throwing important things away and I feel better that I'm not sneaking stuff out behind his back  Win win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on December 08, 2015, 12:02:53 PM
My office is likely going to move by April and I have been slowly going through bookshelves, cabinets, empty desks, etc and thinning out all the STUFF. We have about twice as much space here as we need and so things just accumulate everywhere. There have been a handful of people that have quit in the last few years and their files basically just get shifted to an empty office or shelf. It makes me crazy.

I talked to my boss about it and his approach is just to move it all and deal with it later (i.e. never). I don't exactly take direction well, because I tossed his idea with about 4 bookshelves of garbage.

I do the same thing around my office.  I've been here almost the longest in my group so I know what's need and what's not.  My boss is a notorious packrat ( you would all faint if i posted a pic of his office) and wants to keep everything so the key is to toss stuff in small batches.  He never notices.  Most of it is stuff that can easily be found online.

As with you, I have been here the longest, so I know what is important and what is not. My boss HAS noticed and has voiced a bit of concern, but doesn't get in my way either. I've made a ton of progress just doing bits here and there. I started with the easy parts that I knew were 90% garbage. The next phase will be a bit more involved, but that is ok.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on December 08, 2015, 12:18:54 PM
Got out our Christmas boxes and managed to nearly fI'll a whole box with decorations that we don't need. Will get them to Goodwill quickly so they have a hope of selling them before the holiday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on December 08, 2015, 12:52:46 PM
At the guitar store they explained that given they have to do inventory at New Year (along with the legally required 18 day hold for resell), they're not taking anymore used stuff in right now. Suggested I Craigslist my bass and amp as plenty of people will be looking for Christmas gifts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 08, 2015, 01:25:44 PM
I was waiting for the bath to run earlier and I had a quick run through of the chest of drawers. A free 2016 diary was thrown into recycling along with some other clutter, recent vet bills etc...

Is it weird that I'm looking at my tree and decorations and looking forward to the part when I pack the decorations away and have an end of the year declutter, lol. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on December 08, 2015, 06:03:53 PM
Broken hockey sticks make great tomato stakes.  Very strong.  Just saying.  ;-)

Threw out some semi broken hockey sticks.  Not sure what I was thinking about when I didn't toss them as soon they could no longer be safely used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 09, 2015, 02:02:41 AM
Hubby and I spent another 2 hours in the attic decluttering. When you are sitting amongst the mouse poo it is really clear that anything cherished should not be up here. Off season stuff sure, but precious momentoes, hell no. As I realise this it raises the bar for what momentoes I keep. It's easy to keep a bunch of my childhood teddies in a dark corner of the attic but do I want them on my bed or have I moved on? I think I need to thank them and get rid of them as my kids aren't interested in them. I felt disappointed in myself as I put many unfinished project materials in the donate pile. I really need to think carefully before taking on new hobbies, especially those that involve stuff. Have been through cheesemaking, quilting, knitting, sewing, preserving, weightlifting, painting, pottery, wine collecting and picture framing stuff in one evening. No one could accuse me of being dull:) But I don't want to have to do this again, ever.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jannie on December 09, 2015, 03:33:32 AM
Sonya what a great list of hobbies you have tried!  I wonder what you will take up next now that you have made room by delcuttering those ones :) 

Bye bye teddies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 10, 2015, 12:19:40 AM
That's what my hubby wonders too! But I am trying to evolve into a more thoughtful person regarding consumerism and have realised that my need to novelty can be satisfied in ways that don't involve buying stuff, like going to the theatre, botanic gardens (to get my fix of lovely gardens without having to do the work myself,  the art gallery where I can view millions if dollars worth of art and not have to have third rate pieces hanging on my wall.  It's a whole new workd when I start thinking about it. Right, time to get back into that attic!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 10, 2015, 01:47:19 AM
Okay this is kind of hilarious (to me). Fiancé and I are going to be moving in together (we lived together a couple years ago, long story) to a smallish apartment (500 or 550sq. ft?). For me, this space would be excessive mind you, because as I've stated I can fit all my possessions in my car exception the bed. Fiancés vice is clothing .. and shoes.. and hats. He's going to have to figure that one out.
A side note: our finances are separate and he has no problem paying his half of the bills. Simply is reality it will be a problem to solve for him to find the space.
Meanwhile, I continue to declutter and shrink my possessions even more :) .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ADV_CJ on December 10, 2015, 02:18:29 AM
We are having all new flooring put down in the house starting today.  Yesterday my wife and I went through and boxed everything up (electronics, personal items, small items) and moved them to the garage.  We also cleaned out the kitchen (fridge/freezer, pantry, shelves and drawers).  We ended up donating a small SUV full of kitchen items in good working condition that we don't use.  We now have an Instapot and a Vitamix which pretty much takes care of anything in the kitchen that we'd need. 

It felt good getting rid of sooooooo much stuff.  Now that we have a nearly empty house, we are going to take the boxing party route and only replace items that are currently boxed as needed and donate the rest.

Any recommendations for donation places?  We currently use Goodwill due to it being close, but would rather take to somewhere that would better benefit people in need?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 10, 2015, 03:37:56 AM
Not really decluttering, but in the same vein, I was at our local Christmas markets last night, and was really tempted to buy a decorative reindeer for the hearth. I forced myself to think about where I was going to put it for the other 11 months of the year, and what a burden it would be, and I left it behind.

I'm really running out of things I feel I can get rid of... But I don't feel as though I am happy with the stuff / space balance as it stands. I need to get more ruthless.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on December 10, 2015, 04:36:48 AM
Have a pile of junk in my living room after a quick declutter of my craft room:

garbage bag of dresses/work clothes I can no longer wear (way too big!!)
x-mas gift tags/bows (we don't wrap presents any more)
talking x-mas wreath and mini singing x-mas tree novelty toys (was going to use them for a project, but decided I'm not interested any more)
x-mas garland, various junky decor (too much stored as is)
stuffed animals
Halloween decor gifted to us (nice thought, but we have way too much that I have to go through as it is)
old photography equipment (not valuable - film developing tank and lenses for enlarger)



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 11, 2015, 06:44:42 AM
I decluttered 300 emails and 5 regular sources of emails. Down to less than 500 in my normal inbox! Note for my other 3 email addresses (professional, blog and work).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on December 11, 2015, 08:11:47 AM
At the guitar store they explained that given they have to do inventory at New Year (along with the legally required 18 day hold for resell), they're not taking anymore used stuff in right now. Suggested I Craigslist my bass and amp as plenty of people will be looking for Christmas gifts.
I hit "share" on FB on a photo of me playing it, saying if anyone wants "the works" to get started with bass, here's a bass, an amp, cord, strap, tuner, and case. Posted a price, and within a couple hours, one of my husband's high school friends called dibs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 11, 2015, 08:43:33 AM
At the guitar store they explained that given they have to do inventory at New Year (along with the legally required 18 day hold for resell), they're not taking anymore used stuff in right now. Suggested I Craigslist my bass and amp as plenty of people will be looking for Christmas gifts.
I hit "share" on FB on a photo of me playing it, saying if anyone wants "the works" to get started with bass, here's a bass, an amp, cord, strap, tuner, and case. Posted a price, and within a couple hours, one of my husband's high school friends called dibs.

Very nice.  I STILL have a couple things to sell . I need to give myself a deadline or I'll never even try .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 11, 2015, 11:22:59 PM
Did a big sort of my photos. So many of people and places whose names I have now forgotten. Got a big box down to shoe box size. Will eventually scan them and get rid of physical copies but this was a good first step. Am hesitating getting rid of my academic records,  perhaps I need to scan first?  But is anyone really going to care that I got an A in geography when I was 15 (now 38)? Going through the personal and sentimental has not been as hard as I thought but I'm not the most sentimental person around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on December 11, 2015, 11:55:50 PM
Well done on the photos!

I'd keep proof of where you went to high school (for example, if you've got a general certificate that says you graduated) and I would definitely keep any college/university transcripts and proof of graduation. You never know if you'll apply for a job that requests to see those (I've had to do that once I think). And I say this as someone who's gotten rid of mosr of her personal belongings.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 12, 2015, 07:32:03 AM
Did a big sort of my photos. So many of people and places whose names I have now forgotten. Got a big box down to shoe box size. Will eventually scan them and get rid of physical copies but this was a good first step. Am hesitating getting rid of my academic records,  perhaps I need to scan first?  But is anyone really going to care that I got an A in geography when I was 15 (now 38)? Going through the personal and sentimental has not been as hard as I thought but I'm not the most sentimental person around.

Haha, no.  No one cares.  I've recently had to supply my college transcripts when applying for a job opportunity, and like Astatine says, keeping your high school diploma isn't a bad idea, but there's no need to keep any actual school work or individual report cards.

I really need to get on the family photos thing.  Has anyone hired out scanning for that sort of thing?  I can't see doing it with my home all-in-one since the quality isn't very for the amount of work it would take.  I do have a fancier scanner coming back to live with me at work, so maybe I can come in on a day off over Christmas and get it done, but OTOH, I'm kind of inclined to have someone else do it for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 12, 2015, 07:37:50 AM
Did a big sort of my photos. So many of people and places whose names I have now forgotten. Got a big box down to shoe box size. Will eventually scan them and get rid of physical copies but this was a good first step. Am hesitating getting rid of my academic records,  perhaps I need to scan first?  But is anyone really going to care that I got an A in geography when I was 15 (now 38)? Going through the personal and sentimental has not been as hard as I thought but I'm not the most sentimental person around.

Haha, no.  No one cares.  I've recently had to supply my college transcripts when applying for a job opportunity, and like Astatine says, keeping your high school diploma isn't a bad idea, but there's no need to keep any actual school work or individual report cards.

I really need to get on the family photos thing.  Has anyone hired out scanning for that sort of thing?  I can't see doing it with my home all-in-one since the quality isn't very for the amount of work it would take.  I do have a fancier scanner coming back to live with me at work, so maybe I can come in on a day off over Christmas and get it done, but OTOH, I'm kind of inclined to have someone else do it for me.

I'm sure someone will love to get paid to scan! A tedious cakewalk
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 12, 2015, 03:43:58 PM
Will definitely keep academic transcipt that summaries my degrees and the degree itself. I think it will be a good discipline to make me scan my own stuff. Do I want to do a shit load of irrelevant documents/photos that will clutter up my storage drives -nope. The effort of having to do it myself will make me more discerning,  I reckon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on December 13, 2015, 02:06:52 AM
I just converted everything to scans this year. It is a bear to sort through and shred from a full file cabinet. And some things like deeds have to stay paper.  But once you get past the initial scanning you just have to do a few as they come in to the house.

It is great to be able to look up any document right from the computer. Combine it with encrypted cloud backup and you are also fireproof.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on December 13, 2015, 02:19:32 AM

I'm really running out of things I feel I can get rid of... But I don't feel as though I am happy with the stuff / space balance as it stands. I need to get more ruthless.

I've been having trouble with this too. Though, I'm. It sure what it is that isn't de cluttered enough. I went through my closet again and got rid of a grocery bag full. I guess going through everything again with a stricter eye.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 13, 2015, 04:47:12 AM
I have been getting rid of random things over the past few days.

I am going through the big cupboard again today and making a collection of things that can be taken to the dump. I have a broken chair and a light fitting that both need to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 13, 2015, 11:33:21 AM
Two carloads donated and one carload to the dump over the weekend.  Attic is now half empty rather than bursting full. I love that there is space to move around and access the remaining things. It cost me $8.50 to get rid of 100kg of rubbish.  That's not enough in my opinion.  I was horrified to watch others throw perfectly good looking stuff into the transfer station pit rather than drop into the donation centre first. I had carefully considered everything of mine and only non usable and non recyclable was thrown away - but I was the only one there yesterday who did. Made me feel sad. And determined to be more thoughtful in my purchases so I don't have to go throwing away again. Ks
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on December 13, 2015, 06:01:58 PM
Been downsizing. The biggest recently ditched: "IKEA Hagalund" sofabed in the spare bedroom.

(http://comfort-works.com/234-137-large_default/hagalund-2-seater-sofa-bed.jpg)

Bought: September 2011. Used maybe "twice" by out of town guests.

Took up most of the second bedroom in my 700-square foot apartment.

(https://photos-2.dropbox.com/t/2/AAA8zwKiG0pRBTXWcDKHyrqLCcDTDucpf7h0cLU5ES8iMg/12/9262611/jpeg/32x32/1/_/1/2/CJ_apartment%2010.jpg/EIqi8wYY6q8EIAcoBw/_BfMg_s9c2_tWozsWK_p5V5DdEFxTC-iOhZlY6e46aE?size=800x600&size_mode=3)

(the desk and 90% of the other stuff is long gone)

I'll borrow an air mattress if any guests want to stay over. (otherwise: couch)

I've ditched half a dozen or so backpacks, sling bags, shoulder bags etc and so far replaced them with... one sling bag. (with MOLLE attachments for accessories) Working great so far.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 13, 2015, 07:52:58 PM
Been downsizing. The biggest recently ditched: "IKEA Hagalund" sofabed in the spare bedroom.

(http://comfort-works.com/234-137-large_default/hagalund-2-seater-sofa-bed.jpg)

Bought: September 2011. Used maybe "twice" by out of town guests.

Took up most of the second bedroom in my 700-square foot apartment.

(https://photos-2.dropbox.com/t/2/AAA8zwKiG0pRBTXWcDKHyrqLCcDTDucpf7h0cLU5ES8iMg/12/9262611/jpeg/32x32/1/_/1/2/CJ_apartment%2010.jpg/EIqi8wYY6q8EIAcoBw/_BfMg_s9c2_tWozsWK_p5V5DdEFxTC-iOhZlY6e46aE?size=800x600&size_mode=3)

(the desk and 90% of the other stuff is long gone)

I'll borrow an air mattress if any guests want to stay over. (otherwise: couch)

I've ditched half a dozen or so backpacks, sling bags, shoulder bags etc and so far replaced them with... one sling bag. (with MOLLE attachments for accessories) Working great so far.

Is that piece of furniture as massive as it looks!?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on December 13, 2015, 08:04:48 PM
Is that piece of furniture as massive as it looks!?

*laughs* The room is quite small. ;)

Couch dimensions are 59-inches wide, 33 7/8-inches deep. When the bed section was slide out, it went right to the opposite wall. (the gate-leg desk had to be folded down and rotated against the perpendicular wall)

I have let guests use the master bedroom and just slept on the couch or an air-mattress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 13, 2015, 08:07:21 PM
Nice work getting rid of that big thing. We have given up guest beds in our home too. We get our parents a couple of times a year but we let them have our beds and use our camping rolls on the floor. Feels generous and makes me appreciate my bed all the more when I have it back. And to think, I nearly bought a murphy bed at great expense a few years back. Every piece of furniture in our homes needs to earn it's place because less is definitely more!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Maya on December 13, 2015, 08:16:19 PM
Planning a cross country move in 6 months so trying to de clutter and sell stuff before we list the house.

Earmarked 8 boxes or so of outgrown kids clothes. If we have another baby I'll buy new used stuff for it. Can't justify moving so much stuff. Need to work on my closets and things that I haven't used in ages like my roller blades. Those things are so hard I find. The memorabilia clothes. I'm never going to wear them again so time to let go. Just actually have to do it.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on December 13, 2015, 09:38:45 PM
I had som books in storage besides my garage. I organised them and brought in those I want to keep (children books and professional books I might need for my thesis). I will sell one box of books to the second hand book store and I will toss maybe 20 books. Books are hard to get rid of but I am getting better at it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrDelane on December 13, 2015, 10:12:51 PM
Seeing as this thread is 60 pages long I know I'm not the first to mention this approach, but thought I would add my experience anyhow.

After years of the roller coaster that is the accumulation of 'stuff' and the subsequent decluttering sprints, my wife and I decided to try a new approach.  We've made decluttering a part of our everyday lives.

We keep a box in the house that is destined for goodwill (or craigslist/ebay, etc).  We each put one thing in the box every day.  At the end of the week (or every other week) the box gets taken to goodwill.  At first, it seemed pointless and was incredibly easy.  For the first few weeks I could easily grab things that were out in the open.

We've now been doing this for a little over 6 months and I have to say the results are astounding, and it has become a bit more difficult to find things to put in the box (we are now digging deep into closet shelves and storage areas daily).  Our kitchen feels much more spacious, our closets are much cleaner, the house in general is becoming a space where we want to live.

But, the one thing that neither of us anticipated is how it has changed our perspective.  We now think MUCH more about what we bring into the house in the first place.  If one of us is considering buying something, one of us will eventually say "how long before it winds up in the box?"  It has really forced us to change our thinking and to look at things in a long term perspective.

It was never really the intention to change our perspective like that, but by creating a daily habit out of decluttering it has made it something that is always in the back of our mind - and by sticking with it we've seen the very real results that you can get from small daily efforts.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on December 13, 2015, 10:41:41 PM
This is still my favourite thread on the forum :)

But, the one thing that neither of us anticipated is how it has changed our perspective.  We now think MUCH more about what we bring into the house in the first place.  If one of us is considering buying something, one of us will eventually say "how long before it winds up in the box?"  It has really forced us to change our thinking and to look at things in a long term perspective.


Well done! I've always done some decluttering but after I did a major purge of stuff a couple of years ago, it changed my perspective in a similar way. If I get something, then I will almost certainly have to get rid of it. So now I don't even want free giveaway stuff (unless it's a consumable that we use).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 14, 2015, 12:45:19 AM
I'm feeling a change in perspective too! It's great to hear others stories. This is the first year I have asked for no presents and I mean it. Just like I have decided to stop using my body as a garbage bin for rubbish food, my home is no longer a storage unit for the past.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 14, 2015, 02:30:28 AM
I wrapped all our Christmas presents this weekend. I stuck with one roll of wrapping paper so that I could finish it, and I did! I still have another roll which is part used. Once that is used up (next year? How ridiculous storing it for YEARS) I will buy simple gold / red / silver paper which can be used year round. No more girls birthday paper, boys birthday paper, and two coordinating Christmas prints.

I also found myself not wanting to give gifts in a nice Christmas gift bag I got from someone else, because then I won't be able to use it another year. Huh, what? Use it! Get it out of the house. If I'm distraught next year that I won't have a pretty bag to use for the gifts, I can buy one. But I certainly won't keep this one to use, because if I'm refusing to use it now, when will I decide the time is right?

I have a tape dispenser on a piece of elastic that distributes one pre-cut length of tape at a time. It's really good, I like using it. But, I only use it once a year (it doesn't seem worth getting it out for a single gift, and this is the only time of year I wrap a bunch), so, when it ran out of tape, instead of adding one more specialised thing to my shopping list, I stuck it in the donate box and used my standard tape dispenser instead.

I tried to use up all my Christmas bows, and resolved not to replace them. I have plenty of real ribbon I save if I want to decorate gifts. If I don't care enough to tie that properly then I don't care enough about nicely decorated gifts to waste the worlds resources on shiny stick on bows (not criticising those who use them, it's just I don't care enough to put real effort into it, so it seems silly to bother at all).

Even though all my Christmas stuff (gift bags, labels, bows, ribbons) was all corralled in one larger gift bag, having that small corner free now feels great. Whatever doesn't get used on the last few gifts I will donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on December 14, 2015, 08:58:18 AM
...

We keep a box in the house that is destined for goodwill (or craigslist/ebay, etc).  We each put one thing in the box every day...


I love this idea! I'm going to start that tonight. (though I'm pretty minimalist already so I'm not sure how much stuff is going to hit the box)


Quote
...We now think MUCH more about what we bring into the house in the first place.  If one of us is considering buying something, one of us will eventually say "how long before it winds up in the box?"  It has really forced us to change our thinking and to look at things in a long term perspective...

Most definitely this. That was a big mindset shift for me.

"Every Thing You Own is a Relationship You’re In (http://www.raptitude.com/2015/08/konmari/)"

Tangentially related: a pedorthist (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedorthist) I know says a lot of "off the shelf" aftermarket insoles (Dr. Scholl's etc) amounted to "expensive experiments" - you buy them, find out they don't work for you, and you've got a $20 piece of junk laying around.

A lot finite-non-zero-number of "things" like that still come into my life.

My shift in mindset: I ditch those things FAST instead of holding on to them.

I see a lot of people hang on to those "expensive experiments." (my parents' junk drawer and garage being filled with good examples)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 14, 2015, 02:04:33 PM
I wrapped all our Christmas presents this weekend. I stuck with one roll of wrapping paper so that I could finish it, and I did! I still have another roll which is part used. Once that is used up (next year? How ridiculous storing it for YEARS) I will buy simple gold / red / silver paper which can be used year round. No more girls birthday paper, boys birthday paper, and two coordinating Christmas prints.

I also found myself not wanting to give gifts in a nice Christmas gift bag I got from someone else, because then I won't be able to use it another year. Huh, what? Use it! Get it out of the house. If I'm distraught next year that I won't have a pretty bag to use for the gifts, I can buy one. But I certainly won't keep this one to use, because if I'm refusing to use it now, when will I decide the time is right?

I have a tape dispenser on a piece of elastic that distributes one pre-cut length of tape at a time. It's really good, I like using it. But, I only use it once a year (it doesn't seem worth getting it out for a single gift, and this is the only time of year I wrap a bunch), so, when it ran out of tape, instead of adding one more specialised thing to my shopping list, I stuck it in the donate box and used my standard tape dispenser instead.

I tried to use up all my Christmas bows, and resolved not to replace them. I have plenty of real ribbon I save if I want to decorate gifts. If I don't care enough to tie that properly then I don't care enough about nicely decorated gifts to waste the worlds resources on shiny stick on bows (not criticising those who use them, it's just I don't care enough to put real effort into it, so it seems silly to bother at all).

Even though all my Christmas stuff (gift bags, labels, bows, ribbons) was all corralled in one larger gift bag, having that small corner free now feels great. Whatever doesn't get used on the last few gifts I will donate.

I have not bought ANY gift wrapping supplies for 5 years. I reuse tissue paper & gift bags. And cut cards I receive into gift tag size . also receive cards on occasion and use these, or make a card.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 14, 2015, 02:56:09 PM
...

We keep a box in the house that is destined for goodwill (or craigslist/ebay, etc).  We each put one thing in the box every day...


I love this idea! I'm going to start that tonight. (though I'm pretty minimalist already so I'm not sure how much stuff is going to hit the box)


Quote
...We now think MUCH more about what we bring into the house in the first place.  If one of us is considering buying something, one of us will eventually say "how long before it winds up in the box?"  It has really forced us to change our thinking and to look at things in a long term perspective...

Most definitely this. That was a big mindset shift for me.

"Every Thing You Own is a Relationship You’re In (http://www.raptitude.com/2015/08/konmari/)"

Tangentially related: a pedorthist (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedorthist) I know says a lot of "off the shelf" aftermarket insoles (Dr. Scholl's etc) amounted to "expensive experiments" - you buy them, find out they don't work for you, and you've got a $20 piece of junk laying around.

A lot finite-non-zero-number of "things" like that still come into my life.

My shift in mindset: I ditch those things FAST instead of holding on to them.

I see a lot of people hang on to those "expensive experiments." (my parents' junk drawer and garage being good examples)
Your post really made me think. I am an experimenter. I love trying new things from condiments to hobbies to clothes styles. And I do move on but often the stuff stays.  Knowing my tendency for short term infatuation I am trying to get over purchasing lots of stuff to support the latest thing and borrowing kr using other people's stuff (like at a night course). My home and attic are still full of things that I once loved but have moved on from and they need to go. I love that Raptitude article. I have read.it before but it really spoke to me this time. I have things that I don't love but keep because I need them.  I was planning to just live with that but now see value in getting rid of those and replacing them with examples I do love (in a gradual and fiscally responsible way of course! ).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 14, 2015, 02:55:18 PM
...

We keep a box in the house that is destined for goodwill (or craigslist/ebay, etc).  We each put one thing in the box every day...


I love this idea! I'm going to start that tonight. (though I'm pretty minimalist already so I'm not sure how much stuff is going to hit the box)


Quote
...We now think MUCH more about what we bring into the house in the first place.  If one of us is considering buying something, one of us will eventually say "how long before it winds up in the box?"  It has really forced us to change our thinking and to look at things in a long term perspective...

Most definitely this. That was a big mindset shift for me.

"Every Thing You Own is a Relationship You’re In (http://www.raptitude.com/2015/08/konmari/)"

Tangentially related: a pedorthist (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedorthist) I know says a lot of "off the shelf" aftermarket insoles (Dr. Scholl's etc) amounted to "expensive experiments" - you buy them, find out they don't work for you, and you've got a $20 piece of junk laying around.

A lot finite-non-zero-number of "things" like that still come into my life.

My shift in mindset: I ditch those things FAST instead of holding on to them.

I see a lot of people hang on to those "expensive experiments." (my parents' junk drawer and garage being good examples)
Your post really made me think. I am an experimenter. I love trying new things from condiments to hobbies to clothes styles. And I do move on but often the stuff stays.  Knowing my tendency for short term infatuation I am trying to get over purchasing lots of stuff to support the latest thing and borrowing kr using other people's stuff (like at a night course). My home and attic are still full of things that I once loved but have moved on from and they need to go. I love that Raptitude article. I have read.it before but it really spoke to me this time. I have things that I don't love but keep because I need them.  I was planning to just live with that but now see value in getting rid of those and replacing them with examples I do love (in a gradual and fiscally responsible way of course! ).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Maya on December 14, 2015, 07:45:49 PM
Got through the top shelf of my closet and threw out a bunch of magazines, listed a few things to sale. Two laundry baskets full of stuff. I have so much more to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on December 17, 2015, 01:43:05 AM
This thread inspired me to to clean out my office. Today is my last work day in 2015 and I cleaned out 15 books that are 26 years old and I will never read them (I inherited them from a coworker).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 17, 2015, 02:49:01 AM
Got rid of loads more craft supplies. I've realised I love trying new things, and once I've mastered them to an acceptable (to me) degree, I'm ready to move on to new things. This isn't a failing, it just is. I'm going to focus on the fact it makes me a renaissance woman, rather than flaky. I can let go of the old supplies knowing someone else will enjoy them.

Tackling these last few 'hard to let go of' items seems to be making a huge impact on how my house feels. It's similar to the first few months of the year when I saw a marked difference day to day. These items were things that I couldn't let go of, but always seemed out of place where I kept them (probably because I knew I wasn't going to use them again, so I was keeping tucked in corners in inaccessible places).

I'm slightly behind target on getting rid of 2015 in 2015, but confident that with a big push at the end of the year I can do it. I still can barely remember a single thing I've donated.

Also, I have four huge bags for charity in my car, but finding a time to drop them off when the charity shops are open and I don't have to go out of my way is proving harder than clearing out junk! May try to batch a few errands and get it done today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on December 17, 2015, 07:26:05 AM
Got rid of loads more craft supplies. I've realised I love trying new things, and once I've mastered them to an acceptable (to me) degree, I'm ready to move on to new things. This isn't a failing, it just is. I'm going to focus on the fact it makes me a renaissance woman, rather than flaky. I can let go of the old supplies knowing someone else will enjoy them.

Tackling these last few 'hard to let go of' items seems to be making a huge impact on how my house feels. It's similar to the first few months of the year when I saw a marked difference day to day. These items were things that I couldn't let go of, but always seemed out of place where I kept them (probably because I knew I wasn't going to use them again, so I was keeping tucked in corners in inaccessible places).

I'm slightly behind target on getting rid of 2015 in 2015, but confident that with a big push at the end of the year I can do it. I still can barely remember a single thing I've donated.

Also, I have four huge bags for charity in my car, but finding a time to drop them off when the charity shops are open and I don't have to go out of my way is proving harder than clearing out junk! May try to batch a few errands and get it done today.

GREAT perspective!

I've learned that about myself: I become a "subject matter expert" at something (be it fly fishing, or paintball, or silk screening), invest a lot of time and money into it, then move on. I consider it the cost of learning. Years later, if I decide to participate in that activity, I have the knowledge and wisdom to know what NOT to buy: my kit can be tiny.

Fly fishing, for example: I ditched my large rig(s) years ago and now own Tenkara (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenkara_fishing) gear that fits in a single tube, and simple sling pack, taking up next to no room. I even got a folding net that slides into a pocket of the bag. Before I "got good" at it, I'd have had no idea what was necessary and what wasn't.

Quote from: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 17, 2015, 11:49:46 AM
Dropped off a few items at the consignment store and picked up a check for $109 for items sold previously.  I have a few items to list on Craigslist.  I need to tackle paperwork and the filing cabinet next.  Making progress but I need to get better about not filling the voids created by getting rid of things and not bringing new stuff home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 17, 2015, 02:51:09 PM
Moving progress:
I tend to write everyday , and hav for many years. Ripped up (dont have a shredder) and recycled HUNDREDS of pages. Win .
Big incentive to write on my laptop. Ha! My laptop is barely functioning however, something to think about..
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sister C on December 17, 2015, 02:51:36 PM
Great thread!  Got rid of probably 60% of my clothes earlier this year using Mari Kondo's method.  I still have plenty of clothes and now they are all items I love and use.  My new challenge in that area is not inviting too many maternity clothes into my house now that I am pregnant.  So far, no maternity purchases!

My next goal is to declutter our kitchen- I love to cook and have acquired way too many gadgets over the years.  I would guess we only use 50% of our kitchen items on any regular basis. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: relena on December 17, 2015, 03:20:35 PM
I got rid of about 70% of my books (donated to our local library). It felt nice.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 17, 2015, 04:04:47 PM
After breaking down some numbers in my journal, I reached out to a few people on Craigslist who restore and resell stuff. I'm going to be heading over to my storage unit (BAM!! Face Punch) that I haven't even been into in 6 months to see what they will take. I don't even care about the money honestly. If I get nothing for it, I'm still saving over $2000/year just by not keeping the damn storage unit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 18, 2015, 09:28:51 AM
Last night I reached my goal of decluttering 2 things per day for 2015! I was struggling a bit at the end, but discovered a drawer full of trinkets and crap that I hadn't gone through yet which put me well over the top. I still need to work on paperwork decluttering and photos, but that may be next year's project. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sister C on December 18, 2015, 12:19:18 PM
Last night I reached my goal of decluttering 2 things per day for 2015! I was struggling a bit at the end, but discovered a drawer full of trinkets and crap that I hadn't gone through yet which put me well over the top. I still need to work on paperwork decluttering and photos, but that may be next year's project. :)

Nice! Slow and steady :)

My wife scanned or shredded 90% of our paper files the other weekend- took her probably 4 hours.  The few things we need to keep in paper format (like the deed to our house) fit in a small box.  (Photos we haven't touched yet.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 18, 2015, 01:10:59 PM
Last night I reached my goal of decluttering 2 things per day for 2015! I was struggling a bit at the end, but discovered a drawer full of trinkets and crap that I hadn't gone through yet which put me well over the top. I still need to work on paperwork decluttering and photos, but that may be next year's project. :)

Nice! Slow and steady :)

My wife scanned or shredded 90% of our paper files the other weekend- took her probably 4 hours.  The few things we need to keep in paper format (like the deed to our house) fit in a small box.  (Photos we haven't touched yet.)

Awesome. I'm looking forward to achieving that level so much!
I put in an hour or two of paperwork decluttering this summer and was surprised at how easy it was once I started. I got rid of all the easy things, like 10 year old phone bills and pay stubs. I'm not sure why it's so hard for me to get started again. 4 hours seems like it's well worth it just to have it off my to do list!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 18, 2015, 01:25:56 PM
Two pairs of worn out running shoes in the trash today (not worth donating because they're very lightweight and the uppers rip about the time the soles lose their bounce).

I need to find a box to start the next round of items to donate.  I have at least 4 items earmarked for the box and I'm sure I can find more.  Getting things donated before the end of the month for the tax write-off should be good motivation.

Pulled out a pair of boots that I haven't been wearing because the liner has ripped out around the heel.  Decided they're in too good of shape otherwise to throw away, and that I'll wear them if they're repaired, so they will be dropped offat the cobbler for repair next week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 18, 2015, 01:37:56 PM
Just sold a good chunk of things in the storage unit. Not only am I saving >$200/month, I made $70. Boo yah. Also made some new friends.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 19, 2015, 06:04:06 AM
I feel so much less stressed with fewer possessions. I've done really well this year with getting rid of clutter.

I hope next year is even better for all of us.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on December 19, 2015, 12:46:36 PM
Took our jar of coins in to the coinstar machine at the credit union and replaced it with $33 in cash. This is the first money I've made from decluttering, so I'm quite excited. (OK, I didn't actually *make* money, but I converted a pile of metal into liquid cash that takes up much less space. )
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 19, 2015, 05:35:52 PM
I decluttered 300 emails and 5 regular sources of emails. Down to less than 500 in my normal inbox! Note for my other 3 email addresses (professional, blog and work).
Got rid of another 150, down to 350. Yay! I might actually start having time to read then soon :P

Just sold a good chunk of things in the storage unit. Not only am I saving >$200/month, I made $70. Boo yah. Also made some new friends.
Took our jar of coins in to the coinstar machine at the credit union and replaced it with $33 in cash. This is the first money I've made from decluttering, so I'm quite excited. (OK, I didn't actually *make* money, but I converted a pile of metal into liquid cash that takes up much less space. )
These sound very satisfying.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LaineyAZ on December 20, 2015, 06:36:12 AM
Staples.com has a coupon for free shredding up to 5 lbs.  For those papers that are confidential or private and for those who don't have access to a home or office shredder, this would be ideal.  Expires Dec 31st so it's an incentive to use the lull between Xmas and New Year's to get this done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 20, 2015, 06:44:26 AM
Next year I need to get rid of the rest of the copper pennies I had been keeping in a box. It was Marie Kondo that said that it was a stupid idea as most people never bother to go and get them changed. I keep taking a handful out when I go to the shop but the box is still about one third full!

I think I will get rid of some decorative items too. I have had a wooden buddha and a white birdcage ornament for years but I don't really like them any more. They will be bought by someone else if I give them to a charity shop and I've realised I prefer to see mostly empty surfaces.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 20, 2015, 10:56:25 AM
Good idea, Londoner38. I take my change torhe local fruit and vegetable market so it never seems to accumulate.  It seems disrespectful of money to leave it in a box idle and I know our reserve bank has in the past appealed for us to cash in our coins to prevent them having to make more -seems everyone is stashing coins.
I'm staying with my parents for the holidays and have realized how much I love my spare surroundings.  Every surface here is covered in knick knacks and I have the overwhelming desire to sweep them all off just to see a bare surface. My mum has bought a bunch of stuff for us from the op shops and rather than take it all and sort it at my home,  I will do that here so I only take things that we will love and use and discretely return what we don't to the nearest clothing bin. One of my goals for 2016 is to be a better gate keeper to prevent refilling my home. Ks
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 20, 2015, 05:23:32 PM
Ah, just made a goodwill run. Got rid of one chair, one small bookshelf, an old vacuum cleaner, two giant boxes of books, and two bar stools.

Now, I only need to get rid of a kitchen table, a huge nice entertainment center that I don't want (solid oak and well constructed), a corner desk (that I totally forgot about), and a bigger bookshelf. Once those are gone, my stupid storage unit will be empty. If only I had a fire pit...it is all mostly made of wood, and I could just burn it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 20, 2015, 06:36:07 PM
Ah, just made a goodwill run. Got rid of one chair, one small bookshelf, an old vacuum cleaner, two giant boxes of books, and two bar stools.

Now, I only need to get rid of a kitchen table, a huge nice entertainment center that I don't want (solid oak and well constructed), a corner desk (that I totally forgot about), and a bigger bookshelf. Once those are gone, my stupid storage unit will be empty. If only I had a fire pit...it is all mostly made of wood, and I could just burn it.

Those old oak entertainment centers make great raised garden beds.  Just flip on the side and fill with dirt. 

I've spent most of the day sifting through my things and have two three more boxes to get rid of.  It's down to time-consuming detail work now, but I think it's worth it.  I've had my eye out for some new buttons to dress up a rather boring cardigan, and today I found some perfect ones I'd completely forgotten about right in my own home.  Sewed them on the sweater and it now looks 100 times better and I have one less piece of clutter.  Also used some spare shoe laces for my horses' new tail wraps.  My shoe and clothing situation is pared down enough that I'm able to get rid of some storage pieces and move most of my shoes into the closet (along with the hamper).  My dressers have tons of space and the tops are 100% clear. 

Should be poised to swoop in and finish up the rest of the house once I go on my staycation next week.  Hoping husband will take note and get rid of some of his crap but I know better than to push the issue. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 20, 2015, 06:47:04 PM


Ah, just made a goodwill run. Got rid of one chair, one small bookshelf, an old vacuum cleaner, two giant boxes of books, and two bar stools.

Now, I only need to get rid of a kitchen table, a huge nice entertainment center that I don't want (solid oak and well constructed), a corner desk (that I totally forgot about), and a bigger bookshelf. Once those are gone, my stupid storage unit will be empty. If only I had a fire pit...it is all mostly made of wood, and I could just burn it.

Those old oak entertainment centers make great raised garden beds.  Just flip on the side and fill with dirt. 

Holy crap. I didn't make that logical jump. I was thinking I might have to cut them up, and was trying to figure out how to reclaim the wood for my raised bed I was building. Skipping that step is absolutely brilliant. Might be a touch high, but I suppose I could partially bury them in need be. Thank you!

Oh, and I forgot to add I have a bowflex ultimate in there too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 20, 2015, 08:47:01 PM
Cool, I wasn't sure if you were a gardener or not.  Glad you can use it.  I have a couple tall beds and freaking love them.  So easy to tend without as much stooping.

So... maybe use the BowFlex as a trellis?  ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on December 20, 2015, 11:44:12 PM
I hadnt felt "done" for some time and today managed to pull out 4 grocery bags worth of clothes. Now I think I have gotten all I can and now it is time to be ruthless on what comes in my home. Last week I received several small gifts and I gave away the pretty gift bags right that day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on December 21, 2015, 03:05:17 AM
About a year ago, I started dealing with the mountain of toiletries that I owned- stuff that I'd bought, stuff from hotels and stuff I'd been given. Its taken a full year to use most of it.

I think I am down to 10-15% of what I had!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 21, 2015, 03:19:52 AM
Finally managed to take those bags to the charity shop.

I also dropped a suit off at the dry cleaners. I don't know why, but I've been avoiding doing this for ages. I feel like with less stuff to manage errands don't seem as daunting anymore. (It's probably because my car boot is now finally empty. For most of this year, it has had bags in it in the hope I will pass a charity shop when it's open).

I also reduced the number of folders in my email accounts. I practise inbox zero, but had way too many folders, some of them defunct. Now, it's not only easier to decide where to file something, it's quicker, because all folders fit on one screen of my Outlook app, so I can quickly file without scrolling.

And lastly, on Sunday I needed an outfit that was smart, but not businessy. I didn't want to wear a dress. And this left me with virtually nothing. I realised I now have ZERO trousers that aren't jeans, and only one skirt that isn't part of a suit. And I was kind of annoyed. And then I realised, well, I do have one skirt, so that's everything that I need. I put it on, made an outfit I have never worn before from other stuff, and actually felt great in it. I realised that had I worn the trousers I was cursing myself for donating, I would have felt uncomfortable all day, as I just did not like them. So, my lesson for the weekend was: enough, really is enough.

I never understood people saying, "It's easier to get dressed with fewer option!", but I think I'm starting to get it. I only had one thing I could wear, so the decision was made for me. It was so obvious there was no, "hmmm, this or that?". I just wore the only suitable thing, and because I'd been ruthless, it was something I liked. A shallow and ridiculous revelation, but it did blow my mind, just a tiny bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 21, 2015, 05:00:12 AM
I looked at my birdcage and it has a crack in it so it was unfortunately binned rather than donated.

Good idea, Londoner38. I take my change torhe local fruit and vegetable market so it never seems to accumulate.  It seems disrespectful of money to leave it in a box idle and I know our reserve bank has in the past appealed for us to cash in our coins to prevent them having to make more -seems everyone is stashing coins.


Yes, I think it is a habit I've had since I was a child when you used to put the pennies in a jar, count them up and take them to a bank, but I don't know why I'm continuing it as an adult.:D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on December 21, 2015, 09:09:26 AM
I'm feeling a resurgence of decluttering coming on, especially considering the holidays are approaching. I will see if I can make a big push to clean out my closet again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: AlwaysBeenASaver on December 21, 2015, 09:12:18 AM
I've been working on decluttering my computer CDs. It turns out I have installation CDs for computers I haven't had in many years and software CDs that don't even run on my current computer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on December 21, 2015, 09:41:00 AM
I've been working on decluttering my computer CDs. It turns out I have installation CDs for computers I haven't had in many years and software CDs that don't even run on my current computer.

I went through a stack of backup CDs/DVDs that have been laying around for so many years...I found some dating back to 2000!!!

The vast majority of them were no longer relevant, but I did find some stuff (old photos) that I copied to a flash drive. I tossed the discs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on December 21, 2015, 10:55:41 AM
I just wore the only suitable thing, and because I'd been ruthless, it was something I liked. A shallow and ridiculous revelation, but it did blow my mind, just a tiny bit.

That's not shallow or ridiculous. It's the magic of tidying up. When you like everything you have, and you don't have stuff that bothers you, getting dressed becomes something you don't have to worry about any more. So far, I've only thoroughly tidied my socks and underwear, but even there, knowing that everything in the drawer works and fits is genuinely gratifying. It's amazing how much energy we (well, some of us) expend dealing with clothing-baggage, and how freeing it feels to discard even a little.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on December 21, 2015, 11:00:05 AM
Bit of a loss or stagnation, but my brother says he wants two chairs that are in our attic.  They're out of the way, but we had decided to list them on Craigslist (they need a deep cleaning or reupholstering and none of the local charities will take donations in that condition).  Which means waiting a year until he graduates and can them them with him.

Oh well.

But, I did go through our attic storage and put a healthy pile of things in our donation pile - out of season clothes that didn't get missed, etc.  There will be more when I put away the tree and go through the storage dump-all.  It's the last vanguard of clutter in the house, mostly left over from the renovation days.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on December 21, 2015, 12:09:39 PM
About a year ago, I started dealing with the mountain of toiletries that I owned- stuff that I'd bought, stuff from hotels and stuff I'd been given. Its taken a full year to use most of it.

I think I am down to 10-15% of what I had!

I've started to do this just recently. I can't wait to have it all cleared out. Its tempting to just toss it, but I love to use things up even more. I will probably take a moment and just combine all the like products into larger bottles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 21, 2015, 01:33:00 PM
About a year ago, I started dealing with the mountain of toiletries that I owned- stuff that I'd bought, stuff from hotels and stuff I'd been given. Its taken a full year to use most of it.

I think I am down to 10-15% of what I had!

I've started to do this just recently. I can't wait to have it all cleared out. Its tempting to just toss it, but I love to use things up even more. I will probably take a moment and just combine all the like products into larger bottles.

I did that too- consolidate and conquer!  Almost through most of it.  For some reason I have way too many bandaids, but I'm not willing to increase my injury rate in order to use them up.

I finished the Kondo book yesterday and it's evidently had an effect on me, because I came to work this morning and immediately rearranged things in my cubicle and got rid of some things that were stashed under my desk for the last few years.  Planning to do more this week since we'll be reorganizing the office in the not too distant future and having things under control will make the cube move much easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on December 21, 2015, 05:43:53 PM
[...]  For some reason I have way too many bandaids, but I'm not willing to increase my injury rate in order to use them up.
[...]

That is awesome!! Just for the record, I did get my entertainment center back to the house, and will be using them for raised beds as you suggested. Also, just for the sake of having more fun, they aren't called raised beds. They are going to be called EGC Modules (Entertainment Garden Center).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on December 21, 2015, 07:27:47 PM
Quote

I did that too- consolidate and conquer!  Almost through most of it.  For some reason I have way too many bandaids, but I'm not willing to increase my injury rate in order to use them up.

Hah, yes I also have more Bandaids than any person could expect to use in a lifetime! But they don't have an expiry date so in 20 years, maybe we will be ready to buy a new box!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cheddarpie on December 21, 2015, 07:39:58 PM
I finally gave in and this weekend bought the three Billy bookcases I'd been eyeing at Ikea (and stained a nice lumber top to tie them all together) to create a more organized media area with books on the shelves and TV and Wifi router on top ... after moving things around to reorganize the living room, I've now packed up a huge bag of things (including about 25 books) for Goodwill and sold on Craigslist my two Expedit bookcases, two other folding bookcases (wtf with the bookcases!), and two random stools that were serving as plant stands for more than DOUBLE what I paid for the Billy setup. So I've managed to significantly declutter, buy/make something I love, and make a profit off the whole thing ... feels pretty awesome. I'm having surgery in January and will be holed up in my living room for way too long so I'm motivated to have it set up in a way that feels good (joyful, even!) and not anxiety-provoking ... thanks for the inspiration, Mustachians!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 21, 2015, 08:53:31 PM
Awesome work everyone! Spending the holidays in my family's cluttered homes has reinforced how important serene spaces are to me now. I find it draining to look at cluttered surfaces, trip over piles of stuff stashed around and walk along paths where the trees and bushes attack you (yes, even cluttered gardens here). I've talked to everyone about what I'm doing and the benefits but they're not especially interested.  Will keep my room neat as a pin to have a sanctuary to escape to. Will be even more motivated to do more decluttering when I get home.  Keep up the good work everyone. Ks
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on December 21, 2015, 09:23:05 PM
About a year ago, I started dealing with the mountain of toiletries that I owned- stuff that I'd bought, stuff from hotels and stuff I'd been given. Its taken a full year to use most of it.

I think I am down to 10-15% of what I had!

I hoard these even though I travel for business at least once a month. This weekend I dropped them off at my local church good bank for their clients. It's nice to think someone who really needs them will now have access to them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on December 22, 2015, 01:49:44 AM

That's not shallow or ridiculous. It's the magic of tidying up. When you like everything you have, and you don't have stuff that bothers you, getting dressed becomes something you don't have to worry about any more. So far, I've only thoroughly tidied my socks and underwear, but even there, knowing that everything in the drawer works and fits is genuinely gratifying. It's amazing how much energy we (well, some of us) expend dealing with clothing-baggage, and how freeing it feels to discard even a little.

So much this. I have about a third to a quarter of the clothes I used to have but also have zero "don't have anything to wear" syndrome. Basically, I like everything that's in my closet so in the morning I just reach for a shirt and a pair of trousers, scarf, necklace, and I'm done. Zero thinking about what to wear and zero anxiety. Plus, I've basically stopped shopping for clothes because I like everything I have. So liberating.

This! I decluttered my clothes ruthlessly a few years ago and while I have less, everything goes with everything and it's so much easier than it used to be. And there's no "but it's nice, really, so I really should wear it" but not actually wanting to wear it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 22, 2015, 03:37:52 AM
I like everything that's in my closet so in the morning I just reach for a shirt and a pair of trousers, scarf, necklace, and I'm done. Zero thinking about what to wear and zero anxiety.

Exactly the same with me.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 22, 2015, 09:42:00 AM
I like everything that's in my closet so in the morning I just reach for a shirt and a pair of trousers, scarf, necklace, and I'm done. Zero thinking about what to wear and zero anxiety.

Exactly the same with me.:)

I'm still not there yet- in terms of loving all my clothes. I hav been there at certain points when I was younger.. Think miniskirts and stilettos of which there are many ha-ha! Anyway, I DO NOT dress that way anymore, I like comfort , cute, and style wrapped in one. And I'm VERY picky! And I do do not buy clothing(anymore-) . I am lucky to be recieve ample  castoffs from my lovely coworkers, some clothing of which I love. . , except of course I purchase  shoes and undergarments. . maybe I should ?? Idk, any thoughts?
Oh, and yes I hav greatly pared down my wardrobe already, think approx a dozen tops, half a dozen each pant and skirt. Mixing and matching, and using different shoes, handbag, makeup, and jewelry add quite a bit of variation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on December 22, 2015, 03:01:30 PM
I consigned several of DH's beautiful wool sport jackets--herringbone/BrooksBros/ navy; he still has some he will keep, but as we are retired, he just doesn't need many.  I felt a little sad about it; he did not.  There may be a few more we can part with...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on December 22, 2015, 05:04:53 PM
I came across this Wait But Why post (http://waitbutwhy.com/2015/12/the-tail-end.html) recently (it's a great post), and I was struck by how accurate it was. I'd previously printed out the Life in Weeks chart (http://waitbutwhy.com/2014/05/life-weeks.html) and tracked my life so far, but I hadn't thought about the time that I have left.

Quote
Not counting Wait But Why research, I read about five books a year, so even though it feels like I’ll read an endless number of books in the future, I actually have to choose only 300 of all the books out there to read and accept that I’ll sign off for eternity without knowing what goes on in all the rest.

I read about 10 books a year, which gives me about 600 books for the rest of my life, although FIRE will boost that number greatly. It definitely puts things into perspective when you have a concrete number. I used to finish reading every single book that I'd started even if I lost interest or didn't like it; I really hated leaving things unfinished (sunk cost fallacy). But as I got older, I realized the time spent slogging through a terrible book could have been better spent doing something else instead. Similarly, I find myself being more and more willing to let go of things (donating old clothes, useless trinkets that were presents from family and friends, etc) as I learn what's important to me.

And on that note, I reorganized the ebooks on my Kindle. It had gotten to the point where I had >30 unread books, and when I turned on my Kindle, I'll get analysis paralysis trying to decide which one I should read first. Now I'm down to 10 books, ordered in a to-read priority list, hopefully I'll get through a few of them during all the holiday traveling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on December 25, 2015, 09:30:25 PM
I need to get back into this. I don't know if it's the holidays (so much more kid stuff everywhere!), the fact that my 1yo's favorite way to "play" is to throw toys around the room, or what, but everything feels so cluttered lately. My clothes are still nice & neat, but there's a ton more areas I need to attack. Mr Tofu is off all weekend, I believe (a very rare occurrence!), so may be tomorrow and Sunday we can start a proper KonMari-ing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 27, 2015, 02:02:33 PM
Got home yesterday afternoon after a few days away for Christmas.

I took an hour to go through a few drawers and the bathroom, and tossed 37 things. I don't go back to work for a week, so if I do that every day I will start the new year in a good place.

My husband is finishing up with his company in a few days and has four boxes of business cards here at home. I suppose it would be cheating to count those individually... :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on December 27, 2015, 02:37:23 PM
Worked on my kitchen today and got rid of extra stuff and cleaned out my pantry and reorganized so I can easily find everything.   A few days ago I filled my car and went to thrift store. I like to have some extra space so if I buy something I don't have to worry abut where to put it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on December 27, 2015, 03:56:53 PM
Husband went through all of his clothing today - prompted by a sock gift (thanks mom!). Four bags to goodwill and one to the landfill. A gift card replenished socks and undershirts, so now he's much lighter in the clothing department.  Big win as he had a LOT of clothes, mostly because any culling would be all at once and he never got around to it. I facilitated as best I could and didnt try to sway one way or another. Very proud of him and happy with the state of our closet :-)

Three bags went to goodwill yesterday after my annual post Christmas freakout - we tend to exist on the high end of my admittedly low "stuff" tolerance, so even the minimal gifts put me on edge.

We rearranged a room to make a crafting corner, as some of the gifts - needed - meant that items needed a home.

It's only two days after and all holiday errands and after holiday errands are complete.

Happy holidays :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Melody on December 27, 2015, 06:18:09 PM
I came across this Wait But Why post (http://waitbutwhy.com/2015/12/the-tail-end.html) recently (it's a great post), and I was struck by how accurate it was. I'd previously printed out the Life in Weeks chart (http://waitbutwhy.com/2014/05/life-weeks.html) and tracked my life so far, but I hadn't thought about the time that I have left.

Quote
Not counting Wait But Why research, I read about five books a year, so even though it feels like I’ll read an endless number of books in the future, I actually have to choose only 300 of all the books out there to read and accept that I’ll sign off for eternity without knowing what goes on in all the rest.

I read about 10 books a year, which gives me about 600 books for the rest of my life, although FIRE will boost that number greatly. It definitely puts things into perspective when you have a concrete number. I used to finish reading every single book that I'd started even if I lost interest or didn't like it; I really hated leaving things unfinished (sunk cost fallacy). But as I got older, I realized the time spent slogging through a terrible book could have been better spent doing something else instead. Similarly, I find myself being more and more willing to let go of things (donating old clothes, useless trinkets that were presents from family and friends, etc) as I learn what's important to me.

And on that note, I reorganized the ebooks on my Kindle. It had gotten to the point where I had >30 unread books, and when I turned on my Kindle, I'll get analysis paralysis trying to decide which one I should read first. Now I'm down to 10 books, ordered in a to-read priority list, hopefully I'll get through a few of them during all the holiday traveling.
I have smashed through 4 novels on this vacation already!!! (Less than 10 days in)... And it's been an active vacation with lots of hiking, driving etc, and only an overnight flight (I will typically read over half a novel on a four hour flight) so I never feel bad about leaving something unfinished (as it's pretty rare, when you read this quickly you don't tend to loos interest). You have made the right choice not to waste time on books you don't like, although I really hope you can read more than 600 books in your life time, because there are so many great ones :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on December 27, 2015, 08:32:59 PM
So I have been gifting friends like mad nice things I just have never really used -- a set of champagne glasses, a leather briefcase, a cute makeup bag, a purse and I even brought a big bag of tea to my friend's Xmas tea today. I am mostly upfront that the gifts are hand me downs. No one cares.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 28, 2015, 12:06:26 AM
I askef for no presents this year from our extended family given our decluttering efforts this year - and I suddenly find myself being treated as a decluttering guru on my holidays. My mum has decluttered a few bad corners before I arrived and was keen to show off her work. My sisters in law have cleaned out sheds in my presence and my very messy Mil has done an amazing job on her house. Still lots to do but I've promised to help. Everyone, the word is getting out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 28, 2015, 02:40:00 AM
Now the house is decluttered of Christmas things I have been going around and throwing away random stuff. I can't even remember what all the things were, some chives I didn't like, some outof date cream etc...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on December 28, 2015, 03:32:07 AM
This evening I watched some minimalist youtube videos and am inspired to get rid of more stuff! I already have some unwanted Christmas items in the donate pile and just posted several other items for sale. I know I'm ready to part with more stuff than that, but need the approval from Mr. Meowstache before anything else gets the boot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KiwiSonya on December 28, 2015, 10:42:02 AM
Hi Meowstache, I was in a similar position,  needing hubby's approval before getting rid of lots of shared stuff. I just filled some big boxes and then asked  him to review them for anything he thought needed to stay. He found 2 things out of about 300 so I was happy with that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Feminine Mustique on December 28, 2015, 01:08:00 PM
Hi there~ jumping in here!

I've struggled with keeping stuff since I was a kid. Committing to slowly, steadily, going through our house from top to bottom in 2016. I actually sometimes do Clutterers Anonymous phone meetings for the support and focus.

I've spent some time the past few days going through crap in the basement. Got rid of a lot... still have a lot to go. I took a big box to the Salvation Army and several boxes of recycling to a recycling drop off. Secretly purged some of the kids toys... stuff they won't miss. Also purged some old files from houses we no longer own. It's amazing how much stuff piles up. Feels great to be getting rid of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 28, 2015, 01:48:51 PM
Am super proud of myself for getting rid of a huge bag of fabric scraps that I was never going to use to make anything.
It is HARD to let craft supplies go, because I often go digging for just the right thing for a project. But this would never be the right thing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on December 28, 2015, 03:25:22 PM
Finally got rid of a nice chunk of my stuff at my parents' house today.
Lots more to do though...

... and did some more these holidays! Felt good, I'm inspired to do more in my own house!

Nice read on clutter btw (http://time.com/money/4075842/clutter-is-expensive/?xid=frommoney_soc_socialflow_facebook_money) (Found via The Minimalists fb (https://www.facebook.com/theminimalists))
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on December 28, 2015, 05:19:06 PM
I spent all day in my office and the linen closet so filled my car once again. It feels good to open a closet and have everything be neat and not falling out.  Congrats to everyone for doing such a great job!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on December 28, 2015, 09:54:11 PM
So I showed the minimalist youtube video to Mr. Meowstache and we talked about how calm and lovely the home tour was. That inspired us to go through lots of our joint stuff and a bit of our individual stuff. I am SHOCKED! My living room is full of piles and piles of stuff and I feel so disgusted that we ever had that in the first place. And this is AFTER We did a massive purge last year.

I have some things that I could sell, but it is so overwhelming I'm donating most items. Madness!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 28, 2015, 09:59:01 PM
So I showed the minimalist youtube video to Mr. Meowstache and we talked about how calm and lovely the home tour was. That inspired us to go through lots of our joint stuff and a bit of our individual stuff. I am SHOCKED! My living room is full of piles and piles of stuff and I feel so disgusted that we ever had that in the first place. And this is AFTER We did a massive purge last year.

I have some things that I could sell, but it is so overwhelming I'm donating most items. Madness!

Sounds like progress- keep up the good work Mr. & Mrs. Meowstache.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on December 29, 2015, 08:09:04 AM
Sold a dress yesterday on a FB garage sale site. It has inspired me to sell more of my excess clothing. Especially stuff that has never been worn, and is just hanging there because I might wear it some day. I am off work this week, and will list at least one item/day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on December 29, 2015, 12:23:18 PM
Future hubby and I moved a couple weeks ago & he's finally donated some clothing. And  he's finding a little more since we've moved... Decluttering is not his thing, but at least moving is a little motivation.
He and I were living separate and with our combined kitchen things, I've recycled a dozen or so Tupperwares with a top or missing a bottom . o definitely wouldn't say we hav a lot of things between us but a little more than what fits comfortably in our 500sq. foot apt.. Closet spaccs are pretty packed (he's filled the big one with his hoards of clothing and shoes and a couple shelves in the linen closet. My small closet is very modest with clothing, but filled otherwise to the brim with completed art- great motivation to keep selling! Omg
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 29, 2015, 04:26:01 PM
Went through the bathroom cabinets and tossed a few things. Put away a few clothing items for consignment. Filed paperwork that was gathering dust for the last month or so. Went through my cc bill and tossed the receipts. Had to call about a couple of fraudulent charges - nothing huge but I'm getting charges from Netflix Mexico under an old account number that apparently was compromised and closed about a year ago!  What gives???  The cc company was trying to tell me that I need to call Netflix Mexico and stop them from charging me!!!  Ugh!  It took an hour and conversations with 3 people to make them understand that I had nothing to do with the charges and it was the cc company's problem for accepting random charges to an account that they closed and deactivated a year ago!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 29, 2015, 05:10:18 PM
Time to wake DH up so we can go through our clothes :) love the holidays...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 29, 2015, 06:22:13 PM
I just went through all the old paint that was taking up valuable space in the garage.  About 60% of it was too old and dried up to use.  Moved what was left down to an out of the way basement cabinet that was empty as a result of previous decluttering.  Now have a handy place for the air compressor so we don't have to lug it up from the shop if a car tire needs air.  MUCH less messy to look at when pulling into the garage, too.  Now to clean up the other side where all my horse gear lands on it's way to or from the stable.

I'm getting more and more critical about things, like WHY do I have a 3-hole punch?  I'm not a student and haven't been for over a decade, so I can't imagine needing a 3-hole punch.  If I ever do, I can just use the one at the office.  I also had literally 8,000 staples and two staple pullers in a little plastic box in the office.  Decided one small box of 1,000 staples will probably last me the rest of my life, and I only need one staple puller, if that.

Sold an iPod on eBay.  Made sure to use as much of my bubble wrap stash as possible when packing it.

Have two more boxes overflowing with stuff to donate.

Horse gear just isn't really moving right now, so I think I'm going to just set aside what I want to get rid of and take another run at selling it in the spring.

Sadly the scanner I thought I could use for my photos is worn out and isn't feeding photos properly and is making everything streaky, so I think I'll just sort through and take everything worth scanning to a shop to have it done professionally.

The shop is really cluttered, but it's hella cold, so I doubt I'll get out there and clean that up.  I suppose I could bring in the various tool chests and things and sit by the fire sort through them.

I need to finish breaking down the aquarium and list that and my espresso machine on Craigslist.  I'm ready to sell them cheap just to get them gone.  I'm even considering selling my KitchenAid mixer since I don't bake anymore, but I'm afraid I'll regret that one later.

I've been in and out of stores a lot the last few days because I've been doing some house projects and I'm happy to say that the only potential clutter I've brought home is a new toy for the dog, but she loves it, so I don't mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 29, 2015, 06:22:54 PM
Cleaned out the pajama and tshirt drawer. Got rid of a good amount.
Still held on to some that don't fit but I have an attachment to, but there's room in the drawer so I'm okay with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on January 03, 2016, 03:51:21 PM
I'm on a roll today; so far I have given away a stereo receiver, CD player, DVD player and two hockey helmets. A lady is coming tomorrow for two bar stools.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ArcadeStache on January 03, 2016, 04:56:02 PM
Took a ton of misc stuff to Goodwill the other day...suits I don't wear anymore, an old laptop bag, lots of glassware cluttering our kitchen cabinets, random throw pillows sitting in the basement, old landline phones we'll never use again, etc. Also took some books to a used bookstore traded for some store credit I'll use to by my 2 yr old some cheap books. Also listed more items on eBay. Man, I love this feeling....it's kind of like losing weight!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on January 03, 2016, 04:59:07 PM
Good progress lately during time off work: took electronics including speakers, cords and CDs to a reuse collection on campus; sorted through hobby supplies and hosted 13 people over to make up projects using whatever they wanted from the pile; also gave a high end digital camera and signed camera book to a high school student who is very excited about future photo projects; gave away kitchen ware to neighbours new to the country.  A few items have recently been purchased online however, so need to process more clutter to go out and find worthwhile homes.  Hosting friends was the biggest success. Everyone brought their kids and snacks to share and lots of supplies became finished projects that day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 03, 2016, 05:40:13 PM
Time to wake DH up so we can go through our clothes :) love the holidays...
We got rid of about 25% of his clothes and 10% of mine. He's back at work now, so I'm sorting through things for his approval in the evenings :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on January 03, 2016, 07:26:20 PM
This thread is so inspiring to me. Decluttering with a toddler around is slow going (as she can pull stuff out of bags as fast as I can put it in), but I filled three grocery bags of stuff to donate and threw out some trash.

I've been challenging myself to either use stuff or get rid of it, which has been helpful. Like if I notice a shirt I haven't worn in a while, I'll tell myself to wear it the next day. And if I don't want to, why not? Sometimes the answer is because it's seasonally inappropriate or something, but more often it's because it's unflattering, or I don't have anything to pair it with, and into the donation pile it goes. I've started doing that with books too. I had a book that I got for my birthday a year and a half ago that I hadn't read, so I made myself start it last night. And it was terrible! The author's writing style was horrendous! So that went into the donation pile too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 03, 2016, 07:36:59 PM
Sold some hand tool cases on ebay.  These were the cases that wrenches originally came in but I keep all my tools in a large tool chest anyway, no need for a case.  Got a few bucks for them and they are out of my basement.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Maya on January 03, 2016, 07:40:00 PM
Made great progress today.

15 cookbooks, 15 kids books, reorganized a few cupboards and sold some stuff on varagesale. Starting to see extra space which is so nice.

Tomorrow want to go through my clothes and then take a load to the donation centre.

Then time to store away the stuff waiting to be sold. Going to give it a couple months if it doesn't sell, it won't and time to donate the rest! So freeing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on January 03, 2016, 10:09:16 PM
I have 3 bags of kid clothes and one bag of toys going to consignment tomorrow. A bag of my clothes is going to Goodwill along with whatever kid stuff the consignment shop doesn't want. Also have a few things ready for eBay, and one book already listed.

I don't understand how my kids have so much stuff...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 04, 2016, 05:05:58 AM
So, my final update for 2015 in 2015... did I manage to get rid of 2015 things? Kinda...

I was about 150 items short by Christmas. My husband asked how I was going and I said I didn't think I was going to make it. I'd fallen behind since November, so even with a ruthless push in December I was coming up short, and I really had pared down so much I didn't think I could find enough stuff.

Well, how cute is this, he said, "If I go through my box of electrical cables, I bet I could find you close to that number". I have hated this tangled mess for years, and used to mention it periodically as a source of annoyance for me. Once I woke up to myself at the beginning of 2015, and decided to get my own metaphorical house in order first, I never mentioned it (or anything else I thought my husband could stand to get rid of), again.

Through the year he's shown more and more interest, every so often volunteering and item and telling me I can check it off my list, but I was really touched that he was prepared to go through the dreaded box just so I'd make my goal :)

That said, we kept meaning to go through it together, and we totally forgot until 1st January! So on New Year's Day, we went through the box, got rid of loads of things, and were about 18 items short of my 2015 goal. We went through the house finding an odd pen we could take to work, a leftover Christmas bow we could bin and so on, until we made it!

So I did get rid of 2015, but technically it wasn't all in 2015. I'm calling it a win though!

Thanks so much for all the support through the year. I'm not stopping now, I'm sure as time goes on I'll find more stuff, but it feels odd not to 'count' (yes, I went through the Christmas gifts ruthlessly already). For the time being I'm 'done' but I know full well I haven't reached Marie Kondo's state of happiness with the number of items I own. Good luck everyone for a less cluttery 2016!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 04, 2016, 05:39:17 AM
So I finally got rid of my storage unit just before xmas (which I may have mentioned). Found uses or a home for damn near everything, but still wound up with two giant boxes filled with paperwork that must be destroyed. So I borrowed my little brother's fire pit yesterday, and we're going to have a fun little bonfire to get rid of it all!! And before you ask, I did sort through to make sure it's just paper good for burning. No plastic or any of that noxious crap (my neighbor burns enough of that).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on January 04, 2016, 12:37:42 PM
So I finally got rid of my storage unit just before xmas (which I may have mentioned). Found uses or a home for damn near everything, but still wound up with two giant boxes filled with paperwork that must be destroyed. So I borrowed my little brother's fire pit yesterday, and we're going to have a fun little bonfire to get rid of it all!! And before you ask, I did sort through to make sure it's just paper good for burning. No plastic or any of that noxious crap (my neighbor burns enough of that).

Congratulations!  What an awesome way to begin the New Year!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 04, 2016, 04:45:21 PM
So I finally got rid of my storage unit just before xmas (which I may have mentioned). Found uses or a home for damn near everything, but still wound up with two giant boxes filled with paperwork that must be destroyed. So I borrowed my little brother's fire pit yesterday, and we're going to have a fun little bonfire to get rid of it all!! And before you ask, I did sort through to make sure it's just paper good for burning. No plastic or any of that noxious crap (my neighbor burns enough of that).

Getting rid of a storage unit is almost as great as compounding interest.  Nice job!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 04, 2016, 04:56:26 PM
Congratulations!  What an awesome way to begin the New Year!

Getting rid of a storage unit is almost as great as compounding interest.  Nice job!

Thank you both. In my journal, I broke down the 'savings' of not having it. It was ridiculous. $207/month saved.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Maya on January 04, 2016, 06:14:22 PM
Went through my closet and got rid of a garbage bag or two full of stuff (5 kitchen garbage bags lol) Took another load to the charity drop off. Really starting to see progress around here!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 04, 2016, 06:14:35 PM
Congratulations!  What an awesome way to begin the New Year!

Getting rid of a storage unit is almost as great as compounding interest.  Nice job!

Thank you both. In my journal, I broke down the 'savings' of not having it. It was ridiculous. $207/month saved.

Wow! Great savings.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 04, 2016, 09:48:45 PM
Sold our media center and donated a few more things around the living room. It's starting to look more spacious and spartan. If I can have my way, I'd want to remove things from a shelf and convert it into a toy shelf. We have too many knick knacks. Baby steps!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 05, 2016, 05:18:50 AM
Looks like I have a buyer for one item I listed on Craigslist.  This inspired me to renew two other listings I have.  And I am going to list an armchair that I replaced recently. 

I have gathered several more items for the consignment store.  I will bring them in by the end of this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 05, 2016, 07:03:30 AM
So I finally got rid of my storage unit just before xmas

Awesome!  If you don't have any debt to pay off, you should direct whatever you used to pay straight into your investments; don't change your budget around to spend more now that you 'found' money
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wkumtrider on January 05, 2016, 07:21:20 AM
My wife sold our playstation rock band set.  That thing took up a lot of space in the closet.  Now got to get rid of the PS 2.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 05, 2016, 04:33:29 PM
I've been working on clothes and linens - today I took 6 blue recycling bags to donate plus a box of "stuff".  The car was full.  This was all easy stuff (outer skin of the onion?), but it cleared the way for seeing what else is not needed.  I also donated all sorts of craft items over Christmas, so say 8 containers total.

A few years ago, because of work, I was living in town during the week and coming home on weekends.  As I look at my stuff I am realizing that I have a lot of duplicates from that time, including a second set of metal dog dishes!  Even after having DD take whatever she wanted when she was setting up her own apartment, I still have way more than I need.  So I need to figure out how much I really need,and how much is just being held on to "in case".  Plus I know I have things that I need to keep simply because they are pretty (bedspreads, things like that), that I will use when I stage the house.  But for now they can go into deep storage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on January 05, 2016, 05:07:15 PM

So, my final update for 2015 in 2015... did I manage to get rid of 2015 things? Kinda...

I was about 150 items short by Christmas. My husband asked how I was going and I said I didn't think I was going to make it. I'd fallen behind since November, so even with a ruthless push in December I was coming up short, and I really had pared down so much I didn't think I could find enough stuff.

Well, how cute is this, he said, "If I go through my box of electrical cables, I bet I could find you close to that number". I have hated this tangled mess for years, and used to mention it periodically as a source of annoyance for me. Once I woke up to myself at the beginning of 2015, and decided to get my own metaphorical house in order first, I never mentioned it (or anything else I thought my husband could stand to get rid of), again.

Through the year he's shown more and more interest, every so often volunteering and item and telling me I can check it off my list, but I was really touched that he was prepared to go through the dreaded box just so I'd make my goal :)

That said, we kept meaning to go through it together, and we totally forgot until 1st January! So on New Year's Day, we went through the box, got rid of loads of things, and were about 18 items short of my 2015 goal. We went through the house finding an odd pen we could take to work, a leftover Christmas bow we could bin and so on, until we made it!

So I did get rid of 2015, but technically it wasn't all in 2015. I'm calling it a win though!

Thanks so much for all the support through the year. I'm not stopping now, I'm sure as time goes on I'll find more stuff, but it feels odd not to 'count' (yes, I went through the Christmas gifts ruthlessly already). For the time being I'm 'done' but I know full well I haven't reached Marie Kondo's state of happiness with the number of items I own. Good luck everyone for a less cluttery 2016!

Wow, that is an awesome accomplishment. CONGRATS:)

I just started a 90 day challenge to deal with the house and two sheds - if I don't focus on a deadline, 2016 will be over without any progress. I made good progress in 2015, but I'm ready for the finish line.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 07, 2016, 04:04:01 AM

Wow, that is an awesome accomplishment. CONGRATS:)

I just started a 90 day challenge to deal with the house and two sheds - if I don't focus on a deadline, 2016 will be over without any progress. I made good progress in 2015, but I'm ready for the finish line.

Thanks Rosy! Ironically, I became so attached to the sheet where I logged each item I got rid of (a spreadsheet with little boxes) that I didn't want to throw it out when I was finished! Ha ha. I took a picture of it and let it go.

I also got rid of a load more stuff yesterday - three large shopping bags full. I'm not counting this year, but I'm glad my appetite for decluttering is still going strong. I am high on the extra space and compliments about how neat my house is looking!

Good luck with your challenge, I found it so helpful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on January 07, 2016, 02:48:11 PM
Donated magazines to the VA home this morning.  (Someone, we don't know who, has gifted magazine subscriptions to DH for several years now.  Each year it's a different magazine.  Last year it was Men's Health.  The year prior it was Maxim.  This year it's ESPN and GQ.)  If you knew my DH, you'd know how very un-sporty and GQ he is.  Yet, he won't call the magazine to ask who is sending them, LOL.

Cleared out the pantry from holiday cooking and baking.  Asked the VA if they would accept an unopened 5 LB bag of flour.  Nope.  So it's going to the food bank.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cheddarpie on January 08, 2016, 11:36:41 AM
I donated a carload of stuff to Goodwill, sold some unnecessary furniture and other stuff on Craigslist for over $450, and gave away some old veterinary prescriptions on Buy Nothing. I've got a couple of drawers in my bedroom left to edit (and don't get me started on the storage shed!), but otherwise I am feeling CLEAN. It is so liberating to know exactly what I own, where it is, and that I use or otherwise value all of it. :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 08, 2016, 12:15:02 PM
I donated a carload of stuff to Goodwill, sold some unnecessary furniture and other stuff on Craigslist for over $450, and gave away some old veterinary prescriptions on Buy Nothing. I've got a couple of drawers in my bedroom left to edit (and don't get me started on the storage shed!), but otherwise I am feeling CLEAN. It is so liberating to know exactly what I own, where it is, and that I use or otherwise value all of it. :)

Baby steps for the fiancé- several beanies as well as a couple work shirts (he has a uniform) donated.
I'm steadily recycling some old drawings etc as I work on a new project.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 08, 2016, 12:38:05 PM
Donated magazines to the VA home this morning.  (Someone, we don't know who, has gifted magazine subscriptions to DH for several years now.  Each year it's a different magazine.  Last year it was Men's Health.  The year prior it was Maxim.  This year it's ESPN and GQ.)  If you knew my DH, you'd know how very un-sporty and GQ he is.  Yet, he won't call the magazine to ask who is sending them, LOL.

New goal once I catch FIRE: Pick some random person, and then subscribe magazines for them. It should be fun. Every now and then, I'll find their weakest spot, and find a corresponding magazine. Oh yes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on January 08, 2016, 01:24:33 PM
Donated magazines to the VA home this morning.  (Someone, we don't know who, has gifted magazine subscriptions to DH for several years now.  Each year it's a different magazine.  Last year it was Men's Health.  The year prior it was Maxim.  This year it's ESPN and GQ.)  If you knew my DH, you'd know how very un-sporty and GQ he is.  Yet, he won't call the magazine to ask who is sending them, LOL.

New goal once I catch FIRE: Pick some random person, and then subscribe magazines for them. It should be fun. Every now and then, I'll find their weakest spot, and find a corresponding magazine. Oh yes.

LOL!  Put that on the bucket list.  Must be something in the Colorado air.  ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 08, 2016, 01:36:18 PM
Donated magazines to the VA home this morning.  (Someone, we don't know who, has gifted magazine subscriptions to DH for several years now.  Each year it's a different magazine.  Last year it was Men's Health.  The year prior it was Maxim.  This year it's ESPN and GQ.)  If you knew my DH, you'd know how very un-sporty and GQ he is.  Yet, he won't call the magazine to ask who is sending them, LOL.

New goal once I catch FIRE: Pick some random person, and then subscribe magazines for them. It should be fun. Every now and then, I'll find their weakest spot, and find a corresponding magazine. Oh yes.

LOL!  Put that on the bucket list.  Must be something in the Colorado air.  ;)

It certainly isn't oxygen. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 08, 2016, 01:41:15 PM
Spent 20 minutes on hold with the newspaper; but if that means the delivery of the free paper stops, it was totally worth it.

I shouldn't have to pick up a paper and put it in my recycling bin once a week. It doesn't even have coupons!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on January 08, 2016, 01:50:27 PM
Donated magazines to the VA home this morning.  (Someone, we don't know who, has gifted magazine subscriptions to DH for several years now.  Each year it's a different magazine.  Last year it was Men's Health.  The year prior it was Maxim.  This year it's ESPN and GQ.)  If you knew my DH, you'd know how very un-sporty and GQ he is.  Yet, he won't call the magazine to ask who is sending them, LOL.

New goal once I catch FIRE: Pick some random person, and then subscribe magazines for them. It should be fun. Every now and then, I'll find their weakest spot, and find a corresponding magazine. Oh yes.

LOL!  Put that on the bucket list.  Must be something in the Colorado air.  ;)

It certainly isn't oxygen. :)

Snort!  I hear you.  I'm about 4 hours NW of you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jooles on January 08, 2016, 03:52:51 PM
We are in the middle of a reno on a complete junker of a house.  The place is in chaos.  Back when we listed our last house for sale (Spring 2015) we put about 60% of our "stuff" in storage in order to stage the house for an optimal sale.  That went well and we moved on to a complete fixer.  Now in order to eliminate the storage space payment we moved all that "stuff" back into our chaotic reno.  Ugh.  This month's goal is to sort through all those boxes and gift, toss or actually use these things.  Tonight I will count the number of boxes and set a weekly goal in order to get through this task by Feb 1.

Goal declared.  Here's to accountability :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on January 09, 2016, 03:40:11 AM
Maybe I should prioritize decluttering my bicycles and bike parts first. Those are a LOT harder to part with, but they take a lot more space.
Spent some time on those yesterday.... man, most of that stuff is OLD! Many items haven't been used in a decade.
Pretty stupid, since they're now so outdated that they'll be very hard to sell at a decent price (or sell at all!)

Lessen learnt: sell unused items before they've completely depreciated.
http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2011/08/11/get-rich-with-craigslist/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 09, 2016, 09:07:21 AM
Spent 20 minutes on hold with the newspaper; but if that means the delivery of the free paper stops, it was totally worth it.

I shouldn't have to pick up a paper and put it in my recycling bin once a week. It doesn't even have coupons!

There is no such mechanism for my weekly penny saver.  You are getting it whether you like it or not.  It goes directly from the front porch to recycling bin.  Probably half the time it's water logged from rain and unreadable even if you wanted to look at it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 09, 2016, 09:53:47 AM
Posted several items on Craigslist today - bike, juicer, espresso machine, ski helmet and aquarium.  Hopefully at least one will sell this weekend!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on January 09, 2016, 03:20:03 PM
Posted several items on Craigslist today - bike, juicer, espresso machine, ski helmet and aquarium.  Hopefully at least one will sell this weekend!
Nice! 

I'm going to make a donation tomorrow.  I have a big enough pile to make the drive (2.5 miles) worth it.  However, I'm hoping to get my husband in on the action to get even more stuff out of the house.  It's crazy how many things we acquired over the holidays. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on January 09, 2016, 03:32:08 PM
Have been slowly getting rid of items from shelves and storage areas with a careful sort. So now I have an empty rubbermaid bin to store my donation items in, and emptied a whole piece of storage furniture and just listed it for sale.  Ahhh, feels so good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on January 09, 2016, 03:37:39 PM
Decluttered a drawer today and discovered that I have about 10 rolls of scotch tape. Will try and pawn some off on friends and family. Why is it so hard to part with small, meaningless items, but I gave away a trailer hitch worth at least a couple hundred dollars without even thinking twice about it?

Maybe it is because I will eventually need tape, but will never have a use for that hitch.

Anyone need tape?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on January 10, 2016, 02:48:46 AM
My issue is that I'm a bit uncomfortable with putting functional stuff in the trash,  but most of it isn't worth selling (or may only get a few bucks if anything).

I'm keen to do a declutter though.

Alternatively there's stuff that'd take a long time to find a buyer (hifi kit).

Any tips? Thanks :)

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

When you say trashing functional stuff, you mean recycling or donating whenever possible right?
No. That's why I haven't done it. I'm not sure on all the recycling places that'll take the stuff either.

Especially if it's items that are only a couple of dollars new and aren't really what you'd donate (like TV/phone cables and packets of envelopes and the like), or outdated tech accessories (I've got about four or five external hard drives).

Sent from my LG-D855 using Tapatalk

All the Goodwill stores in my area accept just about anything- including outdated tech stuff/appliances, chords, envelopes.

Sorted! I've just found out that my local council will take all of that stuff and recycle it. I just have to take it to the recycling centre.

I've decided on a slightly different method for my decluttering this time. I used to go through the tubs of stuff and drawers and throw out what I didn't want. Now I've decided to go through everything and put aside what I do want to keep. I might be able to fill a shoebox with what I do want to keep.

Much of the rest I'll either take to my parents' place (as they're more likely to use it than me), or on a trip to the recycling centre next weekend.

Hooray!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 10, 2016, 05:25:18 AM
Quote
I've decided on a slightly different method for my decluttering this time. I used to go through the tubs of stuff and drawers and throw out what I didn't want. Now I've decided to go through everything and put aside what I do want to keep. I might be able to fill a shoebox with what I do want to keep.

^^^That is such good advice and something I really want to try.

I sold 2 items on Craigslist for $85.  I have 3 more listings.  At this point, I just want these things gone, so my prices are pretty low.

I haven't made it to the consignment store last week but I will put the things into my car today so that I can easily bring them in this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandalayVA on January 10, 2016, 06:08:08 AM
I have a small bedroom that was absolutely CLOGGED by a humongous dresser and night table, plus tons of clothes, many of which it doesn't occur to me to wear.  Yesterday was the Decluttering Jihad.  Out went the dresser (with some difficulty, but it's out) and the night table.  I cleaned out my minuscule closet--I can see the floor now!--made several large bags of clothes and shoes destined for Goodwill, and got my husband and our unofficial handyman to move my platform bed so I could easily access the storage baskets on the far side.  With the exception of a few work blouses that need to be hung up, everything I wear or otherwise own can fit easily into one of the six large baskets in the bed.  We had a small table in the living room once used to hold electronics we no longer have, and I've turned that into my night table.  In the space freed up by the dresser we moved in a very comfortable wing chair and a small antique table inherited from my father-in-law.  With a floor lamp and an ottoman, this will be a cozy reading nook/work space.  I'm also storing my clothes in the vertical KonMari method, which saves even more room.  I'm not totally done--I have to go through my staggering number of t-shirts--but it's amazing how open and airy my room is now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 10, 2016, 11:25:56 AM
I just read The Year of Living Danishly, and given how similar Canada's climate is to Denmark's, I am going for hygge. 

So this means clean and open and cozy.  Which means even more stuff to ditch than originally planned.  But that is OK.

And I will appreciate my southern location, today I have 8 hours and 55 minutes of daylight (except that it is pouring rain,which is really icky because tomorrow it will all be ice)  and Copenhagen has 7 hours and 26 minutes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 11, 2016, 05:10:40 AM
I have a small bedroom that was absolutely CLOGGED by a humongous dresser and night table, plus tons of clothes, many of which it doesn't occur to me to wear.  Yesterday was the Decluttering Jihad.  Out went the dresser (with some difficulty, but it's out) and the night table.  I cleaned out my minuscule closet--I can see the floor now!--made several large bags of clothes and shoes destined for Goodwill, and got my husband and our unofficial handyman to move my platform bed so I could easily access the storage baskets on the far side.  With the exception of a few work blouses that need to be hung up, everything I wear or otherwise own can fit easily into one of the six large baskets in the bed.  We had a small table in the living room once used to hold electronics we no longer have, and I've turned that into my night table.  In the space freed up by the dresser we moved in a very comfortable wing chair and a small antique table inherited from my father-in-law.  With a floor lamp and an ottoman, this will be a cozy reading nook/work space.  I'm also storing my clothes in the vertical KonMari method, which saves even more room.  I'm not totally done--I have to go through my staggering number of t-shirts--but it's amazing how open and airy my room is now.

That must feel so good. I was ready to part with my bedroom furniture just because I want the open space.  I realized unfortunately I will have to keep one bureau for now but am going to part with the other one.  I emptied it all and put all of my clothes in the closet.  One I was tired of everything being in a ball and then have to organize and refold everything every so often. But, two, I would love the space because I too want to put my desk in the corner and create a reading nooks and also a place I can put my mu on in the morning.  I can't wait to get this thing out so I can get setup.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on January 11, 2016, 10:49:04 AM
I engaged in a bit of an odd "clearing out the clutter" activity recently: consolidating redundant first aid kits.

(http://savingontheessentials.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/johnson-and-johnson-first-aid-kit.jpg)

I had a small, crappy kit under the bathroom sink, a camp kit, and a bunch of random stuff on bathroom shelves.

Ditched the bathroom kit container, consolidated in a Rubbermaid container until I find a large enough first-responder bag:
(http://www.mdsassociates.com/content/images/miscellaneous/51-5215.jpg)

http://www.ergodyne.com/products/pages/default.aspx?PCA=89&PRD=162
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BarkyardBQ on January 11, 2016, 10:55:20 AM
http://www.ergodyne.com/products/pages/default.aspx?PCA=89&PRD=162

I have that one in orange and have been using it for off-roading, camping, and road trips for 5 years. It can carry enough for any basic first aid and minor medical issues.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on January 11, 2016, 11:01:30 AM
cjottawa, that's a nice looking bag!

~~~~~~~~~~
This weekend I started another donation bag.  In it is the 5 LB bag of unused flour from Christmas baking, a lamp which was replaced by a nicer one at Christmas, and a pair of slippers I will never wear, also given to me for Christmas.  I need to tell my family in the future I am all set when it comes to slippers, bottles of lotion, and lip balm.  :P

I also deep cleaned behind the stove, and tackled the entire upstairs dusting, vacuuming and two bathrooms.  From the kitchen, I tossed about 20 alcohol wipes (dried out most likely) from various restaurants, two opened and expired Torani syrups, and a 2.5 gallon water jug I used to use for watering plants.  Next up:  I'm going to thin out old, but clean, towels to take to the animal shelter.  This will make room in the kitchen drawer to move a table cloth and place mats into it, and clean out the overflowing drawer those are in.  It is in the single digits outside-perfect weather to focus inside.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: moneywookiee on January 11, 2016, 05:06:23 PM
We recently moved from a 3bedroom home to a small 2 bedroom apartment in order for me to be closer to work.  We've used this change as an opportunity to declutter and have been on a craigslist and ebay listing binge.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on January 12, 2016, 06:38:14 AM
After getting rid of almost everything we owned in July and hitting the road, my husband and I have landed in a place that we love and that we can afford, and we want to stay a while.

So we are re-crapulating, I guess. We've been sitting on the floor for the last 2 weeks and have an IKEA order arriving tomorrow with a bed, dining table, small sofa bed, etc.

It's a weird place to be in, after just having gotten rid of so much! But we're trying to be thoughtful about it, and only buy stuff that we really need for the running of the household. I have found after staying in many Airbnbs that I tend to like a place more, the less crap there is in it. Trying to remember this and be thoughtful about what we purchase now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 12, 2016, 08:09:53 AM
The silver lining is that you can be selective about what you add to your lives, instead of looking at a pile of stuff and wondering what to get rid of. 

After getting rid of almost everything we owned in July and hitting the road, my husband and I have landed in a place that we love and that we can afford, and we want to stay a while.

So we are re-crapulating, I guess. We've been sitting on the floor for the last 2 weeks and have an IKEA order arriving tomorrow with a bed, dining table, small sofa bed, etc.

It's a weird place to be in, after just having gotten rid of so much! But we're trying to be thoughtful about it, and only buy stuff that we really need for the running of the household. I have found after staying in many Airbnbs that I tend to like a place more, the less crap there is in it. Trying to remember this and be thoughtful about what we purchase now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 12, 2016, 11:01:26 PM
Went through grandma's books again today. She's got a lot of books. Last time she donated 4 bags (including some doubles). This time a dozen, ehh its progress.. and she had more doubles! And we finally donated the remaining cookbooks (she's 94 & does NOT cook anymore) . :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 13, 2016, 04:18:06 AM
The silver lining is that you can be selective about what you add to your lives, instead of looking at a pile of stuff and wondering what to get rid of. 

After getting rid of almost everything we owned in July and hitting the road, my husband and I have landed in a place that we love and that we can afford, and we want to stay a while.

So we are re-crapulating, I guess. We've been sitting on the floor for the last 2 weeks and have an IKEA order arriving tomorrow with a bed, dining table, small sofa bed, etc.

It's a weird place to be in, after just having gotten rid of so much! But we're trying to be thoughtful about it, and only buy stuff that we really need for the running of the household. I have found after staying in many Airbnbs that I tend to like a place more, the less crap there is in it. Trying to remember this and be thoughtful about what we purchase now.

I agree, I think this is a great place to be in a sense. You can add back in what you really want and need as opposed to being saddled with the decisions of what to get rid of.  Seems like a fresh start.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tofuchampion on January 15, 2016, 08:10:54 PM
I finally made some progress! I took TON of stuff to goodwill yesterday - a comforter, body pillow + 2 covers, big box of books, baby clothes, my clothes, some miscellaneous crap.

Husband, unfortunately, took a few things out of a box. I had a couple of Dave Ramsey books in there, as well as the Financial Peace DVD's. We both read the book ages ago (like, early 2012), and started watching the DVD's but didn't finish them. Now he wants to re-read the book (unlikely), and watch the DVD's (even more unlikely, since we didn't get through them the first time). These things have literally been sitting untouched for nearly 4 years. And the library has the book if he REALLY wanted it. I pointed this out but he doesn't listen to me. He also is insisting on keeping 2 huge computer towers that have been sitting in a closet for as long as the Dave Ramsey stuff has. He says he's going to build a computer one of these days. He also denies telling me that I could go ahead and toss them. They're ancient; even if he did build something (again, very unlikely), he'd probably end up wanting to upgrade. I told him fine, keep them for now, but I'm not moving them again. We've moved them twice now and they haven't been used. We are probably buying a house next year, and none of that crap is coming with us unless it's actually being used. He agreed. We'll see.

Lesson learned: don't let husband see what you've packed for goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JAYSLOL on January 15, 2016, 09:32:17 PM
Confession time!  I've been slowly cleaning out the storage room downstairs and correcting some un-mustachian accumulation of crap. 

Fishing rods:  I knew I had a way too many fishing rods, Wife and I got a couple of small collapsible rods for lake fishing, I got a couple cheap ones thrown in when I bought a used aluminum boat a few years ago.  I've also bought a few at garage sales when I saw a deal, had a couple damaged rods laying around and just got 2 brand new ones as a gift for Christmas.  So I thought I might have 7 or 8, which is obviously already 5 or 6 too many.  Turns out I had 17 total!  What the actual F@&k!  How did this happen?  Anyway, I will be selling or throwing out all but the new ones and maybe keep one good used backup rod.  Also selling the boat in spring.

Swiss Army Knives:  Kind of the same story, just found a 7th one downstairs.  I bought one years ago, got one as a gift, and most of the rest I bought at garage sales or got for free.  How do you not buy a genuine Victorinox knife when you see it for a $1?  Anyway got to start selling the extra ones and make a profit instead of just throwing them in a drawer.

Tools:  Same goes here, for some reason I've got 2 stud finders, more than 6 hammers, countless redundant screwdrivers, wrenches etc.  I've only got 2 hands and I'm not a contractor, so what the hell, time to thin out the tools too

Face punches welcome and deserved
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 15, 2016, 10:30:37 PM
Face punches welcome and deserved

No face punches from me, but I will confess to giggling a bit at your shock of finding 17 fishing rods. Well done for ditching (or planning to) the excess.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on January 15, 2016, 10:48:24 PM
Husband, unfortunately, took a few things out of a box. I had a couple of Dave Ramsey books in there, as well as the Financial Peace DVD's. We both read the book ages ago (like, early 2012), and started watching the DVD's but didn't finish them. Now he wants to re-read the book (unlikely), and watch the DVD's (even more unlikely, since we didn't get through them the first time). These things have literally been sitting untouched for nearly 4 years. And the library has the book if he REALLY wanted it. I pointed this out but he doesn't listen to me. He also is insisting on keeping 2 huge computer towers that have been sitting in a closet for as long as the Dave Ramsey stuff has. He says he's going to build a computer one of these days. He also denies telling me that I could go ahead and toss them. They're ancient; even if he did build something (again, very unlikely), he'd probably end up wanting to upgrade. I told him fine, keep them for now, but I'm not moving them again. We've moved them twice now and they haven't been used. We are probably buying a house next year, and none of that crap is coming with us unless it's actually being used. He agreed. We'll see.

Lesson learned: don't let husband see what you've packed for goodwill.

heh. tofuchampion, I feel your pain.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 16, 2016, 12:21:26 AM
Confession time!  I've been slowly cleaning out the storage room downstairs and correcting some un-mustachian accumulation of crap. 

Fishing rods:  I knew I had a way too many fishing rods, Wife and I got a couple of small collapsible rods for lake fishing, I got a couple cheap ones thrown in when I bought a used aluminum boat a few years ago.  I've also bought a few at garage sales when I saw a deal, had a couple damaged rods laying around and just got 2 brand new ones as a gift for Christmas.  So I thought I might have 7 or 8, which is obviously already 5 or 6 too many.  Turns out I had 17 total!  What the actual F@&k!  How did this happen?  Anyway, I will be selling or throwing out all but the new ones and maybe keep one good used backup rod.  Also selling the boat in spring.

Swiss Army Knives:  Kind of the same story, just found a 7th one downstairs.  I bought one years ago, got one as a gift, and most of the rest I bought at garage sales or got for free.  How do you not buy a genuine Victorinox knife when you see it for a $1?  Anyway got to start selling the extra ones and make a profit instead of just throwing them in a drawer.

Tools:  Same goes here, for some reason I've got 2 stud finders, more than 6 hammers, countless redundant screwdrivers, wrenches etc.  I've only got 2 hands and I'm not a contractor, so what the hell, time to thin out the tools too

Face punches welcome and deserved

Well done, massive progress.
And sry, but I had to laugh about the fishing poles:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 16, 2016, 02:29:57 AM
I put three cardigans in the bag by the front door to go to the charity shop. I think it is a good idea to leave it by the door as it makes it more definite that it will be leaving the house for good.:)

Husband, unfortunately, took a few things out of a box. I had a couple of Dave Ramsey books in there, as well as the Financial Peace DVD's. We both read the book ages ago (like, early 2012), and started watching the DVD's but didn't finish them. Now he wants to re-read the book (unlikely), and watch the DVD's (even more unlikely, since we didn't get through them the first time). These things have literally been sitting untouched for nearly 4 years. And the library has the book if he REALLY wanted it. I pointed this out but he doesn't listen to me. He also is insisting on keeping 2 huge computer towers that have been sitting in a closet for as long as the Dave Ramsey stuff has. He says he's going to build a computer one of these days. He also denies telling me that I could go ahead and toss them. They're ancient; even if he did build something (again, very unlikely), he'd probably end up wanting to upgrade. I told him fine, keep them for now, but I'm not moving them again. We've moved them twice now and they haven't been used. We are probably buying a house next year, and none of that crap is coming with us unless it's actually being used. He agreed. We'll see.

Lesson learned: don't let husband see what you've packed for goodwill.

That sounds like my husband!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on January 16, 2016, 06:04:34 AM
Now that I am working part time, I want to go back to making and selling fine art. We had moved most of my art supplies to our cabin in the back yard, but DH ran over the pipe with the key with his lawnmower and broke it, so the water doesn't work, and we don't want to pay to heat the cabin all winter. We moved most of my stuff back to the house. We put my drafting table in a corner of a small room upstairs and I cleared some shelf space for my pastels and a few other supplies. I set up my mat cutter with table and art scanner with its computer and table in the basement. The flat file is in the basement. My main work will be oil painting, and the easel will have to go in the living room. We've cleared out a ton of crap to be able to set these things up so far, but now comes the hardest part: where to store the artwork. I need to make or buy a rack for paintings, etc., and it will have to go in the basement where there is currently a huge pile of old paint cans and supplies, ancient camping gear, tools and other assorted stuff and junk. DH says he's too busy with taxes to help with the sorting and cleanout, although I know he will be supportive about taking stuff to the dump.

Just writing it down now, the whole plan sounds crazy anyway. Is the gallery owner really going to visit my yucky rough basement to view my work? Sometimes we get water in the basement, too. I must be out of my mind! But, I don't see any other options, so, wish me luck. The big cleanout starts today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 16, 2016, 09:01:16 AM
More stuff... I threw away a plastic bowl we keep for garden stuff as I noticed it had a huge crack down the side.

A reusable cloth bag that I received for free into charity shop bag by the front door.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 16, 2016, 12:39:16 PM
Now that I am working part time, I want to go back to making and selling fine art. We had moved most of my art supplies to our cabin in the back yard, but DH ran over the pipe with the key with his lawnmower and broke it, so the water doesn't work, and we don't want to pay to heat the cabin all winter. We moved most of my stuff back to the house. We put my drafting table in a corner of a small room upstairs and I cleared some shelf space for my pastels and a few other supplies. I set up my mat cutter with table and art scanner with its computer and table in the basement. The flat file is in the basement. My main work will be oil painting, and the easel will have to go in the living room. We've cleared out a ton of crap to be able to set these things up so far, but now comes the hardest part: where to store the artwork. I need to make or buy a rack for paintings, etc., and it will have to go in the basement where there is currently a huge pile of old paint cans and supplies, ancient camping gear, tools and other assorted stuff and junk. DH says he's too busy with taxes to help with the sorting and cleanout, although I know he will be supportive about taking stuff to the dump.

Just writing it down now, the whole plan sounds crazy anyway. Is the gallery owner really going to visit my yucky rough basement to view my work? Sometimes we get water in the basement, too. I must be out of my mind! But, I don't see any other options, so, wish me luck. The big cleanout starts today.

I've tended to photograph my work (and include all pertinent information, such as dimensions etc) and brought this in to a gallery or wherever we are meeting. But must be its different depending on where u live or the galleries themselves?
Either way, its wonderful you've decided to get to more into your art & showing . it seems you are really getting creative (ha) with placement! Excellent use of space.
Cheers
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on January 16, 2016, 01:11:25 PM
Sold my son's old twin bed *finally* on Craigslist. I have an identical bed that is in the attic and is coming down to be listed next weekend.

Listed a bunch of cluttery bulky stuff for free on my neighborhood listserve. Hopefully will get takers quickly.

I plan to pick-up some boxes tomorrow and do some more book decluttering. I also went through some papers on my basement desk and got them sorted out (not a ton of papers, just needed to be sorted and put in their proper place).

Cleaned out all extra stuff in the guestroom. It is now ready to be rented out or used for a live-in childcare person. The room looks so nice and bright and fresh.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on January 16, 2016, 06:02:26 PM

I've tended to photograph my work (and include all pertinent information, such as dimensions etc) and brought this in to a gallery or wherever we are meeting. But must be its different depending on where u live or the galleries themselves?
Either way, its wonderful you've decided to get to more into your art & showing . it seems you are really getting creative (ha) with placement! Excellent use of space.
Cheers

Taking photographs is a wonderful idea! Thank you, riverffashion. I am lucky you were reading this thread. I could bring a few canvases in a series to a meeting with the gallery rep and have photos of the rest of the series handy, in case he likes them.

I cleaned out enough junk today to fill up the back of our pickup truck. We also remembered another shelving unit we can move to the basement, so I don't think we will need to purchase another storage unit after all. What a relief that is... it is so much work getting rid of things, as others have mentioned, it makes us less eager to bring more stuff onto the property.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 17, 2016, 03:04:59 AM
I'm on a roll. I shredded some more old paperwork, put a jacket in the charity shop bag and thrown away a broken dog toy this morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 17, 2016, 04:48:55 AM

I just took a box to a family member that will be having a yard sale in the spring. I was going to donate it but he can have it and hopefully make a few bucks from it.

I am sorting through my DVDs to give to him too. Why is it tough to part with these things.  I keep thinking I am going to watch these or will watch and never do. Some of them still have the plastic on them. Sigh   I have given away a lot over the years to the library so only my favorites remain so maybe that is why I can't pull the bandaid but I must, I never watch them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nnls on January 17, 2016, 05:04:33 AM
I dropped three boxes of stuff off to the salvos over the weekend. Was mainly clothing, and a few items from my kitchen.

I am hoping to tackle the rest of the house over the coming weeks
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on January 17, 2016, 08:06:09 AM
I'm on a roll. I shredded some more old paperwork, put a jacket in the charity shop bag and thrown away a broken dog toy this morning.
(http://blog.megankeane.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/onaroll.jpeg) (http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/off-topic/grammar-nazi/)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 17, 2016, 08:27:09 AM

I've tended to photograph my work (and include all pertinent information, such as dimensions etc) and brought this in to a gallery or wherever we are meeting. But must be its different depending on where u live or the galleries themselves?
Either way, its wonderful you've decided to get to more into your art & showing . it seems you are really getting creative (ha) with placement! Excellent use of space.
Cheers

Taking photographs is a wonderful idea! Thank you, riverffashion. I am lucky you were reading this thread. I could bring a few canvases in a series to a meeting with the gallery rep and have photos of the rest of the series handy, in case he likes them.

I cleaned out enough junk today to fill up the back of our pickup truck. We also remembered another shelving unit we can move to the basement, so I don't think we will need to purchase another storage unit after all. What a relief that is... it is so much work getting rid of things, as others have mentioned, it makes us less eager to bring more stuff onto the property.

Great, glad to hear this might work for you.
Also nice work with the shelving unit! Money & space saved!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Maya on January 17, 2016, 12:46:10 PM
a big box of things gone today. lots of baby clothes! somewhat a bit bittersweet as I'd like to have another baby, but at the same time I can re-rent them from craig's list when (hopefully) the time comes! I have cute pics of the kids in the clothes and have kept a few favourite things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 17, 2016, 05:41:08 PM
DH went through a bunch of his clothes and pulled out a bunch.  My brother will be over tomorrow and will probably take most of them.  He's really hard on clothes, so I know he always needs new ones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 17, 2016, 09:21:04 PM
Every time I think we're done decluttering, I find there's another layer to peel back.


I so feel your pain.

I keep thinking I'm almost done, then discover a whole 'nother sector of crap.  Today I ventured into the crawl space (it's an area under one part of our weird split level that actually has almost standing room) and discovered a fool tub of bottles I'd been saving for homebrewing, so that's another trip to the glass recycling place.  There's also a tub full of electronic odds and ends that are all outdated/useless, and at least two tubs of Christmas decorations that I actually thought I'd gotten rid of. 

Today I worked on the basement and have 4 sets of sheets, a blanket, three pillows/shams and a matching comforter to donate.  Also had two down comforters we never use, so they were repurposed to fluff up the dog beds that were getting kind of flat. 

The electronic crap is causing me the biggest issues.  I'll take out the non-data containing stuff and bring it to hazardous waste dropoff day, but the old computers and things... I know I should smash the motherboards and get rid of them, but it's one bit of procrastination I can't seem to get over.  And we have crawl space and attic space that can house a hell of a lot of defunct computers. 

The house is looking pretty damn' good though, and I've greatly reduced laundry and have been keeping my room so much tidier since going all Kondo on it.  I tend to wear clothing items for a short time (gym, running, horseback riding, office, lounging/dog hair accumulation all require different clothes) and having things in better order means I've been better at hanging things up and re-wearing them several times, whereas before they'd end up in a pile on the floor and then need to be washed.  It will be awesome if I can keep it up as things get busier this spring.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 18, 2016, 03:02:44 AM
This morning my husband took the bag of stuff to donate to the charity shop near his work. Yay.


(http://blog.megankeane.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/onaroll.jpeg) (http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/off-topic/grammar-nazi/)

Lol, after I posted I actually thought what on earth does that expression mean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 18, 2016, 04:31:52 AM
Sold another item on Craigslist for $15, only to receive a call from the buyer complaining that it broke after he used it.  Well, it worked fine when I used it.  Who knows what he did with it....  I think I am done dealing with the all the crazies on Craigslist.  And I deleted my Facebook account so no more sales through the local FB tag sale group.  At this point, the only thing I have to sell is an armchair, and I think I will donate it instead, because I really don't want any strangers coming to the house to pick it up anyway.

Prepped another batch of items for consignment.  I still have way too many clothes.  I'm holding on to some in the hopes of losing a few pounds.  If I don't by the summer, they will go. 

Having a large walk in closet really skews my perspective on what is an acceptable (necessary?) amount of clothes.  I have a tendency to try and fill the void.  I also hold on to things even if I don't wear them, just because I have the room for them.  Any suggestions on how to deal with it and how to change my attitude?  I did sign up for the 2016 "no clothes shopping" challenge.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: cjottawa on January 18, 2016, 07:05:22 AM
...Having a large walk in closet really skews my perspective on what is an acceptable (necessary?) amount of clothes.  I have a tendency to try and fill the void.  I also hold on to things even if I don't wear them, just because I have the room for them.  Any suggestions on how to deal with it and how to change my attitude?  I did sign up for the 2016 "no clothes shopping" challenge.

My antidote is Sterilite containers, and using (part of) my closet as storage (http://i.imgur.com/mmRFBsG.jpg) for things like car detailing supplies, steam cleaner etc.

My basement storage is almost empty now except for winter tires.

You may find you don't need as big a space if you start pulling stuff in like that.

How about a storage bench in the closet that doubles as a place to sit to put clothes on? Maybe store sporting equipment in it. Then it's not just "a big empty closet;" you can have open areas that serve a purpose.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 18, 2016, 07:35:46 AM
...Having a large walk in closet really skews my perspective on what is an acceptable (necessary?) amount of clothes.  I have a tendency to try and fill the void.  I also hold on to things even if I don't wear them, just because I have the room for them.  Any suggestions on how to deal with it and how to change my attitude?  I did sign up for the 2016 "no clothes shopping" challenge.

My antidote is Sterilite containers, and using (part of) my closet as storage (http://i.imgur.com/mmRFBsG.jpg) for things like car detailing supplies, steam cleaner etc.

My basement storage is almost empty now except for winter tires.

You may find you don't need as big a space if you start pulling stuff in like that.

How about a storage bench in the closet that doubles as a place to sit to put clothes on? Maybe store sporting equipment in it. Then it's not just "a big empty closet;" you can have open areas that serve a purpose.

Good ideas!  I have two containers of yarn and a container with ski stuff in the basement so I can definitely bring them up. Also my suitcases and the backpack and other stuff that I'm storing in the basement.

The only thing I'm concerned about is creating a lot of visual clutter (which stresses me out) - but I guess it's a good opportunity to look at things and decide whether I really need them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 18, 2016, 07:50:57 AM
Wife and I emptied out the cup/mug/glasses storage cabinet which had overflowed. Packed at least half of it away, and dutifully put it in the van to go to Goodwill.

A month later, she says "I'm just gonna throw them away, tired of them being in the back of the van."

We still have broken TV's and waffle irons that need to be disposed of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 18, 2016, 08:13:17 AM
Having a large walk in closet really skews my perspective on what is an acceptable (necessary?) amount of clothes.  I have a tendency to try and fill the void.  I also hold on to things even if I don't wear them, just because I have the room for them.  Any suggestions on how to deal with it and how to change my attitude?  I did sign up for the 2016 "no clothes shopping" challenge.

I actually turned a small closet  into a reading nook.  I still have my shoes stored in there, and a purse holding extra wallets hung as decoration on the wall.  It's really cozy and cute.  IDK if your walk-in might be useful for something similar, but it's a thought.  Or you might be able to bring in a dresser or other piece of furniture and a mirror and make it into a nice dressing space?  Anything to make it seem less like a hole that ought to be stuffed to the brim with clothing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on January 18, 2016, 08:15:01 AM
Another small computer table, shoes, DVDs and a bag full of randomness will be going out today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 18, 2016, 10:11:14 AM
This morning my husband took the bag of stuff to donate to the charity shop near his work. Yay.


(http://blog.megankeane.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/onaroll.jpeg) (http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/off-topic/grammar-nazi/)

Lol, after I posted I actually thought what on earth does that expression mean.

I'm thinking, on a roll like when a snowball or something travels down a hill and momentum bulilds up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 18, 2016, 02:15:01 PM
Having a large walk in closet really skews my perspective on what is an acceptable (necessary?) amount of clothes.  I have a tendency to try and fill the void.  I also hold on to things even if I don't wear them, just because I have the room for them.  Any suggestions on how to deal with it and how to change my attitude?  I did sign up for the 2016 "no clothes shopping" challenge.

I actually turned a small closet  into a reading nook.  I still have my shoes stored in there, and a purse holding extra wallets hung as decoration on the wall.  It's really cozy and cute.  IDK if your walk-in might be useful for something similar, but it's a thought.  Or you might be able to bring in a dresser or other piece of furniture and a mirror and make it into a nice dressing space?  Anything to make it seem less like a hole that ought to be stuffed to the brim with clothing.

Thanks, I like the idea of a dressing room! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on January 18, 2016, 03:33:02 PM
Wife and I emptied out the cup/mug/glasses storage cabinet which had overflowed. Packed at least half of it away, and dutifully put it in the van to go to Goodwill.

A month later, she says "I'm just gonna throw them away, tired of them being in the back of the van."
That right there is the story of my life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 18, 2016, 04:38:59 PM
Got through the Christmas decorations today and consolidated down from 3 tubs to 1, which is a win.

Went through the random electronic stuff and over half of it was literally garbage, like a box and spare parts from the kit I received back when I had DSL like a decade ago.  A box and paperwork for a camera I lost 8 years ago, tons of CD jewel cases and liner notes I haven't looked at in ages, etc.  That's all been binned.

This afternoon I started in on the greenhouse and pitched all of the little nursery pots that were odd sizes or otherwise unfit to reuse for seed starting.  Also took all of my smaller planters out of there and will get them cleaned out and donated to ReStore.

Found my mom's old 35 mm SLR and am trying to figure out what to do with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 19, 2016, 03:33:46 AM
I cleared out the cupboard under the kitchen sink and cleaned the surfaces down and put everything back neatly. I did use up the last of a kitchen cleaner that was lurking at the back and I threw away some glue that had gone hard. No idea why that was even in there.

I'm thinking, on a roll like when a snowball or something travels down a hill and momentum bulilds up.

Ah yes, maybe.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on January 22, 2016, 02:22:37 PM
Donated two years-old pairs of glasses today!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 22, 2016, 03:29:02 PM
Future Hub is finally willing to give up his giant ancient and yellowed comforter. He almost renigged saying he might need it that night - but I assured him we have two others, plus another two packed away. It's in my car where he can't get at it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on January 22, 2016, 04:50:01 PM
Future Hub is finally willing to give up his giant ancient and yellowed comforter. He almost reneged renigged saying he might need it that night - but I assured him we have two others, plus another two packed away. It's in my car where he can't get at it.
ftfy
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YoungRetire on January 23, 2016, 12:21:13 AM
So I think this would be a good thread for me. I don't actually have that much stuff as I live in a small apartment, but I still have more than I need. I am also a bit of a hoarder. I have clothes that are getting seriously worn out which I still wear and can't bring myself to throw away. I also always seem to have snail mail that seems vaguely important so I don't throw it away and eventually it builds up. And forgotten pantry items that I should use up. And a bunch of other things.

If you're anything like me please join me in getting rid of your stuff. Whether this means throwing them out, donating them, giving them to friends/family, eating them, or selling them.

If you have any tips on how to deal with the my-clothes-have-holes-but-are-so-comfy or I-may-need-this-someday syndrome, please share. And also let me know when there are cases where I-may-need-this syndrome actually makes sense, so I can identify what things I should actually keep and what I should throw.

My progress so far:

I recently managed to find some clothes that I donated to a charity bin.

And today I put up an ad on an online board to sell off a kitchen appliance that I don't use. Hopefully I'll get a buyer.

I'm going to try to find more things I can get rid of. I may actually be moving out of my place within a year or so, which provides extra incentive.

Feel free to join me!

I am constantly selling old junk laying around on offerup.com and i throw 100% of it on my 3 year mortgage !
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on January 23, 2016, 02:10:18 AM
I seem to always keep a bag in the entry way to fill with random bits to donate. I'm looking forward to the day when I don't have this.

Or does that day never come?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 23, 2016, 07:10:12 AM
I seem to always keep a bag in the entry way to fill with random bits to donate. I'm looking forward to the day when I don't have this.

Or does that day never come?

I would like to know that.

I figure this current house decrapification effort will be labeled a success if I don't have more than a box or two to donate at the end of the calendar year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 23, 2016, 09:46:56 AM
Two more things out today (by accident) my hub's computer monitor broke and so did one of my costume necklaces!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 23, 2016, 06:08:02 PM

I am constantly selling old junk laying around on offerup.com and i throw 100% of it on my 3 year mortgage !


I looked up www.offerupnow.com and wasn't able to find fee info. Do you know how much seller fees are...are they comparable to eBay seller fees? And how do you receive payments for items?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 23, 2016, 09:06:08 PM
Future Hub is finally willing to give up his giant ancient and yellowed comforter. He almost reneged renigged saying he might need it that night - but I assured him we have two others, plus another two packed away. It's in my car where he can't get at it.
ftfy

Ftfy?
Thanks grammar police. What can I say? Autocorrect did me wrong I guess :'(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: grantmeaname on January 24, 2016, 02:22:39 AM
fixed that for you
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 25, 2016, 04:11:04 AM
DD is now gone back to the uni so I have no excuse for not continuing with my effort to get rid of stuff.  I think by now I have gotten rid of most actual clutter in the house, so next stage for me is to move towards minimal :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on January 25, 2016, 12:10:26 PM
I am checking back in after a hiatus. I am finding the changes already made to be soothing and look forward to more of that feeling. Marie Kondo's method really helped me. Yes I am STILL folding our clothes in her recommended way and loving it (really weird that I am so into it).

Most things I uncluttered stayed clear but not all. The garage got full again with projects. Emptying that requires repairing things.  Two closets got a bit messy but were returned to tidiness in a short period of time last week. It is easy to tidy most areas now since I have gotten rid of so much and know where things are. I wanted to hang a pair of curtains last week and actually found the hooks immediately. This is where the thinning out really pays off for me: when I am not wasting time and money buying new things because I cannot find the ones I already own.

Final Frontiers:
That one last cupboard with things that have family sentimentality to my in-laws but no one actually wants. 

The repair and painting of various things which are cluttering the garage.

The darning of several pieces of clothing.

Setting up storage in my craft area so I can do my hobbies.

The sewing of various projects.

Scanning photos and papers (my personal bugbear)

Reassess my computer for excess and organize again. 

First Set of Goals and Deadlines:
Set up craft supplies storage by finding an appropriate piece of furniture-February 29th
Paint and repair and empty the garage first. Goal date with help from others- March 15th
Cupboard emptied- May 1st
All darning - February 6th.

I will let you know how it goes. Somehow these final frontiers seem easier to tackle now. 


 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 25, 2016, 01:44:45 PM
fixed that for you

Got it. Thx
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on January 25, 2016, 05:09:22 PM
Good to see you, wintersun. I also find the results soothing and calming, even if I've decluttered just a little bit. I am so pleased every time I open my sock drawer.

DH is not into the Kondo thing, but I think he's been inspired to at least do some organizing of our overflowing drawers. Coincidentally, he just had three episodes of "I dropped X on the garage floor and now I can't find it!", so I think he might be more open to the idea that if things have a home, they will be easier to find. (And that cleaning up the ankle-deep trash makes life easier, too.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 26, 2016, 03:21:48 AM
I seem to always keep a bag in the entry way to fill with random bits to donate. I'm looking forward to the day when I don't have this.

Or does that day never come?
For me it hasn't arrived yet, just because I'm now SO picky about what I let into the house. So though I don't buy things, and I try not to accept freebies wherever possible, gifts are my personal bugbear.

We enjoy entertaining, and unless it's wine, sorry, I'm going to donate it. Christmas, birthdays, people just visiting for drinks and bringing a pot holder, a cute coffee mug etc. Sorry, none of it is coming in.

So unless I start refusing well-intentioned gifts (can't see that happening) I think I'll always have the 'donate' box ready and waiting. The difference is that I'm not 'finding' things to go in it from around the house, they are being given to me, and I won't let them 'into the house' in the first place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on January 26, 2016, 03:39:01 AM
I seem to always keep a bag in the entry way to fill with random bits to donate. I'm looking forward to the day when I don't have this.

Or does that day never come?
For me it hasn't arrived yet, just because I'm now SO picky about what I let into the house. So though I don't buy things, and I try not to accept freebies wherever possible, gifts are my personal bugbear.

We enjoy entertaining, and unless it's wine, sorry, I'm going to donate it. Christmas, birthdays, people just visiting for drinks and bringing a pot holder, a cute coffee mug etc. Sorry, none of it is coming in.

So unless I start refusing well-intentioned gifts (can't see that happening) I think I'll always have the 'donate' box ready and waiting. The difference is that I'm not 'finding' things to go in it from around the house, they are being given to me, and I won't let them 'into the house' in the first place.

Thanks for the insight! I haven't thought about the random things people give you.

I also tried having the "no gifts" conversation with my mom and I kinda rambled a lot. Who knows how well that went. Maybe I should try sticking to having very specific gift requests instead of absolutely nothing? Thoughts?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 26, 2016, 06:35:50 AM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 26, 2016, 07:08:59 AM
I am going to drop off another small batch of stuff at the consignment store at lunchtime today.  Hopefully, I have some money in the account so that I can pick up a check from them :-)

Tossed some random old unused greeting cards into recycling this morning. 

Plan of attack for this week:
- go through hats and scarves - I have way too many...
- do another sweep through the kitchen cupboards
- go through my knitting supplies, books and yarns and consolidate into two plastic bins
- find room for said bins in the walk in closet
- sort through skiing clothing (there are things there that I'm sure don't fit me any more... and it is another bin that needs to go upstairs)
- organize condo documents - toss anything not needed
- sort through CDs (a good number of them need to go back to my ex) - I'm hoping to reduce the number of CDs I have by half

That should keep me busy enough through the weekend :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 26, 2016, 08:18:00 AM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

Are their organizations locally who hold benefit auctions.  Here there's an advocacy group and an adult day care center who hold annual festivals with fundraiser auctions.  Donate with a tax write off?

Might also find someone to do the selling for you? 

That sounds like a really intense closet. Keep going and moving ahead!  For me, I would have to break the sentimental stuff into categories and handle something a little less emotional in between!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 26, 2016, 08:20:14 AM

Thanks for the insight! I haven't thought about the random things people give you.

I also tried having the "no gifts" conversation with my mom and I kinda rambled a lot. Who knows how well that went. Maybe I should try sticking to having very specific gift requests instead of absolutely nothing? Thoughts?

General consensus on here seems to be that people who like giving gifts like giving gifts, and will continue to do so, whatever the recipient says. (I find it ironic. I mean, the idea of a gift is to give something nice to the other person. If they have specifically said they don't want gifts, aren't you doing JUST the opposite by giving them something? Just making yourself feel better, not them? I digress).

I know many people have luck asking for 'experiences' eg tickets to events, days out, massage vouchers etc. My mum is a 'things' person and enjoys wrapping things up and watching us open them, so I asked for consumable things on account of our house being small. Mostly, she obliges, and actually, I love getting fancy cookies I wouldn't otherwise buy. Toiletries I usually donate brand new. If she comes just for a visit I always get a deluge of 'hostess gifts', though olive oil etc is becoming more common, and I definitely gush about consumables such as that, to try to encourage her.

Since getting really strict on what I 'let in' though I have noted that neither she, nor anyone else, has ever noticed that the things they give me aren't in the house. I'm guessing they just want to check the box of, "Gave hostess something" and don't recall from visit to visit what it was, or expect to see it.

I was worried about her noticing I just gave it all away, but nope, been doing it a few years and she hasn't caught on at all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 26, 2016, 11:08:31 AM
I am going to drop off another small batch of stuff at the consignment store at lunchtime today.  Hopefully, I have some money in the account so that I can pick up a check from them :-) Done - got a check for $80

Tossed some random old unused greeting cards into recycling this morning. 

Plan of attack for this week:
- go through hats and scarves - I have way too many...
- do another sweep through the kitchen cupboards
- go through my knitting supplies, books and yarns and consolidate into two plastic bins
- find room for said bins in the walk in closet
- sort through skiing clothing (there are things there that I'm sure don't fit me any more... and it is another bin that needs to go upstairs)
- organize condo documents - toss anything not needed
- sort through CDs (a good number of them need to go back to my ex) - I'm hoping to reduce the number of CDs I have by half

That should keep me busy enough through the weekend :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 26, 2016, 11:10:56 AM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

Is there a consignment store that will take them?  There was a local one near me that would sell toys. I barely got anything, but I also didn't have to do anything but drop them off.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on January 26, 2016, 12:49:43 PM
this weekend we're getting rid of the bookshelves (putting them in the storage unit to be precise).

Getting rid of furniture feels good! It only cost $10 on CL in the first place and has served us well.

It would be more in the spirit of this thread to put the bookshelves on CL this weekend rather than in storage.  You can always buy off CL again if you ever need more bookshelves again - in the meantime, let CL be your storage unit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 27, 2016, 03:00:24 AM
I threw away an old mascara today. There was some left but it made my eyelashes stick together!

I am considering going upstairs to reorganise my husband's stuff as I realised that I could rearrange some things and get rid of an old storage box. It has been scratched by the cats and would not be able to be donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 27, 2016, 03:23:37 AM
I'm going to a clothes swap in the near future. I think I'll take along a skirt (I like it but rarely wear because usually it's too small), a dressing gown (wasn't thinking clearly when I bought it, wore it precisely once) and some scarves. I will only bring something home if I love it and can't wait to wear it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 27, 2016, 07:04:33 AM
I am going to drop off another small batch of stuff at the consignment store at lunchtime today.  Hopefully, I have some money in the account so that I can pick up a check from them :-) Done - got a check for $80

Tossed some random old unused greeting cards into recycling this morning. 

Plan of attack for this week:
- go through hats and scarves - I have way too many...
- do another sweep through the kitchen cupboards Made a half-hearted attempt at this - tossed one plastic container into recycling...  Need to do more.
- go through my knitting supplies, books and yarns and consolidate into two plastic bins
- find room for said bins in the walk in closet
- sort through skiing clothing (there are things there that I'm sure don't fit me any more... and it is another bin that needs to go upstairs)
- organize condo documents - toss anything not needed Done.  Also went through two drawers that hold office things, stationery, etc. and tossed a bunch of stuff.  Made room for the [now organized] condo documents.
- sort through CDs (a good number of them need to go back to my ex) - I'm hoping to reduce the number of CDs I have by half

That should keep me busy enough through the weekend :-)

What do I do with the following??
- photo printing paper
- old but still working iPod player/speakers (does not support an iPhone)
- old but still working small humidifier (needs a new wick - not even sure if they are still made)

Also, can old batteries be tossed into regular garbage or are they considered hazardous waste?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on January 27, 2016, 09:55:51 AM
What do I do with the following??
- photo printing paper
- old but still working iPod player/speakers (does not support an iPhone)
- old but still working small humidifier (needs a new wick - not even sure if they are still made)

Also, can old batteries be tossed into regular garbage or are they considered hazardous waste?

Not sure about printing paper.  Probably depends on the kind.  If there was enough, I'd ask my local library.

ipod player/speakers - I'd freecycle or Craig's list or Goodwill (well not Goodwill, but equivalent)
Ditto humidifier

Old batteries are hazardous waste.  Your local electronics store might have a program.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on January 27, 2016, 12:54:41 PM
Also, can old batteries be tossed into regular garbage or are they considered hazardous waste?

Batteries can be recycled. I think Home Depot and Best Buy have battery recycling boxes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on January 27, 2016, 01:07:17 PM
I was just looking up battery disposal! Actually, normal lithium batteries are standard household trash and do not get recycled; they no longer contain mercury. Rechargeable batteries must be dropped of at special sites.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 27, 2016, 01:17:55 PM

Old batteries are hazardous waste.  Your local electronics store might have a program.

Depends on the type. Our city regularly runs commercials that say that standard batteries go in the trash, but specialized batteries must be taken to hazardous waste.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 27, 2016, 01:53:42 PM
I have regular alkaline batteries - sounds like these can go into garbage. 

And I have an old rechargeable toothbrush with (I assume) a lithium battery that should be disposed off as hazardous waste?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 27, 2016, 02:13:14 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 27, 2016, 03:41:21 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I would suggest martial arts or knife fighting. That way, when she tries to kill you, you can hold your own.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 27, 2016, 04:01:26 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I would suggest martial arts or knife fighting. That way, when she tries to kill you, you can hold your own.

Noted. But she attacks with words. It's a skillful maneuver I can use on others in extreme circumstances but against her, I am no match.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 27, 2016, 04:03:07 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I would suggest martial arts or knife fighting. That way, when she tries to kill you, you can hold your own.

Noted. But she attacks with words. It's a skillful maneuver I can use on others in extreme circumstances but against her, I am no match.

Laxative then. It's hard to talk shit when...oh yeah. And how would she kill you with words?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 27, 2016, 04:41:06 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I would suggest martial arts or knife fighting. That way, when she tries to kill you, you can hold your own.

Noted. But she attacks with words. It's a skillful maneuver I can use on others in extreme circumstances but against her, I am no match.

Laxative then. It's hard to talk shit when...oh yeah. And how would she kill you with words?

Never mind. :) I was just saying, she would't kill me physically, just slay me with words telling me i'm a disappointment and careless if I were to do something like donate all the dolls and then find out the collection was worth well over $1,000 or something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 27, 2016, 06:19:21 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I would suggest martial arts or knife fighting. That way, when she tries to kill you, you can hold your own.

Noted. But she attacks with words. It's a skillful maneuver I can use on others in extreme circumstances but against her, I am no match.

Laxative then. It's hard to talk shit when...oh yeah. And how would she kill you with words?

Never mind. :) I was just saying, she would't kill me physically, just slay me with words telling me i'm a disappointment and careless if I were to do something like donate all the dolls and then find out the collection was worth well over $1,000 or something.
I knew what you meant. I was just feeling snarky. Plus the idea of attacking with laxative made me giggle. I'm done now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 27, 2016, 06:30:29 PM
Going to try tackling my closet this week. It won't be easy, there's stuff in there that's been floating around for decades. Old collector's toys, comic books, game stuff, things like that. Plus it currently houses my (personal) camping gear, all our photo albums, kid's toys, and last but not least, clothes.

I can minimize most if not all of that. The real question is going to be what to do with 30-year-old collector's toys? I'm never going to display them. My son doesn't want them. I guess I could sell them, but that would take work...

If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I would suggest martial arts or knife fighting. That way, when she tries to kill you, you can hold your own.

Noted. But she attacks with words. It's a skillful maneuver I can use on others in extreme circumstances but against her, I am no match.

Laxative then. It's hard to talk shit when...oh yeah. And how would she kill you with words?

Never mind. :) I was just saying, she would't kill me physically, just slay me with words telling me i'm a disappointment and careless if I were to do something like donate all the dolls and then find out the collection was worth well over $1,000 or something.
I knew what you meant. I was just feeling snarky. Plus the idea of attacking with laxative made me giggle. I'm done now.
I appreciate the snark. Now give me some damn ideas on how to unload this stuff! :) But really, I tried eBay a few years ago with some "collector" Holiday Barbies and they went for like 20 to 35 bucks each. Probably about what was paid for them back in the 90s, but then there are eBay fees and PayPal fees and the hassle of shipping. Just doesn't seem worth the effort, but maybe that's why I'm a mustachian in training and not FI yet!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 27, 2016, 06:53:52 PM
The nice trash collectors came around today and took two bins full of the non-burnable wood scraps and other assorted detritus from the shop cleanout.

Shipped off a book that finally sold on Amazon after several months.

Started my horses on a new feed program so I can simply drop the bag of feed and vitamins off out at the barn ever two weeks instead of measuring and dispensing things at home and then bringing them out.  Less waste, one less thing for me to worry about, and no more clutter from the bags and bottles I was measuring the feed rations into.

Got rid of some padded envelopes I was saving to re-use since I am getting low on salable things that would fit in them.

Not getting rid of things, but I figured out a nifty way of hanging my muddy riding boots in the garage so they're off the floor so they can dry out instead of creating mucky garage clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 27, 2016, 09:18:18 PM
Also, can old batteries be tossed into regular garbage or are they considered hazardous waste?

Batteries can be recycled. I think Home Depot and Best Buy have battery recycling boxes.


You can also recycle batteries, light bulbs and plastic bags at Lowe's. There are bins in the Returns area. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Practical Magic on January 27, 2016, 09:31:25 PM

I tried eBay a few years ago with some "collector" Holiday Barbies and they went for like 20 to 35 bucks each. Probably about what was paid for them back in the 90s, but then there are eBay fees and PayPal fees and the hassle of shipping. Just doesn't seem worth the effort, but maybe that's why I'm a mustachian in training and not FI yet!

In the past year I sold many old dolls and toys on eBay, and did well with *some* of the items. The highest price items were 2 old German dolls from the early 1900s, and some 1960s-70s Barbie dolls & clothes. Your instincts are correct about Barbies from the 80s and 90s not selling for much. I ended up donating most of those (except for the very unusual, one of a kind Barbies from that era). We were able to use the tax deduction this year, so it made more sense (and cents) to donate them. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on January 28, 2016, 06:27:17 AM
Mostly christmas gifts went ok this time around. Got a nice, new lightweight mini-backpack, so now I can take that and not my old college-pack on woodland tours. Also got towels and food and even a set of frying pans I really needed.

But I also got a shoe tree-ornament. What? Why does soeone give a shoe-ornament to anyone, especially someone who does not put up a tree for the holidays? And so now I have to get rid of it while not tossing it in the trash. I wanted a bottle of wine. Happily cheap wine: at least I can cook with that and recycle the bottle.

In my out-stack I currently have old medications (need to get them safely disposed of at the farmacy), a few old cookbooks, a binder and a faux leather jacket that I love to look at but hate to wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 28, 2016, 08:18:51 AM

I appreciate the snark. Now give me some damn ideas on how to unload this stuff! :) But really, I tried eBay a few years ago with some "collector" Holiday Barbies and they went for like 20 to 35 bucks each. Probably about what was paid for them back in the 90s, but then there are eBay fees and PayPal fees and the hassle of shipping. Just doesn't seem worth the effort, but maybe that's why I'm a mustachian in training and not FI yet!

Wow, you did well on those. Last I looked they weren't even worth what I paid in the 90s (still had tags on them).  I just gave them to my cousins as Christmas gifts. They love Barbies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 28, 2016, 08:33:46 AM
If you figure out what to do with those toys, let me know. I have a collection of dolls from when I was a kid that more or less my mother and grandmother bought and "collected" for me. They were "good" dolls so I never could play with them and they just sat on display in a case. Some may be worth money, many probably aren't, but I don't know. When I bought a house seven years ago, my mother showed up a with a van load of my stuff and that included these dolls. They sit on shelves in the basement because I don't care about them and can't really be bothered to go through much effort to look into selling them. But she would kill me if I just threw them all in a donation bin because what if one of them was worth something??

I feel your pain. I have roughly $1500 worth of Transformers from the 80's (based on ratings from ToyFare Magazine). All original, with all the pieces and everything. Some of them were mail-order-only and are pretty rare. But holy cow, I don't want to pack up, list, and ship a couple hundred pieces! It would take weeks to get all that photographed, packed, and listed, not to mention selling the stuff and dealing with the hassle of buyers who are picky, etc.

I may find someone who's a collector and unload the whole lot for a decent price, but even that would take some work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 28, 2016, 08:51:55 AM
If you just want to get rid of them, you might be able to sell the lot for $300-500 if it's really worth $1500.
Just quick and gone. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 28, 2016, 10:36:34 AM
If you just want to get rid of them, you might be able to sell the lot for $300-500 if it's really worth $1500.
Just quick and gone.

Hmm, maybe that's the way to go! Good suggestion!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 28, 2016, 12:51:32 PM
I seem to always keep a bag in the entry way to fill with random bits to donate. I'm looking forward to the day when I don't have this.

Or does that day never come?
For me it hasn't arrived yet, just because I'm now SO picky about what I let into the house. So though I don't buy things, and I try not to accept freebies wherever possible, gifts are my personal bugbear.

We enjoy entertaining, and unless it's wine, sorry, I'm going to donate it. Christmas, birthdays, people just visiting for drinks and bringing a pot holder, a cute coffee mug etc. Sorry, none of it is coming in.

So unless I start refusing well-intentioned gifts (can't see that happening) I think I'll always have the 'donate' box ready and waiting. The difference is that I'm not 'finding' things to go in it from around the house, they are being given to me, and I won't let them 'into the house' in the first place.

the last couple of years, family knows what to give me that i will keep and enjoy (i would prefer no gifts but family is not on board- some of us are, but not my parents at all). so i am mostly receiving cash, giftcards, and a couple things i like (by now they know i am very very picky is regards to clothing and jewelry). everything else i tend to regift, mostly to coworkers or i donate. and am happy for my "gift" of tax writeoffs. i would never tell anyone i dont like their gifts, that is hurtful, and i always thank with a smile BEFORE even opening gifts, because they are family and friends and they deserve a loving responce imo.

anyway, at this point i feel good about what i have, and dont bring much new into the house, excepting necessities and the clothing castoffs from my coworkers that i am grateful for (and they fit and are stylish) because i dont have to buy hardly any clothing ever!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 28, 2016, 06:29:52 PM
Got rid of a plastic grocery bag full of underused winter hats and gloves.  Wife is taking them to donation bin at school.   More stuff out of the house and going to someone who can hopefully make use of them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on January 29, 2016, 02:38:48 PM
ZiziPB you are inspiring me. I wish I had the selling DNA but I seem to have a belief that it is too overwhelming.

I have broken my plan into weekly steps which include repairing three things a week. I emptied out two closets this week to examine old stuff and got rid of some and made notes on how to repair the rest. Some days it is exciting, others it is tiring.  Today it seems tiring, because I have things sitting out in piles and there is no sense of completion. I need to focus on the joys of clear spaces.

Noralenderbee, hello again.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 29, 2016, 03:04:28 PM
I'm counting down the minutes (57) until I can leave work, go home, and continue my closet clear out. Then my goal for Saturday morning is to bring the large bags of stuff I have collected to the thrift store.

I cannot believe I got rid of MANY garbage bags of things this summer and still have a few shopping bags of stuff to go out now.

But parting with things isn't the problem for me, actually loading them up and taking them someplace is. :-P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 29, 2016, 03:34:56 PM
But parting with things isn't the problem for me, actually loading them up and taking them someplace is. :-P

Get yourself on a list for Goodwill or one of the other organizations that will pick up from your house.  I have Amvets coming on the 2nd! I just leave it on the porch and they give me a receipt when they pick up. I too have trouble getting my lazy butt in the car.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 29, 2016, 03:41:16 PM
But parting with things isn't the problem for me, actually loading them up and taking them someplace is. :-P

Get yourself on a list for Goodwill or one of the other organizations that will pick up from your house.  I have Amvets coming on the 2nd! I just leave it on the porch and they give me a receipt when they pick up. I too have trouble getting my lazy butt in the car.

I'll look into that! Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on January 29, 2016, 05:34:21 PM
I'm counting down the minutes (57) until I can leave work, go home, and continue my closet clear out. Then my goal for Saturday morning is to bring the large bags of stuff I have collected to the thrift store.

I cannot believe I got rid of MANY garbage bags of things this summer and still have a few shopping bags of stuff to go out now.

But parting with things isn't the problem for me, actually loading them up and taking them someplace is. :-P

yes, it becomes fun doesn't it? but mostly, such a great feeling of accomplishment and spaciousness!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 30, 2016, 07:58:59 AM
6 pairs of shoes, 8 pieces of clothing, 4 scarves, and four already full bags of stuff waiting to be donated!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 30, 2016, 09:04:16 AM
I am going to drop off another small batch of stuff at the consignment store at lunchtime today.  Hopefully, I have some money in the account so that I can pick up a check from them :-) Done - got a check for $80

Tossed some random old unused greeting cards into recycling this morning. 

Plan of attack for this week:
- go through hats and scarves - I have way too many... Done - getting rid of 7 scarves and 2 hats.  The sad part is that it barely made a dent in my scraf/shawl collection.
- do another sweep through the kitchen cupboards Made a half-hearted attempt at this - tossed one plastic container into recycling...  Need to do more. Went through the meds that I keep in one of the kitchen cupboards - got rid of anything expired or not likely to be used again
- go through my knitting supplies, books and yarns and consolidate into two plastic bins Done - tossed a lot of patterns I had printed out.  Figured out my next two knitting projects.  Bins are ready to go upstairs.
- find room for said bins in the walk in closet
- sort through skiing clothing (there are things there that I'm sure don't fit me any more... and it is another bin that needs to go upstairs)
- organize condo documents - toss anything not needed Done.  Also went through two drawers that hold office things, stationery, etc. and tossed a bunch of stuff.  Made room for the [now organized] condo documents.
- sort through CDs (a good number of them need to go back to my ex) - I'm hoping to reduce the number of CDs I have by half

That should keep me busy enough through the weekend :-)



Keeping at it this morning :-)  Now I'm going to clean the bathrooms and the kitchen and vacuum.  Planning to tackles the rest of the declutter list this afternoon.

Edited to fix the plural of kitchens - I only have one kitchen ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rubybeth on January 30, 2016, 09:11:45 AM
Haven't been to this thread before, but DH and I read through "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" last weekend and started our Marie Kondo inspired clean out this weekend, yesterday beginning with with clothes, subset tops. So far, three bags of tops we are going to donate. Today's task is pants. The whole konmari method seems to really make sense for both DH and I, for a variety of reasons, but the main one for me is that, if something sparks joy for him, I am much happier with him keeping it/storing it. For myself, I am more likely to get rid of things that I don't wear or enjoy anymore, but DH grew up in a household where you didn't throw things away because they might be useful at some point. In our one bedroom apartment and with our savings, I've tried to remind him that we don't have space to store things and if he needs to replace, he can feel free to spend the money, but that hasn't worked in the nearly 8 years we've been married. But he freely gave up a whole bag of shirts yesterday, even thanking some of the more sentimental objects for their service (I think this method is especially charming because my DH did study abroad in Japan so some of the cultural references make sense to him). Magic!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FunkyStickman on January 30, 2016, 10:34:14 AM
Wife dropped off 8 bags of clothes and 2 boxes of books to Goodwill today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on January 30, 2016, 12:35:09 PM
Haven't been to this thread before, but DH and I read through "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" last weekend and started our Marie Kondo inspired clean out this weekend, yesterday beginning with with clothes, subset tops. So far, three bags of tops we are going to donate. Today's task is pants. The whole konmari method seems to really make sense for both DH and I, for a variety of reasons, but the main one for me is that, if something sparks joy for him, I am much happier with him keeping it/storing it. For myself, I am more likely to get rid of things that I don't wear or enjoy anymore, but DH grew up in a household where you didn't throw things away because they might be useful at some point. In our one bedroom apartment and with our savings, I've tried to remind him that we don't have space to store things and if he needs to replace, he can feel free to spend the money, but that hasn't worked in the nearly 8 years we've been married. But he freely gave up a whole bag of shirts yesterday, even thanking some of the more sentimental objects for their service (I think this method is especially charming because my DH did study abroad in Japan so some of the cultural references make sense to him). Magic!

I love the idea of seeing your DH thanking his items. :) But no, really, the book helped me as well. I was holding on to things like old bridesmaid dresses because they were special event items, but really, what is the point? I finally donated them all. Then this summer my mom showed up with about 10 dresses from my childhood. What the hell am I supposed to do with those? I'm going to first see if my sister or SIL wants them for her girls to play dress up, but then out they go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 30, 2016, 01:16:30 PM
I am going to drop off another small batch of stuff at the consignment store at lunchtime today.  Hopefully, I have some money in the account so that I can pick up a check from them :-) Done - got a check for $80

Tossed some random old unused greeting cards into recycling this morning. 

Plan of attack for this week:
- go through hats and scarves - I have way too many... Done - getting rid of 7 scarves and 2 hats.  The sad part is that it barely made a dent in my scraf/shawl collection.
- do another sweep through the kitchen cupboards Made a half-hearted attempt at this - tossed one plastic container into recycling...  Need to do more. Went through the meds that I keep in one of the kitchen cupboards - got rid of anything expired or not likely to be used again
- go through my knitting supplies, books and yarns and consolidate into two plastic bins Done - tossed a lot of patterns I had printed out.  Figured out my next two knitting projects.  Bins are ready to go upstairs.
- find room for said bins in the walk in closet Done
- sort through skiing clothing (there are things there that I'm sure don't fit me any more... and it is another bin that needs to go upstairs)And done... except that I really didn't get rid of much :-(
- organize condo documents - toss anything not needed Done.  Also went through two drawers that hold office things, stationery, etc. and tossed a bunch of stuff.  Made room for the [now organized] condo documents.
- sort through CDs (a good number of them need to go back to my ex) - I'm hoping to reduce the number of CDs I have by half

That should keep me busy enough through the weekend :-)


Keeping at it this morning :-)  Now I'm going to clean the bathrooms and the kitchen and vacuum.  Planning to tackles the rest of the declutter list this afternoon.

Edited to fix the plural of kitchens - I only have one kitchen ;-)

The bins are now in my walk in closet which looks full again.  Which I guess is good because it will give me an incentive to get rid of some more things...

Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 30, 2016, 02:40:24 PM
My inner bag lady musings aside, I actually got a lot done today, including cleaning the entire house, changing sheets on two beds and doing 4 loads of laundry.  I also took down our Christmas decorations outside.  And all the decluttering above.  I'm beat.  I think the CDs will wait till tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on January 30, 2016, 03:13:58 PM
Lots of stuff flying out the door here today. Gave away a filing cabinet (now I have a ton of shredding to do), some binders and school supplies, sheets, towels and a recliner. The recliner really warmed my heart as it was my husband's and it had sentimental value. However, a disabled lady in a wheelchair needed one for her disabled daughter that can't sleep laying down, so I was happy to give it to her. She was so grateful. She thanked me over and over.

Someone else is supposed to be coming for a crystal whiskey decanter set tomorrow (sold for $10) that was a wedding present (30 years ago) and we never even took it out of the box.

Also threw out a bunch of old sheets and miscellaneous crap that wasn't even worth donating.

My goal is that when I eventually downsize to a condo I won't have a shit ton of stuff to deal with. I saw what my parents had to deal with. The trick is to stop more stuff coming in the door in the meantime.

Now to decide what to do with a really nice set of pots and pans that my son left here, and says he doesn't want.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on January 30, 2016, 04:10:47 PM
I am going to drop off another small batch of stuff at the consignment store at lunchtime today.  Hopefully, I have some money in the account so that I can pick up a check from them :-) Done - got a check for $80

Tossed some random old unused greeting cards into recycling this morning. 

Plan of attack for this week:
- go through hats and scarves - I have way too many... Done - getting rid of 7 scarves and 2 hats.  The sad part is that it barely made a dent in my scraf/shawl collection.
- do another sweep through the kitchen cupboards Made a half-hearted attempt at this - tossed one plastic container into recycling...  Need to do more. Went through the meds that I keep in one of the kitchen cupboards - got rid of anything expired or not likely to be used again
- go through my knitting supplies, books and yarns and consolidate into two plastic bins Done - tossed a lot of patterns I had printed out.  Figured out my next two knitting projects.  Bins are ready to go upstairs.
- find room for said bins in the walk in closet Done
- sort through skiing clothing (there are things there that I'm sure don't fit me any more... and it is another bin that needs to go upstairs)And done... except that I really didn't get rid of much :-(
- organize condo documents - toss anything not needed Done.  Also went through two drawers that hold office things, stationery, etc. and tossed a bunch of stuff.  Made room for the [now organized] condo documents.
- sort through CDs (a good number of them need to go back to my ex) - I'm hoping to reduce the number of CDs I have by half

That should keep me busy enough through the weekend :-)


Keeping at it this morning :-)  Now I'm going to clean the bathrooms and the kitchen and vacuum.  Planning to tackles the rest of the declutter list this afternoon.

Edited to fix the plural of kitchens - I only have one kitchen ;-)

The bins are now in my walk in closet which looks full again.  Which I guess is good because it will give me an incentive to get rid of some more things...

Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?


I don't know. It you know that you will want to have a black coat for any winter funeral that may come up, and you have such a coat now, why would you throw it out and plan to spend money later on a new one? It seems to me that's the irrational ideas and unmustachain to boot. Of course, I'm of an age that funerals are becoming more frequent, but people are also more likely to die in winter if they're ill, so...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 30, 2016, 06:13:29 PM
Thanks, Acorn & Rural, for the suggestions. I haven't worn this coat in a few years. I have a couple of other winter coats that are more comfortable for everyday wear. And I'm trying to reduce stuff in preparation for major downsizing in a couple of years. But the other coats are not dressy. I'm still undecided, I guess.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 31, 2016, 03:15:19 AM

Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?

No, I have had the same fears. I've read (a Suze Orman book maybe) that a lot of women have “bag lady syndrome".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 31, 2016, 04:35:16 AM

Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?

No, I have had the same fears. I've read (a Suze Orman book maybe) that a lot of women have “bag lady syndrome".
Good to know I'm not the only one!  I need to work on getting over these fears - any suggestions?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on January 31, 2016, 07:03:28 AM
I decided to stop wearing clear nail varnish so I found some more clutter to discard today. I think it is fairly pointless and my fingernails keep breaking (and I work from home!) so I will see if they improve going natural.:)


Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?

No, I have had the same fears. I've read (a Suze Orman book maybe) that a lot of women have “bag lady syndrome".
Good to know I'm not the only one!  I need to work on getting over these fears - any suggestions?

I still think about it when I wake up some nights so I'm not sure! I do try to look at it in a practical way and realise that I am very well off compared to most people in the world, I have savings in the bank, I live in a country with a good social safety net etc...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 01, 2016, 07:19:54 AM
Re: bag lady fears, I don't really experience this, so I'm lucky in that regard but I wonder if you could look for the positives in being prepared for a bad situation eg. if there is an economic downturn, you'll be more ready to move for a new job, unencumbered by stuff. You would be able to take opportunities others can't.

By not having much stuff (and bringing no more in) you are saving a lot and therefore less likely to ever be in that situation.

Each thing you get rid of makes you more resourceful and self-sufficient (eg if you only have one hat and it gets a hole, you would darn it), which would be good preparation.

And finally, hanging onto old stuff or not won't affect wether said terrible event is going to happen in the first place. You are not preventing anything bad from happening by keeping it. You are just ensuring that your life up to that point will be more stressful and draining and tiring, worsening your health, which would be the most important thing you could take into a disaster zone. I see is as kind of self-care. Making your life good and happy now puts you in the best stead for later adversity.

Oh, and also, one more moth-eaten old coat isn't going to help much, really.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MsPeacock on February 01, 2016, 08:31:09 AM
Major book purge this weekend. Charity pick up is coming in a week. I had five 6 foot tall bills bookcases. They,were each 3 feet wide. I a, down to three 3-foot high and wide book shelves now. When I started the book purge several months ago it was very slow going. Now I just grab handfuls and toss them into boxes. I have a much better sense of which wants I actually want to keep. I need a few more boxes because the remaining books won't fit on the shelves, so more have to go. I ran out of boxes last night, but I can get some more today.

As a lifetime hoarder of books, a keep every book I read person, a maybe I will reread it, maybe my children will want it, maybe it will be valuable, maybe sometime I wil.have time to read it person - I am kicking butt getting rid of books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 01, 2016, 08:55:25 AM
Re: bag lady fears, I don't really experience this, so I'm lucky in that regard but I wonder if you could look for the positives in being prepared for a bad situation eg. if there is an economic downturn, you'll be more ready to move for a new job, unencumbered by stuff. You would be able to take opportunities others can't.

By not having much stuff (and bringing no more in) you are saving a lot and therefore less likely to ever be in that situation.

Each thing you get rid of makes you more resourceful and self-sufficient (eg if you only have one hat and it gets a hole, you would darn it), which would be good preparation.

And finally, hanging onto old stuff or not won't affect wether said terrible event is going to happen in the first place. You are not preventing anything bad from happening by keeping it. You are just ensuring that your life up to that point will be more stressful and draining and tiring, worsening your health, which would be the most important thing you could take into a disaster zone. I see is as kind of self-care. Making your life good and happy now puts you in the best stead for later adversity.

Oh, and also, one more moth-eaten old coat isn't going to help much, really.

Thank you, theadvicist.  What you are saying is very reasonable and logical.  Bag lady fears are totally irrational, however, and are not easily influenced by logical thought :-)

Case in point: I logged into Fidelity yesterday to look at my accounts and for some reason my 401k was not displayed and excluded from the total number.  A brief moment of panic - what do I do?  How do I prove to anyone that I actually had a 401k?  And how can I prove what was in it? What would I ever do if, say, Fidelity told me that they have no record of my accounts?  After all, my NW is just a number displayed electronically on the screen.  What if it just disappeared one day???

As to the coat, I read a book last year about the siege of Leningrad during WWII and how the inhabitants of the city dealt with the cold and hunger.

This is all tongue in cheek of course, but you see how crazy we can drive ourselves with thoughts like that...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 01, 2016, 09:20:25 AM

Thank you, theadvicist.  What you are saying is very reasonable and logical.  Bag lady fears are totally irrational, however, and are not easily influenced by logical thought :-)

Case in point: I logged into Fidelity yesterday to look at my accounts and for some reason my 401k was not displayed and excluded from the total number.  A brief moment of panic - what do I do?  How do I prove to anyone that I actually had a 401k?  And how can I prove what was in it? What would I ever do if, say, Fidelity told me that they have no record of my accounts?  After all, my NW is just a number displayed electronically on the screen.  What if it just disappeared one day???

As to the coat, I read a book last year about the siege of Leningrad during WWII and how the inhabitants of the city dealt with the cold and hunger.

This is all tongue in cheek of course, but you see how crazy we can drive ourselves with thoughts like that...

I get what you're saying about how irrational it all is, but... the only think you can counter that with is being rational. Or maybe therapy. I'm not being facetious - I had therapy for something unrelated, and we touched on how I held onto things (for other reasons). It took some work but we reprogrammed my thinking from, "This might be useful some day!" to, "the space and the peace of mind is useful TODAY". So I was just throwing some ideas out there to see if they might hold any sway with you.

When it comes to the markets all crashing etc (and to some extent Fidelity losing all their records) I tend to think, "we're all in the sh*t anyway, so it won't make any difference", but I understand others might find that more scary than comforting! If it's just a small computer glitch, no need to worry because they will have that covered with backups etc.

Am I helping or should I shush?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 01, 2016, 09:26:56 AM

Thank you, theadvicist.  What you are saying is very reasonable and logical.  Bag lady fears are totally irrational, however, and are not easily influenced by logical thought :-)

Case in point: I logged into Fidelity yesterday to look at my accounts and for some reason my 401k was not displayed and excluded from the total number.  A brief moment of panic - what do I do?  How do I prove to anyone that I actually had a 401k?  And how can I prove what was in it? What would I ever do if, say, Fidelity told me that they have no record of my accounts?  After all, my NW is just a number displayed electronically on the screen.  What if it just disappeared one day???

As to the coat, I read a book last year about the siege of Leningrad during WWII and how the inhabitants of the city dealt with the cold and hunger.

This is all tongue in cheek of course, but you see how crazy we can drive ourselves with thoughts like that...

I get what you're saying about how irrational it all is, but... the only think you can counter that with is being rational. Or maybe therapy. I'm not being facetious - I had therapy for something unrelated, and we touched on how I held onto things (for other reasons). It took some work but we reprogrammed my thinking from, "This might be useful some day!" to, "the space and the peace of mind is useful TODAY". So I was just throwing some ideas out there to see if they might hold any sway with you.

When it comes to the markets all crashing etc (and to some extent Fidelity losing all their records) I tend to think, "we're all in the sh*t anyway, so it won't make any difference", but I understand others might find that more scary than comforting! If it's just a small computer glitch, no need to worry because they will have that covered with backups etc.

Am I helping or should I shush?

Oh, you are definitely helping!  The strange thing is that I am generally a very rational, well organized and logical problem solver, so these kinds of thoughts are totally out of character for me...  And I am not a hoarder by any means.  My house is very well organized, very neat and I know exactly where everything is. Yet, sometimes I hit a wall with some things...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 01, 2016, 02:21:58 PM
I will admit to having regrets about donating quite a few of my books, but still can rent most from the library so no big deal! Hav ordered one of my favs to reread.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on February 01, 2016, 03:43:47 PM
And finally, hanging onto old stuff or not won't affect wether said terrible event is going to happen in the first place. You are not preventing anything bad from happening by keeping it. You are just ensuring that your life up to that point will be more stressful and draining and tiring,

"If I keep this old coat, that will prevent me from being thrown out onto the streets where I would need to use it as a blanket. "

I'm guilty of this kind of thinking, not so much about things, but in relation to worry. If I *worry* about a potential disaster sufficiently, that will prevent it from happening. If I fully anticipate every possible problem (in vivid detail and at length), those problems won't happen.

The result is that I constantly experience worry and fear, anticipating all sorts of terrible things that are not likely to happen.  Of course this completely destroys any feeling of peace or joy in the present. It's like filling your mind with stuff you hate. I've been doing this for years without even realizing it. Now that I know, I can try to control it (though it's hard).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 01, 2016, 07:06:05 PM
I worry a lot about disasters too. My solution to this is to build a proper emergency kit (radio, flashlight, dry food, etc). That way, when I have bag lady fears, I take comfort that I still have my emergency kit and it is OK to let go of this one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 02, 2016, 12:31:14 AM

Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?

I'm late to this discussion but, yes, I've struggled with these thoughts too. What helped me get over the worst of these fears was:

- work out why I have this fear (for me, it's a combination of being estranged from family = no family safety net, being brought up with a feeling of scarcity not abundance)

- realise that my city is DROWNING in secondhand stuff, to the point where the recycle shed at the rubbish tip gives away clothes for free, the op shops sometimes say no to donations because there is so much stuff and so much stuff is given away on freecycle, so I can always get stuff cheaply or for free if the worst happened

- this is the most important one for me - building connections and community. I learnt to be more giving and generous (feelings of abundance, not scarcity) to my friends, acquaintances and to the general community. And learnt to accept things from my friends and acquaintances (this is HARD and a work in progress but I am improving :)). And then I realised, if the worst happened, I do have people to lean on and people do care about me.

Not sure if any of that is relevant to you but it helped me a lot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 02, 2016, 01:38:43 AM
I suddenly feel like my house is almost the way I want it to be in terms of clutter and it's mostly maintenance now. Getting rid of two coffee tables has made my living room feel a lot more spacious and it's easier to vacuum.

What helped me get over the worst of these fears was:

- work out why I have this fear (for me, it's a combination of being estranged from family = no family safety net, being brought up with a feeling of scarcity not abundance)


Yes, I have the same reason for anxieties over money and security.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 02, 2016, 04:00:35 AM

Strange thoughts swirling in my head as I was going through various items today....  For example, I have a long black wool coat that has been on the donation list for several years now, yet every time I pull it out, I end up putting it back into the closet.  Every time, the thought in my head is "what if I need it to wear it to a funeral?".  And some other things that I'm debating getting rid of make me think along the same lines, what if I need these some time in the future?  So I'm trying to think through these thoughts logically.  I'm telling myself that I have plenty of money to buy anything I need at any point in time for any special occasion (which is absolutely true).  However, once I think all this through to the end, it turns out that I am scared that the money will disappear in some catastrophic event, that there will be a war and we will all be cold and hungry, and that my woolen coat (or whatever other item) will be very handy...  Seriously?!!  I think I have a problem - an irrational fear of becoming a bag lady!  Anyone else in the same boat?

I'm late to this discussion but, yes, I've struggled with these thoughts too. What helped me get over the worst of these fears was:

- work out why I have this fear (for me, it's a combination of being estranged from family = no family safety net, being brought up with a feeling of scarcity not abundance)

- realise that my city is DROWNING in secondhand stuff, to the point where the recycle shed at the rubbish tip gives away clothes for free, the op shops sometimes say no to donations because there is so much stuff and so much stuff is given away on freecycle, so I can always get stuff cheaply or for free if the worst happened

- this is the most important one for me - building connections and community. I learnt to be more giving and generous (feelings of abundance, not scarcity) to my friends, acquaintances and to the general community. And learnt to accept things from my friends and acquaintances (this is HARD and a work in progress but I am improving :)). And then I realised, if the worst happened, I do have people to lean on and people do care about me.

Not sure if any of that is relevant to you but it helped me a lot.
These are such good points, Astatine.  Thank you.  I am not estranged from my family but I do live on a different continent from them, so effectively, I do not have a safety net here.  And since my divorce, I only have only myself to rely on.  Thank goodness my FIRE plan is to move back to the town where I grew up and where my family is - I'm sure it will help a lot!  And yes, growing up, we didn't have much.  We were never hungry or cold but we lived in a communist country where there wasn't much stuff overall.   

And yes, I think the world overall is drowning in second hand stuff!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: palebluedot on February 03, 2016, 01:35:00 PM
Has anyone used http://www.cdrecyclingcenter.com/ for disc recycling?

I have old CDs, DVDs from computer software and I'm trying to find the best way to rid of it all. Also, does anyone where I can recycle electric toothbrushes? I received two for free but both broke a few months later.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 04, 2016, 04:36:29 AM
Of my original list posted last week, the CDs still remain unsorted.  I have been so tired the last few days that I was in bed around 8 pm so have not done a thing around the house.  Hopefully I can get my act together and do some stuff this weekend.  So it's probably time for a new list :-)

- sort through the CDs
- bring the stuff I am donating to the donation center (I have 2 bags of stuff ready to go and some miscellaneous crap in addition to that)
- go through the shelves in the basement
- KonMarie shoes and clothes
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 04, 2016, 05:46:16 AM
I just read this on Rockstar Finance and thought it was relevant considering the discussion we were having about feeling anxious about having enough money or worrying about becoming homeless one day.

http://www.moneyaftergraduation.com/2016/01/04/why-you-should-practice-poverty/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 04, 2016, 07:16:44 AM
I just read this on Rockstar Finance and thought it was relevant considering the discussion we were having about feeling anxious about having enough money or worrying about becoming homeless one day.

http://www.moneyaftergraduation.com/2016/01/04/why-you-should-practice-poverty/

Interesting but I'm not really sure that this experiment is really that helpful or realistic.  After all, I would still be sleeping in my very comfortable bed, living in my lovely house with all the mod cons, and not really worrying whether I have enough money to pay my next electric bill...  And as a somewhat mustachian individual, I only read library books anyway, I don't eat out or buy coffee at Starbucks and my food budget IS about $50 per week so rice and beans are my staple :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 04, 2016, 12:38:25 PM
I just read this on Rockstar Finance and thought it was relevant considering the discussion we were having about feeling anxious about having enough money or worrying about becoming homeless one day.

http://www.moneyaftergraduation.com/2016/01/04/why-you-should-practice-poverty/

Interesting but I'm not really sure that this experiment is really that helpful or realistic.  After all, I would still be sleeping in my very comfortable bed, living in my lovely house with all the mod cons, and not really worrying whether I have enough money to pay my next electric bill...  And as a somewhat mustachian individual, I only read library books anyway, I don't eat out or buy coffee at Starbucks and my food budget IS about $50 per week so rice and beans are my staple :-)

Agreed. As a mustachian (not as much as some) I live this way most of the time- inexpensive groceries, usually eating what I hav before purchasing more at the lowest rates, almost never eat out, read library books everyday, do not shop for clothing or for fun etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on February 04, 2016, 01:15:05 PM
If you practice poverty through this poverty simulation you might not be as comforted:

http://www.citylab.com/cityfixer/2015/02/what-i-learned-from-a-poverty-simulation/385190/

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sobezen on February 04, 2016, 02:54:17 PM
I start annually by selling furniture and other large items in every single room. I recently sold the desk, couch, dining table, side bedroom dressers, and a storage tower in the bathroom. I find the less large items I have it makes where I live feel so much larger, safer and cleaner too! :) Then, I move onto anything I have not touched and actually 'used' within one year. I find it helps to keep this in mind when I carefully examine my possessions. Some of the worst offenders are books/article print outs I no longer review, suits I no longer wear, and foods in the pantry. Usually all of this makes its way to donations and then after one quick trip it is all gone. It might seen extreme but I've lived for years with just one bed, one desk, and a few articles of quality clothing. I find with the reduction in possessions I take better care of what I do keep too. Your mileage may vary. Good luck cleansing and decluttering your life. Cheers! :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 04, 2016, 03:35:52 PM
If you practice poverty through this poverty simulation you might not be as comforted:

http://www.citylab.com/cityfixer/2015/02/what-i-learned-from-a-poverty-simulation/385190/

This sounds a hell of a lot more like real poverty than the Rockstar link.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 05, 2016, 02:25:59 AM
I know I'm not in the situation when I was a young teenager with a single mother and she thought we were going to lose our home, but the idea of being in poverty again still haunts me. I'm almost 40 years old, and obviously not even close to being in that situation, but it's hard to overcome fears if they have been with you for a long time.

I vacuumed yesterday and mopped all the floors and would like to have less furniture on the floor to make it even easier. I have two storage boxes that I use to store cat litter and I managed to move stuff around so I could fit one storage box in our main cupboard but I will have to try and find a place for the other box today. I'm not sure it can be done but I may as well try and look to see if there is anything else that can be thrown away or recycled.:)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 05, 2016, 02:33:19 AM
Another car load to the charity shop! Unbelievable. A couple of things were gifts, and items won at a charity raffle. Some was Christmas decorations and things I cleared during the new year break.

I was so pleased to have the donate box and my car finally empty! Nothing hanging over me! Yay. Then I came home to a parcel from my mother (bless her for thinking of me, etc), and a dead houseplant. So now the contents of said parcel, and the plantpot are in the donate box! Argh, IT JUST KEEPS ON COMING.

That said, my house is looking and feeling so good! Shelves have breathing room, because stuff I want to keep has been put 'away' and drawers now contain items I actually want and use instead of being a repository for items I don't like / need and regret buying or keeping.

I spent most of my day off getting the house straight, packing stuff up for charity, and at the end of the day, I thought, I've spent an entire day dealing with 'stuff'. Rearranging shelves and drawers, tidying my wardrobe etc. No more. That was the last big session and now it's just maintenance and diligence about what comes in. I hope...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FausseBourgeoise on February 09, 2016, 06:39:51 PM
Just Konmari'd my closet. 5 bags of things to donate. It took less than two hours with the help of a friend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rebecca Stapler on February 11, 2016, 09:00:22 AM
I sold a bag of maternity shirts ($16, not too shabby!), packed up a bag of clothes to consign with ThredUp (we'll see what they offer for them), have another bag of clothes to donate, and an entire box full of clothes that are ripped or stained. I love my closet now! Today I'm wearing a shirt that I had completely forgot about until I dug it out from the back of my closet last weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on February 11, 2016, 09:24:00 AM
Brought some stuff to a clothing swap yesterday and took a LOT home but most of it is being shipped off to Thredup. bwahahah.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 12, 2016, 09:40:57 PM
DH and I decided we will do a run to the recycle shed at the tip and the book donation spot tomorrow. So that's prompted a bit of decluttering beyond the box of stuff that's been sitting next to the front door for ages.

So far:

- dead modem, will get dropped off at the e-waste recycling spot at the tip
- cat tunnel (takes up space in the lounge room, one cat uses it every few months or so)
- 4 small plastic containers (bought a lot of cheap Tupperware late last year at a fundraiser - the actual Tupperware, not the generic name for plasticware that Americans seem to use - so the old cheap and nasty stuff can go)
- magazine and word puzzle book (will go to medical waiting room at my next appt)
- 2 literary magazines
- a craft book I won in a raffle (very pretty but I will never use it to make stuff)
- metal water bottle (used it throughout chemo, now has nausea associations)
- clothes from a clothes swap that I didn't end up wanting to wear
- weird spatula thing that came free with our silicon bake sheets from Ikea

The kitchen plasticware cupboards also got rearranged a bit so it's a) easier to find stuff and b) less likely to trigger a plastic-landslide-of-doom when we reach in to get something.

Edit: I also threw out a few Christmas cards, a couple of prescriptions that went out of date last month and a few pieces of paper. Plus some paper that's been on the lounge room floor solely because the cats like sitting on them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 13, 2016, 04:51:46 PM
DH and I decided we will do a run to the recycle shed at the tip and the book donation spot tomorrow. So that's prompted a bit of decluttering beyond the box of stuff that's been sitting next to the front door for ages.

So far:

- dead modem, will get dropped off at the e-waste recycling spot at the tip
- cat tunnel (takes up space in the lounge room, one cat uses it every few months or so)
- 4 small plastic containers (bought a lot of cheap Tupperware late last year at a fundraiser - the actual Tupperware, not the generic name for plasticware that Americans seem to use - so the old cheap and nasty stuff can go)
- magazine and word puzzle book (will go to medical waiting room at my next appt)
- 2 literary magazines
- a craft book I won in a raffle (very pretty but I will never use it to make stuff)
- metal water bottle (used it throughout chemo, now has nausea associations)
- clothes from a clothes swap that I didn't end up wanting to wear
- weird spatula thing that came free with our silicon bake sheets from Ikea

The kitchen plasticware cupboards also got rearranged a bit so it's a) easier to find stuff and b) less likely to trigger a plastic-landslide-of-doom when we reach in to get something.

Edit: I also threw out a few Christmas cards, a couple of prescriptions that went out of date last month and a few pieces of paper. Plus some paper that's been on the lounge room floor solely because the cats like sitting on them.

I'm curious what you're referring to as what Americans typically use - are you saying there's a brand called "Tupperware " that's different than what we have he  or that we use entirely different plastic wear that we call Tupperware?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on February 13, 2016, 06:13:24 PM
Two large garbage bags filled with newly shredded, old financial documents.

Taxes filed.

Wild Saturday night.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Quinn on February 13, 2016, 06:24:44 PM
I'm curious what you're referring to as what Americans typically use - are you saying there's a brand called "Tupperware " that's different than what we have he  or that we use entirely different plastic wear that we call Tupperware?

Tupperware is a brand name that's commonly used as a product name, kind of like Velcro, Post-its. There are a lot of them actually. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_generic_and_genericized_trademarks#List_of_protected_trademarks_frequently_used_as_generic_terms)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: winostache on February 13, 2016, 07:04:48 PM
You guys have made so much progress, I love reading this thread and you've motivated me to clean a few things around my place :)

I'd love to hear how you all handle clutter-attracting hobbies.  My SO is an engineer and tinkerer, who likes to build his own electronics.  It requires a lot of measurement gear, tools, and parts, so a lot of flat surfaces got covered - especially if a project is in progress (which can last for months).  We live in a 600 sqft condo, so there are no places like a basement or garage to banish him to.  The clutter also seems to turn invisible to him after a time and if he decides to drop the project, tons of parts, drawings, and half-done work gets added on top.

Anyone have their own rules, approaches, or thoughts on how to sort through this mess?  What do you do if you decide not to complete a project?  How do you keep clutter from turning invisible?  It's probably already been covered, but how do you get the SO on board? (He knows it's a mess, but he gets overwhelmed by the amount of effort it would take to dive in.  Too bad he's the only one who knows what's important to keep.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on February 13, 2016, 07:18:35 PM
I thought I was done!  I've been on maintenance mode...

Today I got rid of a stack of clothing I rarely wear but kept in with my daily wear stuff.

I'm (painfully) getting rid of some worn out favorite pants and socks too.

I sorted through my half bin of clothes in storage to get rid of the things that are too small... only to be surprised when they fit!  My old dress pants fit beautifully!  My smallest jeans were snug... a little too much muffin top, but they fit enough to keep. There is reasonable hope that I'll wear them this summer.  This is so great.  If I can work up the self discipline to lose 5 pounds (and the self confidence to rock my wobbly bits) I won't have to buy a new swim suit for my 2 month Euro travels.

12 items ready to go out the door, two are bulk sweaters.  6 more packed up out of sight for a few weeks to see if I miss them. Cut clutter and my shopping list.  A little self confidence and motivation gained.

Researching dying brown linen pants black.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 13, 2016, 07:38:31 PM
I'm curious what you're referring to as what Americans typically use - are you saying there's a brand called "Tupperware " that's different than what we have he  or that we use entirely different plastic wear that we call Tupperware?

Tupperware is a brand name that's commonly used as a product name, kind of like Velcro, Post-its. There are a lot of them actually. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_generic_and_genericized_trademarks#List_of_protected_trademarks_frequently_used_as_generic_terms)

Yep, this. It took me ages to realise that when Americans say Tupperware, usually they seem to mean any plasticware. I'm happy to be corrected if I've misunderstood.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 13, 2016, 07:52:59 PM
Just packed up a big bag of clothes that are either big for me now, need ironing (I have renounced ironing!) or don't work within the 'uniform' of clothes I consistently wear.

Also clearing out crap from the junk room. It's stuff that I could've thrown out months ago, but Mr Happier does better with time to get used to something being set aside for disposal or donation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on February 13, 2016, 08:22:11 PM
A small thing, my niece was visiting and I gave her (and her siblings, who didn't visit today) about half of my remaining stuffed animals.  About a plastic grocery bag full.

The other half will probably be mostly thrown out, they were pretty dirty, yuck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 13, 2016, 09:35:26 PM
Just sorted through a giant pile of paper clutter. I swear this stuff breeds when I'm not looking.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 14, 2016, 02:35:52 AM
You guys have made so much progress, I love reading this thread and you've motivated me to clean a few things around my place :)

I'd love to hear how you all handle clutter-attracting hobbies.  My SO is an engineer and tinkerer, who likes to build his own electronics.  It requires a lot of measurement gear, tools, and parts, so a lot of flat surfaces got covered - especially if a project is in progress (which can last for months).  We live in a 600 sqft condo, so there are no places like a basement or garage to banish him to.  The clutter also seems to turn invisible to him after a time and if he decides to drop the project, tons of parts, drawings, and half-done work gets added on top.

Anyone have their own rules, approaches, or thoughts on how to sort through this mess?  What do you do if you decide not to complete a project?  How do you keep clutter from turning invisible?  It's probably already been covered, but how do you get the SO on board? (He knows it's a mess, but he gets overwhelmed by the amount of effort it would take to dive in.  Too bad he's the only one who knows what's important to keep.)

Can you section off an area in the condo to give him an office/workroom to contain his clutter? Our house is only about 650 sqft and I have tried to divide our house and especially our main living room into sections to make it more workable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 14, 2016, 06:42:24 AM
I'm curious what you're referring to as what Americans typically use - are you saying there's a brand called "Tupperware " that's different than what we have he  or that we use entirely different plastic wear that we call Tupperware?

Tupperware is a brand name that's commonly used as a product name, kind of like Velcro, Post-its. There are a lot of them actually. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_generic_and_genericized_trademarks#List_of_protected_trademarks_frequently_used_as_generic_terms)

We have that brand here, although there are also several other high or low quality brands I think you're referring to. We hav a set of pyrex we usually use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on February 14, 2016, 08:12:25 AM
Just sorted through a giant pile of paper clutter. I swear this stuff breeds when I'm not looking.

Story of my life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: winostache on February 14, 2016, 01:01:11 PM
Can you section off an area in the condo to give him an office/workroom to contain his clutter?

It was a table, but the table became so cluttered, it couldn't be a workspace.

Actually, today he cleaned it up significantly because I told him that if he wanted to move to the next project, we needed a place to put it.  He wants to build floor standing speakers, so we need floor space if we'll ever use them!  I hope this '1 for 1' project idea sticks :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on February 14, 2016, 05:44:38 PM
You guys are so inspiring. I finally dealt with the one place in the house that I have been putting off sorting for a long time. What a relief (almost). It is spotless and tidy but some of the donations have not gone and that hangs over me.  Tune in next week...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 15, 2016, 01:57:57 AM
Can you section off an area in the condo to give him an office/workroom to contain his clutter?

It was a table, but the table became so cluttered, it couldn't be a workspace.

Actually, today he cleaned it up significantly because I told him that if he wanted to move to the next project, we needed a place to put it.  He wants to build floor standing speakers, so we need floor space if we'll ever use them!  I hope this '1 for 1' project idea sticks :)

Good.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: thrax on February 15, 2016, 05:01:25 AM
Hi All.
I'm a bit of a lurker on the MMM forums, don't have anything of financial import to say so I tend more to watch from the sidelines.
Also my partner & I tend to share online accounts for various things so you may see posts by this user name signed by Mark - nothing to worry about and we haven't been hacked.

Anyways, I've not read the entire 60-something pages of this discussion but wanted to add my bit. I'll go back and read more when I have time.

We both got the FIRE bug while touring Europe, in Lisbon, Portugal actually and came home with plans to straighten ourselves up etc.
Initially we were planning on staying in our house but after 3 months back in Australia, I realised that it was more of a burden than anything else so clearing up and selling is now the plan. (We plan to spend our first year of FIRE in Chiang Mai, Thailand, after that who knows.)
Doesn't sound hard, you say, well.....

My house was built in 1929. By my Grandparents. Who managed to raise 4 children through (and just after) the great depression without them noticing any kind of deprivation.
So my family has lived here for 87 years. (Don't get too excited, anything even remotely valuable has been claimed by relatives)
On top of that, my mother passed away about 7 years ago. I swear she wasn't a hoarder - she was just prepared for any situation :). Oh, and she liked collecting vintage and antiques.

So I inherited my grandparents fully furnished encumbered household and then all my Mums' stuff as well. Oh, and I inherited the hoarding tendency too. Lucky me.

I've been intermittently selling stuff on eBay - I've sold maybe $500 worth in the last 4 or 5 months.
I try to make it policy to fill our rubbish bin every week - better than piling up stuff and then paying for a skip (assuming I can fit it in the bin, of course)
I shred anything that looks even remotely like personal information - the shredded paper is used either as packing for fragile eBay items being posted or to line the nesting boxes in the chook house.
If I find anything that belongs to friends/family etc I try to get it back to them. There's not a lot but every little counts.

The biggest impediment, I feel, is my emotional attachment to most of it. And the need to pass it on to someone who might use it.
Intellectually I know most of it is dirty, dusty, possum-piss-riddled rubbish but....

Anyway, I thought I'd drop back into this thread every so often and share whatever progress I may have made. All encouragement gratefully received :)

First Installment:
Sold 4 items on eBay this weekend for a total of $51.50
Tried to return old singer sewing machine to ex friend - she doesn't want it back after all so I'll eBay it soon.
Failed the wheelie bin challenge as I was working most of the weekend and didn't get around to it.
Gave an unsightly folding table and some old shelving to my elderly frugal neighbor. (he's currently using the chipboard shelving as a plant pot holder, go figure)

That went on for longer than I intended, sorry about that.
De'ana
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 15, 2016, 05:19:13 AM
Hi De'ana.

Regarding the sentimental stuff, it's just that, stuff. You're not giving away / throwing away the memories. Those are yours to keep forever.

With things like that I sometimes take a photo, if I think I need the visual reminder to bring back the memories.

But at the end of the day, they are just things. You can honour your family and history and past in many ways that don't include holding onto everything, and allowing that to impact your life and your dreams.

Hope that helps a bit, and well done with all your progress so far!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on February 15, 2016, 06:41:20 AM
I shred anything that looks even remotely like personal information - the shredded paper is used either as packing for fragile eBay items

What a good idea! Thanks for that.

I am going through the same thing. Currently I'm on sets of dishes. There are 2 sets of china and 2 sets of everyday. I think one set of china must be from grandparents since I never remember it being used. Then there are scads of cut glass serving thingies from a more genteel era. I can't even figure out names for some of them. Now is this a "relish dish" or a "butter server"?

I've had a couple of shedding-stuff instances where the recipient was clearly delighted with their item. That helps. I had vintage fur coats which are really hard to get rid of. Listed them on Craigslist without much hope, and a bohemian-looking girl in her twenties took all of them - some to refashion for herself to wear and some to make in to blankets and other art projects. She was absolutely thrilled with her find, and that made me happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on February 15, 2016, 08:23:50 AM
De'ana, just keep chipping away at it, and eventually it won't seem so daunting. I recently sold a crystal whiskey decanter and glasses set that we got for a wedding present 30 years ago. It had never even been out of the box. I only listed it for $10, but apparently I should have asked for more as there were lots of people that wanted to buy it.

I prefer to sell stuff on Facebook groups or Kijiji (Craigslist) because then I don't have the hassle of packing up and mailing the items. And no fees.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on February 15, 2016, 12:25:51 PM
My roommate is moving out this week. She has been living with me for nearly 6 years and had quite an accumulation of stuff throughout the house. I am SO EXCITED for the departure of her things. I have also offered to let her take a number of my things that I know I won't use. I will spend next weekend reorganizing the whole house, mostly the kitchen. I will need to purchase a few things (like drinking glasses), but I look forward to getting items that are just perfect (even though I hate buying things). I REALLY look forward to having things stored exactly how I want them as the roommate and I had different opinions about how to organize shared spaces.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on February 15, 2016, 05:02:49 PM
De'ana - being relatively new to the MMM forums, I'm not sure what others feel about the book The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo, but I found it helpful. Yes, it is a bit goofy at times, but I felt the book gave me permission to let things go. I was hanging on to bridesmaid dresses for the sole reason that they were used in a special event (someone else's special event though, not mine). I also started to feel ok about letting go of things I didn't really like but had "paid good money for". The money is spent, it won't come back, so there's no reason to hang onto the thing if there is no purpose for it in my life.  (Also, don't BUY the book! Borrow from a library or download the electronic version.)


Also, if I may, I would like to point you to YouTube and search for Christine Kobzeff or "PinkSoFoxy declutter".  Christine is a lovely woman who used to be a beauty/shopping addict. One day, she decided enough was enough and she really decluttered her life. Now, if you are not a beauty junkie, you will be appalled at the amount of makeup she had, but I would say it's par for the course of what other "beauty gurus" on YouTube have. The point isn't the makeup, the point is the idea of "stuff".  Anyway, to make a long story short, in a few years I have really seen her transform. After that declutter marathon, she and her husband worked hard and then left to travel Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and India for a few months. They came back to Hawaii, where they live, and moved into an even smaller place and she continued to downsize her life. They were even able to take an unplanned trip to Australia and New Zealand as they had spent less money and learned to live on and live with less. Another year later and they were able to leave for the Philippines for a while.

My entire point being-if you are wanting to take off for Chiang Mai for a year and live a nomadic life around the world, you won't be able to do it with things. The ability to be global and not tied to a house means giving up most of your "stuff". Maybe some of the stuff that seems important and sentimental lives in storage or at a relative's house, but when you come back and go through it, I bet you'll wonder why you kept half of it. Be inspired by others journeys. I'm sure there are plenty of other people online who have documented a life of getting rid of stuff and getting the chance to travel the world.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: thrax on February 15, 2016, 08:12:15 PM
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the responses.

I'm finding it easier and easier to let go of "stuff" as I go along. Not looking forward to getting to Mums' things though...

I thought about the photo idea but (and this is embarrassing to admit) we have an unbelievable number of photos - we don't use numbers any more - they're measured in terabytes :(
So if I took photos they'd just end up lost in that mess. And besides, if I can't keep it, I don't want to remember it.
As an aside, I have a memory problem due to epilepsy and medications, so once its' gone, I doubt I'll remember it anyway.

Unfortunately Craigslist in Australia seems to be where you go to buy drugs so that leaves eBay and Gumtree mostly.
I'm going to try a fleamarket stall soon - I'm not currently keen on the idea of a yard sale.

We spent over 12 months living in a 6m (19.5') motorhome in Europe. This is probably when I started realising that life is possible without all those things that we are assured we can't live without.
I will miss some of it and there are plans to stash a few things at the father-in-laws' house but really, almost none of it is irreplaceable so I'm sure I'll survive.
I suppose another problem is the loads of guilt and grief I have about "disappointing" people (mostly my mother) if/when I throw/sell it all.

As soon as my brother-in-law moves out (in about 4 weeks), I'll have his room to expand my sorting into and hopefully things will move a lot faster, yay! :)

De'ana


 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on February 15, 2016, 08:46:05 PM
I suppose another problem is the loads of guilt and grief I have about "disappointing" people (mostly my mother) if/when I throw/sell it all.

She can't be disappointed in you if she has passed away. That may sound harsh, but my father passed away about 20 years ago. This Christmas, my brother, sister, and I all went through the last two boxes of "stuff" that my mom had kept. While we did each take a few items that meant something to us, there was probably half that nobody wanted. If I died today, I wouldn't care what anybody did with my things, even if they all went into the garbage. They only mean something to me and I wouldn't want to saddle my kids with a house full of junk they don't need. (That said, they are in elementary school, so hopefully someone else would take on that task. ;)
Title: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pbkmaine on February 16, 2016, 02:01:51 AM
Now that I am working part time, I want to go back to making and selling fine art. We had moved most of my art supplies to our cabin in the back yard, but DH ran over the pipe with the key with his lawnmower and broke it, so the water doesn't work, and we don't want to pay to heat the cabin all winter. We moved most of my stuff back to the house. We put my drafting table in a corner of a small room upstairs and I cleared some shelf space for my pastels and a few other supplies. I set up my mat cutter with table and art scanner with its computer and table in the basement. The flat file is in the basement. My main work will be oil painting, and the easel will have to go in the living room. We've cleared out a ton of crap to be able to set these things up so far, but now comes the hardest part: where to store the artwork. I need to make or buy a rack for paintings, etc., and it will have to go in the basement where there is currently a huge pile of old paint cans and supplies, ancient camping gear, tools and other assorted stuff and junk. DH says he's too busy with taxes to help with the sorting and cleanout, although I know he will be supportive about taking stuff to the dump.

Just writing it down now, the whole plan sounds crazy anyway. Is the gallery owner really going to visit my yucky rough basement to view my work? Sometimes we get water in the basement, too. I must be out of my mind! But, I don't see any other options, so, wish me luck. The big cleanout starts today.

Why not install a few picture ledges and have gallery walls? I have seen them in living and dining rooms and hallways and they always look great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 16, 2016, 02:11:51 AM
We had a chest thing as a coffee table, that for a few years held 'fancy dress' clothes. Fancy dress as in costumes, not evening wear. We decided we were a) getting a bit of for fancy dress parties and 2) never rewore anything anway, so we got rid of it all. I had about 8 wigs, and yet each time we went to a party with a new theme, it necessitated a new wig anyway, so I don't know why I kept them.

Anyway, then the chest held my fabric scraps. Well, a few weeks ago, I went through them ruthlessly. Some stuff is useful - scraps of cotton to make waistbands and pocket pieces, some knit scraps which can be used for neckbands. But many were useless, so I took them all to be recycled, and put the useful ones with my dressmaking stuff.

The chest sat empty for a few weeks, which was a lovely feeling.

Last night, we were debating putting party crockery in there, as we entertain a lot, and it's a pain to store it in the garage, as it gets cobwebby and has to be run through the dishwasher before use. But the plates were too wide, and besides, it would be better with something light in there so we can still move it around.

I sold something on ebay, and went to the utility room to get packing supplies - brainwave! Packing supplies in the bench! Light and bulky. Will free up enough cupboard space in the utility room for the party crockery to stay inside, clean and dry.

I was so pleased with myself!

Keep on keeping on, team, it makes such a difference when you are juggling less stuff around. Having the space to move things without first having to move other things out is amazing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 16, 2016, 07:12:35 PM
Clutter prevention is best - so I just went online and changed all my paper statements to e-statements.  I do almost all my banking online so I hardly look at the paper statements now anyway, since I have seen the transactions post as they happen.  I have so much banking paper, it will be so much easier to just have a file (and backup file) for this instead of a file cabinet full of paper.  I presently have a 4-drawer file cabinet and a 2-drawer file cabinet, and have promised DD the smaller one next time she is here.  A bit of scanning and lots of shredding in my immediate future.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JAYSLOL on February 16, 2016, 07:31:30 PM
Confession time!  I've been slowly cleaning out the storage room downstairs and correcting some un-mustachian accumulation of crap. 

Fishing rods:  I knew I had a way too many fishing rods, Wife and I got a couple of small collapsible rods for lake fishing, I got a couple cheap ones thrown in when I bought a used aluminum boat a few years ago.  I've also bought a few at garage sales when I saw a deal, had a couple damaged rods laying around and just got 2 brand new ones as a gift for Christmas.  So I thought I might have 7 or 8, which is obviously already 5 or 6 too many.  Turns out I had 17 total!  What the actual F@&k!  How did this happen?  Anyway, I will be selling or throwing out all but the new ones and maybe keep one good used backup rod.  Also selling the boat in spring.

Swiss Army Knives:  Kind of the same story, just found a 7th one downstairs.  I bought one years ago, got one as a gift, and most of the rest I bought at garage sales or got for free.  How do you not buy a genuine Victorinox knife when you see it for a $1?  Anyway got to start selling the extra ones and make a profit instead of just throwing them in a drawer.

Tools:  Same goes here, for some reason I've got 2 stud finders, more than 6 hammers, countless redundant screwdrivers, wrenches etc.  I've only got 2 hands and I'm not a contractor, so what the hell, time to thin out the tools too

Face punches welcome and deserved

Update, I have sold 11 fishing rods and 3 tackle boxes I didn't need at auction, I held back the 4 nicest rods until I could see what the cheaper ones would sell for, and they did really well so I'll be dropping off the last 4 this week.  Down to just 2 now :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on February 17, 2016, 11:48:20 AM
Whomever mentioned KonMari method earlier....I love you.  I have begun KonMari'ng the heck out of the family clothing, and I started with myself.  We have "at least" 15 bags of clothing to give to Goodwill. There are a four items I kept in my closet that I do not wear, however just looking at them "brings me joy".  1) My first interview suit (I'm almost 45); 2) My wedding dress (my daughter loves to play dress up in it); and 3) The sweater I was wearing when my father passed unexpectedly of a heart attack (not exactly joy, but I cannot let it go).  The closets and drawers are amazingly functional now.  DH is not included in the epiphany, but is now happy to be excused from folding duty on anyone else's clothes. I hope the neatness and folding lasts for more than a few weeks....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: smalllife on February 17, 2016, 12:08:26 PM
I brought a few things *in* this weekend - four small baskets for organization.  We don't really shop, therefore no shoe boxes a la Kon Mari and I stumbled across the perfect dimensions at Goodwill.

That being said, there are two grocery bags of stuff ready to go and the joy of not looking at cardboard when I open up the linen closet is totally worth it.

-threw out enough rags so the rag bin wasn't overflowing
-one of the organizers allowed me to clean up our drop zone and donate a fru fru container that didn't work.  Looks much better
-with enough little things gone I know how I want to rearrange the bookshelves (involves buying two things from BB&B)
-DH agreed to donate a kitchen gadget that he doesn't use
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 17, 2016, 07:18:59 PM
Had a strong coffee this morning and felt compelled to go thru dresser and closet.a  skirt , blouse, and socks to donation bag as well as three packages of flashcards (am not in school) . bra in trash. And future Hub donated several pairs of socks and a few work shirts as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on February 19, 2016, 04:05:00 PM
Similar to riverffasion, I tossed an old bra recently.

Also recently:

Tossed a pair of very holey slippers.

Sold a rice/steam cooker on our local Facebook garage sale site to a friend for $10.  Used twice.  That friend is one who owns chickens, so I gave her a stack of egg cartons.

Tossed a few small, strange odds and ends from the utensil drawer.

Cleaned out my basket of hair accessories, cleaned several, repaired one, and put them all into a baggie to give to the church thrift store.  Also put an old table lamp aside to donate (received a new one for Christmas), and a pair of slippers also a Christmas gift.

Will toss the very old Crock Pot this weekend.  It's lid broke in half two years ago, and I've been using a cookie sheet as a lid.  DH bought me a shiny new one for my birthday earlier this week.  :)

Listed the never used, given as Christmas gift years ago ice cream/fro yo/sorbet maker online earlier this week.

Haven't been able to sell the never worn street motorcycle helmet for months.  A $200 value and asking $50 OBO.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on February 19, 2016, 04:43:28 PM
Sold a ski helmet on Craigslist for $25.

Threw some coffee filters that don't fit anything I have into the recycling

Got rid of some old vegetable seeds

Slowly filling yet another box for Goodwill.  It's filling much more slowly this time though, which means I must be making progress.

Still feeding scrap wood into the trash each week.  Starting to wish I'd just taken it to the dump.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 20, 2016, 03:35:50 AM
Whomever mentioned KonMari method earlier....I love you.  I have begun KonMari'ng the heck out of the family clothing, and I started with myself. 

There is a thread on here just about that book.:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rubic on February 20, 2016, 10:29:19 AM
Whomever mentioned KonMari method earlier....I love you.  I have begun KonMari'ng the heck out of the family clothing, and I started with myself. 

There is a thread on here just about that book.:)

Link: http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/mustachian-book-club/the-life-changing-art-of-tidying-up/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 20, 2016, 08:37:55 PM
Cleared a heap of old junk out of my personal email inbox, and completely emptied the inbox and folders for an old email address. I guess I should wait another month or so to make sure nothing important is coming through to that one.

Mr Happier agreed to turn his hangers around the wrong way to see what he never wears. He has 50 hangers of clothes; I think he could release half and still have everything he needs. I get through more clothes than he does (sweatier; more active) and I think I could release 20 of my 55 without an issue. I'm getting there slowly :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 21, 2016, 02:20:29 AM
Cleared a heap of old junk out of my personal email inbox, and completely emptied the inbox and folders for an old email address. I guess I should wait another month or so to make sure nothing important is coming through to that one.

Mr Happier agreed to turn his hangers around the wrong way to see what he never wears. He has 50 hangers of clothes; I think he could release half and still have everything he needs. I get through more clothes than he does (sweatier; more active) and I think I could release 20 of my 55 without an issue. I'm getting there slowly :-)
I should probably do this. I have 36 items on hangers. 1 wedding dress, 3 fancy dresses, 4(!) Dressing gowns/robes, then shirts/shirts/dresses/jackets. Not because I think I should get rid of any, but just to remind me to mix it up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 21, 2016, 02:50:45 AM
Cleared a heap of old junk out of my personal email inbox, and completely emptied the inbox and folders for an old email address. I guess I should wait another month or so to make sure nothing important is coming through to that one.

Mr Happier agreed to turn his hangers around the wrong way to see what he never wears. He has 50 hangers of clothes; I think he could release half and still have everything he needs. I get through more clothes than he does (sweatier; more active) and I think I could release 20 of my 55 without an issue. I'm getting there slowly :-)
I should probably do this. I have 36 items on hangers. 1 wedding dress, 3 fancy dresses, 4(!) Dressing gowns/robes, then shirts/shirts/dresses/jackets. Not because I think I should get rid of any, but just to remind me to mix it up!

It's a neat way to see what you really wear. Plus the vast majority of my clothes are hanging (only have two drawers, which are about 2/3rds full, for non-hanger items) so hangers are where cuts can be made.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 21, 2016, 03:15:48 AM
^ It is a good technique. I really culled my wardrobe and it is amazing how few items of clothing I actually like and wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 21, 2016, 03:52:26 AM
Ah, I have 3 drawers of clothes as well and maybe a drawer's worth of seasonal items (scarves, gloves, bathers). That said, I'm already pretty much done and happy with my amount :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on February 21, 2016, 07:12:08 AM
I started a new job a month ago, and I've challenged myself to wear things that I don't often wear.  Last week I found 2 items that just are annoying to wear, so they are going to go.  One is a blazer that looks great on me but I can no longer button, and the other is a sweater with a cowl neck that slides down over my shoulders.  Both are just a bit too annoying.

I'm liking this, it's showing me things in my wardrobe that just aren't working any more though they were great at one time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 21, 2016, 03:20:23 PM
It's verge collection day! We've put out two outdoor chairs that were completely beyond repair, an old wicker laundry basket that snagged my delicate clothes, an old tv from the days of tvs deeper than they were wide, and two laptops and one desktop computer all with hard drives removed for security.

The junk room is looking better!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 21, 2016, 04:26:00 PM
I finally tackled the CDs today only to realize that I have sorted them when I moved during the divorce and only kept the ones I wanted :-(  They are now sitting in a big pile on the floor in the living room and I'm too bummed to even put them back.
So what should I do with them???  There are 2 large drawerfuls. Most of them are music I really like.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on February 21, 2016, 05:46:58 PM
I finally tackled the CDs today only to realize that I have sorted them when I moved during the divorce and only kept the ones I wanted :-(  They are now sitting in a big pile on the floor in the living room and I'm too bummed to even put them back.
So what should I do with them???  There are 2 large drawerfuls. Most of them are music I really like.

I would save the songs you like to your computer or ipod or whatever in digital form an get rid of the physical copies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 21, 2016, 06:19:40 PM
Oh, and I also got rid of a filing cabinet in the bulk rubbish collection! Which I have hated ever since I first laid eyes on it. Heavy and ugly and awful. Happy to have it gone :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on February 21, 2016, 08:34:41 PM
Whomever mentioned KonMari method earlier....I love you.  I have begun KonMari'ng the heck out of the family clothing, and I started with myself. 

There is a thread on here just about that book.:)

Link: http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/mustachian-book-club/the-life-changing-art-of-tidying-up/

Thank you! I will go there to look. We finished clothing and books are 2/3 sorted. My husband hates the piles, but he does like walking in the closet easily.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 22, 2016, 04:08:44 AM
I finally tackled the CDs today only to realize that I have sorted them when I moved during the divorce and only kept the ones I wanted :-(  They are now sitting in a big pile on the floor in the living room and I'm too bummed to even put them back.
So what should I do with them???  There are 2 large drawerfuls. Most of them are music I really like.

I would save the songs you like to your computer or ipod or whatever in digital form an get rid of the physical copies.
Yes, that would be the sensible thing to do... It's going to be an overwhelming task given the number of them.  Plus, it seems I have quite an emotional attachment to a lot of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 22, 2016, 06:17:29 AM
My slippers split so I threw them out. Then I had no slippers... except we have a pile of fancy hotel slippers (many still in the wrappers) WHY? Free stuff is not free when you have to store it! I wanted to get rid of them last year, but DH wanted to keep them (and I have enough of my own stuff to work on without creating conflict).

Anyway, I started wearing the hotel slippers, as I can't throw out perfectly good stuff, and i need slippers. DH borrow my slippers a lot, and after a couple of days said, "I don't know how you can wear those, they just slide off!".

So hang on, we were keeping slippers I didn't want, and he doesn't like. Argh.

I am wearing them out (which doesn't take long since they are flimsy) and I will NEVER take free slippers again because it is a horrible waste of the worlds resources to make such 'disposable' items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 22, 2016, 07:05:36 AM
Mailed a package to Schoola filled with clothes :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 22, 2016, 10:40:35 AM
My slippers split so I threw them out. Then I had no slippers... except we have a pile of fancy hotel slippers (many still in the wrappers) WHY? Free stuff is not free when you have to store it! I wanted to get rid of them last year, but DH wanted to keep them (and I have enough of my own stuff to work on without creating conflict).

Anyway, I started wearing the hotel slippers, as I can't throw out perfectly good stuff, and i need slippers. DH borrow my slippers a lot, and after a couple of days said, "I don't know how you can wear those, they just slide off!".

So hang on, we were keeping slippers I didn't want, and he doesn't like. Argh.

I am wearing them out (which doesn't take long since they are flimsy) and I will NEVER take free slippers again because it is a horrible waste of the worlds resources to make such 'disposable' items.

Good call on the hotel items. I used to take everything, but now only the soaps, the one thing I can always make use of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 22, 2016, 05:36:22 PM
Good call on the hotel items. I used to take everything, but now only the soaps, the one thing I can always make use of.

Even those, only if I like them as much as my own stuff at home. Sometimes I think "now I know a brand to avoid". 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on February 22, 2016, 06:35:47 PM
I finally tackled the CDs today only to realize that I have sorted them when I moved during the divorce and only kept the ones I wanted :-(  They are now sitting in a big pile on the floor in the living room and I'm too bummed to even put them back.
So what should I do with them???  There are 2 large drawerfuls. Most of them are music I really like.

I would save the songs you like to your computer or ipod or whatever in digital form an get rid of the physical copies.
Yes, that would be the sensible thing to do... It's going to be an overwhelming task given the number of them.  Plus, it seems I have quite an emotional attachment to a lot of them.

My roommate has a hobby of ripping CDs to lossless (FLAC) digital...if you want to ship us all your CDs and a hard drive or adequately sized USB drive to put everything on, he'll rip them for you for free.

That won't help with the emotional attachment side, though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 23, 2016, 06:50:51 AM
Good call on the hotel items. I used to take everything, but now only the soaps, the one thing I can always make use of.

I only take soaps and shampoos when I travel for work. The hotels our company puts us at always have fabulous products. (JW Marriot has the best shampoo!) 

When I book my own travel they aren't good- cheap hotels have cheap soaps, and it drys my skin.  Not worth it.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 23, 2016, 08:29:22 AM
Good call on the hotel items. I used to take everything, but now only the soaps, the one thing I can always make use of.

Even those, only if I like them as much as my own stuff at home. Sometimes I think "now I know a brand to avoid".

Yeah, I used to take everything. I always thought, "it's good for travel!" but you know what? Everyplace we go has free toiletries if we need them. Actually, now I don't like to think of all the wasted bottles etc (even if they are recycled, it's a lot of energy), so I take small containers with the very few products I have kept.

My bathroom has benefitted the most from my purging. I use a moisturiser and facewipes, and water. Deodrant, toothpaste, lipbalm. Done. I used to buy so many lotions and potions. The simplicity is amazing, and my bathroom looks like it's out of a martha stewart magazine because it's free of all the labelled ugliness that is most toiletry packaging.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on February 23, 2016, 10:42:03 AM
Good call on the hotel items. I used to take everything, but now only the soaps, the one thing I can always make use of.

Even those, only if I like them as much as my own stuff at home. Sometimes I think "now I know a brand to avoid".

Yeah, I used to take everything. I always thought, "it's good for travel!" but you know what? Everyplace we go has free toiletries if we need them. Actually, now I don't like to think of all the wasted bottles etc (even if they are recycled, it's a lot of energy), so I take small containers with the very few products I have kept.

My bathroom has benefitted the most from my purging. I use a moisturiser and facewipes, and water. Deodrant, toothpaste, lipbalm. Done. I used to buy so many lotions and potions. The simplicity is amazing, and my bathroom looks like it's out of a martha stewart magazine because it's free of all the labelled ugliness that is most toiletry packaging.

Another "free!" convert here! I ended up with a basket full of those hotel freebies that I also hardly used, so I too stopped taking the little hotel bottles home. I find that they're never (or rather, rarely) better than my own stuff. Though I am going through a "use it up" challenge this year to use up all of my lotions, body washes, etc. Surprisingly, I don't really stockpile full size shampoo and conditioner, but I do have some of those hotel bottles still floating around so before I repurchase those necessities, I will just use those up and maybe keep ONE set for when I truly do use them, such as traveling to visit my parents.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 23, 2016, 06:59:33 PM
Another car load out - literally, the whole of the back of a Mazda 3 hatchback, with the seats down.  4 boxes, many bags, 2 cork boards, a sleeping bag.  Nice to have all the stuff out of the front hall.  That is 2 car loads and 3 animal crates so far.  It hurts to say this, but this was the easy stuff.  Now I need to hunt a little harder.  I have also discovered that I was doing a lot of "but I might use this some day" thinking, which is stupid.  Someone else can use this stuff now, and if I need it in the future, none of it was incredibly special or hard to get - I can hit a thrift shop and replace it. 

We are expecting about 10 cm of snow tomorrow, perfect time to hit the kitchen and then start on the basement.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on February 24, 2016, 12:38:37 PM
Got rid of a huge black trash bag full of expired food and empty snack boxes, etc. from the pantry.  Moved all the flour from the 25 lb bags into smaller containers.  Threw all the 1/16 of a box of cereal into baggies and got rid of the Costco sized boxes.  Gave myself permission to throw out the open flax seed my dear sister brought last summer and the opened gluten free flour she brought as well. We aren't gluten free and no one nearby is either....yes I should have given it to someone who needs it, but if I haven't done it since last summer it isn't going to happen. 

My mother in law brings over 2 jars of canned fruit every time she visits - we probably have 25 jars of canned fruit from the last 5 months dinner visits.  We like fresh fruit, but she won't take hers home.  I need to donate this ASAP...or start sucking it up and eating canned fruit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on February 24, 2016, 01:05:30 PM
Decided to donate the ice cream/fro yo/sorbet maker and helmet mentioned on a prior page, a toaster oven, and printer with toner to a local Boy Scout fundraiser yard sale.  Perhaps they'll have better luck selling the items than I did online.  DH insists on keeping a 4 slice toaster, because "he likes toast".  The problem is, we don't usually buy bread, and we haven't used the toaster in years.  Oh, well.  Baby steps.

Last weekend I started focusing on the hall closet:  Threw away two pairs of gloves, put one pair in the donate pile, washed two jackets to drop off at the thrift store, folded up to snail mail a vest back to a certain volunteer group I quit years ago.  Space clearing is my new cardio, LOL.

My ultimate goal is to buy matching labeled fabric storage cubes for the closet to hold items in a unified neat manner:  Light bulbs, ATV gear, gloves/scarves/hats, errand items, and small misc (extra candles, sunglasses, etc).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on February 24, 2016, 02:38:39 PM

My ultimate goal is to buy matching labeled fabric storage cubes for the closet to hold items in a unified neat manner:  Light bulbs, ATV gear, gloves/scarves/hats, errand items, and small misc (extra candles, sunglasses, etc).

By all means buy what you want... But I recently made myself half a dozen or so cube storage boxes. I took cardboard from the neighbors recycling when I ran out of Amazon boxes and covered them with fabric I had around. It was shockingly simple to get something that looks nice. I just used a glue stick to attach the fabric. I added a couple handles I had to some.  This fabric was pretty to look at but cheap and not good enough for quilting.  They won't last more than a few years and won't fold flat to move but they were almost free. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on February 24, 2016, 11:06:16 PM
A few months ago, while cleaning out the paperwork drawer, I came across a settlement doc for I don't remember what- for a vehicle safety issue? Anyway, I found it a few days before the expiration of action, and sent it in. Just today I received a check in the mail for......... drumroll. $157. Awesome.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 25, 2016, 05:10:36 AM

My ultimate goal is to buy matching labeled fabric storage cubes for the closet to hold items in a unified neat manner:  Light bulbs, ATV gear, gloves/scarves/hats, errand items, and small misc (extra candles, sunglasses, etc).

By all means buy what you want... But I recently made myself half a dozen or so cube storage boxes. I took cardboard from the neighbors recycling when I ran out of Amazon boxes and covered them with fabric I had around. It was shockingly simple to get something that looks nice. I just used a glue stick to attach the fabric. I added a couple handles I had to some.  This fabric was pretty to look at but cheap and not good enough for quilting.  They won't last more than a few years and won't fold flat to move but they were almost free.

I've made my own too. Step by step tutorial I used here: http://www.iheartorganizing.com/2012/03/pretty-pretty-diy-fabric-boxes-link.html (http://www.iheartorganizing.com/2012/03/pretty-pretty-diy-fabric-boxes-link.html)

You can obviously make it simpler by leaving off handles etc. I went to a local discount fabric store and bought the cheapest nicely patterned stuff I could find. Worked out much cheaper than purchasing, and honestly, they've been very durable since I chose a sturdy box to start with, and made sure all seams were well taped before covering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 27, 2016, 03:14:43 PM
Yesterday we went through two drawers in our bathroom. Got rid of a small bag of out of date medicines and creams (DH will take to our local pharmacist for disposal). I also rearranged the main medicine drawer so that every box was lined up on its edge with the name sticking up. That way we can see at a glance what meds we already have on hand before we buy anything new. Huzzah!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sonos on February 27, 2016, 05:59:34 PM
If you live in the Seattle area, there is a new company that will pick up your stuff, sell it for you (or donate it if it doesn't sell), and then send you a check:

http://stuffhopper.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/stuffhopper-seattle

We haven't used them yet, but plan to in a few months. For us, paying to have someone else handle it all is worth it.

FYI, I know about this company because some guy was dressed as a kangaroo in downtown Seattle passing out fliers :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on February 29, 2016, 01:25:36 PM
Decided to donate the ice cream/fro yo/sorbet maker and helmet mentioned on a prior page, a toaster oven, and printer with toner to a local Boy Scout fundraiser yard sale.  Perhaps they'll have better luck selling the items than I did online.  DH insists on keeping a 4 slice toaster, because "he likes toast".  The problem is, we don't usually buy bread, and we haven't used the toaster in years.  Oh, well.  Baby steps.

Last weekend I started focusing on the hall closet:  Threw away two pairs of gloves, put one pair in the donate pile, washed two jackets to drop off at the thrift store, folded up to snail mail a vest back to a certain volunteer group I quit years ago.  Space clearing is my new cardio, LOL.

My ultimate goal is to buy matching labeled fabric storage cubes for the closet to hold items in a unified neat manner:  Light bulbs, ATV gear, gloves/scarves/hats, errand items, and small misc (extra candles, sunglasses, etc).

Church thrift store donation dropped off this morning!  What a fantastic feeling to get the items out of the dining room, and out of my life.  Along with the two laundered coats and gloves, the donation included a 5 LB bag of unopened flour from Christmas baking, a box of Uncle Ben's rice (a recent freebie at the grocery store), and a pair of never worn slippers from Christmas, lamp and hair accessories mentioned on a previous page.

I plan on counting my penguin bank coins soon.  If/when the total is over $20, I'm going to donate it to the thrift store's food bank.

The Boy Scout fundraiser items will leave my life this Thursday.  :)  Haven't mailed the volunteer vest yet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on February 29, 2016, 03:18:41 PM
I bagged up a bunch of stuff last night.  This weekend I'm planning to hit our kitchen.  I've purged every other area.  I'm excited!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 29, 2016, 05:55:05 PM
We chucked a set of cutlery I found annoying to use! It had a chrome-plated section between the metal useful bit and the plastic handle. All the chrome had worn off and things tended to get stuck in the joins. Now my drawer closes easily! I'm also way less bothered by my cupboards now that the cutlery drawer works.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 01, 2016, 05:51:36 AM
One large white plastic bag of paper to the shredder. Three beach towels and one hand towel to the Humane Society along with 8 large cans of dog food my dog can't eat. I'm up to paper on the KonMari method - she is obviously a single lady without kids or lots of cars/houses. I dream of electronic receipt scanning, but I am not there yet. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on March 02, 2016, 01:43:27 PM
I've been focused on other stuff for the last month or so but need to redouble my efforts this weekend.  Clothes, household goods, shoes, etc.  For some reason, my mindset has been strange in the last couple of weeks and I'm having a very hard time letting go of things.  Hopefully, it's temporary.  Need to find some new motivation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 02, 2016, 06:16:34 PM
Today I moved DH's entire filing cabinet full of 2007-2008 information to two file boxes in the basement.  He's "not ready" to go through them yet, and I know there is nothing in there I need/want.  In my mind, they are just waiting to be put in the trash.  These boxes are now labeled with his name and the information of what is inside.  I keep saying if he dies first, I'm not opening any boxes that have his name in front of them - I will just throw them out!  If I die first, it's his problem! If we both die together, the kids know what I'm doing and they'll throw all them out. Really he's a packrat.

With the rest of the filing cabinet drawers, I went through every receipt from 2015 and all the files.  I got it down to house improvement receipts, health savings account reimbursement receipts, and tax receipts.  Each child has a medical file I pared down significantly.  I have another white trash bag of shredding.  Now the 4 filing cabinet drawers have been reduced to 1/2 of a filing cabinet drawer.  I am amazed that I was keeping so much excess paperwork. Why was I doing that to myself??? Mind you there are 10 years worth of annual files in the basement still to go.....This will be the never ending paper project.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: serpentstooth on March 02, 2016, 07:25:14 PM
Today I moved DH's entire filing cabinet full of 2007-2008 information to two file boxes in the basement.  He's "not ready" to go through them yet, and I know there is nothing in there I need/want.  In my mind, they are just waiting to be put in the trash.  These boxes are now labeled with his name and the information of what is inside.  I keep saying if he dies first, I'm not opening any boxes that have his name in front of them - I will just throw them out!  If I die first, it's his problem! If we both die together, the kids know what I'm doing and they'll throw all them out. Really he's a packrat.

With the rest of the filing cabinet drawers, I went through every receipt from 2015 and all the files.  I got it down to house improvement receipts, health savings account reimbursement receipts, and tax receipts.  Each child has a medical file I pared down significantly.  I have another white trash bag of shredding.  Now the 4 filing cabinet drawers have been reduced to 1/2 of a filing cabinet drawer.  I am amazed that I was keeping so much excess paperwork. Why was I doing that to myself??? Mind you there are 10 years worth of annual files in the basement still to go.....This will be the never ending paper project.

My husband has scads of work generated paper, and what really helped him was this: Every time I found paper, I'd throw it into a laundry basket. A couple inches would accumulate (no more) and I'd hand it to him when he had a free moment and ask him to sort through it right then. It would take like 10 minutes, wasn't overwhelming, and he threw away nearly all of it. It took longer than I would have liked, but it all got done and I don't have random piles around the apartment now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 03, 2016, 07:44:32 AM
Something similar to serpentstooth strategy solved my problem with DH accumulating papers. Once he realised I was regularly going to get him to go through them, suddenly picking up a catalogue at the hardware store no longer seemed like such a good idea. He's also stopped bringing home work paperwork (though I never understood why he did! Surely you either need it at the office... or you don't need it. He never worked from home).

So I was trying to sort the piles, but it's actually stopped the piles coming in now. I hadn't really noticed until I thought about it just now; I must remember to thank him tonight.

I also went through old credit card statements and set them aside for burning. It worked well when we ran out of firelights, so I used the statements instead :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 03, 2016, 08:18:29 AM
Today I moved DH's entire filing cabinet full of 2007-2008 information to two file boxes in the basement.  He's "not ready" to go through them yet, and I know there is nothing in there I need/want.  In my mind, they are just waiting to be put in the trash.  These boxes are now labeled with his name and the information of what is inside.  I keep saying if he dies first, I'm not opening any boxes that have his name in front of them - I will just throw them out!  If I die first, it's his problem! If we both die together, the kids know what I'm doing and they'll throw all them out. Really he's a packrat.

With the rest of the filing cabinet drawers, I went through every receipt from 2015 and all the files.  I got it down to house improvement receipts, health savings account reimbursement receipts, and tax receipts.  Each child has a medical file I pared down significantly.  I have another white trash bag of shredding.  Now the 4 filing cabinet drawers have been reduced to 1/2 of a filing cabinet drawer.  I am amazed that I was keeping so much excess paperwork. Why was I doing that to myself??? Mind you there are 10 years worth of annual files in the basement still to go.....This will be the never ending paper project.

My husband has scads of work generated paper, and what really helped him was this: Every time I found paper, I'd throw it into a laundry basket. A couple inches would accumulate (no more) and I'd hand it to him when he had a free moment and ask him to sort through it right then. It would take like 10 minutes, wasn't overwhelming, and he threw away nearly all of it. It took longer than I would have liked, but it all got done and I don't have random piles around the apartment now.

Good idea!  I have to remember that, although I'll bet he will balk.  We tried that with his office downstairs when we moved it upstairs.  I gave up and just boxed it up.  You are right that whole box is overwhelming, but a few inches at a time might be doable.  Maybe 3 folders at a time?  I'll have to think about that once I get through my OWN piles of waste and paper. Insert embarrassed face.

Something similar to serpentstooth strategy solved my problem with DH accumulating papers. Once he realised I was regularly going to get him to go through them, suddenly picking up a catalogue at the hardware store no longer seemed like such a good idea. He's also stopped bringing home work paperwork (though I never understood why he did! Surely you either need it at the office... or you don't need it. He never worked from home).

So I was trying to sort the piles, but it's actually stopped the piles coming in now. I hadn't really noticed until I thought about it just now; I must remember to thank him tonight.

I also went through old credit card statements and set them aside for burning. It worked well when we ran out of firelights, so I used the statements instead :)

My DH is in avoidance mode....And he tends to bring in papers in chunks - usually with job changes.  He hasn't had a job change in 8 years, and all the old paperwork from his old job is still here in the house.  He might "need" it someday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on March 03, 2016, 01:10:02 PM
I got rid of a flannel shirt that was too small and realized that leaves with exactly 2 items in all of my wardrobe that are colored (they are both red). Everything else ranges from white to black with a few dark green pieces mixed in.

I actually am now considering getting rid of those red tops since it would be kinda cool to have such minimal wardrobe in color and amount. Plus, I never have to worry about something not matching.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ender on March 04, 2016, 06:09:13 AM
I have seen this thread in my "recent new posts" view for a long time and always felt guilty since I love the idea but am apparently a complete hypocrite about actually doing anything about it.

We now have a pile of goodwill clothes from my closet! And I sold my old computer and a pair of headphones on Craigslist last week.

We're moving this summer (from a 1BR so not that crazy) and got married right before moving here, so we have a lot of stuff we should purge.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 04, 2016, 06:09:52 AM
Today I moved DH's entire filing cabinet full of 2007-2008 information to two file boxes in the basement.  He's "not ready" to go through them yet, and I know there is nothing in there I need/want.  In my mind, they are just waiting to be put in the trash.  These boxes are now labeled with his name and the information of what is inside.  I keep saying if he dies first, I'm not opening any boxes that have his name in front of them - I will just throw them out!  If I die first, it's his problem! If we both die together, the kids know what I'm doing and they'll throw all them out. Really he's a packrat.

With the rest of the filing cabinet drawers, I went through every receipt from 2015 and all the files.  I got it down to house improvement receipts, health savings account reimbursement receipts, and tax receipts.  Each child has a medical file I pared down significantly.  I have another white trash bag of shredding.  Now the 4 filing cabinet drawers have been reduced to 1/2 of a filing cabinet drawer.  I am amazed that I was keeping so much excess paperwork. Why was I doing that to myself??? Mind you there are 10 years worth of annual files in the basement still to go.....This will be the never ending paper project.

My husband has scads of work generated paper, and what really helped him was this: Every time I found paper, I'd throw it into a laundry basket. A couple inches would accumulate (no more) and I'd hand it to him when he had a free moment and ask him to sort through it right then. It would take like 10 minutes, wasn't overwhelming, and he threw away nearly all of it. It took longer than I would have liked, but it all got done and I don't have random piles around the apartment now.

Good idea!  I have to remember that, although I'll bet he will balk.  We tried that with his office downstairs when we moved it upstairs.  I gave up and just boxed it up.  You are right that whole box is overwhelming, but a few inches at a time might be doable.  Maybe 3 folders at a time?  I'll have to think about that once I get through my OWN piles of waste and paper. Insert embarrassed face.

Something similar to serpentstooth strategy solved my problem with DH accumulating papers. Once he realised I was regularly going to get him to go through them, suddenly picking up a catalogue at the hardware store no longer seemed like such a good idea. He's also stopped bringing home work paperwork (though I never understood why he did! Surely you either need it at the office... or you don't need it. He never worked from home).

So I was trying to sort the piles, but it's actually stopped the piles coming in now. I hadn't really noticed until I thought about it just now; I must remember to thank him tonight.

I also went through old credit card statements and set them aside for burning. It worked well when we ran out of firelights, so I used the statements instead :)

My DH is in avoidance mode....And he tends to bring in papers in chunks - usually with job changes.  He hasn't had a job change in 8 years, and all the old paperwork from his old job is still here in the house.  He might "need" it someday.

I know you know this from the 'embarrassed face' but I've got to say, that whilst I have got my DH on board as I said, it only happened -after- I'd take care of my own cr*p. Sorry. Marie Kondo was right when she said if you're focussing on other people you've got stuff to take care of - for me, at least.

I worked on ONLY my own stuff for a year, and I realised actually, DH's two tiny piles were nothing. Getting my stuff down made a huge difference, and then he naturally wanted to follow suit when he saw how much nicer our house looked and how much easier our lives were.

It was easy for me to focus on, "There's no point! DH just leaves catalogues everywhere anyway!", but when I decided just to do my stuff, and did it, the whole house changed. It got so tidy and organised the papers stuck out like a sore thumb and he was happy to tackle them. He was probably thinking, "there's no point! DW has crap everywhere!" all along!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 04, 2016, 06:10:32 AM
I have seen this thread in my "recent new posts" view for a long time and always felt guilty since I love the idea but am apparently a complete hypocrite about actually doing anything about it.

We now have a pile of goodwill clothes from my closet! And I sold my old computer and a pair of headphones on Craigslist last week.

We're moving this summer (from a 1BR so not that crazy) and got married right before moving here, so we have a lot of stuff we should purge.

A thousand mile journey starts with a single step! Welcome! Soon you'll be addicted like the rest of us.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 04, 2016, 06:43:54 AM
Today I moved DH's entire filing cabinet full of 2007-2008 information to two file boxes in the basement.  He's "not ready" to go through them yet, and I know there is nothing in there I need/want.  In my mind, they are just waiting to be put in the trash.  These boxes are now labeled with his name and the information of what is inside.  I keep saying if he dies first, I'm not opening any boxes that have his name in front of them - I will just throw them out!  If I die first, it's his problem! If we both die together, the kids know what I'm doing and they'll throw all them out. Really he's a packrat.

With the rest of the filing cabinet drawers, I went through every receipt from 2015 and all the files.  I got it down to house improvement receipts, health savings account reimbursement receipts, and tax receipts.  Each child has a medical file I pared down significantly.  I have another white trash bag of shredding.  Now the 4 filing cabinet drawers have been reduced to 1/2 of a filing cabinet drawer.  I am amazed that I was keeping so much excess paperwork. Why was I doing that to myself??? Mind you there are 10 years worth of annual files in the basement still to go.....This will be the never ending paper project.

My husband has scads of work generated paper, and what really helped him was this: Every time I found paper, I'd throw it into a laundry basket. A couple inches would accumulate (no more) and I'd hand it to him when he had a free moment and ask him to sort through it right then. It would take like 10 minutes, wasn't overwhelming, and he threw away nearly all of it. It took longer than I would have liked, but it all got done and I don't have random piles around the apartment now.

Good idea!  I have to remember that, although I'll bet he will balk.  We tried that with his office downstairs when we moved it upstairs.  I gave up and just boxed it up.  You are right that whole box is overwhelming, but a few inches at a time might be doable.  Maybe 3 folders at a time?  I'll have to think about that once I get through my OWN piles of waste and paper. Insert embarrassed face.

Something similar to serpentstooth strategy solved my problem with DH accumulating papers. Once he realised I was regularly going to get him to go through them, suddenly picking up a catalogue at the hardware store no longer seemed like such a good idea. He's also stopped bringing home work paperwork (though I never understood why he did! Surely you either need it at the office... or you don't need it. He never worked from home).

So I was trying to sort the piles, but it's actually stopped the piles coming in now. I hadn't really noticed until I thought about it just now; I must remember to thank him tonight.

I also went through old credit card statements and set them aside for burning. It worked well when we ran out of firelights, so I used the statements instead :)

My DH is in avoidance mode....And he tends to bring in papers in chunks - usually with job changes.  He hasn't had a job change in 8 years, and all the old paperwork from his old job is still here in the house.  He might "need" it someday.

I know you know this from the 'embarrassed face' but I've got to say, that whilst I have got my DH on board as I said, it only happened -after- I'd take care of my own cr*p. Sorry. Marie Kondo was right when she said if you're focussing on other people you've got stuff to take care of - for me, at least.

I worked on ONLY my own stuff for a year, and I realised actually, DH's two tiny piles were nothing. Getting my stuff down made a huge difference, and then he naturally wanted to follow suit when he saw how much nicer our house looked and how much easier our lives were.

It was easy for me to focus on, "There's no point! DH just leaves catalogues everywhere anyway!", but when I decided just to do my stuff, and did it, the whole house changed. It got so tidy and organised the papers stuck out like a sore thumb and he was happy to tackle them. He was probably thinking, "there's no point! DW has crap everywhere!" all along!

I'm glad I won't be the only one it takes a really long time.  The hard part is sticking to paper....I look in cabinets and want to do that instead because the remaining paper is in the basement where I don't really see it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MickeyMoustache on March 04, 2016, 07:24:24 AM
We're doing this in our household, ongoing.  It's really a liberating feeling as you empty out.  Here's the list of things we're liquidating:

Sell List

Donate List

Feels good man.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on March 04, 2016, 11:21:58 AM
Maybe I should prioritize decluttering my bicycles and bike parts first.
Spent some time on those yesterday....

.... and some more decluttering of my big bicycle parts bin (box actually) done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 04, 2016, 11:47:07 AM
I have seen this thread in my "recent new posts" view for a long time and always felt guilty since I love the idea but am apparently a complete hypocrite about actually doing anything about it.

We now have a pile of goodwill clothes from my closet! And I sold my old computer and a pair of headphones on Craigslist last week.

We're moving this summer (from a 1BR so not that crazy) and got married right before moving here, so we have a lot of stuff we should purge.

Excellent start.
Moving is always a great motivator to declutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 04, 2016, 03:01:19 PM
Today's accomplishments:

1) Phone books - school phone books from the past 11 years purged to only the current one.  Church picture phone books from 2004 and 2008 and 2012 also purged.  Regular phone books sent away (I google everything and if I were desperate, I could always ask a neighbor.)

2) Greeting cards/TY cards/envelopes - all moved and sorted into one central location.

3) Coupons/coupon catalogs - (HUGE effort for me - look at my handle...) ;-)

Lots and lots of things purged today. Thank you employer for giving me the afternoon off today - it's National Employee Appreciation Day!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 05, 2016, 05:25:32 AM
I have a pool table in my basement, because the previous owners left it.  They are a glut here, people bought them years ago, and then just leave them because it is not worth it to them to move them.  So, HOW DID YOU SELL YOURS???  Sorry for the yell, but here I am more likely to have to pay someone to take mine away (so that means I will probably leave it for the next owner)

We're doing this in our household, ongoing.  It's really a liberating feeling as you empty out.  Here's the list of things we're liquidating:

Sell List

  • Pool table (+$800)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MickeyMoustache on March 05, 2016, 06:16:46 AM
I have a pool table in my basement, because the previous owners left it.  They are a glut here, people bought them years ago, and then just leave them because it is not worth it to them to move them.  So, HOW DID YOU SELL YOURS???  Sorry for the yell, but here I am more likely to have to pay someone to take mine away (so that means I will probably leave it for the next owner)

We're doing this in our household, ongoing.  It's really a liberating feeling as you empty out.  Here's the list of things we're liquidating:

Sell List

  • Pool table (+$800)


Haha, best part is, its basically what I paid for it 5 years earlier, and the guy I bought it from delivered it to me while the buy this time paid to have it moved!  Crazy.  Anyway, here's the story:

I listed it on craigslist with 10 good clear pictures for $900, it really was a nice 8', 1"slate table.  A week later I lowered it to $800 and got a call a couple days later from a guy who was reeeeeeeeeally interested in the table.  He came over the next day with his wife (45 minute drive)  to look at it which at this point was in pieces to make a move easier.  He had tourettes (the swearing version) and said he was on disability and just played pool all day and wanted to upgrade.  He didn't haggle at all and seemed really worried that someone else might buy it from me so he put a cash deposit down and then hired a mover to take it out of my basement.  He seemed confused when I included 4 sticks, a set of balls, a cover, a stick stand, and racks.  So in the end I have to chalk it up to luck, honestly.  I guess you just have to have patience and price it well.

Also, that was the first time I've ever encountered the swearing version of tourettes, that was an interesting experience.  I hope he is enjoying the table!  I probably used it 10x in 5 years.  Talk about a waste of space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 05, 2016, 08:34:36 AM
So I took advantage of an end of winter sale to get a nice dark gray down parka.  This will replace a puffier down jacket that is way too big since I bought it when I was 50# heavier, and a white ski jacket that I've barely worn because well, it's white and I gave up on my aspiration to become a skier.  It could also potentially replace a wool type coat that I wear to the office most of the winter, but I still really like that coat, so I'm loathe to give it up, even though in reality I'll probably just wear the much lighter (as in weight, not warmth) down coat from now on.  So my challenge this weekend is to decide what to do with the two (potentially three) very nice coats I no longer have a need for.  It's getting a little late in the year to sell ski stuff, but I want it out of the closet.

So far, I've identified two things that I regret getting rid of:  some pegboard scrap, which last night I realized I could have made into plant presses to be used for a work project, and secondly, a padded netbook case because I'm now traveling with two tablet computers, and they would have nested in there perfectly.  Pretty dang minor considering the large amount of crap I've gotten rid of, and totally worth it for the end game.  I got home from a work trip at midnight last night and it was nice walking into an organized garage and really seeing nothing out of place in the house, so I didn't go to sleep thinking of the massive organization task ahead for the weekend (not that I don't still have a bit more to do).  The donation box fill rate has really declined, so I think I'm getting near the end of this process for the time-being.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 05, 2016, 08:13:12 PM
Continued progress, but slow. Today I cleaned the spice cabinet. I mostly identified missing or old spices.  I also purged the recipe binder and one 3"stack of school papers.

I bought a 3qt saucepan and a wallet today. The 3qt I accidentally put on the stove but forgot to put water in it. It was 19 years old, and the new one was $25 and I used a gift card. I bought the same brand because it got used almost daily for 19 years (and my old steamer insert still fits it). My old wallet fell in the toilet about 6 mo ago (ew)....I'd been using plastic bags since then!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on March 06, 2016, 03:39:05 AM
Packed another large bag for donation yesterday: couple of table cloths, 2 pairs of curtains, some clothes and other miscellaneous things.  Returned 2 pairs of shoes, a handbag and a blouse that I bought on a whim and didn't really need.  Pulled 7 volumes of dictionaries and 2 law school books off the bookshelf and trying to decide what do do with them.  The dictionaries I had since college (late 1980s) and the law school books are the only 2 I kept as they relate to my practice area.  But I've been practicing 17 years now and never looked at them.  Time for them to go, just not sure where :-)

I will keep on going today since I seem to be on a roll...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on March 06, 2016, 04:52:13 AM
Two weeks till the movers arrive and we leave the country.

I have been throwing stuff away steadily and trying to work down the food/household/toiletry supplies. Only fresh food is being bought now and we will make some random meals with what is in the cupboards and the fridge/freezer.

I have gotten to the point though, where I am wondering what else to throw out or donate. The moving companies indicated that we did not have a lot of stuff and I was secretly pleased by that :)

All that is left to do is donate some more clothes but I want to keep wearing them to the end. I will be throwing out some kitchen supplies/equipment at the end too. Being more of a minimalist does make moving easier!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on March 06, 2016, 05:00:14 AM
We were searching for a good Lego storage option, and Pinterest delivered nicely - a lack IKEA table (we already have one) and properly sized plastic boxes! Just need to buy two more bexes and it's all going to be easy to use!

This was only possible because I cleared out several books and rearranged a bookshelf to take up the stuff that was being dumped on the coffee table. Never could have done this 6 months ago.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on March 06, 2016, 08:30:33 AM
Gave away a few random toys that I was saving from my kids' childhood in case I have grandchildren. A program for refugees was looking for toys, so it felt like the right time to let them go, even though they had sentimental value.

Also cleaned up an old sandwich toaster and added that to the give away box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 06, 2016, 10:10:28 AM
A bag of miscellaneous computer cables, mice and a keyboard off to Goodwill.  I try to be realistic in what is still usable and not give them stuff that is completely obsolete (parallel port printer cable anyone?).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on March 06, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
We got rid of a chair and towel my boyfriend really hates. He hates the towel because it's too scratchy and the chair because somehow it's always in his way (?).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LaineyAZ on March 06, 2016, 04:48:02 PM
thank goodness for Bulk Trash Pickup every quarter.  I put out an intermittently working vacuum cleaner and an old iron (still works) and both were snatched up.

It's surprisingly hard to donate magazines though.  I have a pile of clean, recent ones (gift subscriptions) but our library and local thrift stores don't accept them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on March 06, 2016, 05:52:36 PM
I have donated magazines to the hospital in the past.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on March 07, 2016, 08:48:56 AM
It's surprisingly hard to donate magazines though.  I have a pile of clean, recent ones (gift subscriptions) but our library and local thrift stores don't accept them.

Depending on the magazine topic and number of pictures, schools and after school activities can use them for crafts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prodigal Daughter on March 07, 2016, 09:56:55 AM
Oh man, I just had a great weekend. Despite waking up Sunday feeling totally tired because of a bout of insomnia in the middle of the night, I got a lot done!

Last week my parents brought me a love seat they were no longer using. I waited to move things around until I had time to make my kids clean out and around the old love seat. (If I could ban NERDS candy from the planet, I would. Luckily the Valentines candy seems to have been consumed and we get a break - for a few months.) So yesterday I hauled my old love seat out to the curb. I'm really hoping someone takes it. My neighborhood is a great place to just put furniture outside and have it disappear. But this old sofa does have attached back cushions and one of them is ripping off, so I'm not sure it will be taken. If it isn't gone by tonight, I'm going to have to haul it to the garage until I can borrow a truck to take it to the dump.

A few weeks ago my microwave shorted out and just stopped working. So I hauled that across my alley to the dumpster. I occasionally use the apartment complex dumpster behind my house because of the massive amount of garbage that blows out of it and into my driveway that I end up picking up - I figure it's an even trade. I also cleared off and wiped down the microwave cart and also got rid of a popcorn popper that we just don't use and got rid of some other junk on the cart shelves.

Back in the living room the cheap little area rug that I inherited from my sister a few years ago got rolled up and also brought to the dumpster. It served its purpose in keeping the beige-y tan carpet underneath from taking all the dirt. It's a high traffic area so I will probably seek out a new rug for that area until I redo the floors in a few years, but this current rug was a bad colorblock pattern that really showed dirt easily and was just not in great condition anymore.

I'm feeling pretty good about getting rid of those big ticket items. Here's hoping the sofa is actually gone when I get home today! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on March 07, 2016, 11:23:08 AM
If it isn't gone by tonight, I'm going to have to haul it to the garage until I can borrow a truck to take it to the dump.
In my area you can put a sofa out with the normal trash, and as long as you submit a request at least 24h in advance online, it'll be taken with the regular trash pickup. They don't normally have the capacity for furniture pickups, but if you give them a heads up, they'll do it for free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 07, 2016, 12:04:49 PM
It's surprisingly hard to donate magazines though.  I have a pile of clean, recent ones (gift subscriptions) but our library and local thrift stores don't accept them.

Depending on the magazine topic and number of pictures, schools and after school activities can use them for crafts.

I post some good finds from magazines on my walls- odd and beautiful pictures . I donate the rest to a "  by donation " bookstore , I used to donate to my place of work- a beauty salon, but we are so inundated with free mag subcriptions there (where I take the slight few I ever want to browse!) & am constantly downsizing the ever growing stacks.
I also keep for reference certain informative pages pertaining to health/dietary/and extreme diet trends & life of a fashion designer, for my own personal interest, that I periodically review . for me it's like the trashy chick lit I sometimes consume. A reminder of the insane compulsive life & ridiculous laps of luxury.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on March 07, 2016, 12:35:01 PM
I have seen this thread in my "recent new posts" view for a long time and always felt guilty since I love the idea but am apparently a complete hypocrite about actually doing anything about it.

We now have a pile of goodwill clothes from my closet! And I sold my old computer and a pair of headphones on Craigslist last week.

We're moving this summer (from a 1BR so not that crazy) and got married right before moving here, so we have a lot of stuff we should purge.
I know how you feel!  I was doing really well cleaning out our house last year, but I've stalled out.  I did bag up a bunch of stuff a few weekends ago, but the bag is still in the guest bedroom.  My goal for March is to clean out the guest bedroom.  This will take getting my DH on board too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 07, 2016, 02:23:31 PM
Another 3" stack of papers this morning plus a bag full of folded receipts.  DD10 actually was the one to do the 3" stack of school papers this morning.  I was super proud of her, as she only kept about 10 items from her stack. This will be my rinse and repeat line for about the next 6 months....I have SO MUCH PAPER.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: relena on March 07, 2016, 04:53:06 PM
finally donated our dog crate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 08, 2016, 03:55:56 PM
Decluttering fail. I sold a foot massager on Craigslist, but the buyer decided it was too noisy after she'd gone home with it, even though she was perfectly happy with it when she tested it out at my place. So now she's going to drive back on Friday to return it. I don't really mind, since she's the one doing the driving, but that's a lot of 40min drives for a $60 machine....

I really try to avoid CL at all costs.  The good thing about ebay is never really have to deal with buyer's remorse.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: robtown on March 08, 2016, 04:20:38 PM
I gleaned a dozen items   (e.g. blood pressure cuff, label maker, 10 DVDs, HD action cam) from my office.  Rather than throw them out I listed them on a recycle facebook forum for $1 to $10.   Example $2 for 10 DVD batch.   

It is amazing how flaky participants of these forums can be.    I prefer to get the items into hands of people who want them and will use them   but I think a quick trip to a Goodwill drop off site is in order.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ohsnap on March 09, 2016, 07:47:08 AM
I donated my wedding dress today!

...

Good for you!  I need to do this on my next thrift store trip.  My young-adult daughter has no interest in my outdated dress!  And I'm tired of looking at the box in the closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ohsnap on March 09, 2016, 07:54:10 AM
I need a face punch, kick in the pants, or something... please tell me to unload this stuff:  I'm a runner and have collected probably dozens of shirts from races as well as purchases (mostly clearance or thrift-store, so not a lot of $ spent at least).  I have an entire small roll-aboard suitcase on the top shelf of my closet stuffed with them!  I've kept them because I have actually taken some of these excess shirts when I travel and after wearing, I toss them instead of carrying home wet stinky running clothes.  But seriously, how many throw-aways do I need?  (We travel a lot but I think I've done that exactly 3 times).  Also, the suitcase is a small old extra one that someone gave us that I'd like to toss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EllieStan on March 09, 2016, 03:52:48 PM
These past weeks I've been reading Marie Kondo's (e-)book and though I am not aggressively throwing stuff in bags, I've progressed a lot in my decluttering. I've emptied a book shelf, a DVD shelf and a 2-drawers filing cabinet (I've kept 5 files, which will move to my spouse's cabinet and we will sell this one). I've already prepared donation boxes and ads on Kijiji.

Which brings me to my next question. Maybe it's weird, but do you even respond to people who answer your ads let's say, more than casually? I don't know if I over-analyze things, but even though I ask for people to please contact me by email, most often than not, I don't even get a ''hello'', ''please'' and ''thanks''. I find it so rude! It makes me want to hit ''delete''. I don't know... I feel insecure about giving my email adress, phone number or address to people I don't know. When they don't act at least a bit polite/civilized, I feel... I don't know, threatened in a way? Like they're being aggressive towards me. I don't know how to explain.

Maybe I should just donate stuff and be done with it. :/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EllieStan on March 09, 2016, 04:01:52 PM
I need a face punch, kick in the pants, or something... please tell me to unload this stuff:  I'm a runner and have collected probably dozens of shirts from races as well as purchases (mostly clearance or thrift-store, so not a lot of $ spent at least).  I have an entire small roll-aboard suitcase on the top shelf of my closet stuffed with them!  I've kept them because I have actually taken some of these excess shirts when I travel and after wearing, I toss them instead of carrying home wet stinky running clothes.  But seriously, how many throw-aways do I need?  (We travel a lot but I think I've done that exactly 3 times).  Also, the suitcase is a small old extra one that someone gave us that I'd like to toss.

I've grown to like the idea of taking a picture of things I cling to (even though I never use them and forget they even exist). You could do that as a way to remember each of these races. If you want to keep a few shirts just in case, I'd suggest keeping your favourite 3 (or less). It's enough to get you through a weekend or 3-4 days without laundry. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on March 09, 2016, 04:12:17 PM
These past weeks I've been reading Marie Kondo's (e-)book and though I am not aggressively throwing stuff in bags, I've progressed a lot in my decluttering. I've emptied a book shelf, a DVD shelf and a 2-drawers filing cabinet (I've kept 5 files, which will move to my spouse's cabinet and we will sell this one). I've already prepared donation boxes and ads on Kijiji.

Which brings me to my next question. Maybe it's weird, but do you even respond to people who answer your ads let's say, more than casually? I don't know if I over-analyze things, but even though I ask for people to please contact me by email, most often than not, I don't even get a ''hello'', ''please'' and ''thanks''. I find it so rude! It makes me want to hit ''delete''. I don't know... I feel insecure about giving my email adress, phone number or address to people I don't know. When they don't act at least a bit polite/civilized, I feel... I don't know, threatened in a way? Like they're being aggressive towards me. I don't know how to explain.

Maybe I should just donate stuff and be done with it. :/

Donating would solve the problem.  :)

But no, that is par for the course.  If we have several responses, we tend to only answer ones that are complete and grammatical.  It might sound elitist, but those kinds of responses are the ones that have most typically ultimately resulted in a sale.

If we are getting few bites, sometimes we'll spend time answering others, but often find we'd rather just give it away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on March 10, 2016, 04:39:15 AM
These past weeks I've been reading Marie Kondo's (e-)book and though I am not aggressively throwing stuff in bags, I've progressed a lot in my decluttering. I've emptied a book shelf, a DVD shelf and a 2-drawers filing cabinet (I've kept 5 files, which will move to my spouse's cabinet and we will sell this one). I've already prepared donation boxes and ads on Kijiji.

Which brings me to my next question. Maybe it's weird, but do you even respond to people who answer your ads let's say, more than casually? I don't know if I over-analyze things, but even though I ask for people to please contact me by email, most often than not, I don't even get a ''hello'', ''please'' and ''thanks''. I find it so rude! It makes me want to hit ''delete''. I don't know... I feel insecure about giving my email adress, phone number or address to people I don't know. When they don't act at least a bit polite/civilized, I feel... I don't know, threatened in a way? Like they're being aggressive towards me. I don't know how to explain.

Maybe I should just donate stuff and be done with it. :/

I'm generally selective in my responses to Craigslist buyers.  I ignore the ones that are obviously rude or intrusive (potentially scams).  I'd rather lose a potential sale than deal with someone I'm not comfortable with dealing.  And if I am buying something, I always make sure to send a polite message that will convey that I am a responsible buyer :-)  It takes an enormous amount of patience and time to sell stuff on Craigslist.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on March 10, 2016, 05:41:06 AM
I did an unplanned mini-purge in my garage last night, it was awesome. The garage is my weak spot and I tend to just let things accumulate (although I can always park my car in it - it is NOT for overflow house storage). This morning was garbage day and I didn't initially plan to take the extra large garbage bin out as it only had one small bag in it. By the time I called it quits in the garage, I had the bin overflowing. I even swept out most of the leaves. It was so satisfying when I walked to my car this morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on March 11, 2016, 11:35:39 AM
I am proud to report that participation in our local Buy Nothing group is not just good for getting, but good for GIVING.

Today I dropped off 48 used 4-inch plant pots at a district elementary school for their gardening club, and donated three puzzles for their new PreK/K take-home toy library as well. Whoohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on March 11, 2016, 12:50:27 PM
I have come very close to sort every inch of the house. In fact I have done one go through completely and that feels amazing.

However my last frontier is not specific areas but projects such as darning, mending, glueing and upholstering.  So the garage has furniture to glue, the linen closet has fabric to use, the closet has mending projects.  Now they hang over me as a specialized form of clutter.

Help!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on March 11, 2016, 02:48:55 PM
I have had really good luck with CL but I tend to just sell larger items on it such as furniture, appliances, car etc. I don't feel it is worth my time for the small stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on March 13, 2016, 03:19:57 PM
Five boxes and a bag to Goodwill today.  I've been consciously going through drawers and cabinets, donating or trashing items or putting them out for use, every day for the last few weeks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on March 14, 2016, 07:49:06 AM
I have come very close to sort every inch of the house. In fact I have done one go through completely and that feels amazing.

However my last frontier is not specific areas but projects such as darning, mending, glueing and upholstering.  So the garage has furniture to glue, the linen closet has fabric to use, the closet has mending projects.  Now they hang over me as a specialized form of clutter.

Help!
I moved into my house 3 years ago. At the time, I cut some fabric off a bolt and put it on clippy curtain rings as drapes, but I didn't hem it or put anything to cover the electrical conduit I used as curtain rods.

A couple weeks ago, I started hemming. I've been hemming during my commute, and now the living room has finished curtains with valances. Now I'm working on the bedroom ones. It feels nice to finally get that project underway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on March 14, 2016, 12:40:30 PM
One set of sheets/duvet cover added to the donation pile.  I have too many as it is.  I'm also debating whether to sell one of my TVs.  This one is in the den and the only thing available on it is Netflix, now that I got rid of cable.  I have to ask my DD if she will want it when she starts living on her own next year, but if not, I'll sell it.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on March 14, 2016, 04:15:58 PM
I have come very close to sort every inch of the house. In fact I have done one go through completely and that feels amazing.

However my last frontier is not specific areas but projects such as darning, mending, glueing and upholstering.  So the garage has furniture to glue, the linen closet has fabric to use, the closet has mending projects.  Now they hang over me as a specialized form of clutter.

Help!

There's something in KM about dealing with projects that you mean to do someday. Is this a project you *want* to do, or something you feel you ought to do? Is it related to who you are, or to a fantasy self? If you tossed the whole thing, how would you feel?

If it's something you are sure you want to do, can you treat it like a chore, and schedule time to do it? Or to do the first step?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nnls on March 15, 2016, 12:36:40 AM
I have completed cleaning out my spare room and made a start on my bedroom.

my kitchen and living room was done in January. I had a lot of stuff in my spare room that i had planned to sell but ended up just donating it all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 16, 2016, 08:41:05 PM
TWO couches committed to the college girl next door when they move to their new house in May. Currently they are in our third car garage, just taking up space. Trading said couches for doggie care during an upcoming vacation- win win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: brooklynmoney on March 16, 2016, 08:52:42 PM
I need a face punch, kick in the pants, or something... please tell me to unload this stuff:  I'm a runner and have collected probably dozens of shirts from races as well as purchases (mostly clearance or thrift-store, so not a lot of $ spent at least).  I have an entire small roll-aboard suitcase on the top shelf of my closet stuffed with them!  I've kept them because I have actually taken some of these excess shirts when I travel and after wearing, I toss them instead of carrying home wet stinky running clothes.  But seriously, how many throw-aways do I need?  (We travel a lot but I think I've done that exactly 3 times).  Also, the suitcase is a small old extra one that someone gave us that I'd like to toss.

I save these and work out in them I never buy running gear but if you want something else to remember a race by just save the bib and get rid of the shirts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 20, 2016, 05:05:50 PM
Mattress and box spring out to the curb for large trash week.  Contemplated for over a year on keeping them for future consideration but came to the conclusion that I wouldn't want me or any guests sleeping on a 15+ year old mattress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 20, 2016, 07:13:24 PM
Busted - DH noticed I was shredding folders today from 2001....Yes 2001.  I have been issued a cease and desist order from my DH attorney. ;-) ( Shredding shall only continue during hours when he is away.)  Seriously he tried to tell me he will refer to our 1999 original house closing paperwork and 2001 flip paperwork if we ever purchase a new construction home again and flip it in 2 years....a) we live in a completely different state, and 2) Really?

This will make going much slower.  We have SO MUCH PAPER....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: GoConfidently on March 20, 2016, 11:04:46 PM
I cleared out another 27 things from my closet, and a bunch of kitchen stuff today. I finally got rid of the too small tea cups and saucers that came with my dishes, all but 1 vase, and some pots that aren't nearly as good as my newer ones. They all went to a local art studio for still life classes.

I want to reduce my closet by another 50 or so items, but I hate the idea of getting rid of things that are good just to hit a target number. So instead I'm trying a modified version of the 333 project so I can hopefully identify those things I just don't love to wear and get rid of them. I'm on a 6 month clothes buying freeze in the meantime.

Next on my list is garage (should be quick since all I really need to do is move some things out on our heavy trash day) and find a place to sell some antique furniture on consignment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on March 21, 2016, 04:55:43 AM
Yesterday I found some more old paperwork to throw into the recycling. I thought I had been through everything, but there was some more lurking in the drawer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on March 21, 2016, 06:20:36 AM
Tackled some things in the basement over the weekend.  Put some boxes into recycling and some junk into garbage. 

Found: an old Comcast cable box and a bunch of cables and an old violin case with two bows and chin rests in it.  Now they are sitting in the hallway and I'm debating what to do with them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsPfennig on March 21, 2016, 07:56:48 AM
We sold our tires (the car was sold last year already). 100 Euros in our pocket and space in our basement. Finally! We put up the tires last spring/summer and no takers. Tried again yesterday (weather was nice) and three people answered the ad within an hour and the tires were picked up within two hours. Im gonna put up the carseat and a pumpkin today. I want more space!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on March 21, 2016, 01:11:47 PM
Tossed 5 old beauty items yesterday.  A prescription face cleanser had a 2012 expiration date.  One jar had a beauty consultant name on the bottom whom I have not dealt with in over 14 years.  This means that particular jar has moved with me 6 different times, between 3 states and back again.  :S
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 21, 2016, 07:19:49 PM
Busted - DH noticed I was shredding folders today from 2001....Yes 2001.  I have been issued a cease and desist order from my DH attorney. ;-) ( Shredding shall only continue during hours when he is away.)  Seriously he tried to tell me he will refer to our 1999 original house closing paperwork and 2001 flip paperwork if we ever purchase a new construction home again and flip it in 2 years....a) we live in a completely different state, and 2) Really?

This will make going much slower.  We have SO MUCH PAPER....

My parents had EVERY SINGLE tax return in their attic, going back to the 60s/70s, whenever they first started filing taxes. Last summer, I made them shred all but the last 10 years. Mom was arguing with me about the paperwork for the house they sold when I was 10 (I'm 30!), and the house they tried to buy but it fell through, and the purchase papers for cars they don't own anymore and haven't for years. I put them in a pile, waited until she walked away, and put it in the pile to be shredded. Gone :)

Though if you still own the house, I can see keeping the paperwork, even after decades. Or at least scanning it in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 21, 2016, 11:33:28 PM
I needed to wrap gifts so I pulled out my collection of wrappings (all free and reused from Christmas past etc). I esp go for giftbags & tissue paper. It's worked really great , hav not bought a thing in years. Usu out  by about years end, when I get more :)
Anyway, I organized them again today. I'm a well organized and typically tidy person, but it got in disarray when I moved a few months ago. Recycled several smashed bags and unusable tissue. Even found a $20 target gift card someone inadvertantly left in a card.
It's the little things :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 22, 2016, 03:03:16 AM
re: unfinished projects, if they are hanging over you, just get rid of them. You don't owe 'completion' to anyone.

If they are things you really would like to use in your home, focus on that and just do the work to get them to a useable state. Focus on how much joy you will get from them when they are done, even if you are not enjoying the process.

I threw out an embroidery I was 80% done with to commemorate the birth of my niece (who will be 6 this year!). I just hated the sight of it, it had hung over me for so long. She never knew about it, so it's not like anyone was waiting on it. I got much joy from planning it and starting it. I felt so much better once it was out of the house. No need to make our own lives harder.

I feel like I'm moving onto stage two of Marie Kondoing (I've made that stage up myself, btw). I am starting to replace mediocre things that I needed with things I love. First up is a new pair of work shoes, made in England, which fit perfectly. I hadn't realised how badly my last pair fitted until I swapped in the middle of a work day (I wanted to try them out on carpet for a few hours in a real-life situation before I decided to keep them). How wonderful it is to take a step and feel secure, not like my shoe is going to fall off or slip away from under my foot. The heels were rickety too.

Unfortunately I think I may have been buying all of my shoes one size too big for a few years. Anyway, they feel great.

I am also upgrading items in my wardrobe, but I make my own clothes, so it's not too hard on the budget. I could do with a new work suit though, and even with making it myself, fabric + lining for such an undertaking won't be cheap (though it will be in comparison to buying decent ready-to-wear, I suppose).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on March 22, 2016, 03:31:41 AM
I have had a blanket I made for a friend's kids in my craft room for two years. Tonight I am re-wrapping it for a cousin's new baby - because we'll actually see them and their baby is brand new. Feels great!

I'm at KonMarie Stage 1B, where I feel like I've found the click point but there still seems to be little bits and pieces I am finding to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ender on March 22, 2016, 06:56:47 AM
My wife and I got rid of several things the other day and organized a fair bit.

I love doing that, it feels so freeing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on March 22, 2016, 09:44:58 AM
The stuff about baby gifts above spurs me to share that I finally gifted two items I've had for literally years-- a beautiful children's book by a modernist author which I bought on a whim because it was lovely and then never managed to gift (think it found the perfect home), and a pair of little baby boots for newborns. I gave it to an expectant mother because whenever I tried to give it to a baby, the baby was past newborn age when I saw it! Glad these have found appropriate homes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on March 22, 2016, 10:14:47 PM
The stuff about baby gifts above spurs me to share that I finally gifted two items I've had for literally years-- a beautiful children's book by a modernist author which I bought on a whim because it was lovely and then never managed to gift (think it found the perfect home), and a pair of little baby boots for newborns. I gave it to an expectant mother because whenever I tried to give it to a baby, the baby was past newborn age when I saw it! Glad these have found appropriate homes.
I imagine that's because they don't stay newborns for long, and the new parents are probably overwhelmed :) Good call on giving it to an expectant mother!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on March 24, 2016, 03:42:29 PM
Busted - DH noticed I was shredding folders today from 2001....Yes 2001.  I have been issued a cease and desist order from my DH attorney. ;-) ( Shredding shall only continue during hours when he is away.)  Seriously he tried to tell me he will refer to our 1999 original house closing paperwork and 2001 flip paperwork if we ever purchase a new construction home again and flip it in 2 years....a) we live in a completely different state, and 2) Really?

This will make going much slower.  We have SO MUCH PAPER....

My parents had EVERY SINGLE tax return in their attic, going back to the 60s/70s, whenever they first started filing taxes. Last summer, I made them shred all but the last 10 years. Mom was arguing with me about the paperwork for the house they sold when I was 10 (I'm 30!), and the house they tried to buy but it fell through, and the purchase papers for cars they don't own anymore and haven't for years. I put them in a pile, waited until she walked away, and put it in the pile to be shredded. Gone :)


In the 1980s, we found a tax return from 1925 that my grandfather had saved. In the early 2000s, my father found his tax return from 1952. It was quite amusing to see the numbers and hear them talk about what they could afford in those days on $5,000 a year. (Both returns had the same income.) I'm glad they saved those returns. But I come from a family of accountants, who are amused by such things.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 24, 2016, 05:01:19 PM
 I'll tell you guys something, I am LOVING all these tax write-offs! Besides the simplicity beauty peace & clarity of a clear space.
I always pay taxes & this year, I may not have to. Omg, yessss. I'll let u guys know how it works out. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 25, 2016, 08:38:31 AM
Busted - DH noticed I was shredding folders today from 2001....Yes 2001.  I have been issued a cease and desist order from my DH attorney. ;-) ( Shredding shall only continue during hours when he is away.)  Seriously he tried to tell me he will refer to our 1999 original house closing paperwork and 2001 flip paperwork if we ever purchase a new construction home again and flip it in 2 years....a) we live in a completely different state, and 2) Really?

This will make going much slower.  We have SO MUCH PAPER....

My parents had EVERY SINGLE tax return in their attic, going back to the 60s/70s, whenever they first started filing taxes. Last summer, I made them shred all but the last 10 years. Mom was arguing with me about the paperwork for the house they sold when I was 10 (I'm 30!), and the house they tried to buy but it fell through, and the purchase papers for cars they don't own anymore and haven't for years. I put them in a pile, waited until she walked away, and put it in the pile to be shredded. Gone :)


In the 1980s, we found a tax return from 1925 that my grandfather had saved. In the early 2000s, my father found his tax return from 1952. It was quite amusing to see the numbers and hear them talk about what they could afford in those days on $5,000 a year. (Both returns had the same income.) I'm glad they saved those returns. But I come from a family of accountants, who are amused by such things.

My goal is to SCAN all the old tax returns, put them on a thumb drive and satisfy DH's need for all this memory.  Supporting paperwork for tax returns that cannot be audited by the IRS any longer needs to go....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: albireo13 on March 26, 2016, 07:14:01 AM
WE're listing our big house this coming week and the decluttering is becoming serious.
We just have too much Sh$t!  We've been keeping things "just in case'.
I've tried CL but, it's more a pain than it's worth. 9 times out of 10 I find a buyer for an item and we agree on price.  Then I meet him somewhere and
starts trying to talk the price down even more.  Everyone is looking for a steal.
It's not worth my time.

  Donating to GW or other charities actually feels better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 26, 2016, 08:08:54 PM
More progress-
-Pink purse in a shade I never liked too much - back to Goodwill!
-A couple books from work- some of my coworkers are hoarders, so always great when they will let ANYTHING go.
-A few really old bottles of peroxide from a color line we haven't used in just as long.
- magazines from work, always more magazines (they are sent free of charge, but accumulate like rabbits).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: palebluedot on March 26, 2016, 09:51:39 PM
I've been listening to The Minimalists Podcast while decluttering: http://www.theminimalists.com/podcast/
It helps me build momentum. I don't own much but I still find myself with excess.

Things I've sold on cragslist / freecycled / dropped off at salvation army over the last 4+ weeks:
Nintendo 64 + Super Nintendo(this was a hard one but it was sitting in my closet unused for years)
Video games for various consoles I don't even own anymore
Dropped off a bag of various electronic cables, headphones, alarm clock at BestBuy's recycling center
Huge bag of clothes that never fit me or barely wore. I only kept what I actually like wearing.
Sent 3 graduation gowns (elementary, high school and college) to GreenerGrads: https://www.greenergrads.org/
Collected every old CD/DVD/PC software/jewel cases and sent it to CD recycling center: http://www.cdrecyclingcenter.com/

Some things I am working on right now or will be:
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on March 26, 2016, 10:40:07 PM
With the key chains etc, if they are in as new condition and usable, I donate those to charity. You can always duck into a couple of thrift shops and see if they sell that sort of thing. Some people collect certain types of souvenirs and I know some of the local op shops here sell stuff like souvenir spoons or unused postcards.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: babysnowbyrd on March 27, 2016, 12:27:51 AM
I've been listening to The Minimalists Podcast while decluttering: http://www.theminimalists.com/podcast/
It helps me build momentum. I don't own much but I still find myself with excess.

Things I've sold on cragslist / freecycled / dropped off at salvation army over the last 4+ weeks:
Nintendo 64 + Super Nintendo(this was a hard one but it was sitting in my closet unused for years)
Video games for various consoles I don't even own anymore
Dropped off a bag of various electronic cables, headphones, alarm clock at BestBuy's recycling center
Huge bag of clothes that never fit me or barely wore. I only kept what I actually like wearing.
Sent 3 graduation gowns (elementary, high school and college) to GreenerGrads: https://www.greenergrads.org/
Collected every old CD/DVD/PC software/jewel cases and sent it to CD recycling center: http://www.cdrecyclingcenter.com/

Some things I am working on right now or will be:
  • Currently shredding paper that is no longer needed.  Does anyone have tips for letting go of old college notebooks? I'm having trouble with this one. I was thinking of scanning but that might take a while :(
  • I have a collection of 50 blu rays. I no longer buy movies since I rent them from the library now. I've been thinking of only keeping my favorite 10 and selling the rest.
  • Selling a small AC unit that I haven't put up in the last two summers
[/b]
  • I still have a Wii and 3DS that I never really use anymore. It's just sitting there. I could probably get $250-$300 for this and get myself an acoustic guitar that I'll play everyday.
  • Small annoying items and trinkets (key chains, souvenirs, etc.). What do you guys do with these things?

I bet if you hold off on selling the AC for another month, you'll get a higher price for it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dandypandys on March 27, 2016, 07:20:00 AM
Has anyone sold a broken iPad (mini)? It has a smashed screen and won't turn on. I think i could see it for parts, but not sure if it has data on there that someone could snoop on- saved passwords and the like.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BeautifulDay on March 27, 2016, 01:47:11 PM
I've seen a lot of people pledge to declutter everyday for a month starting with 1 item on the first day and 30 (31/28) on the last day.  It is time for me to do some cleaning too, But with some modifications to the standard plan...

I'm not holding myself to a 30 day timeline.  I'm just working on it weekends and when I have time in the evenings.  And I am fliping the schedule and starting with 30 items and working backwards to 1.

Doesn't make sense to start with only a few items at the beginning.  I want to get rid of a bunch of stuff right now! It's driving me crazy. Must declutter now. :)  by the time I'm down to getting rid of only a few items per day I'll be making the hard decisions on what really is worth keeping, and what it just stuff holing me back. 

Two "days" in and I already feel so much better about my home.

We've always been pretty minimalist by nature so don't really have much stuff to start with.  But, life has a way of accumulating.  So it is time to clear out some space both physically and, as a result, mentally as well. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on March 27, 2016, 04:45:54 PM
We might be moving in a few months, so I just upped the decluttering ante!  In one day I sorted out 4 big boxes of items to donate, and 6 bags of recycling, and posted some big items for sale.  The recycling included old taxes and paperwork, and unloved hobby supplies. We made $600 in one day, and cleared a ton of space!  I'm trying to build on this start, since we have a potential new place lined up that is 500 square feet smaller with no garage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: palebluedot on March 27, 2016, 07:47:30 PM
With the key chains etc, if they are in as new condition and usable, I donate those to charity. You can always duck into a couple of thrift shops and see if they sell that sort of thing. Some people collect certain types of souvenirs and I know some of the local op shops here sell stuff like souvenir spoons or unused postcards.

Thanks for the tip! All are in good condition. Some even in their wrapping still. I'll bring to the local charity this upcoming weekend.

I bet if you hold off on selling the AC for another month, you'll get a higher price for it!

I had the same thought. I'm just going to take pictures for the moment and have it ready to be posted sometime next month.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MMMaybe on March 27, 2016, 11:55:57 PM
We are moving countries, so its become a massive purge. When you keep moving from country to country (like we do-5th time in our 11 years together!), there is sometimes a tendency not to deal with some of the harder to sort through items because they will just get boxed up and shipped to the next location.

But this time is the first time we have moved, since trying to get more minimalist and it has been epic and kind of freeing.

Boxes of CDs have been copied to our hard drives. The majority of our books have gone. DVDS gone. We don't really buy stuff like this anymore, it is all legacy stuff, that we have been carting around the world.

Boxes of paperwork shredded. Some furniture donated. Bags of clothes donated or chucked out.

Yay!!! Our machine is totally lean and we love it. One thing still to work on is digitizing old photos. It was a bridge too far this time but we will get it done in our next country.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on March 28, 2016, 02:56:33 AM
We are moving countries, so its become a massive purge. When you keep moving from country to country (like we do-5th time in our 11 years together!), there is sometimes a tendency not to deal with some of the harder to sort through items because they will just get boxed up and shipped to the next location.

But this time is the first time we have moved, since trying to get more minimalist and it has been epic and kind of freeing.

Boxes of CDs have been copied to our hard drives. The majority of our books have gone. DVDS gone. We don't really buy stuff like this anymore, it is all legacy stuff, that we have been carting around the world.

Boxes of paperwork shredded. Some furniture donated. Bags of clothes donated or chucked out.

Yay!!! Our machine is totally lean and we love it. One thing still to work on is digitizing old photos. It was a bridge too far this time but we will get it done in our next country.

Awesome job! Not only is it easier, but it should be considerably cheaper to move now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on March 28, 2016, 03:32:10 AM
Moving house is a great motivator to purge stuff and I imagine moving abroad is even better. I was going to move house last year but we didn't and now have noticed stuff creeping back in.

I can't remember what I've posted on here, but I recently got rid of two wine glasses I didn't like. I bought some new soup bowls the other day and had to reorganise the kitchen cabinets so something had to go out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Campanula on March 28, 2016, 10:42:08 AM
The table that's useful about three times a year but has an irresistible attraction for junk and clutter is gone. DH took it to the charity shop, along with a couple of games and other bits of things. Fewer surfaces for junk = more frequent tidying up... I hope.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: herisff on March 29, 2016, 06:44:26 AM
  • Currently shredding paper that is no longer needed.  Does anyone have tips for letting go of old college notebooks? I'm having trouble with this one. I was thinking of scanning but that might take a while :(
Have you ever used these notebooks for your work/hobbies since you graduated? Is the material still relevant to what you do? If so, then it may be worth your time to scan them. Factor in how much you are paid per hour by how many hours it would take to scan them in, then see if it's worth your time and effort. It very well may not be. Best of luck to you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 29, 2016, 07:42:30 AM
  Does anyone have tips for letting go of old college notebooks? I'm having trouble with this one. I was thinking of scanning but that might take a while

When was the last time you looked at any of these notebooks?

I got rid of all my syllabi and tests 8 years after graduation. I had kept them because some of the classes had weird names and it was useful to be able to defend what information I had learned in that class if an employer or grad school asked me about them. (My first job, I actually did this. But once I had established myself in my field, I no longer needed them.)

I hung onto them way too long.

Chances are, your notebooks never get looked at.  I would just get rid of them.

What happens if you get rid of them and you need the information.  Don't you think there is a book or webpage out there where you could find it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on March 29, 2016, 08:55:51 AM
  Does anyone have tips for letting go of old college notebooks? I'm having trouble with this one. I was thinking of scanning but that might take a while

When was the last time you looked at any of these notebooks?

I got rid of all my syllabi and tests 8 years after graduation. I had kept them because some of the classes had weird names and it was useful to be able to defend what information I had learned in that class if an employer or grad school asked me about them. (My first job, I actually did this. But once I had established myself in my field, I no longer needed them.)

I hung onto them way too long.

Chances are, your notebooks never get looked at.  I would just get rid of them.

What happens if you get rid of them and you need the information.  Don't you think there is a book or webpage out there where you could find it?


Unless you're an academic. Then keep them in hard copy or scanned copy, but keep them. Currently getting a lot of mileage out of notebooks that are decades old from my own grad school days. The professor from those old classes is dead, I'm teaching a new course for the first time in the fall, and it's giving me real insight into how to do it on a daily basis, more than I could get from a syllabus or course outline.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dandypandys on March 29, 2016, 10:51:06 AM
  Does anyone have tips for letting go of old college notebooks? I'm having trouble with this one. I was thinking of scanning but that might take a while

When was the last time you looked at any of these notebooks?

I got rid of all my syllabi and tests 8 years after graduation. I had kept them because some of the classes had weird names and it was useful to be able to defend what information I had learned in that class if an employer or grad school asked me about them. (My first job, I actually did this. But once I had established myself in my field, I no longer needed them.)

I hung onto them way too long.

Chances are, your notebooks never get looked at.  I would just get rid of them.

What happens if you get rid of them and you need the information.  Don't you think there is a book or webpage out there where you could find it?


Unless you're an academic. Then keep them in hard copy or scanned copy, but keep them. Currently getting a lot of mileage out of notebooks that are decades old from my own grad school days. The professor from those old classes is dead, I'm teaching a new course for the first time in the fall, and it's giving me real insight into how to do it on a daily basis, more than I could get from a syllabus or course outline.

Totally did that too! It has been really great, because i kept the books and notes we read too, perfect for a starting point. I let my profs know I was using their courses as a model, and how influential their courses have been for me. It made their day :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on March 29, 2016, 01:32:00 PM
This weekend I took a pair of pants that were too small, and a blouse that was too big to the consignment store. It's not big money, but it helps a little bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on March 29, 2016, 03:35:32 PM
  Does anyone have tips for letting go of old college notebooks? I'm having trouble with this one. I was thinking of scanning but that might take a while

Why not just keep them for now, more than likely you'll recycle them next go round if not before.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 30, 2016, 06:29:33 PM
This weekend I took a pair of pants that were too small, and a blouse that was too big to the consignment store. It's not big money, but it helps a little bit.

Money in your pocket is better than something sitting in your closet that just takes up space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on March 30, 2016, 08:06:27 PM
I bought the LifeChanging Magic of Tidying Up in February and read the book. My fiance and I decided to move in April so I have spent the past 25 days or so decluttering and packing up. Our goal is to declutter as much as possible the next three weeks and pack up all of our belongings. Then as we unpack do a second wave of decluttering.

KonMari has been revolutionary for me. I was raised by a serious packrat  and a hoarder lite. I have always struggled with getting rid of "stuff" (donate, trash, recycle or sell) because I would think: 1) It was a gift 2) It was expensive 3) I  bought it myself 4) I might not be able to replace it easily 5) I've owned it a long time or 6) I might use it someday for something

After reading KonMari I am so much happier. I have been decluttering wholeheartedly. I have given away 50 liters of "Stuff", a box of books (which is practically a first- I have 4 bookshelves and a Kindle), donated 5 bags of clothes, and donated 1 bag of textiles to H&M's Close the Loop initiative. I have also had to take out my trash and recycling every couple of days. The crazy thing is- we live in 615 sq. feet. I keep telling my fiance I don't know where all this stuff is coming from since we tend to keep a fairly neat house and it's not an overly large space. I am looking forward to donating another box of stuff, my vanity and an oversize desk this weekend. If I can I'd like to fill up a second box before our drop off on Saturday afternoon.

My fiance is of the belief that every time you move try to only keep half.He has already gone through his clothes, the box of electronic components (cords, chargers, etc), his books, cds and helped me with round one of kitchenware. He is super encouraging and happy that I am finally finding happiness downsizing because I have always been the one to hold onto items. He is also super pleased I sorted through ALL of the paperwork in the house and shredded a couple boxes worth, recycled a couple bags worth and now all of our paperwork can fit into a portable file cabinet (it is ruthlessly organized and has a handle on it)!

I have lent the book to a coworker who was interested in the book, but there was a long waiting list for it at her library.

edited: In the past week and a half I have read through all 69 pages of this thread and the 6 pages of the KonMari review and reading everyone else's decluttering efforts has been super motivating to me to always try and find *one more thing* to get rid of!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on March 30, 2016, 09:25:01 PM
I have given away 50 liters of "Stuff",

haha  :)

a box of books (which is practically a first- I have 4 bookshelves and a Kindle), donated 5 bags of clothes, and donated 1 bag of textiles to H&M's Close the Loop initiative.

I googled this but it wasn't obvious to me how it works. What exactly did you do? Sounds like a great idea.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on March 31, 2016, 07:39:14 AM
This weekend I took a pair of pants that were too small, and a blouse that was too big to the consignment store. It's not big money, but it helps a little bit.

Money in your pocket is better than something sitting in your closet that just takes up space.

That's what I think too. Plus the lady who owns the consignment store is lovely and I enjoy her company, and it's close to the library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on March 31, 2016, 09:41:16 AM

a box of books (which is practically a first- I have 4 bookshelves and a Kindle), donated 5 bags of clothes, and donated 1 bag of textiles to H&M's Close the Loop initiative.

I googled this but it wasn't obvious to me how it works. What exactly did you do? Sounds like a great idea.

It's very exciting that it's one less thing to throw away!

Cressida- You take a plastic bag (say a grocerystore bag), you fill it with castoff clothes and textiles (I had pjs so ratty I couldn't even make them rags and sweaters darned too many times), you take the bag to the cashier at H&M (any of their stores), they put a sticker on your bag of discards and you get a 15% off coupon that lasts for a few months and then you drop the bag off in this special recycling bin that looks kind of like a trash can. The clothes and home textiles you donate get recycled or repurposed. From my understanding it becomes insulation or some kind of filling or new clothes. IF the clothes are in better condition they can be reworn. You can donate as much as you want but you only get one coupon per day.

http://about.hm.com/en/About/sustainability/commitments/reduce-waste/garment-collecting.html
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 31, 2016, 07:12:50 PM
I keep seeing this thread come up and experience a twinge of guilt for slacking lately on the decluttering.

But today, I stoked up the burn barrel and decluttered the yard.  All the nasty cuttings from my climbing rose are now ash, along with a bunch of twigs and laste year's sunflowers. 

I also sold my old horse's saddle last week, so I'm finally down to just the two I need/use.

Maybe this weekend I'll post my espresso machine and Kitchenaid mixer on Craigslist again.  And my bicycle. and get the last couple bridles from my retired horse posted on eBay at sure to sell prices.  I also have two very nice winter coats set aside because I no longer want them, but need to decide what to do with them.  Might hang on to them until the Rescue Mission does its fall coat drive, so they go to someone who really needs a warm coat.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 01, 2016, 09:14:17 AM
My roommate and I have temporarily cluttered the basement. Here's why.

The next building up from us has someone in it who's been throwing out tons of stuff. Almost every week, there's a massive pile of trash put out. For about the last 6 months. This week, I stopped and looked at the pile, and got angry. I grabbed 2 boxes of BRAND NEW UNOPENED diapers.

Drove home, took my stuff and the diapers inside, and found that my roommate had already pulled a microwave and speaker set. We took my car back to the pile, and filled it up.

End result:
microwave
2 boxes diapers
speaker set
2 rugs
2 baby gates
very nice, new comforter bed set.
ironing board
car stereo, new in box and accessories
handful misc books
bag of the plastic farm toys
2 packages of pads, opened and 1-2 pads missing. Here's the kicker - in the bag with them, I found the receipt from Target when they were purchased. On 3/13/16.
bed side table

We didn't even look in most of the bags, and we didn't grab the bed frame & headboard cause it was buried under bags of stuff. The sheer wastefulness has me really angry - this stuff is new or nearly new, in perfectly usable condition.

Are now posting stuff on Craigslist. We'll be checking the piles in the future.

Edit: 6 months, not 60
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dandypandys on April 01, 2016, 09:48:22 AM
wow, wonder if someone was getting kicked out. You might want to check on that somehow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on April 01, 2016, 11:58:10 AM
I bought a copy of "Spark Joy" by Marie Kondo without having read her first book; I'm hoping the second one is enough to get me by. I plan on tackling my clothes this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 01, 2016, 05:23:00 PM
wow, wonder if someone was getting kicked out. You might want to check on that somehow.

It's been going on for months. All winter, at least. Now, a hoarder, I can see - except this stuff is in good shape.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: riverffashion on April 02, 2016, 12:39:44 AM
wow, wonder if someone was getting kicked out. You might want to check on that somehow.

It's been going on for months. All winter, at least. Now, a hoarder, I can see - except this stuff is in good shape.

That's super strange.
Glad you're profiting at least.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on April 02, 2016, 02:49:04 AM
Paperwork is all up to date and (finally) everything not needed has been chucked out of the house. The new tax year starts here very soon so it's nice to have everything up to date and organised.

I went through the tool boxes the other day and threw away a few bits and pieces. I couldn't even tell you what they were, or what they were for, so I have no idea why we were keeping hold of them! I found a strap for a cat carrier that was binned. The tools and pet stuff are kept outside in the back garden so that explains why there was still some clutter out there.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on April 02, 2016, 12:24:48 PM
Does anyone know if old prescription eyeglasses can be donated? Googling tells me that they are best recycled or thrown away, since they're not easily reusable, but I wanted to double-check before throwing them out. If it helps, I'm in California. I've also got some disposable daily-use contact lenses, but I don't know if those can be donated either.


  The Lions Club here keeps a donation box out at the public library specifically for prescription glasses. Definitely they can be reused unless there's some California law or something?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Grant at Retire CRAZY Good on April 02, 2016, 04:16:04 PM
When my wife and I vowed to live without regrets, we didn't really have a clue where that would take us. Ultimately, we downsized from a home of roughly 3600 square feet to about 800 (the apartment section of the building we purchased). Clutter doesn't even begin to describe what we experienced on our quest to live our BIG DREAM.

We used the equity from selling our old place to buy a 1906 building in a small town with ultra-low taxes...we call it loft-living in the country. That was part of our effort to not only declutter, but to do all the things we dreamed about doing before our clock ran out. And, we did it on pennies instead of big bucks.

My wife and I are nothing special, so if we can, so can others. That's what I love about Mr. Money Mustache's website and post. Way practical if you've got the boldness to get up and do.

Now we make most of what we need for our home, workshop, and gallery. We loosely follow a "steampunk theme" to go with the style of the 100-year-old building. (Yep, it's got those old 16-foot tin ceilings, row after row of ceiling fans, and long-leaf-pine flooring.)

As to our decluttering process: give away, trash, or keep. No storage building rent for us! We put a real emphasis on trashing or donating. If you have an interest and want to read more about how we did it, here's one of my recent posts: [MOD EDIT: Spam link removed.]
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: OneDollarAtATime on April 02, 2016, 06:31:06 PM
Sold $550 worth of "stuff" the last 3 weeks.  Feels great -- more space, less clutter, more freedom...and extra cash in the bank!

Selling things at a loss is a gentle irritation that's quickly smoothed over by the fresh cash in hand.  Plus, some people genuinely have needs for the things I sell to them.

Whatever doesn't sell in the next month goes to the dumpster in the annual HOA 'Spring Cleaning' (to encourage residents to clean out their garages and actually park their cars in it).  Making money on it is a bonus.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on April 02, 2016, 07:39:13 PM
We sold a set of antique lawn decorations for $100 on craigslist last week and used the money to replace the house's mismatched outlets and light switches.  So proud of my house for paying for some of its own upgrades!  The old owners left us a ton of crap when we bought the house, most of which had to go straight to the dump :\

I've just finished reading Marie Kondo and made it through clothes and books.  I only got rid of one large box of clothes with her method but this is after clearing out two large boxes of clothes when we moved last summer.  I've got half of a box of books to donate or sell, but I'm struggling to let three textbooks go.  They make me happy, but they aren't particularly useful or my top favorites from my degree program.  I've decided to put them aside in a closet and revisit them during the memorabilia cleaning at the end of the KonMari method.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on April 03, 2016, 05:56:14 PM
Another half car load out - one full box and two big bags.  Little by little, bit by bit.  Most of this was DD's.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on April 03, 2016, 06:15:10 PM
Made it through KonMari's paper sorting mission. I was really dreading this, but it turns out that I don't have as many different piles of papers as I expected.  I've got a hanging file box for critical papers, loose papers in the same closet as the filing box and a few bags of papers that had never been unpacked last year. 

I recycled three plastic grocery bags of papers and have another bag's worth to shred.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on April 03, 2016, 07:15:30 PM
Does anyone know if old prescription eyeglasses can be donated? Googling tells me that they are best recycled or thrown away, since they're not easily reusable, but I wanted to double-check before throwing them out. If it helps, I'm in California. I've also got some disposable daily-use contact lenses, but I don't know if those can be donated either.

I always donate old eyeglasses at Lenscrafters when I get new ones (I keep the pair I just replaced, and donate the pair from before that).  I believe it's for Lions Club or some other charity that takes the glasses overseas. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 03, 2016, 10:16:20 PM
I'm re-reading through Paper Flow by Bennie & Hinneberg in anticipation of helping DH for through his uni paperwork and putting in place a filing system we will both use. I'm hoping "your primary reference source is books and the internet" will have great sway. I'm also going to offer to scan whatever he thinks is really important, because I don't mind doing it and if it helps him, then I'll be thrilled to do it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on April 04, 2016, 06:41:45 AM
This is silly- but 3 things left my house this weekend I am really happy about.
A book I've needed to return forever, and 2 cans of formula that I've felt guilty about throwing out and finally took to the crisis center to donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 05, 2016, 11:56:57 AM
Does anyone know if old prescription eyeglasses can be donated? Googling tells me that they are best recycled or thrown away, since they're not easily reusable, but I wanted to double-check before throwing them out. If it helps, I'm in California. I've also got some disposable daily-use contact lenses, but I don't know if those can be donated either.


  The Lions Club here keeps a donation box out at the public library specifically for prescription glasses. Definitely they can be reused unless there's some California law or something?

I used to live in CA, I think I remember seeing a donation box for the Lions Club at my eye doctor's office.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MoustacheKnittah on April 05, 2016, 01:29:23 PM
wow, wonder if someone was getting kicked out. You might want to check on that somehow.

It's been going on for months. All winter, at least. Now, a hoarder, I can see - except this stuff is in good shape.

That's super strange.
Glad you're profiting at least.

I live in a college town, and some of the students are super wasteful and fill the curbs with decent furniture and household items every July. We have lots of "pickers" in town, so you have to be on top of it & have a truck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on April 05, 2016, 01:35:20 PM
wow, wonder if someone was getting kicked out. You might want to check on that somehow.

It's been going on for months. All winter, at least. Now, a hoarder, I can see - except this stuff is in good shape.

That's super strange.
Glad you're profiting at least.

I live in a college town, and some of the students are super wasteful and fill the curbs with decent furniture and household items every July. We have lots of "pickers" in town, so you have to be on top of it & have a truck!
They don't have the cash to store it in a storage unit over summer or any way to transport it back home on the plane/train. They might make an attempt at Craigslist, but when you absolutely have to be gone within 24 hours of your last exam, waiting around for several weeks for someone to finally bite isn't really an option.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on April 05, 2016, 01:55:12 PM
While on vacation in China with my DH and 3 kids we got rid of 35 pairs of ratty underwear, 10 sets of ratty PJs, 5 flip flops, and 35 ratty pairs of socks....Our hotel maid must have though we were crazy.  Unfortunately, we added 3 new shirts, a dress/costume, two statues, and two kite reels as "stuff". 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on April 05, 2016, 06:34:19 PM
My eye doctor keeps a bin out to donate your old glasses so I know it's a thing, but I don't know where they get donated to.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on April 05, 2016, 09:05:07 PM
Lots of small wins this week. Had put aside a set of champagne glasses with other things to donate, and they became a nice gift for a friend complete with original box and gift bow from my supplies. Also found homes for a handful of other awkward but nice items (3 food items we don't like, 2 kitchen items, and some small hobby supplies). Every tiny thing that leaves this house makes me happy since the inevitable move still looms large.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 06, 2016, 04:34:27 AM
I ditched 400 emails today. yeouch. Got another 500+ to go. My work inbox is nearly empty. I'm working on my system to store the information so I can let go of the emails.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on April 06, 2016, 09:56:25 AM
I bagged up 6 bags of clothes and shoes and Kondo'd my closet and dresser. I do have to say opening my drawers now is amazing every time.

I also boxed up books, but I don't know where to take them? Any recommendations?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on April 06, 2016, 10:15:49 AM
I bagged up 6 bags of clothes and shoes and Kondo'd my closet and dresser. I do have to say opening my drawers now is amazing every time.

I also boxed up books, but I don't know where to take them? Any recommendations?

I took several boxes of books to our public library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 07, 2016, 04:29:07 AM
Went through our utensil drawer in the kitchen as it is getting difficult to open / close. Got rid of two things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MoustacheKnittah on April 07, 2016, 03:08:11 PM

I live in a college town, and some of the students are super wasteful and fill the curbs with decent furniture and household items every July. We have lots of "pickers" in town, so you have to be on top of it & have a truck!
They don't have the cash to store it in a storage unit over summer or any way to transport it back home on the plane/train. They might make an attempt at Craigslist, but when you absolutely have to be gone within 24 hours of your last exam, waiting around for several weeks for someone to finally bite isn't really an option.

I buy that for some students, but not most. The residence halls actually do a good job of dealing with the stuff problem. Apartment turnover happens in July, so if you live off campus (about 2/3rds of students), there's not a rule that you have to vacate your residence after exams. Most of the college students live within a few hours drive, and the vast majority have vehicles, friends, garages, family in area, etc. etc. Some stuff ends up on the curb at May, but they don't really deal with their stuff until they have to move apartments in July. The bulk of it is poor planning, at least in my town.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on April 08, 2016, 02:24:35 PM
Spring has arrived!  Woot!

Yesterday:

Returned two Mason jars from last year's canning season to a chicken owning friend.  I also gave her a stack of egg cartons.

Up-cycled two magazines and a catalog to my sister.

I neglected to bring used toner and ink cartridges for recycling.  Bummed.

This weekend I'm (finally!) going to go through old (clean!)  towels and sheets to donate to the local animal shelter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on April 08, 2016, 04:15:56 PM
I'm getting rid of a skirt and a dress (both pink!), pyjama shorts and a mug.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dexterous on April 08, 2016, 05:15:49 PM
I saw this thread a few years ago.  After a LOT of work, we've managed to get rid of all of our junk and unneeded items.

We began with a 2 bedroom + storage closet + 2 car garage apartment 2 years ago.  All of those spaces were entirely full.  We now live in a 1 bedroom apartment with no garage, and only 1 storage room in the apartment is full (tools, fishing gear, and car cleaning supplies).  It feels good, and will make moving easier in the future!  We plan to live aboard a sailboat in the distant future too, so being accustomed to having less stuff will be helpful for that as well.  Thanks for the inspiration everybody!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: www.montanahappy.com on April 08, 2016, 05:41:20 PM
In the last week I donated, sold or threw away 47 items.  My goal was 5 items a day.  My dogs got into the challenge and chewed up two items (not items I initially wanted to get rid of - but I can live without them! :)

And so it begins...there is so much more, but I feel better already!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Thrifty Snail on April 09, 2016, 08:02:15 AM
I sold 180 dollars worth of stuff I had lying around.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on April 09, 2016, 03:41:19 PM
Sold 16 clothing items to a consignment shop and left with 2 new to me pairs of pants and $40.

Dropping off 2 boxes of books and 6 trash bags full of clothes at Goodwill today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on April 09, 2016, 04:26:59 PM
Took six boxes of stuff to church garage sale. Mostly my stuff - but some kids toys they have outgrown.
I realized that I couldn't de-clutter all by myself, I live with three other pack rats. I read The Magic Art... from the library a couple of months ago and had a revelation, if the other pack rats read this book too, it might be easier.  I was going away for a conference so I bought the book and left it on hubbies pillow.  He was on page 22 when I got back and he is continuing to read it.  It has become a source of good material to mock me with but he went into DD's room last night and told her she must read the book when he is finished (I didn't think he would read as much as he has - and he plans on finishing it!!!!!!)  My DH is not a big reader so this is epic.  My son is just observing from the sidelines at this point but he is the tidiest of us all so no big deal.  This morning while getting some laundry my hubby says "this room would be huge without all those toys'  I am dreaming of spaciousness!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on April 09, 2016, 05:16:13 PM
Gave away an old thermos to someone looking for one on a facebook group.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: www.montanahappy.com on April 09, 2016, 07:01:42 PM
Took six boxes of stuff to church garage sale. Mostly my stuff - but some kids toys they have outgrown.
I realized that I couldn't de-clutter all by myself, I live with three other pack rats. I read The Magic Art... from the library a couple of months ago and had a revelation, if the other pack rats read this book too, it might be easier.  I was going away for a conference so I bought the book and left it on hubbies pillow.  He was on page 22 when I got back and he is continuing to read it.  It has become a source of good material to mock me with but he went into DD's room last night and told her she must read the book when he is finished (I didn't think he would read as much as he has - and he plans on finishing it!!!!!!)  My DH is not a big reader so this is epic.  My son is just observing from the sidelines at this point but he is the tidiest of us all so no big deal.  This morning while getting some laundry my hubby says "this room would be huge without all those toys'  I am dreaming of spaciousness!

Yes Frugal Lizard - it is amazing how much stuff we all have. I went through one bookshelf and found a book I distinctly remember buying at the bookstore.  It was 21 years old.  I never read it, but just hauled it around and dusted it for 21 YEARS!!  Read it in one night and donated it.  Goodbye forever.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Piggy on April 10, 2016, 06:13:55 PM
I bagged up 6 bags of clothes and shoes and Kondo'd my closet and dresser.

I love this phrase. May I steal it?

I, too, Kondo'd a closet yesterday. Actually, I did one closet, and my husband did another. Evidently, that was our Saturday Date Night...and the glass or two of wine I had made it a little easier to declare certain things didn't bring me joy. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nickels Dimes Quarters on April 10, 2016, 06:31:32 PM
NDQ HQ is getting ready for a garage sale this month. We are going deep into every square inch of the home and finding things to sell, donate or trash/recycle. It's been a great weekend of finally seeing more space in this small place. I don't mind a smallish home, but the extra stuff that makes its way in the door was too much.

I'm definitely a Marie Kondo fan and this would make her proud.

NDQ
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on April 11, 2016, 07:42:38 AM

Yes Frugal Lizard - it is amazing how much stuff we all have. I went through one bookshelf and found a book I distinctly remember buying at the bookstore.  It was 21 years old.  I never read it, but just hauled it around and dusted it for 21 YEARS!!  Read it in one night and donated it.  Goodbye forever.

The Kondo method helped me to not feel guilty about stuff.  I was kind of paralyzed because of the embarrassment and guilt of opening up those drawers, boxes, closets and seeing my wasted money and poor decisions.  Getting started and feeling the lightening of the load is so rewarding.  I can see this might get additive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on April 11, 2016, 08:00:45 AM
Donated my old dictionaries to the library (7 volumes) - they seemed happy to take them. 

Went through my spring/summer clothes and put away 3 pairs of pants that are now too small.  I am continuing to gain weight :-(  I now have several pairs that have been in the "need to lose 10 lbs" pile for over a year but so far I haven't been ready to let go of it...

Put away a couple of items of clothing for donation and a couple for the consignment store.  I still feel like I have too much stuff in my closet, even after reducing by about 50% over the last couple of years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on April 12, 2016, 11:06:02 AM
Big item went out the door yesterday - a piano.  Sent it to my brothers house.  His daughter wants to learn and we had two pianos because I just couldn't bring myself to give either away.  I kept thinking one of my three brothers will want a piano.  Finally five years of two pianos done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: maco on April 12, 2016, 01:05:16 PM
A couple years ago, a friend's wife left him and left 2 vintage sewing machines with cabinets/tables. He told me they were working but would go to the landfill unless I found them homes. I took them (well, ok, one set is at my dad's). We've been using one of them as a side table in the living room, but we want to have a side table under which a rolling coffee table can nest (we're building those), so the sewing machine cabinet has to go. We listed it on Craigslist yesterday, and we'll see what happens.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on April 13, 2016, 10:17:37 AM
I'm in. I've been trying to sell stuff on Craigslist and on Facebook groups for a long time - in some case, reposting over and over again for a year or two! (books, clothing, holiday items, that sort of thing.) I have come to the conclusion that perhaps no one wants to pay money for these items, and I should get them out of my house by whatever means necessary. Especially since we are setting a goal to move next year.

Immediate goals:
- Dispose of large stash of prescription meds that were my father's. He passed away seven years ago. Why are these still in my house? There are drop boxes for disposal of these at police stations in my city, so I will do that.
- Donate old pairs of glasses. I found out my eye doctor will take these and pass along to Lions Club. I have at least 3 old pairs.
- Clean out spice shelf in my pantry. I have lots of dupes - apparently I bought more without realizing what I already had? The shelf is a mess and I can't find anything.
- Dispose of large ugly dresser that has drawers that do not close. Unclear on how to do this, as it is really heavy and I'm not certain we can get it down 3 flights of stairs even with drawers removed. At this point I'm fine "donating" it to the alley (which is common in my city; people put all sorts of perfectly good stuff there for others to take.).

Does anyone else have elderly parents that keep giving them things to sell online? My mother does this - she doesn't have a computer so cannot do it herself. I have two big rubbermaid bins of her crap that she does not want to donate, she wants money for them because "they're collectibles." Sigh. No, mom, they are not. I've been trying to sell some of this for years but no takers. I would donate them but she's got a memory like an elephant and keeps asking me whether they've sold. And reminding me that I am not to give them away/take less than her stated price. At this point, I want to just throw some cash at her, tell her they sold, and dump them. On one hand that seems ridiculous. On the other hand, she struggles with hoarding and it was huge for her to even decide to give them to me to sell, and I want to be supportive of her having less crap in her house. And this stuff is NOT being taken with us when we move, so one way or another I've got to deal with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on April 13, 2016, 10:52:33 AM
Tris- I highly recommend listing the dresser on freecycle and state that pick-up is required.

I've managed to get people to remove all sorts of junk from my house if I gave it to them free :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on April 13, 2016, 11:14:00 AM
Iowajes, really? My experience with Freecycle is a) they never show up, or b) they get REALLY REALLY pissed that I am not available during the workday for pickup. Even when I put in my listing that I can only do evening or weekend pickup. Which, whatever, their loss, but I got so tired of the angry texts and emails. So I stopped even bothering with it years ago. It's too bad because you'd think this would be an efficient way of unloading stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on April 13, 2016, 11:58:58 AM
I got an awesome locker off of Freecycle once, I still use it in the garage to store paint and motor oil.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on April 13, 2016, 12:39:25 PM

When I don't have time, I put things out on the curb on Saturday morning with a 'Free' sign, and they're usually gone by mid-afternoon.

yup, that's what we do except in the alley (where the "Free" is assumed by the fact it is there in the first place!).

Might be able to enlist my neighbor in helping to haul the thing downstairs; he's a big dude.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on April 13, 2016, 09:11:50 PM
Gathered up a bunch of items needed by new families that arrived with nothing. Feels good to donate to people who really need it and appreciate it. Someone should be coming by tomorrow to pick them up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on April 14, 2016, 05:43:17 PM
I was finding it hard to gather up things to go out the door without being messy (can't be messy when Realtors and potential buyers are coming through every afternoon and evening) but I had a couple hours today to do errands and clean up and got 2 big boxes out the door. Just to my car at this point, but will be dropped off at a friends garage sale tomorrow and forever out of my life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on April 15, 2016, 04:03:49 AM
Sold an old freebie cable box yesterday for $10.  The buyer also took a bunch of cables I had.  I brought the rest of the random cables to Best Buy for recycling.  Best Buy also recycles various other electronic items and rechargeable batteries so I also brought my old electric toothbrush that I've been trying to dispose of properly forever.

I feel like at this point I have tackled all the low hanging fruit - items that were easily sold or donated.  The items I have been decluttering recently have required a lot more effort to get rid of.  They either take forever to sell or require specialty recycling or a donation to a place other than a charity shop.  But I'm determined to keep on going!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on April 15, 2016, 12:26:32 PM
Two more boxes to Goodwill and a bag of books to the library!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on April 16, 2016, 04:53:00 AM
I got rid of a duvet and 3 pillows. It has freed up space and I am going to go and rearrange the cupboard in a minute.

I am going to put all my random stuff that I don't use everyday (footspa/ couple of handbags/teddy bears from when I was younger:)) into a clear plastic box on top of my wardrobe.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on April 16, 2016, 08:11:07 PM
Gave away a rusty old wheelbarrow with a flat tire. Was going to take it to the dump, but then thought someone might want it to make a planter, and I was right!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on April 18, 2016, 12:13:50 PM
Spring has arrived!  Woot!

Yesterday:

Returned two Mason jars from last year's canning season to a chicken owning friend.  I also gave her a stack of egg cartons.

Up-cycled two magazines and a catalog to my sister.

I neglected to bring used toner and ink cartridges for recycling.  Bummed.

This weekend I'm (finally!) going to go through old (clean!)  towels and sheets to donate to the local animal shelter.

9 bath towels, 3 hand towels, and a stack of dish towels have been neatly bagged up and will be delivered to the shelter this afternoon.  The bath and hand towels are over 18 years old.  Have not gotten to the sheets yet.....

I also threw away a skirt and shirt I've had for about as long.  The skirt had carefully placed safety pins, and the shirt had at least two pin sized holes.  Apparently I find it difficult to spend money on myself.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on April 18, 2016, 05:05:50 PM

I also threw away a skirt and shirt I've had for about as long.  The skirt had carefully placed safety pins, and the shirt had at least two pin sized holes.  Apparently I find it difficult to spend money on myself.

haha, me too. Last week I was at work, happened to look down, and realized the top I was wearing had 3 little holes, each about the width of a pencil tip, down the front. I have no idea how old it was. It got tossed - as I told Boyfriend, we are not so destitute that I have to hang onto holey clothing that never fit me properly in the first place!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on April 18, 2016, 08:31:58 PM
I finally took a huge bag of stuff to the Salvation Army.  It's been too long since my last trip.  BUT I'm motivated to start purging again!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on April 19, 2016, 05:11:04 PM
One carton to the Goodwill; ours is a drive through so I usually just give them the stuff and run, lest I change my mind.  Every couple of visits, I get a receipt to record all the stuff.

Five items( limit per day) to consignment; picked up a check for$17. from last batch.

Did spices over the weekend.  I use a lot of them, but somehow those little bags/jars can migrate to the back and lose their potency.  I dumped the contents into the compost heap ( they are plant based, right?).

My Kondo-ed T drawer is still folded in her way, resulting in more wear of more shirts, not just relying on the same ones washed or worn on the top.  Looks so pretty,too, and I can now do "the fold" very quickly.  So proud...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on April 20, 2016, 02:43:49 AM
We donated a few things to the recycle shed at the rubbish tip on the weekend:

- a skirt
- a dress
- pair of PJ shorts
- a coffee mug
- phone charger/cigarette lighter car thingy (predates smartphones)
- cassette player adapter for the car

Plus we threw out a bunch of stuff when we cleared out our car before taking it to the wreckers (car was written off in a minor accident a couple of weeks ago).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on April 20, 2016, 02:11:09 PM

I also threw away a skirt and shirt I've had for about as long.  The skirt had carefully placed safety pins, and the shirt had at least two pin sized holes.  Apparently I find it difficult to spend money on myself.

haha, me too. Last week I was at work, happened to look down, and realized the top I was wearing had 3 little holes, each about the width of a pencil tip, down the front. I have no idea how old it was. It got tossed - as I told Boyfriend, we are not so destitute that I have to hang onto holey clothing that never fit me properly in the first place!

Exactly.  I did something similar at the beginning of the year with several favorite t-shirts I wore only at home.  They had holes under the arms, and several in the front.  True, no one usually sees me in them except my DH.  But, poor guy, LOL!  I washed them and cut into rags after a small ceremony.  ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 21, 2016, 05:04:01 AM
I finally took a huge bag of stuff to the Salvation Army.  It's been too long since my last trip.  BUT I'm motivated to start purging again!
It's hit me too - I think it might be the changing seasons.

I unpacked my summer stuff and prepped winter things for storage yesterday. I know Marie Kondo says to keep everything out year round, but there is stuff I really couldn't wear from either season, and I prefer having fewer 'options' hanging in my wardrobe.

Took the opportunity to weed out a few things - I was surprised to find about 10 things to go to the charity shop. I got rid of three belts, which made me realise I have way too many if I won't even miss those. Whilst I don't feel like I'm in decluttering mode anymore, the constant maintenance is surprising me, even though I am so strict about bringing things into the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on April 21, 2016, 08:08:13 AM
I finally took a huge bag of stuff to the Salvation Army.  It's been too long since my last trip.  BUT I'm motivated to start purging again!
It's hit me too - I think it might be the changing seasons.

I unpacked my summer stuff and prepped winter things for storage yesterday. I know Marie Kondo says to keep everything out year round, but there is stuff I really couldn't wear from either season, and I prefer having fewer 'options' hanging in my wardrobe.

Took the opportunity to weed out a few things - I was surprised to find about 10 things to go to the charity shop. I got rid of three belts, which made me realise I have way too many if I won't even miss those. Whilst I don't feel like I'm in decluttering mode anymore, the constant maintenance is surprising me, even though I am so strict about bringing things into the house.

I went to drop off a pile of clothes at the consignment store yesterday.  They were swamped!  Apparently the nice weather caused everyone to clean out their closets and bring in stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on April 21, 2016, 10:27:58 AM
I'm torn.  I have a broken necklace.  I never especially loved it, but I wore it occasionally.  It is probably gold - it was about $100 (I returned a wedding present and there was nothing else in the store I liked and I didn't have a receipt).  There is a store that I know does repairs on jewelry, and it looks like a quick solder is all it needs.

Do I just throw out the necklace?  Get it repaired and donate it?  Get it repaired and keep it?  Put it up broken on Craig's List as a freebie?  Other idea?

It takes up very little physical space, but a surprising amount of mental space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trudie on April 21, 2016, 10:47:17 AM
I'm torn.  I have a broken necklace.  I never especially loved it, but I wore it occasionally.  It is probably gold - it was about $100 (I returned a wedding present and there was nothing else in the store I liked and I didn't have a receipt).  There is a store that I know does repairs on jewelry, and it looks like a quick solder is all it needs.

Do I just throw out the necklace?  Get it repaired and donate it?  Get it repaired and keep it?  Put it up broken on Craig's List as a freebie?  Other idea?

It takes up very little physical space, but a surprising amount of mental space.

Take it to a jeweler.  Decide if you want to repair it.  If you're not into it, sell it to the jeweler for scrap gold.  I just sold a few pieces of gold jewelry (damaged and unwearable) and got $100.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on April 21, 2016, 10:49:13 AM
Cash for  gold place if not a jeweler?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 22, 2016, 02:19:53 AM
I had my gold engagement ring put into a new setting after I broke it gardening. The jeweller told me the gold of the original ring wasn't really worth anything as it was 'bad quality'. I said in that case I'd keep it! I took it away on sold it online (just googled cash for gold, checked lots of reviews, researched the company etc). I got £67 for it. And it wasn't heavy, it was just a ring. So definitely don't throw it away!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on April 22, 2016, 06:45:08 AM
Gave away an old toaster and a patio umbrella to people on an "Everything Free" Facebook group.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 22, 2016, 06:55:20 AM
Cleared out another square of an expedit. They are great for being able to see progress! I've got 5 free spaces in expedite in different rooms, but also stuff in piles on the floor. New, easily trackable goal: no more piles and 3 more free spaces. Then I can rearrange the storage in the house again and get rid of a piece of furniture (bookshelf or an expedit).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on April 22, 2016, 09:00:22 AM
Cleared out another square of an expedit. They are great for being able to see progress! I've got 5 free spaces in expedite in different rooms, but also stuff in piles on the floor. New, easily trackable goal: no more piles and 3 more free spaces. Then I can rearrange the storage in the house again and get rid of a piece of furniture (bookshelf or an expedit).
What is an expedit?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on April 22, 2016, 11:08:10 AM
Are we speaking Ikea Swedish?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 22, 2016, 06:30:02 PM
Are we speaking Ikea Swedish?
Cleared out another square of an expedit. They are great for being able to see progress! I've got 5 free spaces in expedite in different rooms, but also stuff in piles on the floor. New, easily trackable goal: no more piles and 3 more free spaces. Then I can rearrange the storage in the house again and get rid of a piece of furniture (bookshelf or an expedit).
What is an expedit?
We are, my apologies. They're shelving with square spaces, and are in 90% of homes here, pretty sure. The square spaces are about 13" by 13" by 13".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on April 22, 2016, 11:20:36 PM
I sorted through a couple of drawers the other day (again) and managed to get rid of some more items. Most are rubbish, items from childhood that I have realised don't have any sentimental value to them, and I am unlikely to wear / use them again. This has created some more space in a drawer, and I am trying to ensure that I don't see this as an area to be filled, but rather space so the drawer can be used easily

When it comes to moisturiser / shower gel etc, I have some work to do here. The new vanity in the bathroom allows for items to be better organised so it will be easier to see what I have and what I need rather than things hiding at the back or in other containers. (As at teacher I get given a number of these items each year) My goal here is not to buy anything until these items are used up (haven't bought any makeup for about 18 months now with this policy) and again I would like the drawer to have some space in it, not be at capacity.

My husband loves his T-shirt drawer now, has even shown it off to some friends as to how great it is.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on April 23, 2016, 03:47:41 AM
Went through my makeup drawer the other day and tossed: 2 mascaras (one old and one new that I didn't like), 2 really old mostly used up concealers, one old bottle of foundation that was the wrong shade.  I don't even know why I was hanging on to these... I am now down to 1 of everything I use. 

Today I will do some filing and purging of the filing cabinet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on April 23, 2016, 04:01:03 AM
I've got rid of a few bits and pieces over the past few days, hmm, can't think what it all was now. I know I finished up a pot of moisturiser yesterday.

My dogs have been driving me up the bloody wall barking at the dog next door so I have moved the garden storage boxes down one side of the fence to block them off. It has really worked and I don't know why I didn't think of this idea sooner!:D I will have a quick check through the boxes to see if there is anything I can de-clutter.

My capsule wardrobe has worked well, but I know I need to buy a few new items when the weather gets warmer as I don't have enough tops for warm weather. I'm going to wait until there is a sale until I buy anything new though. There is at least one top I was going to recycle as nightwear. I'm not sure if I will actually get rid of anything as nothing is ripped or damaged and still can be worn inside the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on April 23, 2016, 05:08:04 AM
Gave away some car accessories yesterday. I sold it a couple months ago.

Gave my Britta and a few filters to a friend. Water at my new house is decent and I wasn't using it.

Cut up an old bra and sewed the hooks into an "extender" I'm having a hard time finding bras that fit since weight loss. This helps.

Slowly purging clothing again.  Afraid of gaining weight back but ready to move on!  A pair of jeans, fleece pants, jacket and three pair of shoes are in my out box. Tossed worn out socks.

Used up a jar of agave nectar.

Glued my chuck Taylor's.  Glued my kitchen scizzors. 2nd time. Might not last much longer.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on April 23, 2016, 11:50:53 AM
I've had a major bike consolidation project going on.  The goal is to go from 4.5 bikes to just two for wife and I.  So far I've had two painless craigslist sales for two whole bikes and parted out a bunch of high end "vintage" mountain bike parts on ebay.  I'm pretty happy with the amount of money I got for everything. Between assembling and disassembling bikes, it took a TON of work to get everything in saleable condition.  I don't really mind working on bikes, but if there was ever a case for not buying more stuff than you need, this is it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on April 23, 2016, 04:13:13 PM
Made $20 at neighbour's garage sale today! I didn't even have to help at the site, since other family was there. So happy all of those items are gone. Now I just learned that the IKEA shelf (possibly also an expedit) that came with our apartment might need to be returned to the land lords.  They offered to sell it to us - um no!  We want less stuff and this is exactly the motivation I need. I will begin emptying squares in the next few days.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on April 23, 2016, 04:22:23 PM
Cleaned and purged the kids closets today. I still need to do a second round, but it's a start. I have a hard time letting go of the clothes, as most were given to us and I hate the idea of finding them only to need to buy more later. But the truth is, I spend way too much time trying to keep up with all the clothes, and u could easily buy anything they need later on.

Anyone have suggestions on how many shorts/shorts/pants ect to keep? My boys are 5 and 7.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: geekette on April 23, 2016, 04:22:59 PM
I feel like we've been purging for months!  Actually, I think we have, but we're slow. 

We really needed new carpet (existing was approaching 3 decades old), which meant the "catch all" room had to get cleared out, along with all the closets.  We got the carpet last week (ooooh, cushy!) and as we slowly put stuff back in an orderly manner, lots more is getting donated. 

But where does it all come from?!?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 25, 2016, 02:19:17 AM
I feel like we've been purging for months!  Actually, I think we have, but we're slow. 

We really needed new carpet (existing was approaching 3 decades old), which meant the "catch all" room had to get cleared out, along with all the closets.  We got the carpet last week (ooooh, cushy!) and as we slowly put stuff back in an orderly manner, lots more is getting donated. 

But where does it all come from?!?

This! I got more ruthless with lower quality craft supplies over the weekend. My husband also found some electronics boxes he was happy to part with (finally) so that made me very happy. Our house is so tidy!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Boganvillia on April 25, 2016, 02:46:43 AM
DVDs. In the space of 12 months they have become an utterly obsolete medium for our household. I reduced our collection of DVDs and CDs from 3 crates, accumulated over say 15 years, to one crate. How must hard-core consumers fare? Needless to say, the single remaining crate lives in the garage where our vehicle does not.

This comes on the back of getting rid of clothes. April in New Zealand is transitional weather-wise and until a fortnight ago it was necessary to have both summer and winter clothes to hand. Like many a minimalist Mustachienne, I don't have much closet space (4 drawers and 1 metre of hanging space only), so this summer-yet-winter palaver forced some tough really quite easy decisions on what really does not deserve to stay.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: zinethstache on April 26, 2016, 03:41:36 PM
I am so proud to be able to post on this thread! We are selling our 2200sf clown home, 3 car garage and shed to live in a 28ft fifth wheel trailer. Whew. The gutting of our home has been daunting. We are currently prepping for a moving sale on saturday. It will be the $1/$5/$10 sale. Some awesome finds for the weekend garage sale shoppers. We just want our stuff to go to good homes, price is not a factor.

Last night we emptied the attic. ACK! What a disaster. It ended up a mountain of old sports equipment. Were talking skis, more skis, lacrosse equipment, vollyballs, tennis balls, baseballs, footballs. OMG I think hubby kept every single sporting item he has owned for the last 30 years!

I am going to feel so light once were down to a reasonable amount of stuff to store!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: astephens94 on April 26, 2016, 07:19:25 PM
I'm in for this! Some items on my list:

- donate old clothes to community center

- sell old games/hobbies I don't use anymore

- clean out closet crammed full of things I haven't looked at in over a year

That's a start; we'll see where this takes me once these 3 are checked off!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on April 27, 2016, 04:16:08 AM
The zipper broke on an old pair of boots. They weren't worth repairing so I threw them out. (part of me was struggling with throwing them out - there was some fear of deprivation/IBL happening for a little while)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on April 27, 2016, 07:21:23 AM
I'm having a sale of my purge/kono-ing on Saturday
I've gotten rid of
-old clothes
-old electronics
-unwanted make up
-unwanted books

I don't really expect to make money off of it, but I am glad to just get rid of these things
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Boganvillia on April 27, 2016, 03:13:41 PM
Last night we emptied the attic. ACK! What a disaster. It ended up a mountain of old sports equipment. Were talking skis, more skis, lacrosse equipment, vollyballs, tennis balls, baseballs, footballs. OMG I think hubby kept every single sporting item he has owned for the last 30 years!

What a drastic change for you! Good luck with the adventure. What will do will all the stuff, do you think? There must be a market and yet putting it all on ebay ... I can imagine it would be so much work and depending on what else you have your plate, pretty daunting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on April 28, 2016, 03:13:18 AM
I have a stack of paper books that I have read and was going to resell, but I might just donate them. Someone was going to give me his books to sell as well so I will have to consider it before he comes over. It seems like a lot of hassle to put them on Amazon and then have to buy the packaging to send off. Haha, I will see how I feel.:D





Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 28, 2016, 03:24:24 AM
Sold an old hobby supply on Amazon. Honestly, I had forgotten it was listed, just languishing in the 'to sell' pile.

The problem is that knowing I CAN get money for these items makes it hard for me to give them away... yet even the thought of the payment isn't really persuading me to get on and list things for sale.

I will pick a date (my birthday, that's easy), and anything not listed and sold by then will be donated, and any remaining listings deleted. I've decided.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on April 28, 2016, 08:16:02 AM
the advicist, I agree - it is such a PITA to list things for sale, and then find packaging for them, pack them up, ship them... but I hate giving stuff away knowing that I might get some money for them. And I have such terrible luck on Craigslist and the Facebook virtual garage sale sites. Nothing but no-shows and people getting pissed that I won't take off work so that I can meet them in the middle of a workday.

I'm starting to get over that now; since we're hoping to move when our lease is up it makes me happy to see stuff leaving the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on April 28, 2016, 08:23:22 AM
Speaking of the 'I can't give this away, it might earn me/save me money!', I'm leaving my job and have used my desk space and an office closet as a big hoarding zone. Finally biting the bullet and donating some of the stuff that's here because I don't really want it in my apartment and have no runway left to sell or repurpose it. I think this is good and if it means I'm wasting some past money, maybe that will remind me in the future!

Also maybe unrelated but yesterday I passed up the opportunity to buy two beautiful $5 hats because .... well I already have nice sunhats and haven't had cause to use those yet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on May 07, 2016, 04:39:04 PM
On holiday and living out of a suitcase right now which is giving me renewed motivation to go home and declutter. I clearly don't need all those clothes I never wear!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 07, 2016, 11:29:49 PM
Set up DH in the study with box of his paperwork and instructions on a whiteboard. YAY. Only un-reproducable records will be kept, everything else is getting recyled with a few documents to be selected for scanning. That's 1/4 m3 I'm happy to see go.

Off to enjoy the sunshine and pull weeds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on May 08, 2016, 01:46:07 AM
Having a yard sale this Saturday with my neighbor. Almost everything that didn't sell on craigslist or eBay is in one place and ready to go. AND it's going to be good weather here.

Will post afterward if I learn anything about yardsaling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Campanula on May 08, 2016, 01:38:35 PM
On holiday and living out of a suitcase right now which is giving me renewed motivation to go home and declutter. I clearly don't need all those clothes I never wear!

+1 Just went on holiday with only hand luggage and it was so liberating to have so few possessions to think about. Of course, mentioning this made DH a very nervous man.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 08, 2016, 05:40:01 PM
Set up DH in the study with box of his paperwork and instructions on a whiteboard. YAY. Only un-reproducable records will be kept, everything else is getting recyled with a few documents to be selected for scanning. That's 1/4 m3 I'm happy to see go.

Off to enjoy the sunshine and pull weeds.
So much went out! The recycling bin is full this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on May 08, 2016, 11:21:01 PM
DW and me just cleared out our upstairs again:

1. A ton of books, now replaced by eBooks
2. Random accumulated junk
3. Her books from medical school (donated to the university)
4. Some electronics

We probably reduced the clutter by 50%. Now we just need to do another 50%.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 09, 2016, 01:57:04 AM
On holiday and living out of a suitcase right now which is giving me renewed motivation to go home and declutter. I clearly don't need all those clothes I never wear!

+1 Just went on holiday with only hand luggage and it was so liberating to have so few possessions to think about. Of course, mentioning this made DH a very nervous man.
It was travelling with only carry on that started me on this journey! It is so great not to have to drop bags off, and leave them with reception, or worry about where they are being unable to leave the car places because there's stuff on the backseat or whatever. I've done this on various lengths and types of trip now, including large temperature variations, and city / hiking stops on the same trip, and I'm never going back.

I know it's annoying for other passengers when everyone has their luggage on board, but no frills airlines have given mustachians only one option!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 09, 2016, 06:25:50 AM
It's more of a 1 in, 1 out (but that's better than 1 in, 0 out)- but I bought new t-shirts in the size S, and got rid of all the XS in my closet that I can't fit into anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on May 09, 2016, 09:02:54 AM
On holiday and living out of a suitcase right now which is giving me renewed motivation to go home and declutter. I clearly don't need all those clothes I never wear!

+1 Just went on holiday with only hand luggage and it was so liberating to have so few possessions to think about. Of course, mentioning this made DH a very nervous man.
It was travelling with only carry on that started me on this journey! It is so great not to have to drop bags off, and leave them with reception, or worry about where they are being unable to leave the car places because there's stuff on the backseat or whatever. I've done this on various lengths and types of trip now, including large temperature variations, and city / hiking stops on the same trip, and I'm never going back.

I know it's annoying for other passengers when everyone has their luggage on board, but no frills airlines have given mustachians only one option!

Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on May 09, 2016, 11:46:14 AM
Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).

Depends a bit on how you will spend your time. Bring clothes that are versatile and can be reworn over and over (if you are the type that washes everything after a single wear, you are going to be stuck). Black slacks can be dressed up or down. Things that can be handwashed and then hung to dry if needed. Shoes that are comfortable and look good so you only need one pair. Pare way down on what toiletries/makeup you really need, be very ruthless. If you bring jewelry, only bring what you wear on the plane.

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on May 09, 2016, 01:56:42 PM
On holiday and living out of a suitcase right now which is giving me renewed motivation to go home and declutter. I clearly don't need all those clothes I never wear!

+1 Just went on holiday with only hand luggage and it was so liberating to have so few possessions to think about. Of course, mentioning this made DH a very nervous man.
It was travelling with only carry on that started me on this journey! It is so great not to have to drop bags off, and leave them with reception, or worry about where they are being unable to leave the car places because there's stuff on the backseat or whatever. I've done this on various lengths and types of trip now, including large temperature variations, and city / hiking stops on the same trip, and I'm never going back.

I know it's annoying for other passengers when everyone has their luggage on board, but no frills airlines have given mustachians only one option!

Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).

http://www.onebag.com/  All you need to know about traveling with only carry-on.  Also links to other sites available in case, like me, you get facinated with this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on May 09, 2016, 03:55:30 PM
On holiday and living out of a suitcase right now which is giving me renewed motivation to go home and declutter. I clearly don't need all those clothes I never wear!

+1 Just went on holiday with only hand luggage and it was so liberating to have so few possessions to think about. Of course, mentioning this made DH a very nervous man.
It was travelling with only carry on that started me on this journey! It is so great not to have to drop bags off, and leave them with reception, or worry about where they are being unable to leave the car places because there's stuff on the backseat or whatever. I've done this on various lengths and types of trip now, including large temperature variations, and city / hiking stops on the same trip, and I'm never going back.

I know it's annoying for other passengers when everyone has their luggage on board, but no frills airlines have given mustachians only one option!

Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).

http://www.onebag.com/  All you need to know about traveling with only carry-on.  Also links to other sites available in case, like me, you get facinated with this.

Perfect! Thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 10, 2016, 02:48:57 AM

Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).

This is really nerdy but I made myself a spreadsheet. It lists where we are staying, the average temperature for the time of year (av. high and low), and what kind of activity we might do during the day and evening.

I am exact in that if we're in x city for two days, I know one will be sightseeing on foot, one will be sightseeing in the car, and one night we will have either fancy drinks or dinner. But I'm not like, it's Wednesday, today we must do x! I just list what kinds of activities we'll be doing, so I know what kind of thing I need to wear.

On a trip with city & country, and temperature differences, I tend to do layers. So a cotton dress that looks nice and flowy with flip flops in town in the heat, can be worn with leggings and trainers and a knit tank top underneath on a cooler day. On a colder day the same dress can be worn with a thermal long sleeved t-shirt underneath. That t-shirt can then also be worn on a very cold day with trousers for hiking, with the same leggings underneath those if necessary. I can sleep in the thermal t-shirt whilst camping, if it's really freezing. And then when we're back in a city the cotton dress with heels and a belt, and we're out on the town.

I take wedge heels for evening wear. White jeans, rolled up a little with wedges and a nice vest type top is appropriate for dinner and drinks most places if I don't want to wear that dress every time we go out. The white jeans with a t-shirt is fine for mid temperature days, with trainers or flip flops depending on weather. I look for versatile items. I don't wear jeans much, and blue denim is limiting, but white can read casual or dressy. Dresses are great:  The same one can go from very casual, to summery, to eveningy, just by changing your shoes and demeanour.

Anyway, I list activities, locations, temperatures, and then I choose a rough 'outfit' for each day and evening. I have a tab in the workbook that lists items I am considering taking by 'genre' eg dresses, trousers, t-shirts, vests etc. I include the correct underwear (eg white jeans!) and swimwear.

On the 'day planner' tab I select the clothes from a drop down linked to the second tab showing me what clothes I think I will take. I then use a 'count-if' function to tell me how many times I plan to wear each item on the trip. For a trip of 10 days + if something is not being worn 3 times MINIMUM I remove it, and reallocate something else those days.

I take laundry soap sheets - they are dry little sheets you dissolve in warm water so they can't spill. I only wash things that are dirty (in life, as well as on holiday). Once something is declared 'dirty' it goes in a wash bag to keep it separate. If we happen to stay in a hotel with washing machines (much common than I knew before going carry on), we will put a wash on a night we stay in and do a grocery store picnic. Honestly, I find it fun to work these things out, like a little adventure in our hotel. Otherwise I will pull things out as needed from the wash bag and do it in the bathroom sink and hang over the shower rail / towel rack. I always do this in the evening, by morning it is usually dry.

Pare down on cosmetics massively. I usually buy shampoo when I arrive as I love foreign grocery stores / pharmacies. Get a smallish bottle and you won't need to bring it home. I avoid hotel freebies as they are a lot of packaging for a small amount of product and seem wasteful. 1 lipstick, 1 blusher, it will simplify things greatly.

Depending on where you are going, most things can be bought. Eg, recent trip to the states I was due my period. Years ago I would have taken everything I needed. But they sell tampons in America, you know! I took 1 in my handbag, used that when needed, and immediately went to find a CVS. Not a big deal.

(On a different trip, I had the same plan but my period was a week early! I had 1 tampon and a two day train trip with NO stops. They did not sell feminine hygiene items on board. After a 30 second panic, I got over myself, asked around, and made a couple of very nice friends who gave me what I needed! So if you are somewhere inaccessible, take items with you! But also, most humans are nice, and humbling yourself and asking for help is a good thing to do once in a while, and gives you greater empathy with your fellow humans).

You will have fewer outfit choices. You probably won't care. If you plan carefully, and make sure you feel good in everything you take, no-one will notice you are rewearing the same stuff.

I take a mac (ugh, is this a British word?) - a trench coat? Lightweight. With layers underneath it will protect you from the wind which is often all you need for keeping warm if you have a thermal base layer and cardigan on underneath. Good for over your knees on the plane. I also take a large scarf. It will be a blanket, sun protection, and I can tie it over my head if we hire a convertible. On a cold day it will really make a difference.

Here's what I took for 18 nights in Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico with mid way stops in the cooler mountains and finishing off at the grand canyon where it was really cold: 3 dresses, 1 trousers, 2 leggings, white jeans, navy skirt, 4 tops (2 sleeveless - one of which acts as tank underneath other stuff on colder days, 1 short sleeved, 1 long-sleeved), 2 cardigans, flip flops, trainers, wedges, belt, swimsuit, bikini, mac, scarf.

It was plenty and I had loads of choice. You just add layers for colder weather, and take them off for warmer. I stick to navy / white as the 'base' colour for bottoms and cardigans, and tops / scarves etc in bright colours all mix in nicely.

Also: I don't have kids and am generally not a messy person. Also, planning my vacation, down to packing, is a lot of the fun of it for me. I know this system will not work for people who hate organising and spill stuff constantly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on May 10, 2016, 02:51:57 AM
I've been on a really good decluttering kick again, must be the warmer weather.:)

The only downside is that some of the stuff had to be trashed so my rubbish bin is very full this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: UKfire on May 10, 2016, 07:21:12 AM
As a fellow de-clutterer this NHK TV programme appeared in my Facebook feed this morning; Marie Kondo, KonMari, 'The Life Changing Magic of Tidying':

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/vod/konmari/20160507.html

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on May 10, 2016, 12:38:54 PM

Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).

This is really nerdy but I made myself a spreadsheet. It lists where we are staying, the average temperature for the time of year (av. high and low), and what kind of activity we might do during the day and evening.

It was plenty and I had loads of choice. You just add layers for colder weather, and take them off for warmer. I stick to navy / white as the 'base' colour for bottoms and cardigans, and tops / scarves etc in bright colours all mix in nicely.

Also: I don't have kids and am generally not a messy person. Also, planning my vacation, down to packing, is a lot of the fun of it for me. I know this system will not work for people who hate organising and spill stuff constantly.

Super helpful! Thank you so much.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on May 10, 2016, 08:16:57 PM

Any tips or resources? I'm the girl who can pack a 50.5lb bag (the max SW airlines allowed for free) for a 3 day trip... and we're going to Italy for 2 weeks and planning to do it in a 50L backpack (one for me, one for him at least).

This is really nerdy but I made myself a spreadsheet. It lists where we are staying, the average temperature for the time of year (av. high and low), and what kind of activity we might do during the day and evening.

[...]

On the 'day planner' tab I select the clothes from a drop down linked to the second tab showing me what clothes I think I will take. I then use a 'count-if' function to tell me how many times I plan to wear each item on the trip. For a trip of 10 days + if something is not being worn 3 times MINIMUM I remove it, and reallocate something else those days.

Oh wow! That's amazing.

On a slight different note, I've found that it's a LOT easier to pack with a decluttered wardrobe. If you only have clothes that you love and wear a lot, then packing is simple - anything you pack is something you love.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on May 10, 2016, 11:27:23 PM
As a fellow de-clutterer this NHK TV programme appeared in my Facebook feed this morning; Marie Kondo, KonMari, 'The Life Changing Magic of Tidying':

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/vod/konmari/20160507.html



Thanks for the link! I haven't read the book (the queue to get it from the library is humongous) so I was intrigued to watch this. It's inspired me to have yet another go at my clothes. I've been fairly ruthless over the years and cull from time to time, but it's always good to check if I still love everything in my wardrobe or not.

I've now thrown out 4 elderly pairs of undies and have 2 belts to donate to the recycle shed. More importantly, I've now folded my bras and all my undies as per KonMari. I have to say, my surgical bras do NOT spark joy. However, I do still need to wear them for a while longer so I reluctantly folded them and put them in a drawer. I'm trying to think of them like my medicines. Taking tablets does not spark joy but it's better than the alternative, so I take them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on May 11, 2016, 02:33:09 AM
Just ditched a few pairs of tights that had worn through at the heel, a pair of shoes that had worn out at the heel (pattern there!) and set aside some clothes to consider donating.

My house is full of (mostly unopened) wedding presents, wedding cards, and other people's stuff they lent me for the wedding, like tablecloths. I foresee a lot of organising / decluttering happening between now and when I go back to work on Monday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on May 11, 2016, 02:54:06 AM
I'm cleaning out the shed this month. Have thrown away some old rusted or broken pots and have a nice little pile to go to the thriftshop this afternoon (if I can make it there before they close).

Thinking of going through my closet again after that. I purged it last year, but even though I've only bought a few items I've noticed that a lot of clothes stay unused. And when I think "I might wear this today" I always find a reason not to. These are clothes I loved, once, and I'm not quite sure if they're worn/washed so they fit poorer now or if I'm just done with them. Either way: I can't keep stuff I don't wear. (I have a pile of 6 pants. I wear 2 of them. Over and over and over.. I used to wear the others a lot, but then I got these 2. And they are soooo soft.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 11, 2016, 07:21:18 AM
Filed a bunch of papers yesterday morning that were waiting to go into the filing cabinet.  While doing it, I purged a bunch of old statements and bills.  Now I just need to remember to bring them to work for shredding.  Switched my settings at Schwab to paperless except for tax forms and trade confirms, so that will cut down on the statements I get in the mail.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 11, 2016, 07:30:32 AM
I have make up. It's all out of date according to "use by" guidelines. It's surprisingly hard to part with, because what if I want to do my makeup for some event in the future?...
...well, I'll have to buy new makeup anyway because it's unhygenic to use old stuff on your face. Does infrequently used makeup have a longer use-by date?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Roland of Gilead on May 11, 2016, 07:34:45 AM
The last three weeks we have sold or thrown away about 30,000 pounds of stuff (no joke) downsizing from a 5000 sqft house with 5 car garage to a 200 sqft RV+sailboat

A massive decluttering.   Still have about 5,000 pounds to go though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on May 11, 2016, 07:38:41 AM
I have make up. It's all out of date according to "use by" guidelines. It's surprisingly hard to part with, because what if I want to do my makeup for some event in the future?...
...well, I'll have to buy new makeup anyway because it's unhygenic to use old stuff on your face. Does infrequently used makeup have a longer use-by date?

I'm no expert but what I do is: throw out mascara 3-6 months after opening, throw out eyeshadow that's more than a couple of years old and the rest I keep until i use it up or if I'm a bit suspicious about it for whatever reason. I'm a lot more careful about makeup for the eyes than anywhere else because infections can be dangerous.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on May 11, 2016, 07:54:28 AM
I have make up. It's all out of date according to "use by" guidelines. It's surprisingly hard to part with, because what if I want to do my makeup for some event in the future?...
...well, I'll have to buy new makeup anyway because it's unhygenic to use old stuff on your face. Does infrequently used makeup have a longer use-by date?

I'm no expert but what I do is: throw out mascara 3-6 months after opening, throw out eyeshadow that's more than a couple of years old and the rest I keep until i use it up or if I'm a bit suspicious about it for whatever reason. I'm a lot more careful about makeup for the eyes than anywhere else because infections can be dangerous.

+1. Be careful with eye stuff. Otherwise: I'm fairly sure powder products (powder blush and foundation) stay good for years whereas liquid products really do 'turn' in my limited experience.

Makeup / bathroom products are on my list to purge within the next few weeks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on May 11, 2016, 09:42:01 AM
I have make up. It's all out of date according to "use by" guidelines. It's surprisingly hard to part with, because what if I want to do my makeup for some event in the future?...
...well, I'll have to buy new makeup anyway because it's unhygenic to use old stuff on your face. Does infrequently used makeup have a longer use-by date?

I'm no expert but what I do is: throw out mascara 3-6 months after opening, throw out eyeshadow that's more than a couple of years old and the rest I keep until i use it up or if I'm a bit suspicious about it for whatever reason. I'm a lot more careful about makeup for the eyes than anywhere else because infections can be dangerous.

+1. Be careful with eye stuff. Otherwise: I'm fairly sure powder products (powder blush and foundation) stay good for years whereas liquid products really do 'turn' in my limited experience.

Makeup / bathroom products are on my list to purge within the next few weeks!

I need to go through my make-up, it's more of a hobby for me(plus I wear some go-to stuff every day) so I have a ton of really high quality products (almost entirely MAC) but a lot of it is half used and then forgotten. MAC actually will take their old containers back for recycling and if you bring in 6 you can get a free lipstick. I have enough old/empties that I could probably get at least 4 lipsticks... Remembering that it is "expired" does make some of it easier to let go.

I need to declutter my kitchen badly too. Those two areas are next on my list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on May 11, 2016, 10:53:30 AM
I have make up. It's all out of date according to "use by" guidelines. It's surprisingly hard to part with, because what if I want to do my makeup for some event in the future?...
...well, I'll have to buy new makeup anyway because it's unhygenic to use old stuff on your face. Does infrequently used makeup have a longer use-by date?

I'm no expert but what I do is: throw out mascara 3-6 months after opening, throw out eyeshadow that's more than a couple of years old and the rest I keep until i use it up or if I'm a bit suspicious about it for whatever reason. I'm a lot more careful about makeup for the eyes than anywhere else because infections can be dangerous.

+1. Be careful with eye stuff. Otherwise: I'm fairly sure powder products (powder blush and foundation) stay good for years whereas liquid products really do 'turn' in my limited experience.

Makeup / bathroom products are on my list to purge within the next few weeks!

yep, i throw out my mascaras and my foundation after a few months or whenever they seem to go manky on me ... if you have older eye shadow or lipstick that you still like, you can always rub the top layer off onto a tissue and give it a spritz with rubbing alcohol to freshen it up (this is what they do at sephora so that you can try things and not get gross infections). i have a couple of fancy eyeshadow palettes that are a few years old that i've done this with, because fancy eyeshadow is stupid expensive and lasts forever in terms of how much you need to use, and i kind of refuse to throw them out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 11, 2016, 11:47:39 AM
I have make up. It's all out of date according to "use by" guidelines. It's surprisingly hard to part with, because what if I want to do my makeup for some event in the future?...
...well, I'll have to buy new makeup anyway because it's unhygenic to use old stuff on your face. Does infrequently used makeup have a longer use-by date?

Anecdotal only, but I had blush and eyeshadow that was easily more than a decade old and nothing bad happened to me.  Mascara I throw out every few years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on May 11, 2016, 02:28:24 PM
The last three weeks we have sold or thrown away about 30,000 pounds of stuff (no joke) downsizing from a 5000 sqft house with 5 car garage to a 200 sqft RV+sailboat

A massive decluttering.   Still have about 5,000 pounds to go though.


Good god. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on May 11, 2016, 03:25:24 PM
The last three weeks we have sold or thrown away about 30,000 pounds of stuff (no joke) downsizing from a 5000 sqft house with 5 car garage to a 200 sqft RV+sailboat

A massive decluttering.   Still have about 5,000 pounds to go though.


Good god. :)

Yeah! Holy cow, how did I miss that!? That is a serious change in lifestyle. Any reason things are happening that drastically?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on May 11, 2016, 03:39:40 PM
The last three weeks we have sold or thrown away about 30,000 pounds of stuff (no joke) downsizing from a 5000 sqft house with 5 car garage to a 200 sqft RV+sailboat

A massive decluttering.   Still have about 5,000 pounds to go though.


Good god. :)

Yeah! Holy cow, how did I miss that!? That is a serious change in lifestyle. Any reason things are happening that drastically?

Because Roland is a bad ass who built his own RV (http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/welcome-to-the-forum/homeless-in-30-days!) (with workshop).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on May 11, 2016, 03:51:47 PM
The last three weeks we have sold or thrown away about 30,000 pounds of stuff (no joke) downsizing from a 5000 sqft house with 5 car garage to a 200 sqft RV+sailboat

A massive decluttering.   Still have about 5,000 pounds to go though.


Good god. :)

Yeah! Holy cow, how did I miss that!? That is a serious change in lifestyle. Any reason things are happening that drastically?

Because Roland is a bad ass who built his own RV (http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/welcome-to-the-forum/homeless-in-30-days!) (with workshop).

Amazing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 12, 2016, 03:51:58 AM

Oh wow! That's amazing.

On a slight different note, I've found that it's a LOT easier to pack with a decluttered wardrobe. If you only have clothes that you love and wear a lot, then packing is simple - anything you pack is something you love.

Totally. In fact, it worked the other way for me - I planned a long trip as above, and when I got back, I realised how easy it had been to dress from a small selection. Packing only carry on is what brought me to decluttering and minimalism! I wanted my whole life to be that streamlined and simple.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 12, 2016, 03:53:00 AM

Super helpful! Thank you so much.

Thanks. Glad you found it helpful because it was kind of an essay and I felt like a bit of jerk taking up half a page with my ramblings!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 14, 2016, 06:45:33 AM
Three boxes of textbooks, an old freezer the size of a bar fridge, a pool light (fibreboard, not worth recycling the wood) and a pool table are gone gone gone.  The pool table was the long size, and took two strong men over 3 hours to demolish and remove.  Suddenly the basement has space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on May 14, 2016, 04:28:55 PM
I buy Clinique foundation and it never goes bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on May 15, 2016, 06:38:50 AM
I cleared out all the cables I had lying around. This wasn't even hard-core decluttering, just throwing out stuff that I could say with 100% certainty that I would never need again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 15, 2016, 07:38:42 AM
Thanks on the makeup advice! I'll be careful with the eye stuff, and see about trying decontam methods for some of the others.

I cleared out all the cables I had lying around. This wasn't even hard-core decluttering, just throwing out stuff that I could say with 100% certainty that I would never need again.
Getting rid of that pile looks satisfying!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on May 15, 2016, 10:20:45 AM
I am quite proud that the stack that went to Goodwill today was small--meaning that I did a good job clearing out when I moved a year ago, and a good job not accumulating more in the meantime--aside from a bag of clothes, most of what I was clearing out were items I wasn't sure if I would need in the new place. Got rid of an air filter, a box of small items, a coffee-maker and an air-mattress and pump. I did have a humorous moment loading the car, though--my apartment complex has a street gate right by my unit and a parking garage a bit farther away, where my car was parked. When I went out with the first load, I looked to see if the loading zone by the gate was free and was disappointed to see that it was not, because one of my neighbors had parked encroaching on it. It was only when I had hauled load 1 all the way to the garage that I realized I could just pile everything on the curb and then pull my car around and double-park long enough to load the trunk (it's a very quiet side street, esp on Sunday morning). What was the worst that could happen--someone stole the stuff? Then they'd be saving ME work of dragging it to Goodwill!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on May 15, 2016, 04:15:07 PM
I cleared out all the cables I had lying around. This wasn't even hard-core decluttering, just throwing out stuff that I could say with 100% certainty that I would never need again.

I'm not sure about where you are, but here we can take old power cables to the scrap metal dealers. They are keen on the copper etc in the cables so will recycle them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on May 15, 2016, 06:29:47 PM
Pulled a box of stuff out from under the stairs and threw it in the bin. Found the stuffed floppy puppy I made for my son when he was a baby. That went in the closet. I will save it for my first grandchild.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 15, 2016, 07:49:51 PM
I cleared out all the cables I had lying around. This wasn't even hard-core decluttering, just throwing out stuff that I could say with 100% certainty that I would never need again.

I'm not sure about where you are, but here we can take old power cables to the scrap metal dealers. They are keen on the copper etc in the cables so will recycle them.
If in the US, Best Buy accepts cables for recycling. They have drop off boxes right by the entrance to the store.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on May 16, 2016, 12:57:35 AM
I cleared out all the cables I had lying around. This wasn't even hard-core decluttering, just throwing out stuff that I could say with 100% certainty that I would never need again.

I'm not sure about where you are, but here we can take old power cables to the scrap metal dealers. They are keen on the copper etc in the cables so will recycle them.

We (Denmark) have public recycling yards that will accept the cables and recycle them. I'll let the government keep that money since the yards also accept and process nasty/expensive stuff like chemicals and asbestos.

Title: Piano!
Post by: ThomFred59 on May 16, 2016, 05:24:40 AM
Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Piano!
Post by: mwulff on May 16, 2016, 07:54:20 AM
Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?

Maybe use it as firewood? I'm only half way kidding actually. It takes up space and is a sunk cost. Burning it will allow you to save money on heat.

Could pieces of it be worked into new furniture perhaps?
Title: Re: Piano!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on May 16, 2016, 08:03:19 AM
Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?

Almost as bad as try to give away free asbestos.  Unless it is some highly regarded brand, no one is going to want it.  Maybe break it up in place and recycle the parts the best you can?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on May 16, 2016, 08:31:10 AM
Glad to find this thread!  I am in the process of moving from a small house to a single room in a shared apartment and have  been decluttering/downsizing.  Reading about KonMarie reminded me she has a chapter about momentos.  I have a shelf of picture albums/old letters/stuff like that and I haven't known how to tackle it.  I'll read that chapter and see what she's got to say.
Title: Re: Piano!
Post by: jordanread on May 16, 2016, 09:00:24 AM
Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?

I'd almost suggest painting "Play Me, I'm Yours" and just putting it in a park. :-)
Title: Re: Piano!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 16, 2016, 12:31:28 PM
The problem is usually getting it out of the house in one piece, especially if it is not on the main floor.  I had a pool table to sell/give away and ended up demolishing it to get my space back. No-one wanted it.

Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?

I'd almost suggest painting "Play Me, I'm Yours" and just putting it in a park. :-)
Title: Re: Piano!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 16, 2016, 05:11:35 PM
The problem is usually getting it out of the house in one piece, especially if it is not on the main floor.  I had a pool table to sell/give away and ended up demolishing it to get my space back. No-one wanted it.

Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?

I'd almost suggest painting "Play Me, I'm Yours" and just putting it in a park. :-)
Any schools around you can offer it to?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on May 18, 2016, 01:44:15 PM
Brought about 20 or so (didn't bother to count) empty ink cartridges to Office Max last weekend.  I had no idea that many had accumulated here at the office.  :S  Here's to using more toner than ink in the future to save $$.
Title: Re: Piano!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 18, 2016, 01:47:50 PM
Who has actually sold or donated a piano recently? We've exhausted our friends and co-workers with offers to give our piano (a nice petite grand) away as long as they pay the moving costs (to no avail). Seems to be a glut of pianos on the market, and eBay and craigslist have proven to only attract dead end offers.

Thoughts?

I'd almost suggest painting "Play Me, I'm Yours" and just putting it in a park. :-)

Our town has public pianos. It's fun.

If your city has large item trash pick up (ours does annually), put it out the night before. If someone has a truck large enough they will take it (unaware how hard they are to get rid of).  Otherwise it will be gone anyway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 19, 2016, 02:16:46 AM
Sorted out all the rags we keep for messy jobs and home improvement work. I designated an ikea bin and decided we could have whatever would fit in there. Went through every rag and it really made me see which were the most useful types. The rest are going to recycling.

Yesterday I had a day off. I was looking forward to pottering round the house, doing jobs, tidying, a bit of cleaning, just generally making things look nice. I was struck - not for the first time since my major decluttering last year - by how easy my life is now. I looked around and there was literally nothing to do.

Nothing to put back in its place (except for one remote control). No piles that needed to be taken upstairs, or from one room to another. No papers piled high that needed to be dealt with. Nothing to repair or mend or procrastinate over. Just a peaceful house.

I had a lovely day, but I had unused house-cleaning energy, so I dusted. Now I don't have anything blocking my way, it took, and I am not exaggerating, 2 mins to do every surface in my living room. DH had done upstairs at the weekend as it is so easy now we just do it without thinking.

Previously, cleaning was a big onerous job, because you had to move so much stuff, find somewhere to put it, put it all back etc. The dust was worse because we did it less often, and it got spread about by moving things back and forth.

Thank you for this thread!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dandypandys on May 19, 2016, 06:43:33 AM
I got the Konmari book out the library the other day, read the whole thing in 2 nights, and yesterday we did her method.. sort of. i cant be bothered to take everything out my closet and then rehang it, but i was able to go through it on the hangers ok. We ended up taking a whole stationwagon filled with stuff to Goodwill yesterday :)
Thanks for the vid, it was nice to see her in person. I think i will go back in and fold my clothes her way today :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 20, 2016, 09:16:16 AM
Sorted out all the rags we keep for messy jobs and home improvement work. I designated an ikea bin and decided we could have whatever would fit in there. Went through every rag and it really made me see which were the most useful types. The rest are going to recycling.

Yesterday I had a day off. I was looking forward to pottering round the house, doing jobs, tidying, a bit of cleaning, just generally making things look nice. I was struck - not for the first time since my major decluttering last year - by how easy my life is now. I looked around and there was literally nothing to do.

Nothing to put back in its place (except for one remote control). No piles that needed to be taken upstairs, or from one room to another. No papers piled high that needed to be dealt with. Nothing to repair or mend or procrastinate over. Just a peaceful house.

I had a lovely day, but I had unused house-cleaning energy, so I dusted. Now I don't have anything blocking my way, it took, and I am not exaggerating, 2 mins to do every surface in my living room. DH had done upstairs at the weekend as it is so easy now we just do it without thinking.

Previously, cleaning was a big onerous job, because you had to move so much stuff, find somewhere to put it, put it all back etc. The dust was worse because we did it less often, and it got spread about by moving things back and forth.

Thank you for this thread!
What a great result!  I am pretty much in the same situation as you are.  Cleaning is a breeze now!  And the peaceful feeling in the house is priceless...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on May 21, 2016, 12:20:19 AM
Sorted out all the rags we keep for messy jobs and home improvement work. I designated an ikea bin and decided we could have whatever would fit in there. Went through every rag and it really made me see which were the most useful types. The rest are going to recycling.

Yesterday I had a day off. I was looking forward to pottering round the house, doing jobs, tidying, a bit of cleaning, just generally making things look nice. I was struck - not for the first time since my major decluttering last year - by how easy my life is now. I looked around and there was literally nothing to do.

Nothing to put back in its place (except for one remote control). No piles that needed to be taken upstairs, or from one room to another. No papers piled high that needed to be dealt with. Nothing to repair or mend or procrastinate over. Just a peaceful house.

I had a lovely day, but I had unused house-cleaning energy, so I dusted. Now I don't have anything blocking my way, it took, and I am not exaggerating, 2 mins to do every surface in my living room. DH had done upstairs at the weekend as it is so easy now we just do it without thinking.

Previously, cleaning was a big onerous job, because you had to move so much stuff, find somewhere to put it, put it all back etc. The dust was worse because we did it less often, and it got spread about by moving things back and forth.

Thank you for this thread!
What a great result!  I am pretty much in the same situation as you are.  Cleaning is a breeze now!  And the peaceful feeling in the house is priceless...
Us too! We've got a quarterly rent inspection, and instead of spending evenings tidying so we could get to stuff to clean it, we just started cleaning! I even washed the windows and the inside of the oven.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Piggy on May 21, 2016, 08:46:49 AM
Regarding the piano: In my area, there's an organization that accepts and preps unwanted pianos and gives them to kids (and maybe adults) who want to learn. Maybe there's something similar in your area.

http://pianosforpeople.org/

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on May 22, 2016, 03:56:47 AM
I have recently been through my clothes, and encouraged DH to do the same. Have got a few bags to take to donate tomorrow. Also donating some cookbooks and candlestands. My sister is going to take a collection of my old magazines that I had kept for recipes to her work for the children to use. Great to know its all going to be recycled.

I wish I could clear our house of enough stuff that it was easy to clean. Unfortunately there are others in my house that like to keep things. Slowly making progress, bathroom is great, and  the kitchen manages to stay pretty clear also.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 22, 2016, 12:25:18 PM
Roommate and I cleaned the garage this morning. Emptied it, swept, washed, etc. While putting everything back, threw out a couple things and discovered that a box sitting in the garage for the past 6 months has been waiting to go to goodwill... She knows about my goodwill pile and has added to it a few times. Oh well, it'll get taken care of now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 23, 2016, 02:32:38 AM

What a great result!  I am pretty much in the same situation as you are.  Cleaning is a breeze now!  And the peaceful feeling in the house is priceless...

It's great isn't it?! I didn't realise how much time I spent putting stuff away, moving it around etc. When I was previously 'cleaning' for a few hour a week I was actually 'stuff managing' for 90% of it, the dusting literally takes seconds if there is nothing in the way. Peaceful is right!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 23, 2016, 08:55:15 PM
I finally sorted the box from my ceramics class.  I hate just throwing things out but they can't be recycled.  I put four small pieces out in front of the building with a free sign suggesting they would make good pet dishes. There are quite a few pet owners here soon hoping someone takes them. If not I'll throw them out on Thursday. I had been storing this box on top of my shelving unit. Now that top is almost empty. Perfect.

One of my favorite pair of pants gave up the ghost on our weekend road trip. I very sadly left them in the trash at our air bnb.

I moved the towel bar in the bathroom to a useable location. That should help eliminate some shuffling of towels and drying racks. Yay. The walls are already a mess, so what is one more set of holes if this move is actually useful! 

I am eating the last bits of food in the house this week before I travel for several weeks. This means my fridge is very empty. It's made it easy to rearrange storage. I am now keeping my extra glass jars in the back of the fridge.  The only downside is that they will be damp when I have dry goods to decant into them, but I am so happy to have an easy place to store them. I never use more than a third of the refrigerator space anyway.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on May 24, 2016, 10:06:28 AM
I sent off a whole package of unwanted crafting supplies and old jewelry (for repurposing/upcycling) to someone on another forum I frequent. (she paid shipping.) So glad to get that out of my house. I always feel guilty for not using up craft supplies even if they're ugly and/or not to my taste.

I am trying to get rid of some vegetable plants I don't have room for, but this is proving surprisingly difficult. I guess I'm going to just put them out at the community garden with a "Free" sign. Got rid of some unwanted planting pots that way already.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 24, 2016, 10:45:12 AM
I am taking a couple of items to consignment this afternoon.  I have also packed a large tote bag with clothes and stuff for donation.  DD has gone through her closet and added a few items too. 

I've noticed that life is much easier when my choices are limited.  Sure it's nice to have lots of options, but mentally I am a lot calmer and less anxious if I have to make fewer choices: clothes, shoes, etc.  So I will continue simplifying my surroundings to achieve as much of that as I can.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 24, 2016, 02:39:31 PM
I am taking a couple of items to consignment this afternoon.  I have also packed a large tote bag with clothes and stuff for donation.  DD has gone through her closet and added a few items too. 

I've noticed that life is much easier when my choices are limited.  Sure it's nice to have lots of options, but mentally I am a lot calmer and less anxious if I have to make fewer choices: clothes, shoes, etc.  So I will continue simplifying my surroundings to achieve as much of that as I can.

Got a check for $76 for consignment items sold over the last month. 

I've been reading up on Project 333 and am really tempted to give it a try.  Now would be a good time, I guess, since it's a start of a new season.  Hmmm...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on May 24, 2016, 03:01:26 PM

Got a check for $76 for consignment items sold over the last month. 

I've been reading up on Project 333 and am really tempted to give it a try.  Now would be a good time, I guess, since it's a start of a new season.  Hmmm...

I don't usually cash out at the consignment, but use it to buy more stuff.  I think I'll try asking for the cash this time!  Taking my own bag of stuff in later today, so perfect time to read this post.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 25, 2016, 06:43:08 AM

Got a check for $76 for consignment items sold over the last month. 

I've been reading up on Project 333 and am really tempted to give it a try.  Now would be a good time, I guess, since it's a start of a new season.  Hmmm...

I don't usually cash out at the consignment, but use it to buy more stuff.  I think I'll try asking for the cash this time!  Taking my own bag of stuff in later today, so perfect time to read this post.  :)
I try to cash out - if I see something I want to buy, I pay for it separately.  Having to pull out my credit card makes me think harder about the purchases I am making and avoid temptation :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 25, 2016, 12:36:54 PM
Success!  Monday I put some ceramics practice pieces out for free in the entryway.  They are all gone today!!  I just took down my notebook paper sign.  So glad to have someone use them instead of just trashing them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 27, 2016, 04:27:37 AM
leaving the apartment for 2 months travel.  Only had to throw out 1.5 cups plain yogurt, 3 flour tortillas and half a cup of milk. Boyfriend took a block of cream cheese and a head of garlic. That's pretty dang good. Had the last of the eggs, cheese and black beans for breakfast.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 27, 2016, 05:45:14 AM
leaving the apartment for 2 months travel.  Only had to throw out 1.5 cups plain yogurt, 3 flour tortillas and half a cup of milk. Boyfriend took a block of cream cheese and a head of garlic. That's pretty dang good. Had the last of the eggs, cheese and black beans for breakfast.

That is very impressive, well done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on May 28, 2016, 01:56:11 PM
This is a small thing, but I decluttered my nail polish kit today.  In college, OPI polish was sort of my and my roommate's "thing" and we both amassed quite a collection.  Now I only polish my toenails because my lifestyle is hell on manicures.  So I went through and tried to get down to 12 bottles, which would fit neatly in the little trays of the container, leaving the bottom of my little case for polish remover, cotton swabs and tools.  I did manage to get down to 14 by tossing anything that had dried up, couldn't be opened, or had a very close duplicate color.  Also tossed all the sheer colors since I never use them on my toes.  I could tell by the price stickers on some of the bottles that they are almost 20 years old and still good.  I've got enough variety to use each color maybe once a year, so it should pretty much be a lifetime supply.

There is a hoarder house being cleared out and fixed up around the corner from me.  The piles of garbage stacked up out in the yard are atrocious.  Need to go take another look at it for motivation!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MLKnits on May 28, 2016, 02:04:27 PM
Finally going to get rid of a couple pieces of furniture tomorrow! Hung onto one (casual standing desk) because it's relatively new--so embarrassing to realize I shouldn't have bought it!--and the other (storage ottoman) because my cat loves it, but I hate it, and I feed him, so he can deal.

Feels nice just knowing they're headed out the door! Should've gone ahead months ago.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on May 28, 2016, 03:34:40 PM
De-cluttered a bunch more stuff from the basement today. One shelving unit is almost clear, and then I want to move it out to the garage.

Have a bunch of shredding to do, and then I can take it to the recycling center tomorrow. Fun way to spend a Saturday evening.

Just keep taking bites out of the elephant.

(https://optometryadmissions.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/elephant_one_bite1.jpg)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on May 28, 2016, 04:08:01 PM
DD (K) had a yard sale today - well, an indoor yard sale as it rained.  And we got rid of so much stuff.  The deal was that then K could keep all the money for her moving fund, but she also had to pack up and take away anything left over.  Glory glory, worked like a charm.  I now have my living room back and have gotten so much closer to being ready to move.  Also put a few things onto a fb swap and sell group - and whatever isn't gone by tomorrow goes to thrift.  Sold a pair of boots so far.  Keep it going out the door!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on May 31, 2016, 12:40:06 PM
Took two empty toner cartridges in to recycle.  Half a cupboard shelf cleared out here at the office.  Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 31, 2016, 01:18:37 PM
I've been decluttering the house slowly for the last few months and I think I have gotten rid of all the low hanging fruit.  I still have a bunch of fall and winter clothes that are waiting to be brought to consignment at the end of the summer.  But other than that, I think I'm in a good place for now, with nothing major remaining to be done.  I think I'm going to turn my focus to decluttering my office at work a bit.  And my e-mail...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 02, 2016, 05:04:26 AM
A friend asked what I wanted for my birthday. Obviously couldn't think of anything. I said I'm trying to cut down on possessions (and gave a plausible reason that didn't come across as "I don't like material things and I think I'm better than you", I hope).

I suggested getting my nails done or something as I really really don't want any stuff, and I couldn't think of anything I did want experience-wise except a massage, which is really too expensive. We always treat each other to a cheap dinner out, so I couldn't ask for that!

I hope she didn't mind this suggestion. She did ask after all. Well, we'll see. I'll be genuinely happy with anything, I just felt on the spot and it was all I could think of!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on June 02, 2016, 08:03:13 AM
The garage fridge and the unrepairable dryer are now on the driveway - closer to curb.  Basement is getting way more spacious with all the decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on June 02, 2016, 08:56:01 AM
Took 2 bags of unwanted clothing to the donations dropbox in our neighborhood. Also found a taker for an extra tomato cage that I don't need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on June 02, 2016, 10:48:55 AM
A friend asked what I wanted for my birthday. Obviously couldn't think of anything. I said I'm trying to cut down on possessions (and gave a plausible reason that didn't come across as "I don't like material things and I think I'm better than you", I hope).

I suggested getting my nails done or something as I really really don't want any stuff, and I couldn't think of anything I did want experience-wise except a massage, which is really too expensive. We always treat each other to a cheap dinner out, so I couldn't ask for that!

I hope she didn't mind this suggestion. She did ask after all. Well, we'll see. I'll be genuinely happy with anything, I just felt on the spot and it was all I could think of!

I have a good friend that has a birthday in June.  We both have enough stuff, and don't really need anything.  I've started buying flowers for her gift.  Sometimes it's a planter with everything already in bloom, or plants for her garden.  This year she will get 2 pots of dayliles to plant at the cottage.  Dig a hole, plunk them in - done in 5 minutes.  Nothing to store, nothing to look after, but something she can look at, and remember her birthday and friend.   Could you just ask for a small bouquet of your favourite flowers?   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on June 02, 2016, 12:05:12 PM
I drug some broken containers and boxes that I had been saving (for no good reason) in the garage out to the curb for bulk trash pick up today. The garage still needs more time and TLC but it was a good start.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 03, 2016, 04:15:10 AM

I have a good friend that has a birthday in June.  We both have enough stuff, and don't really need anything.  I've started buying flowers for her gift.  Sometimes it's a planter with everything already in bloom, or plants for her garden.  This year she will get 2 pots of dayliles to plant at the cottage.  Dig a hole, plunk them in - done in 5 minutes.  Nothing to store, nothing to look after, but something she can look at, and remember her birthday and friend.   Could you just ask for a small bouquet of your favourite flowers?

That is a brilliant idea, thank you! In fact, flowers for the garden would be even better, as I would like to get more colour out there, but balk at the idea of spending money on something so frivolous, and which I may kill. Thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on June 04, 2016, 03:24:46 PM
One of the nicest gifts I ever got was a rosebush from my godmother. (She didn't usually gift for birthdays, but this was#16 and she happened to be visiting my family.) Sort of a weird gift for a teenager, but I enjoyed thinking about her every time I looked at it and it made me feel special to get a "grown-up" gift.

What I originally came on here to say was that I spent an hour or so this afternoon rearranging my books. My "help" when I moved in a year ago just opened boxes and dumped them on shelves  which meant that my reference books were mixed with graphic novels which were mixed with signed first editions...went through today and sorted out the "keepers" from the ones that are just passing through, as part of my summer project to "read my own d*** books." I only pulled out about three to give away--I seriously weeded before I moved--but what I do have I can actually find now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 05, 2016, 04:53:21 AM
I seriously weeded before I moved--but what I do have I can actually find now.
I have to do this, and it hurts, I don't want to get rid of any of them!  I often want to reread a book, and it is great having it in the house.  Can you describe your thought processes?  How you decided what to keep and what to get rid of? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on June 05, 2016, 07:37:53 AM
Well, I am not a minimalist living with five books artistically displayed on a shelf, by any means! I still have two large and two small bookcases and my goal is to get the books down to the two big bookcases. I also have a large book collection in my office at work; in my field older books are still really valuable and I like being able to lay my hands on something without hiking down the hall to the office collection. And let's not talk about my Kindle/Nook apps!

My criteria may not work for you, because I am not (mostly) a rereader. Basically, I only hold onto books I expect to use again, or a small collection with sentimental value. Right now I have a lot of books that are just here temporarily, because I let the Amazon used books and used book store purchases get out of hand. But since I tend to only buy hard-to-find titles, especially ones that aren't available as e-books, I don't want to get rid of them until I read them, because I can't get these items at the library. Once they are gone, I intend to get rid of the smaller bookcases, and only have a shelf of "To Be Read" at any one time.

So for me, keepers are:

1. Cookbooks that I have used at least once or expect to use again
2. A small collection of books by people I know or with personal inscriptions
3. A small collection of religious books: I have my christening Bible, third-grade Bible, Confirmation Bible, a hymnbook that belonged to my grandmother, and my actual reading Bible now that my confirmation Bible is no longer repairable
4. A few favorite popular fiction books and all the books by one fantasy author I particularly love--these are my comfort books that I do go back to over and over.
5. A few reference books that theoretically I could get rid of, but either I still use them or they have sentimental value (like the dictionary and collected works of Shakespeare I used in college), or a couple of books on decorating where I want the pictures for reference.

I have moved enough over the last 20 years to have not piled up a lot of books that fall outside these categories--last time around, I got rid of cookbooks that no longer reflected how I cook, or that I didn't like, reference books for hobbies I've gotten bored with, or books that had accumulated somehow that I wasn't interested in reading or rereading.

If you are trying to decide what to keep and what to give away, perhaps thinking about what you would want to have right at hand and what you could wait a few days on from the library would help?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 05, 2016, 09:32:32 AM
Thanks for the clarity.  I am in much the same boat - 2 bookshelves lost in the flood, and they were jammed.  Not to mention the 5 bookshelves worth that are OK.

Writing here to get my thoughts out - newish mysteries that the library has (I am usually looking at a week+ wait) - will I want to read them again *right away*?  Yes, keep, no, the library can keep them for me
-older books that the library doesn't have - how likely am I to want to read them again? (problem here is, very likely)
-SFF - libraries tend to be weaker here, especially for older ones - again, which would be library available, which not?
-cookbooks - have been creeping up in numbers, time to cull
- gardening - basic ones can probably go, I am an experienced gardener now (although definitely not an expert), the "story" type ones (you know the kind, I moved and this is what I have done with my garden in the new place over the last 20 years), hmm, must reread and decide
- other reference - sort and cull

- fiction - if I can get inexpensive Kindle or Kobo books I am OK with replacing them, but for a lot of non-fiction I like having the paper (illustrations, instructions, etc.).  I know (and finally have the gut feel) that paper books can be lost, just as electronic ones can be, but for some things I really like paper.

Actually, does anyone know an easy way to cut and paste excerpts from a Kindle or Kobo book to Word or WordPerfect?

And I just looked up an author of old gardening books I have - Amazon.ca is listing them for huge amounts of money. How do I sell a book through them?


Noodle, it may be TMI to share, but who is your comfort fantasy author? I have several favourites, but one is the one whose collected works would keep me sane on a desert island.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on June 05, 2016, 02:38:21 PM
This weekend's project involved taking everything out of the tack room of my horse trailer, cleaning it all and reorganizing so that I'm not wasting precious space on stuff that can reside at the house.  Didn't actually get rid of much at all, and even bought a few plastic boxes to better organize the tack trunk, but it felt like decluttering!  I do have a small pile of things I'm considering selling off instead of storing, but we'll see.  It still looks like a tack store vomited in my living room, but the trailer is perfectly orderly and decluttered now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on June 05, 2016, 02:52:04 PM
Well, not for me, but I helped a friend declutter her crafts this weekend.  We installed a wall hanger for her iron and board, and got probably 2 kitchen trash bags worth of things set to trash or donate.  She will return the favor the next time we both have a weekend free.

DH cleaned out the medicine cabinet, there is a pile to toss, just have to do it.  He also removed the pill bottles from the kitchen counter, that helps a ton!  I find them so cluttery.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on June 05, 2016, 03:03:14 PM
Noodle, it may be TMI to share, but who is your comfort fantasy author? I have several favourites, but one is the one whose collected works would keep me sane on a desert island.

I am sorry for the loss of your books!

Terry Pratchett...and honestly, a big reason I keep all his books is that he is so beloved it can be difficult to lay hands on the books through the library--a long wait, or their copies have been worn out or lost and not replaced. I rarely even see them in used book stores and the used price + shipping on Amazon is not much less than buying a new copy.

For books I wasn't sure about, it was helpful to remember that between inter-library loan and Amazon used books, a lot of books could be revisited or reacquired fairly cheaply. I haven't actually wanted to get any of them back, but knowing I could helped me let go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 05, 2016, 03:22:14 PM
Noodle, it may be TMI to share, but who is your comfort fantasy author? I have several favourites, but one is the one whose collected works would keep me sane on a desert island.

I am sorry for the loss of your books!

Terry Pratchett...and honestly, a big reason I keep all his books is that he is so beloved it can be difficult to lay hands on the books through the library--a long wait, or their copies have been worn out or lost and not replaced. I rarely even see them in used book stores and the used price + shipping on Amazon is not much less than buying a new copy.

For books I wasn't sure about, it was helpful to remember that between inter-library loan and Amazon used books, a lot of books could be revisited or reacquired fairly cheaply. I haven't actually wanted to get any of them back, but knowing I could helped me let go.
Well, if I can find value (hard for some of them, they are so old) the insurance is paying replacement cost.  Most of them are still on amazon.ca if not an actual bookstore - most were non-fiction.

I am also looking up a lot of them on the libraries I presently or in the future will use - if they are there, they can go.  It is the older ones that no-one has - not libraries, not Amazon - they are just gone.  So I am probably holding on to them for at least a while.

My go-to is Lois McMaster Bujold - between Barrayar, Chalion, and the Sharing knife world, I can always find someplace to be.  And how can I not love an author who names one of her main characters after Nile Etland (James Schmidt story)?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 06, 2016, 04:02:11 AM
There's a theme here - I also decluttered my bookshelves this weekend.

I had a few cookbooks where there was one recipe I loved, but I knew I probably wasn't going to make anything else out of it. I photographed the recipe on my phone, printed it out and put it in my recipe binder. Books can now be donated.

I showed my husband what I was keeping, including a book I thought he would never get rid of. (I do not touch his stuff, as I find I can make a huge difference just doing my own, and I don't want to be a nag). Anyway, he saw that book, and said, "oh, you can get rid of that". That would not have happened 18 months ago.

He is really coming round. Since I removed one of our two bookcases he keeps saying, "Oh there is so much space! Doesn't it look great? Oh it's so lovely having so much less stuff". I really think I may be winning the war without fighting a single battle :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on June 06, 2016, 06:17:33 AM
Actually, does anyone know an easy way to cut and paste excerpts from a Kindle or Kobo book to Word or WordPerfect?

I believe that you should be able to use the Kindle Desktop app (maybe even the cloud app where you read it in a browser), and you should be able to just highlight the relevant parts, ctrl+C and ctrl+V (to paste) into Word. If that doesn't work, feel free to PM me. I know for sure a way to make it work, but set up is a bit more involved.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on June 06, 2016, 06:41:09 AM
My daughter's grade six class has been doing a discovery project where the kids do research into a question and then develop a project.  They started talking about environmental issues, landed on e-waste and have been doing all kinds of activities that culminate on Saturday with an e-waste drop off and recycling day.  They started out with building an online survey a couple of months ago that they had 325 people complete.  They have walked around our city dropping off flyers at local businesses and asking them to promote the event.  They have written and performed PSA's and newspaper articles, made posters and put them up in the neighbourhood.  They researched different organizing that collect e-waste and chosen one to take the e-waste they collect Saturday.  I am really happy to have an easy (for me) place to clear out all the e-waste that is kicking around in my place.  I think I have an entire bankers  box of cords and wires...hope they are collecting them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 06, 2016, 09:12:14 AM
I believe that you should be able to use the Kindle Desktop app (maybe even the cloud app where you read it in a browser), and you should be able to just highlight the relevant parts, ctrl+C and ctrl+V (to paste) into Word. If that doesn't work, feel free to PM me. I know for sure a way to make it work, but set up is a bit more involved.
And my Kindle for PC is outdated (and do is my actual Kindle).  Now i have to update it before I can try anything.
Cut and past doesn't seem to work for Kobo.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on June 06, 2016, 11:34:43 AM
I've been off the wagon for awhile, but we made good progress last weekend, especially in the garage.

5 bags of clothing to Goodwill.  2 couches removed from the garage for the college student next door who just moved out of her parent's house.  Wire shelving, 2 old printers that were still functional, hose reels, wire shelving, and 45 feet of rabbit fencing.  That was about all I could get DH to part with....

We also filled a garbage can with goods that were unusable or past being able to donate. 

The kids can park their bikes properly, and there is room to walk around in the garage again!  It's still got way too much "stuff" in it, but I'm celebrating our progress.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 07, 2016, 02:16:06 AM
Well done Couponvan! The change to be able to walk around is huge, it will make everything so much easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fig on June 12, 2016, 09:27:41 AM
I've handwashed and packed up a bridesmaid dress and cape from a few years go, ready to take to the charity shop with a few other things. No idea why I kept them so long but note to self: do not try on a old dress to see if it still fits, for 'fun' :)

Also shredded a big stack of old papers that were definitely not sparking joy. Much more to do but it feels good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 12, 2016, 11:48:45 AM
I seriously weeded before I moved--but what I do have I can actually find now.
I have to do this, and it hurts, I don't want to get rid of any of them!  I often want to reread a book, and it is great having it in the house.  Can you describe your thought processes?  How you decided what to keep and what to get rid of?

I did this. Kept everything I've re-read at least 2x. Everything else - that was harder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 13, 2016, 03:38:02 AM
I'm getting so ruthless! I have managed to remove our 'wrapping paper storage bin' (yes this was a thing, I am hanging my head in shame), by not buying any for ages and using up stocks. I had one roll of Christmas stuff with my maybe 30cm left on it. Usually I would hem and haw and torture myself with green guilt, keep it for for Christmas or until it got tatty enough to throw it out. I just put it straight in the recycling and got on with my life.

From now on I am only buying generic paper which can be used for birthday / Christmas and any gender or age. Simplicity! I tucked the one silver roll and the brown paper used for parcels in with the packing supplies. Feels great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fig on June 13, 2016, 05:47:11 AM
Oooh, I totally have a wrapping paper storage bin! Not ready to get rid of that as I love wrapping presents nicely - although there are fewer since I decided that gift cards were totally acceptable for certain gifts. Good idea about more generic paper though.

This morning, I threw away *almost* all of my notes from the MA I completed over a decade ago. Ruthless doesn't come easily to me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 13, 2016, 07:51:44 AM
Oooh, I totally have a wrapping paper storage bin! Not ready to get rid of that as I love wrapping presents nicely - although there are fewer since I decided that gift cards were totally acceptable for certain gifts. Good idea about more generic paper though.

This morning, I threw away *almost* all of my notes from the MA I completed over a decade ago. Ruthless doesn't come easily to me.

Yeah I enjoy the art of wrapping too! I've decided plain paper + lovely ribbons will have to be sufficient. Otherwise I just have 10 half empty rolls of very specific paper and since our place is so small it was too much. I always save ribbons and they tuck away nicely.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 13, 2016, 01:12:50 PM
Oooh, I totally have a wrapping paper storage bin! Not ready to get rid of that as I love wrapping presents nicely - although there are fewer since I decided that gift cards were totally acceptable for certain gifts. Good idea about more generic paper though.

This morning, I threw away *almost* all of my notes from the MA I completed over a decade ago. Ruthless doesn't come easily to me.

Yeah I enjoy the art of wrapping too! I've decided plain paper + lovely ribbons will have to be sufficient. Otherwise I just have 10 half empty rolls of very specific paper and since our place is so small it was too much. I always save ribbons and they tuck away nicely.

I have 1 giant roll of wrapping paper, two sided print. One side is blue with white stars. The other is most definitely a Christmas pattern. EVERYTHING I wrap is done with this paper, whichever side. My friends and family think I'm weird, but have adjusted.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on June 13, 2016, 01:16:03 PM
Count me in with the reduce gift wrap crowd!  Over the years I stopped buying new paper and gift tags.  We're down to a few rolls, and a bin full of gift bags, bows from prior year's, tissue paper, etc.

~~~~~~~~~~

A stack of egg cartons to a chicken owning friend and a set of holey sheets we just replaced will go to the animal shelter this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on June 13, 2016, 01:38:37 PM
I made a dent in the garage, put like things with like and tossed some stuff that was definitely trash. It looks much more orderly now and I can easily access anything I want. I used the shop vac to clean up all the webs and bugs that accumulated. I need DH to work with me to further whittle down the garage items. There are still things I could probably part with but haven't come to terms with yet as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gggggg on June 13, 2016, 03:54:51 PM
I've combined minimalism-ish with frugality. Anything I haven't used in the last year has been gotten rid of (minus tools, and even some of them are gone). I still have a few things to sell, but besides that, I'm almost there. It's nice to have open space in my 1000 sq ft town house, and daily/weekly cleaning is MUCH easier. The more stuff you have, the more stuff you have to deal with.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 13, 2016, 11:14:39 PM
Offloaded a table lamp to another forum member on the weekend. They got a free lamp, I have one less thing to deal with.

Also on the weekend I finally delivered two tubs of things I had put aside for a family member.

The inordinately long time between deciding to get rid of something and actually removing it from my apartment was getting me down, so it's great to have it gone at last.

Next job: spare bed. I have six standard pillows, two Euro pillows and two cushions on the spare bed. It looks beautiful all made up, and my excuse is that I have spare pillows in case we have other guests (keeping them on the bed saves me storing them in the linen cupboard). But I could say the same with four guest pillows rather than eight...

Edited for grammar.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: thisisjeopardy on June 14, 2016, 03:12:22 PM
Wife and I have a month before we move into our new condo and are in the process of piling up old clothes and other junk to give away to the Salvation Army. Less stuff to move!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Polaria on June 15, 2016, 04:26:07 AM
From now on I am only buying generic paper which can be used for birthday / Christmas and any gender or age. Simplicity! I tucked the one silver roll and the brown paper used for parcels in with the packing supplies. Feels great.

I've also decided to only use unbleached kraft paper from now on. I personalize the wrapping with a couple of stickers (butterflies, dinosaurs, flowers,...) depending on the interests of the recipient.
Sticker sheets take so less space than wrapping rolls!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on June 15, 2016, 04:31:03 AM
From now on I am only buying generic paper which can be used for birthday / Christmas and any gender or age. Simplicity! I tucked the one silver roll and the brown paper used for parcels in with the packing supplies. Feels great.

I've also decided to only use unbleached kraft paper from now on. I personalize the wrapping with a couple of stickers (butterflies, dinosaurs, flowers,...) depending on the interests of the recipient.
Sticker sheets take so less space than wrapping rolls!
I like stamps, so I have some ink and a few stamps :) so many nice ways to personalise plain paper!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on June 15, 2016, 04:37:04 AM
I have been working on the kitchen cupboards.  There are so many things that I have collected over the years that seem to take up space but parting with them is unbearable.  I have been putting them in a box and going down to the basement.  If they don't come back out from the basement in a reasonable amount of time, then they are going straight into the donation box at Bibles for Missions.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 15, 2016, 11:24:12 AM
Finally listed two items on eBay. Been hanging about for months but I couldn't bring myself to donate them knowing they were valuable. Half an hour with this months budget this afternoon made me realise today is the day! So glad they are listed. Had one offer already !
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on June 21, 2016, 12:23:01 PM
Cousin from CA is here visiting....She said "how do you have so little clutter"....1) I've been reading this thread, 2) I did some KonMari method, and 3) I have a basement hiding place for crap - almost no one in CA has a basement....

Must clean out basement, must clean out basement....


EDITED TO ADD - at least one reader in CA has a basement....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: aFrugalFather on June 21, 2016, 12:31:06 PM
Cousin from CA is here visiting....She said "how do you have so little clutter"....1) I've been reading this thread, 2) I did some KonMari method, and 3) I have a basement hiding place for crap - no one in CA has a basement....

Must clean out basement, must clean out basement....

I have a basement in CA :P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on June 21, 2016, 12:42:31 PM
Cousin from CA is here visiting....She said "how do you have so little clutter"....1) I've been reading this thread, 2) I did some KonMari method, and 3) I have a basement hiding place for crap - no one in CA has a basement....

Must clean out basement, must clean out basement....

UPDATING to "almost no one has a basement in CA...." ;-)

I have a basement in CA :P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 21, 2016, 05:33:17 PM
I tossed a baking dish (after it shattered into a million pieces), and a handful of items from the bathroom.

Between me stockpiling sale items, and my husband travelling for work, I'm still losing the war on toiletries. Every time he comes home from overseas he brings four business or first class airline toiletry kits. It saves us money in the long run - I have enough mini tubes of toothpaste to last a year - but I do excited when we finish one and I get to throw it out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: syednaeemul on June 22, 2016, 07:11:02 PM
Half my clothes are donated, next is to start helping parents to get rid of clutter
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on June 22, 2016, 08:50:48 PM
A few decluttering successes lately: took 3 big containers of good quality clothes to a swap and only came away with 1 shirt. Then I finally threw out a worn out pair of winter boots, and sold a bunch of hobby equipment. I made $80, and my mom made $100 (she brokered the hobby/craft deal and made up some kits from the items so they would sell for more). I was happy to give her the task and the bigger share of the profits since they are still at the broke and struggling end of the mustachian scale, and I'm suddenly at the more than enough (but not FI by any means) middle of the spectrum.
I have also sorted out another 5 boxes of things that can be donated or sold soon. I'm finding my schedule too hectic to do more at the moment. I really like knowing that all of that stuff will be gone soon, and knowing that I can take my time to dispose of it responsibly. Now with summer here, and the patio table moved outside, and a 6" tall and wide shelf now gone forever from my living room I am enjoying absolute acres of space in our little one bedroom apartment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 23, 2016, 02:20:01 AM
My two ebay items are sold and packed.

I don't know whether it's a good thing or a bad thing. On the one hand, I am pleased I got money for stuff that I didn't want. On the other hand, the fact that I did get money has reinforced the idea that the rest of the stuff in that pile has value, and I should sell it, rather than just donating it.

The effort involved in listing was minimal. Yet still, I find myself resistant to listing the other stuff. Some of it won't 'donate' well, you know? It's specialist hobby stuff which is expensive to buy, but layman will just be like, 'what even is this?'.

I'll set myself a date, and if it isn't sold by then, I will donate.

And everytime I consider taking up a new hobby, I will remind myself how much I struggle with getting rid of working equipment, because if it tortures me this much, it is not worth buying it in the first place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on June 23, 2016, 02:48:04 AM
I got rid of our cumbersome knife block. The bench appreciates the space. Also broke two cups, so out they go! Pity they weren't the same set...

On digital clutter, down to ~200 emails in my two personal in boxes from over 500 each, and I've kept it steady! Work inbox has filled up again, but regular filing seems the simple key there. It's so nice to be able to know I'm making a steady difference.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fig on July 01, 2016, 06:59:12 AM
Epic decluttering in the Fig house lately. Posting here to remind me how far we've come!

Given to charity shop: lots of stationery, folders and notebooks, wooden box, chair support, other sundry items.

Taken by people in our building: noticeboard, unused calendar, coathangers, large and frankly unattractive plant I've kept for 12 years

Binned/shredded/recycled: unfinished sewing project, unused fabric, more stationery, old wrapping paper, gift bags and ribbons*, beloved but decrepit Doc Martens, about 30 pens/pencils, old jars, old candles and many, many papers. Also a tippy-over vase which broke during whilst awaiting donation; the world is better off without it.
 
Electronics recycling: two computer monitors, toothbrush, old camera, old mp3 player

And yet more things I can't recall. Really enjoying this but still to work through: books (no!), clothes (ugh), sentimental stuff (ouch), kitchen.

* Inspired by theadvicist - thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on July 01, 2016, 02:45:54 PM
I was looking at my closet last night and realized that, even after packing only what I thought I'd need when I moved cross country (via airline with checked luggage), the majority of clothing occupying my closet never gets worn.

It might be time for another round of clothing disposal!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 03, 2016, 12:35:29 AM
My husband's team is moving into a new office on the next couple of weeks, so I've started piling up things: excess cutlery, a collection of stationery items that have been brought home from current office in dribs and drabs, and work-related paperwork. If he needs it for work, he can keep it at work!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 04, 2016, 02:39:20 AM
Epic decluttering in the Fig house lately. Posting here to remind me how far we've come!

Given to charity shop: lots of stationery, folders and notebooks, wooden box, chair support, other sundry items.

Taken by people in our building: noticeboard, unused calendar, coathangers, large and frankly unattractive plant I've kept for 12 years

Binned/shredded/recycled: unfinished sewing project, unused fabric, more stationery, old wrapping paper, gift bags and ribbons*, beloved but decrepit Doc Martens, about 30 pens/pencils, old jars, old candles and many, many papers. Also a tippy-over vase which broke during whilst awaiting donation; the world is better off without it.
 
Electronics recycling: two computer monitors, toothbrush, old camera, old mp3 player

And yet more things I can't recall. Really enjoying this but still to work through: books (no!), clothes (ugh), sentimental stuff (ouch), kitchen.

* Inspired by theadvicist - thank you!

Glad to have inspired, and jealous at your epic decluttering!

I rearranged my underwear drawer, as I realised my resistance to putting away clean bras was because the space I had allocated them was just a teeny bit tight, so there were straps and hooks all competing with each other and getting tangled. I made more space, and now it's easy to put away and select a bra to wear. Success!

However, I also have reluctance when hanging dresses, and I know that is because of a lack of space. My 'wardrobe' has changed in the past few years, I wear fewer separates and more dresses. But my actual wardrobe has remained the same, with most of the space dedicated to half-height hanging. There is plenty of space on those racks, but now not enough on the full-length hanging rail. Ugh.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 04, 2016, 03:09:30 AM
I definitely identify with the reluctance to put away clothes.

Over the weekend I was staring down two baskets of ironing, with another load of washing on the line, and our sole, small wardrobe is full.

I believe in decluttering over storage solutions, but I think I'm going to have to rearrange things and come up with a better solution.

My decluttering progress for the evening: 10 seconds spent decluttering the freezer. Not food - I check that regularly. But my freezer door was full of ice-packs. Two medicinal gel ice-packs and five (!) cold bricks for the Esky. I don't remember when I last used any of them. One medicinal ice-pack and three cold bricks came out, and two ziplock bags of pumpkin soup went in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 04, 2016, 03:21:27 AM
I definitely identify with the reluctance to put away clothes.

Over the weekend I was staring down two baskets of ironing, with another load of washing on the line, and our sole, small wardrobe is full.

I believe in decluttering over storage solutions, but I think I'm going to have to rearrange things and come up with a better solution.


I agree decluttering > storage solutions. Like you (I think) I'm happy my level of stuff and the choices it affords me, but the place I am keeping it doesn't work for me. As long as you are not creating more storage space to accumulate more, I think reworking it so the space is more in line with your priorities is a good thing. I really don't know how I can go about doing it in my space, but yes, a better solution is necessary.

Pairing down really is leading to living life with 'less resistance'. I owe Marie Kondo a lot!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 04, 2016, 04:32:34 AM
I definitely identify with the reluctance to put away clothes.

Over the weekend I was staring down two baskets of ironing, with another load of washing on the line, and our sole, small wardrobe is full.

I believe in decluttering over storage solutions, but I think I'm going to have to rearrange things and come up with a better solution.


I agree decluttering > storage solutions. Like you (I think) I'm happy my level of stuff and the choices it affords me, but the place I am keeping it doesn't work for me. As long as you are not creating more storage space to accumulate more, I think reworking it so the space is more in line with your priorities is a good thing. I really don't know how I can go about doing it in my space, but yes, a better solution is necessary.

Pairing down really is leading to living life with 'less resistance'. I owe Marie Kondo a lot!

My husband's clothes are the main cause of the frustration. He travels overseas for work, so he has a whole drawer full of cold weather gear he wears a few times a year. He has a couple of suits for the handful of occasions that require one. He is given branded/promo merchandise through work which isn't even remotely what I would buy for him (most recently an expensive white Gore-Tex jacket).

I've culled my wardrobe, I'm successfully creating a capsule wardrobe, and I still can't enjoy the fruits of my labour because I share the space with things like 25-30 baseball caps.

Apologies for the rant.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 04, 2016, 08:23:11 AM

My husband's clothes are the main cause of the frustration. He travels overseas for work, so he has a whole drawer full of cold weather gear he wears a few times a year. He has a couple of suits for the handful of occasions that require one. He is given branded/promo merchandise through work which isn't even remotely what I would buy for him (most recently an expensive white Gore-Tex jacket).

I've culled my wardrobe, I'm successfully creating a capsule wardrobe, and I still can't enjoy the fruits of my labour because I share the space with things like 25-30 baseball caps.

Apologies for the rant.
I had the same issue (except mine never got rid of anything, so he had shirts that were clearly way out of style).  I have seen so many couples where the husband uses more of the clothes space than the wife.  Where did this myth come from that women have masses of stuff and men have so little?
Years ago when I decluttered, I put tape on the bars right in the middle, and told him this half is yours, that half is mine - because otherwise his stuff would have moved into all the nice space I had cleared.  Maybe if you claim half, and he has to figure out what to do with his?  Things he uses rarely don't deserve prime storage space.  Those of us in variable climates know all about shifting the warm weather clothes and the cold weather clothes twice a year.  I don't need easy access to my -30C coat and boots right now, when the high is 28C  ;-)  He doesn't need easy access to the cold weather gear and the suits, as long as they are stored someplace that will keep them in good shape. I can't help with the baseball caps, I had to live with 15-20 visors (golfers love them, I hate them because the top of my head is not protected from the sun).
I don't know if that was any help, but know you have my sympathy.  ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on July 04, 2016, 03:21:24 PM
Got rid of 2 blouses, 3 pairs of shorts, 14 t-shirts, 6 books, and a couple other odds and ends today.

Oh, and I broke a plate (and threw it away) a few days ago.  Does that count as decluttering?  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 04, 2016, 07:30:58 PM

My husband's clothes are the main cause of the frustration. He travels overseas for work, so he has a whole drawer full of cold weather gear he wears a few times a year. He has a couple of suits for the handful of occasions that require one. He is given branded/promo merchandise through work which isn't even remotely what I would buy for him (most recently an expensive white Gore-Tex jacket).

I've culled my wardrobe, I'm successfully creating a capsule wardrobe, and I still can't enjoy the fruits of my labour because I share the space with things like 25-30 baseball caps.

Apologies for the rant.
I had the same issue (except mine never got rid of anything, so he had shirts that were clearly way out of style).  I have seen so many couples where the husband uses more of the clothes space than the wife.  Where did this myth come from that women have masses of stuff and men have so little?
Years ago when I decluttered, I put tape on the bars right in the middle, and told him this half is yours, that half is mine - because otherwise his stuff would have moved into all the nice space I had cleared.  Maybe if you claim half, and he has to figure out what to do with his?  Things he uses rarely don't deserve prime storage space.  Those of us in variable climates know all about shifting the warm weather clothes and the cold weather clothes twice a year.  I don't need easy access to my -30C coat and boots right now, when the high is 28C  ;-)  He doesn't need easy access to the cold weather gear and the suits, as long as they are stored someplace that will keep them in good shape. I can't help with the baseball caps, I had to live with 15-20 visors (golfers love them, I hate them because the top of my head is not protected from the sun).
I don't know if that was any help, but know you have my sympathy.  ;-)

Thank you, that has given me a few things to think about. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on July 05, 2016, 03:31:46 AM
I'm another woman whose husband has significantly more clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 05, 2016, 04:03:00 AM
My husband had ... odd clothing habits.

Shopping has always been his mum's favourite - and really only - hobby. But while she would always hunt out bargains for herself, buying expensive pieces on sale, when it came to buying clothes for her sons she was just cheap.

He had some godawful clothes when we met. And it took me until after we were married to get her to stop buying him cheap and nasty clothes.

They were also weird about socks. She didn't believe in her sons and husband owning their own socks; they all had to share. So the socks lived in plastic tubs in the lounge room. The sock collection was pretty pathetic. Occasionally someone would get new socks for Christmas and the boys would fight over them. (I say boys - this was still happening when my husband and his brother were in their 20s. And my FiL was in his 50s and still trying to snaffle the "good socks" from his sons! >.<)

We got married. I bought him socks. He wore the socks, I washed them, folded them, put them in his drawer. When the socks wore out, we bought new ones. Fairly simple process. It blew his mind that socks could be so simple.

So that's a litmus test for me. I don't need anything in my life that is going to suck up so much emotional energy as three grown men fighting over socks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 05, 2016, 06:54:15 AM
I'm another woman whose husband has significantly more clothes.

Me too- way more clothes.  Though I mostly buy them... it's just easier to find good stuff, inexpensively for him.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MayDay on July 05, 2016, 07:22:09 AM
I'm another woman whose husband has significantly more clothes.

Me too- way more clothes.  Though I mostly buy them... it's just easier to find good stuff, inexpensively for him.

I have had to break myself of this habit.  I find nice stuff, cheap, for him all the time.  But then It is my fault if he has too much clothing, because I KNOW when I buy it that he will never get rid of it.  So I had to really just stop buying him clothing unless it was to replace really ratty work clothes basically.  That I will insist on throwing away.

When we met the man owned green jeans (and not the trendy hipster kind!) and hot pink gym shorts, because his mother had bought them, and so he had them.  He had never worn them, but it never occurred to him to just TOSS THEM. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on July 05, 2016, 09:02:08 AM
I'm another woman whose husband has significantly more clothes.

Me too- way more clothes.  Though I mostly buy them... it's just easier to find good stuff, inexpensively for him.
I wish I was the only person buying my husband's clothes.  He buys things in bulk and holds on to the older items.

This weekend, we went through his closet and got rid of a LOT of stuff.  I'm SO excited.  I need to drop them off at the Salvation Army next weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: OmahaSteph on July 05, 2016, 12:35:13 PM
I'm moving in 38 days and have already begun the decluttering, which is surprising to me since we just moved last year and I decluttered then. And a year before that and ditto. We're actually moving to a larger home with one walk-in closet in the master, so Current and I will be sharing a closet instead of each having our own. The last few posts have been helpful in that we'll each probably take a side, and if one can't fit all their stuff in their half of the closet, out it goes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on July 06, 2016, 03:31:08 AM
I'm another woman whose husband has significantly more clothes.

Same here. :D I bought some space saving coat hangers recently for him and he has twice as many clothes as I do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on July 07, 2016, 04:08:13 AM
Oh my God I had such an epic fail today.

Called up a charity to take away my furniture. They sent a truck around this morning to pick up a lounge, recliner, dining table and chairs, and a mattress.

- Lounge and recliner were "too faded" (bullshit)
- Dining table would not fit through the door... I politely asked them how do you think I got it in the door in the first place?
- They won't take the mattress (fair enough, nobody will want a 15 year old mattress, even if it looks ok)
- Since they didn't take the table, they left the chairs and said "book us again when you disassemble the table"

Bugger
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 07, 2016, 04:19:09 AM
Oh Marty998 that's so annoying! Hope you sort out a new solution if you're unwilling to work with them again.

I got rid of a pair of shoes. I was keeping them because black formal shoes are always useful, right? Except I had a formal event recently to which I wore a black dress, and the shoes looked ridiculous. Since these things only come up about twice a year anyway, and the one time I had the chance to wear them I rejected them, into the donate box they go.

But I also bought a new pair of trousers, so I don't feel virtuous at all today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 07, 2016, 05:27:54 AM
Oh my God I had such an epic fail today.

Called up a charity to take away my furniture. They sent a truck around this morning to pick up a lounge, recliner, dining table and chairs, and a mattress.

- Lounge and recliner were "too faded" (bullshit)
- Dining table would not fit through the door... I politely asked them how do you think I got it in the door in the first place?
- They won't take the mattress (fair enough, nobody will want a 15 year old mattress, even if it looks ok)
- Since they didn't take the table, they left the chairs and said "book us again when you disassemble the table"

Bugger

Hang in there.

It is worth buying back that space in your apartment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 07, 2016, 06:51:51 AM
Marty998, that is so disheartening. When my Grandma was moving, they didn't even show up! We offloaded most of her things onto Gumtree for free instead.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 07, 2016, 12:55:45 PM
I have a little card that says "5 things or 5 minutes" and when I see it I go around and do that.  I either get rid of five things - even if they are five pieces of scrap paper! - or I spend five minutes tidying up.

Yesterday I got rid of 2 shirts that definitely no longer spark joy, a bra that is too big and when I wear it has weird pouchy wrinkles because of that, a bracelet that had gotten too stretched out (elastic) but from which someone might still like the beads, and a little pcoket book of Pema Chodron.

Since I moved into my new little living space, I tend to think I only have the things I really need.  But when I find that card and look around, it feels so good to be able to look for five little things.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on July 07, 2016, 12:59:32 PM
I have a little card that says "5 things or 5 minutes" and when I see it I go around and do that.  I either get rid of five things - even if they are five pieces of scrap paper! - or I spend five minutes tidying up.

What a wonderful little card! Where did you get this lovely idea?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 07, 2016, 01:27:18 PM
I imagine that I read it in a feng shui de-cluttering book.  I've read about ten of them in the last few years, and imagine it came from one of them.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on July 07, 2016, 03:26:28 PM
Hmm feng shui de-cluttering books sound like a neat genre. I just made myself a "5 Things or 5 Minutes" post-it. At some point I'll have to make a pretty card :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 07, 2016, 03:35:38 PM
I was looking at my closet last night and realized that, even after packing only what I thought I'd need when I moved cross country (via airline with checked luggage), the majority of clothing occupying my closet never gets worn.

It might be time for another round of clothing disposal!

It's amazing with clothes.  I did KonMari my closet before moving, and was sure I was down to just the joy stuff.  Then looked yesterday and realized I still had two shirts I was keeping for poor reasons.  Again and again with the letting go! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 07, 2016, 03:38:17 PM
Hmm feng shui de-cluttering books sound like a neat genre. I just made myself a "5 Things or 5 Minutes" post-it. At some point I'll have to make a pretty card :)

Some of them were really well written, and some weren't.  They all came from the library, so that's okay. 

And I was just thinking that putting it on a post it would be a great way for me to see the reminder in places that stuff accumulates.  Inside a closet door, bathroom cupboard, kitchen junk drawer.....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KMMK on July 08, 2016, 08:27:14 AM
We're moving soon and my boyfriend suggested going through Every item this weekend to see what we can get rid of. As a minimalist I'm extremely excited about this. I hate lugging stuff that never gets used around with every move.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fig on July 08, 2016, 10:17:26 AM
I've been doing really well clearing out but now I'm at my childhood home facing a big struggle. Just found my college, school and undergrad projects and a lot of old notes and cards. This is hard!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 08, 2016, 11:27:32 AM
My planned hiking trip this weekend got cancelled so I think I will spend the weekend doing another purge of my closet and house in general.  I've been at it for a while but it's amazing how many things I decided to keep over the last year that I now realize I don't need at all...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 08, 2016, 11:56:15 AM
I've been doing really well clearing out but now I'm at my childhood home facing a big struggle. Just found my college, school and undergrad projects and a lot of old notes and cards. This is hard!

Have you missed ANY of them? If not, clear sign that you don't actually need them anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 08, 2016, 03:10:59 PM
I've been doing really well clearing out but now I'm at my childhood home facing a big struggle. Just found my college, school and undergrad projects and a lot of old notes and cards. This is hard!

Have you missed ANY of them? If not, clear sign that you don't actually need them anymore.

If there is anything precious there, e.g. if you want to save the handwriting of a grandparent who has passed away, you could photograph or scan them for posterity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 08, 2016, 08:15:45 PM
I've been doing really well clearing out but now I'm at my childhood home facing a big struggle. Just found my college, school and undergrad projects and a lot of old notes and cards. This is hard!

Oh, Fig!  I recently moved and had to figure out what to do with my college papers.  I only went to college at the age of 37, and I'm 44 now.  Those papers were SO HARD for me to get rid of.

I had to really sit and think about why.

And for me it was that these papers were proof to me that I was smart.  I got excellent marks, and had wonderful comments written on my projects by the profs.  So I held those and read those comments out loud to myself and patted my own back lots.  And then I took a pic with my phone of any of the comments from the profs that I just couldn't part with. 

Then I held those papers to my heart and tried to just imagine all that goodness going right into my skin.  Deep, deep.  So that I wouldn't need the actual papers to prove it to me, anymore, but would have it inside me, carried around inside.

It was still hard!  And I did keep one essay that was particularly pleasing to me.  :)

What do those papers represent for you?  What is it that makes you want to hold on to them? 
I ask that from a curious and very open space - I think those papers have value for us and it's worth thinking about it!

Is it possible to allow yourself to keep one thing that sums that up for you?  Or even two or three things?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 09, 2016, 01:22:01 AM
An opportunity has suddenly presented itself and we might be moving, very soon.

We are still deciding, but while we talk and ponder, I went into full decluttering mode today.

Friends have offered to help us move but I'm intensely uncomfortable with people knowing I have possessions. I mean, obviously they know I own things, but I'm known as the decluttering, anti-stuff girl. My skin crawls at the idea of people helping us move and being ... disappointed in me?

Anyway, I started a new tally (whiteboard marker on a mirror) and I'm down 57 things for the day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 09, 2016, 01:23:50 AM
Also, while surveying cupboards ahead of possible move, I realised I have 11 guest towels. We have guests frequently, at the moment we're in the middle of a stretch of having visitors three times in four weeks.

But we've never had 11 extra people stay in our two-bedroom apartment. That seems unlikely.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on July 09, 2016, 02:06:09 AM
An opportunity has suddenly presented itself and we might be moving, very soon.

We are still deciding, but while we talk and ponder, I went into full decluttering mode today.

Friends have offered to help us move but I'm intensely uncomfortable with people knowing I have possessions. I mean, obviously they know I own things, but I'm known as the decluttering, anti-stuff girl. My skin crawls at the idea of people helping us move and being ... disappointed in me?

Anyway, I started a new tally (whiteboard marker on a mirror) and I'm down 57 things for the day.
I like opportunities presenting themselves, I see it as payback from the universe for all the rest of the crap.

Feeling uncomfortable about other people knowing details about your possessions is entirely natural: people who have been burgled often say that knowing someone has gone through their belongings is worse than the loss of some of those belongings.  I guess that professional movers can tell some good stories about people's belongings, but at least that is one step removed from the personal.

Regardless, I hope that the decluttering you are doing is for you, not for what other people might think of you as that seems a way to possible future regret.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on July 09, 2016, 02:16:55 AM
getting rid of things due to social pressure may backfire.  You are you and it is ok to have some things.  You get to decide.  Maybe this is great motivation but be careful you don't go too far when you aren't personally ready for it.

If that makes sense?

An opportunity has suddenly presented itself and we might be moving, very soon.

We are still deciding, but while we talk and ponder, I went into full decluttering mode today.

Friends have offered to help us move but I'm intensely uncomfortable with people knowing I have possessions. I mean, obviously they know I own things, but I'm known as the decluttering, anti-stuff girl. My skin crawls at the idea of people helping us move and being ... disappointed in me?

Anyway, I started a new tally (whiteboard marker on a mirror) and I'm down 57 things for the day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on July 09, 2016, 04:02:46 AM
Friends have offered to help us move but I'm intensely uncomfortable with people knowing I have possessions. I mean, obviously they know I own things, but I'm known as the decluttering, anti-stuff girl. My skin crawls at the idea of people helping us move and being ... disappointed in me?

Anyway, I started a new tally (whiteboard marker on a mirror) and I'm down 57 things for the day.

Having to move ALL your stuff is always the moment you fully realize how much stuff you really own. (The last 2 times I moved it really appalled me)

But don't get demotivated by it, just keep calm. Moving can be a nice opportunity to declutter, but it might be wise to wait a little so you can find out what fits for your new place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 09, 2016, 07:33:45 AM
I've been doing really well clearing out but now I'm at my childhood home facing a big struggle. Just found my college, school and undergrad projects and a lot of old notes and cards. This is hard!
Oh yes.  I still have the box of index cards all my references were written on for my thesis.  I graduated in '75.  I think I have gotten rid of most of my old school stuff - being retired from teaching has ended that "But I could use this in class" feeling.  As in, I did use the index cards, just to show the students that the mechanics of research are so much easier now, but that they still have to think!
I used to shred so much, but I just bought (yes, spent money) a little metal fire pit thing, and I think a lot of paper will get burned now. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on July 09, 2016, 05:38:26 PM
We got rid of four grocery bags of clothes this weekend. There are some small kitchen appliances I want to get rid of. I don't feel like dealing with the hassle to sell them, but they are things that should be sold instead of just donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 09, 2016, 07:52:38 PM
Friends have offered to help us move but I'm intensely uncomfortable with people knowing I have possessions. I mean, obviously they know I own things, but I'm known as the decluttering, anti-stuff girl. My skin crawls at the idea of people helping us move and being ... disappointed in me?

Anyway, I started a new tally (whiteboard marker on a mirror) and I'm down 57 things for the day.

Having to move ALL your stuff is always the moment you fully realize how much stuff you really own. (The last 2 times I moved it really appalled me)

But don't get demotivated by it, just keep calm. Moving can be a nice opportunity to declutter, but it might be wise to wait a little so you can find out what fits for your new place.

Thank you. A few people have now commented on me feeling compelled to declutter for the wrong reasons.

I'm not tossing anything I'm not happy to relinquish. But when I consider the volume of what is left by category... I could get rid of one or two books but there is still a whole bookshelf there.

I should probably just trust that my friends who have offered to help move won't judge me.

And moving is definitely a great motivator.

We've been in our current place five years. I've decluttered a lot in that time, but we've also acquired a couple of large pieces of furniture during our time here, which are going to be absolute bastards to move.

We've talked more and I think it's happening. I'm trying to look at the many, many benefits of the new place instead of looking at all the work I've just signed myself up for.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fig on July 10, 2016, 11:55:29 AM
I've been doing really well clearing out but now I'm at my childhood home facing a big struggle. Just found my college, school and undergrad projects and a lot of old notes and cards. This is hard!

Oh, Fig!  I recently moved and had to figure out what to do with my college papers.  I only went to college at the age of 37, and I'm 44 now.  Those papers were SO HARD for me to get rid of.

I had to really sit and think about why.

And for me it was that these papers were proof to me that I was smart.  I got excellent marks, and had wonderful comments written on my projects by the profs.  So I held those and read those comments out loud to myself and patted my own back lots.  And then I took a pic with my phone of any of the comments from the profs that I just couldn't part with. 

Then I held those papers to my heart and tried to just imagine all that goodness going right into my skin.  Deep, deep.  So that I wouldn't need the actual papers to prove it to me, anymore, but would have it inside me, carried around inside.

It was still hard!  And I did keep one essay that was particularly pleasing to me.  :)

What do those papers represent for you?  What is it that makes you want to hold on to them? 
I ask that from a curious and very open space - I think those papers have value for us and it's worth thinking about it!

Is it possible to allow yourself to keep one thing that sums that up for you?  Or even two or three things?

Thanks to everyone for your comments on this. I knew the papers were there but I didn't realise how much there was. When I first looked at them, I had to go away and mull things over.

For the college papers, they were indeed proof that I was smart (and I'm glad you found such a wonderful way to work through yours, annieme). For various reasons, things don't come as easily to me now, so they had value for that reason. I've cleared out the notes but kept the essays, for now. I will probably let those go soon too, maybe after scanning a few. However, they were also evidence of myself as a thinking and especially a creative person. It struck me very strongly that creativity is lacking from my life, which I need to think about some more.

The other papers - cards and letters - are not things I've forgotten and I'll be keeping many, at least for a while. I will be doing a sift though, when I visit again, because at least some can go. I'm trying hard to remember who the Patricia and John were who sent me a good luck card in 1999 :)

Overall though - I've reduced the volume of stuff by almost half, which feels pretty good. Thanks for your suggestions!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 10, 2016, 01:52:11 PM
...However, they were also evidence of myself as a thinking and especially a creative person. It struck me very strongly that creativity is lacking from my life, which I need to think about some more.
I very much understand this!  And how wonderful that you could see that something you would like more of in your life right now is that creativity!  :)
Quote
Overall though - I've reduced the volume of stuff by almost half, which feels pretty good. Thanks for your suggestions!

That's awesome!  Quite a step!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 11, 2016, 11:01:48 AM
My planned hiking trip this weekend got cancelled so I think I will spend the weekend doing another purge of my closet and house in general.  I've been at it for a while but it's amazing how many things I decided to keep over the last year that I now realize I don't need at all...

Didn't really do anything other than putting away a couple of items clothing for donation...  I seem to have lost any real motivation for decluttering at this point - I got rid of all the low hanging fruit and now I'm in a holding patter until my daughter graduates next spring because I'm thinking it doesn't make sense to get rid of things that she will want for her own place. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on July 11, 2016, 11:07:26 AM
Finally letting go of a beautiful, soft, cozy blue wool sweater. Le sigh.

I love that sweater but it does NOT fit.
It is too big.  To be clear, just because it doesn't fall off doesn't mean it fits   :)
Ridiculously too big, and when I wear it that bothers me.

It is hard to let go of something beautiful!
That has so many pleasing qualities woven into one garment.

But when I see how it looks on me, I just don't feel good.  It's boxy and floppy.

(Ha! I only *thought* I was ready to let it go.  Apparently over more re-think before committing it to donation box.)

Reasons I love it include:
Colour
Soft wool that isn't itchy
nice neckline

Reasons to let it go:
It doesn't fit
SIL gave it to me, and that rel'shp is over so I'd like to let go of the reminder
It is bulky and doesn't fit under my down jacket or raincoat.
It is bulky and doesn't store well in my sweater drawer

Phew!  Got it!  Time to send it on to someone else who will love it  :)



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on July 11, 2016, 01:48:01 PM
We're moving soon and my boyfriend suggested going through Every item this weekend to see what we can get rid of. As a minimalist I'm extremely excited about this.

SO JEALOUS
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 11, 2016, 04:08:19 PM
We're moving soon and my boyfriend suggested going through Every item this weekend to see what we can get rid of. As a minimalist I'm extremely excited about this.

SO JEALOUS

Seconded!

Also (most likely) moving later this month. I'm decluttering my things and mutual things, but it would be a huge help if he could cull a few books and magazines.

I feel like I'm permanently decluttering at the moment. Just constantly on guard against the number of things coming into the house. My husband travels for work, so there is just an influx of business/first class airline goodies, itineraries, event programs, USB sticks...

Every time he comes home I have to sort through 15 or 20 things and decide, keep or toss or donate.

I've asked him to at least toss in his hotel anything that doesn't need to come home. That will help the process.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 11, 2016, 07:02:22 PM
Pulled out two giant boxes of DH's figurines that he hasn't touched in years. There's paint and god knows what in there. They take to 1/4 of the floor space in our crafty room, so now they're out of the cupboard, they need to be sorted ASAP. I'm hoping most of the bulk is crap he doesn't want and poor organisation so we can fit it into one shelf of the new shelving ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 12, 2016, 05:40:52 AM
Anyone else watch Insight on hoarding and minimalism tonight?

I watched it while adding printed Taste.com.au recipes to my online Taste.com.au account. This will let me toss two small folders.

(I have my favourites hand-written in a recipe book, but most of the Taste.com.au recipes were saved for 'some day'.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Save Our Stash on July 12, 2016, 08:04:34 AM
I never know what to do about art supplies, I'm in the process of redecorating and decluttering my room and I came across all my art materials that I really love but they overwhelm me. The thing is, I know I will use the supplies but they take up so much space! And through the decluttering process I find old objects that I can turn into new art projects. Any suggestions on what I should do? I really want the serenity of a clear space but my creativity is important too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on July 12, 2016, 08:35:19 AM
Is it too late to join in? DH and I are moving in less than a month! Although we're essentially doubling our square footage (970 to 1899!), I would still like to make the move easier, and use it as an opportunity to clear things out that we don't need anymore!

The funny thing is, I think I need to go through our clothes, but we're going to have a walk in closet... it's going to look comically empty! But that's no reason to keep clothes that are unloved and unworn. I'll just have to get comfortable with white space!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 12, 2016, 08:45:23 AM
Anyone else watch Insight on hoarding and minimalism tonight?
Nope, but I'll be checking out tomorrow if I can watch it online.

I never know what to do about art supplies, I'm in the process of redecorating and decluttering my room and I came across all my art materials that I really love but they overwhelm me. The thing is, I know I will use the supplies but they take up so much space! And through the decluttering process I find old objects that I can turn into new art projects. Any suggestions on what I should do? I really want the serenity of a clear space but my creativity is important too.
I have done it by working out the categories of things in my craft space:
Tools = actual told and stuff I replace if it runs out, eg paint, brushes, stamps, punches, white card, sewing machine

Projects = all the items specific to a particular project get boxes up together. That way I can see how far I'm through, what i need to finish it etc.

Supplies = this is my "useful one day" pile. It should be as small as possible, because it should be sorted into new projects to be used up as I go.

Hope that helps :) the idea of "modules" also helped me sort my supplies by different kind of crafting activity.

Is it too late to join in? DH and I are moving in less than a month! Although we're essentially doubling our square footage (970 to 1899!), I would still like to make the move easier, and use it as an opportunity to clear things out that we don't need anymore!

The funny thing is, I think I need to go through our clothes, but we're going to have a walk in closet... it's going to look comically empty! But that's no reason to keep clothes that are unloved and unworn. I'll just have to get comfortable with white space!
This is a rolling thread, never too late to join :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Save Our Stash on July 12, 2016, 10:52:06 AM
Thanks @anatidaev, I really like this idea of categorising. I agree about the modules too, I just need to find a home for each different project! Thanks again :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on July 12, 2016, 10:54:55 AM
Listed an unused TV stand and microwave on CL. If I do't get bites in 1 week, They'll go to Buy Nothing Project, then goodwill if no interest there.

Slow, but starting. Dreading old papers!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on July 12, 2016, 02:58:11 PM
Sorted through my spare bedroom tonight. It's intended as an multifunction space for office, guests and reading but has (as all spare rooms) become a "let's put this random junk in here and sort throw it later"-space. Later, of course, meaning "never".

Dumped all the junk on the floor and forced myself to find a home for it. Half a bag of random paperwork found their home in the garbage. A bag of books is in wait for new homes at the used books store. The rest was useful stuf that's in the box it belongs in. Need to get a box of school memorebelia into the storage room and a broken computer to recycling, then it's an actual space again. For me. Not stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on July 13, 2016, 12:13:55 PM
Hey All!

I'm new to this thread -- I started reading at the beginning but there were too many posts :-)

Anyway, DH and I are going to move this fall.  We are most likely buying a house and getting more space.  However,  we've been in our current 800 sf apartment for 5 years and boy do we have a lot of "stuff".  I'd like to get rid of anything that we truly don't use to make the move easier.  I figure I've going until mid to late September to get through everything.

We got through his clothes and donated/sold about 5 large grocery bags worth.  I basically took out all of his non work clothes and made him sort through them.  I routinely make sure his work clothes are in decent shape so there was no need to go through them.

I'm onto my clothes but I have a feeling I'll have to do them in stages.  I've recently gained a bunch of weight (stress related to moving, an injury cutting down my running a lot) so I have a lot of clothes that don't fit right now, but hopefully will fit again in a couple of months.  I'm doing a first pass through for stuff that is just plain worn out or that I don't like at all.  When we actually move I'll do another pass through for fit.  Hopefully that'll motivate me to get back into shape.

I think the big fight will be over books - DH has quite a collection and really intends to collect them.  If I can even get him to cut out 20% of his books that'll be a big accomplishment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 13, 2016, 05:39:18 PM
Last night I culled an inch-high stack of papers from my filing system.

I have a box of things that are to leave the house for new homes (charity, husband's work, in-laws' house, etc).

It's not really clutter but I am trying to run down the pantry and toiletries before we move. Five jars of salsa seemed like a good idea when they were on sale. So did the seven big tubes of toothpaste, six bottles of body wash, five bottles of hand soap and 12 deodorants.

I've somehow never shaken my mum's practice of stockpiling, which made sense when we lived 25km from the nearest supermarket. But I now live 250m from two supermarkets, and walk past them almost every day. >.<
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 13, 2016, 06:27:21 PM
Hey All!

I'm new to this thread -- I started reading at the beginning but there were too many posts :-)

Anyway, DH and I are going to move this fall.  We are most likely buying a house and getting more space.  However,  we've been in our current 800 sf apartment for 5 years and boy do we have a lot of "stuff".  I'd like to get rid of anything that we truly don't use to make the move easier.  I figure I've going until mid to late September to get through everything.

We got through his clothes and donated/sold about 5 large grocery bags worth.  I basically took out all of his non work clothes and made him sort through them.  I routinely make sure his work clothes are in decent shape so there was no need to go through them.

I'm onto my clothes but I have a feeling I'll have to do them in stages.  I've recently gained a bunch of weight (stress related to moving, an injury cutting down my running a lot) so I have a lot of clothes that don't fit right now, but hopefully will fit again in a couple of months.  I'm doing a first pass through for stuff that is just plain worn out or that I don't like at all.  When we actually move I'll do another pass through for fit.  Hopefully that'll motivate me to get back into shape.

I think the big fight will be over books - DH has quite a collection and really intends to collect them.  If I can even get him to cut out 20% of his books that'll be a big accomplishment.

Welcome! Re the books - I'm a bookworm as well. It makes a difference if you know that you personally will be the person to dust, pack, move, unpack, and arrange every single book. Including the bookcases.

Also, designate a set number of bookcases that he has, and inform him that ALL of his books must be on those bookshelves and it has to be semi-neat. No boxes, no stacks nearby, no piles all over the house. Beyond that, leave him to it. Even better if you get him to agree happily to the # of bookcases ahead of time so he can't argue that it's your fault (or really, he could but he'd be in the wrong).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on July 14, 2016, 05:20:50 AM

Welcome! Re the books - I'm a bookworm as well. It makes a difference if you know that you personally will be the person to dust, pack, move, unpack, and arrange every single book. Including the bookcases.

Also, designate a set number of bookcases that he has, and inform him that ALL of his books must be on those bookshelves and it has to be semi-neat. No boxes, no stacks nearby, no piles all over the house. Beyond that, leave him to it. Even better if you get him to agree happily to the # of bookcases ahead of time so he can't argue that it's your fault (or really, he could but he'd be in the wrong).

Thanks for the advice :-)  I'll try for that.  Currently we have just a few book piles.  Living in 800 sf of space I've been able to limit him.  I think that when we move to a house he imagines he'll just have like a library/office filled with books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 14, 2016, 05:29:52 AM
Turning out some cupboards tonight.

Problematic items that I'm still considering: photos (most of which exist in digital form), negatives, and souvenirs from trips.

The souvenirs - pins, figurines, etc - have been in a box for five (?) years, and we have no real interest in displaying them. I hate having things around to dust. I should donate them...

Oh, and a small Pringle can of sand from a very famous beach. Which was probably illegal to bring back into Australia.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Good_Juju on July 14, 2016, 02:25:56 PM
New to the thread as well.
I should get rid of stuff...
Some things I need to go through include notes from college. I'd like to scan these and have them digital since I know I will probably never need them but I would feel assured having them. Other than that I need to go through all of the nick nack drawers that I have. We have a roommate moving in Aug 1st so I'll probably need to get rid of more. I've got 2 dining room tables which is ridiculous for my 900 sqft apartment, so I need to contemplate getting rid of one of those again.

The biggest help to my decluttering effort has been my dog. Occasionally she decides she is going to destroy something and I have to evaluate "did I really need that - do I need to replace it?"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Stachey on July 14, 2016, 02:58:36 PM
Had a mini fashion show last night and got rid of everything that didn't fit perfectly.  Am also being more selective on what colours I keep in my wardrobe.  For example:  I had a nice sweater but the colour did nothing for me so to the goodwill it goes.
I feel so much better when I get rid of things that are not fashionable for me  (although they will be perfectly fine for someone else).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on July 14, 2016, 03:25:32 PM
Offloaded my Nintendo Wii to my brother yesterday along with several games.. hadn't played it in a few years.

Not exactly a win for throwing things out because my clutter becomes his but I'll claim it for now :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 14, 2016, 04:01:10 PM
Offloaded my Nintendo Wii to my brother yesterday along with several games.. hadn't played it in a few years.

Not exactly a win for throwing things out because my clutter becomes his but I'll claim it for now :)

That's definitely a win for decluttering! You offloaded it to someone who will use it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 14, 2016, 06:21:54 PM
Just tossed two large garbage bags of notes from my husband's previous job. They had been stored in plastic tubs in the garage, but enough time has lapsed for them to be trashed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on July 15, 2016, 11:27:19 PM
Today I boxed up a ton of too-small boy clothes into a big box. Also started a smaller box and got rid of a few puzzles, an old dvd  player, books that no one reads anymore, and a scarf that is itchy. Progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on July 15, 2016, 11:30:44 PM
I sent off three clothing returns that had been languishing on my dresser a couple of weeks... does that count? :)

Eta: and loaded up my car to take to goodwill in the am.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on July 17, 2016, 09:49:38 AM
Well I got rid of two trader joe's bags worth of books.  DH put them downstairs in the mailroom in our building.  Perhaps some people will get use out of them.  We were looking for places to sell/trade them in but it seemed that there wasn't much opportunity for that.  We still have a *lot* of books, but that's a start.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 17, 2016, 02:26:02 PM
5 bags to goodwill and 6 boxes to half price books!  It was a good weekend.

I also finished reading the KonMarie book (in the HPB box already)- and it did give me some good perspective on getting rid of some things. But, even though she says she works with international clients, I think she seriously underestimates both how much stuff Americans have and how much space we have to put it in...  I am still doing my closets one at a time. There is just no way I could find everything from one category to look at it all at once- it's just way too all over the place.  But I am trying to get it all into one space to store.

I have renewed vigor for this.  The baby's room (for the baby that didn't get to come home) had become a junk room, and we just found out we will likely need it again!  And I want the office streamlined so the computer can just go into the guest room and we can use the office as a playroom until the little one is big enough to play downstairs unsupervised.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on July 17, 2016, 03:00:36 PM
We've been working on decluttering our kitchen, slowly but surely. I took a box of unwanted coffee mugs, and also a small bag of clothing, to the resale store today. Baby steps!

Also, I had a fandom-related T-shirt that I loved but it really doesn't fit me. But it seemed too nice to just donate. I posted a pic of it to Facebook in case someone I know might want it - and got a taker right away. And it fits her perfectly. She's happy, I'm happy. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on July 17, 2016, 03:06:39 PM
It's gone! My old furniture! Wa-hoo! (As the infamous Yoshi would say)

There is so much space in my apartment now the walls echo. Room is lighter too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on July 17, 2016, 03:33:38 PM
Listed an unused TV stand and microwave on CL. If I do't get bites in 1 week, They'll go to Buy Nothing Project, then goodwill if no interest there.

Slow, but starting. Dreading old papers!

Microwave is gone ($40 in hand), and someone is coming by for the TV stand tonight (another $40). Excited about the TV stand, because we bought it used off CL for $40 4 years ago. Crazy how well Ikea items retain their value, haha.

Unintentional minimalism: our kitchen timer was always screwy (hard to add minutes), but it recently stopped alarming most of the time when the timer is up. Totally defeats the purpose. My poor DH was trying to make rice when he got a very very not happy work call. The timer didn't make noise again, and so he went to pantomime throwing it in the trash... except he accidentally let go. I told him to just leave it and not go in after the piece of junk. Good riddance.

Emotionally preparing to get rid of some old workout clothes. I know it's ridiculous to have a hard time getting rid of perma-stinky, pilling shirts, but I have so many hikes logged in these. Including when my husband proposed. Sigh, so silly how much emotion we assign to things!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pbkmaine on July 17, 2016, 03:40:17 PM

I have renewed vigor for this.  The baby's room (for the baby that didn't get to come home) had become a junk room, and we just found out we will likely need it again!  And I want the office streamlined so the computer can just go into the guest room and we can use the office as a playroom until the little one is big enough to play downstairs unsupervised.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LaineyAZ on July 17, 2016, 04:18:45 PM
Great news, iowajes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 17, 2016, 04:50:20 PM

I have renewed vigor for this.  The baby's room (for the baby that didn't get to come home) had become a junk room, and we just found out we will likely need it again!  And I want the office streamlined so the computer can just go into the guest room and we can use the office as a playroom until the little one is big enough to play downstairs unsupervised.


congratulations!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 17, 2016, 04:56:42 PM
It's gone! My old furniture! Wa-hoo! (As the infamous Yoshi would say)

There is so much space in my apartment now the walls echo. Room is lighter too!

Awesome work!

I think someone has the decluttering bug now. :D


I have renewed vigor for this.  The baby's room (for the baby that didn't get to come home) had become a junk room, and we just found out we will likely need it again!  And I want the office streamlined so the computer can just go into the guest room and we can use the office as a playroom until the little one is big enough to play downstairs unsupervised.

Congratulations!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starbuck on July 17, 2016, 05:03:31 PM
I have renewed vigor for this.  The baby's room (for the baby that didn't get to come home) had become a junk room, and we just found out we will likely need it again!  And I want the office streamlined so the computer can just go into the guest room and we can use the office as a playroom until the little one is big enough to play downstairs unsupervised.

That is wonderful news!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 17, 2016, 05:10:57 PM
Last night I sorted out two small drawers of cables, chargers, batteries, etc.

Tossed four dead lightning cables (eBay cheapies), a handful of dead batteries, and a couple of pre-recall Apple wall chargers (we have half a dozen).

I packaged up an Apple charger, lightning cable, USB cable, micro-USB cable and a couple of other bits and pieces for my husband to take in to his new office tomorrow.

(They've finally moved, seven months after first talking about it! Today is the first day in new digs.)

I also have cutlery and some other kitchen items he can take to help stock work kitchen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Lyngi on July 18, 2016, 09:40:22 PM
I sold an incubator (for chicken eggs) today.  $80.  We got rid of the chickens years ago.  Mostly I've been just donating stuff and trashing the crap.  I've been looking at local houses for sale, not really looking for a new house, just looking.  In two years we may want to downsize.  But the looking at all the nicely staged houses makes me crazy.  Then looking at the houses full of knick knaks also makes me crazy, so I go and declutter.   
   I've got a couple of other things up for sale, but no takers.  Thanks to Retired at 63, I've found the online library (Overdrive)  which has allowed me to release some of my books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on July 18, 2016, 11:29:04 PM
Congratulations, Iowajes! Great news!

Today I put a pair of jean shorts in the giveaway box ... They were once too small for me, and now they are too big for me! Wahoooo!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on July 19, 2016, 12:05:43 AM
I've decided that a few items with residual value, which I was pressuring myself to try to sell on ebay for some $$, are better off being put in a laundry tub as a pile of "things I will offer guests when they come over". As in, maybe one of the girls coming over for dinner this Friday will want an as-new Fossil handbag? Maybe next time my family comes over someone will want this Tupperware flask? etc.

I think that this will mean things *actually leave the house* whereas "I'm going to list it on ebay someday" meant they never did. And donating is great, but if this plan works out I think it will be more rewarding than donating because I get to SEE that someone wants something and will use it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 19, 2016, 02:52:14 AM
I'm killing two birds this week as we prepare to move and I tackle the long list of address changeovers.

I've received a couple of fundraising letters from charities that I'm either not or no longer interested in supporting. Rather than updating my address, I'm returning them to sender with a note asking to be removed from their database.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 19, 2016, 03:19:05 AM
We're moving soon and my boyfriend suggested going through Every item this weekend to see what we can get rid of. As a minimalist I'm extremely excited about this.

SO JEALOUS

At -some point- in the next year or so we will be moving into our guest suite to renovate our house (it was derelict when we bought it, so I get to keep my MMM credentials I think, despite the ridiculouslness of a guest suite. We only have 1 bedroom, so it's not as crazy as it sounds)

Anyway, obviously I'm excited about making the house properly habitable. But I am actually more excited about the 'fresh start' when it comes to stuff! Instead of 'moving in', I plan to just go to the guest suite, and come back to the house for every single thing I need. At the end of a month or so, I should have a very clear idea of what I am not using!

Out of season clothes won't count, of course, but I am sooooo looking foward to this!

Iowajes, many congrats, very happy for you.

I've decided that a few items with residual value, which I was pressuring myself to try to sell on ebay for some $$, are better off being put in a laundry tub as a pile of "things I will offer guests when they come over". As in, maybe one of the girls coming over for dinner this Friday will want an as-new Fossil handbag? Maybe next time my family comes over someone will want this Tupperware flask? etc.

I think that this will mean things *actually leave the house* whereas "I'm going to list it on ebay someday" meant they never did. And donating is great, but if this plan works out I think it will be more rewarding than donating because I get to SEE that someone wants something and will use it.
This is a nice idea, but beware creating an obligation for friends and family. Why do you need to see that they will use it? I have had this conversation with my husband. He said, "Let's give it to so and so! It will be nice to know they want it!", and I said, "If we donate we can be -sure- they want it, because they have chosen it and paid money for it". You can be sure your stuff will be put to good use, when someone selects it specially, you know? I'm not trying to criticise, just... people have given me things and expected to see me use them, and it creates an expectation, a burden. If you give something away, just give it away.

And more updates, because I've been away for a while:

I used to buy lots of stuff in bulk. I stopped, oh, over a year ago. I calculated I still have TWO YEARS of tampons in stock. And worst of all, they are not my preferred brand. Ugh.

My husband rang the other day to ask if we needed batteries. I did a check, and said no, we've got 6 of that type. He was worried, "I should get some more!". I said, "No, we don't store stuff anymore! The shop stores it for us!". He didn't buy them.

The following day (literally!) a device which uses 4 batteries ran out. I replaced them. Husband was very worried that now we have only 2 batteries! I was like, "we checked, we had sufficient. Now we know we need some more, so I will put them on the list. This is the system WORKING". I think he is coming round!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 19, 2016, 03:26:55 AM
I used to buy lots of stuff in bulk. I stopped, oh, over a year ago. I calculated I still have TWO YEARS of tampons in stock. And worst of all, they are not my preferred brand. Ugh.

Would you consider donating them to charity?

In Australia, Share the Dignity collects tampons for homeless women, while The Beauty Bank collects cosmetics and toiletries for women escaping domestic violence.

http://www.sharethedignity.com.au/

http://www.thebeautybank.org/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 19, 2016, 03:55:04 AM
I used to buy lots of stuff in bulk. I stopped, oh, over a year ago. I calculated I still have TWO YEARS of tampons in stock. And worst of all, they are not my preferred brand. Ugh.

Would you consider donating them to charity?

In Australia, Share the Dignity collects tampons for homeless women, while The Beauty Bank collects cosmetics and toiletries for women escaping domestic violence.

http://www.sharethedignity.com.au/

http://www.thebeautybank.org/

I certainly would! A great way to buy some of my preferred ones guilt free, and help people in the process.

I will do some googling, but if anyone is aware of British organisations that accept donations, please do comment. They are boxed and everything!

Hmmm, I wonder if my foodbank will take them? Off to look at the list now. Thank you for the suggestion!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 19, 2016, 03:56:55 AM
Right, my foodbank website says:

URGENTLY NEEDED ITEMS

TOILETRIES
NAPPIES (ALL SIZES)
TOILET ROLLS
SPONGE PUDDINGS
CUSTARD

It doesn't specify tampons, and I don't want to waste a volunteer's time by emailing, but would you all interpret this as falling under 'toiletries' and being something they need?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: pbkmaine on July 19, 2016, 04:08:00 AM
Okay, I see that "sponge puddings" may refer to contraceptives, but you have me stumped with "custard".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 19, 2016, 04:10:32 AM
Okay, I see that "sponge puddings" may refer to contraceptives, but you have me stumped with "custard".

ha ha, no, I was referring to 'Toiletries'!! Sorry. Sponge puddings and custard and typical deserts here and they are running short of the actual food items.

I'm still lolling at sponge pudding as a contraceptive though!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on July 19, 2016, 04:29:21 AM
the advicist: your local womens' refuge will gladly take the tampons.  There will be a phone number available, and you arrange to meet someone in a (central, busy, well lit, car number plates exchanged) car park for the handover, so they don't have to reveal the location of the shelter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 19, 2016, 04:32:49 AM
the advicist: your local womens' refuge will gladly take the tampons.  There will be a phone number available, and you arrange to meet someone in a (central, busy, well lit, car number plates exchanged) car park for the handover, so they don't have to reveal the location of the shelter.

Thanks for that info. I don't think it's enough of a donation to warrant someone's time like that in this case. It's only 4 boxes, it's just two years worth at the rate I use them. The foodbank sounds ideal because I donate regularly anyway, and we have a collection point locally, so I can just add them to the bag I'm taking anyway.

But I will definitely bear in mind for the future.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on July 19, 2016, 06:35:24 AM
the advicist: your local womens' refuge will gladly take the tampons.  There will be a phone number available, and you arrange to meet someone in a (central, busy, well lit, car number plates exchanged) car park for the handover, so they don't have to reveal the location of the shelter.

Thanks for that info. I don't think it's enough of a donation to warrant someone's time like that in this case. It's only 4 boxes, it's just two years worth at the rate I use them. The foodbank sounds ideal because I donate regularly anyway, and we have a collection point locally, so I can just add them to the bag I'm taking anyway.

But I will definitely bear in mind for the future.
They will also take any household stuff you want to get rid of - bedding, kitchen stuff, etc., as they gift it to women who are leaving to help set up home.  They take clothes, too (they are always desperate for knickers in various sizes) and cleaners, washing powder, etc.  I bet they would take just the tampons (worth ringing to see), but if not if you have any other spares to donate they would take those too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 19, 2016, 08:45:14 AM
   I've got a couple of other things up for sale, but no takers.  Thanks to Retired at 63, I've found the online library (Overdrive)  which has allowed me to release some of my books.
Glad to help with book release.  I am also finding that when I get a so-so library book by someone whose books I have, that tells me I can release all my books by that author.  So next time I am culling I can search those books out.  The second hand bookstore staff at the community center where my library is are getting used to me bringing a bag or two of various books each time I come to the library.  I donate there, the money is spent well.  My regular second-hand bookstore has switched from cash to credit for books brought in, and they pay 5% of book price (10% on their books) so for a $5 book I might get 25 cents.  Or they might not take it at all. I would rather donate.  I have always been a book hoarder, this is a 180o change for me. 
My really old fiction is hard to find, it is what I will probably end up holding on to, unless I can get Kindle editions without paying huge amounts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 21, 2016, 01:57:36 AM
Regarding books, it helped me to figure out why I didn't want to get rid of my favourites.

The answer was that I was scared I would forget about them.

So I made a spreadsheet. And every single book I read I add it on, with a really short plot synopsis (like one sentence just to jog my memory) and if I loved it I put a star next to it. That way I can still go back and see every book I have ever loved, without them getting musty on my bookshelf.

This might not work for everyone, as I am not a big rereader. But safe in the knowledge that I know exactly what my favourites are, I trust the library and Amazon to store them for me. I can buy secondhand usually for 1p plus postage, and then donate / resell, anytime I was to reread.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BigBigote on July 24, 2016, 11:43:12 AM
theadvicist: have you heard of goodreads.com ? You can put all that information on there, and it tracks how many books you read each year, as well as if you give books star ratings, then it recommends other books based on the books you like!

Thought this might be another good alternative if you're enjoying the tracking of which books you read / like!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 24, 2016, 01:56:06 PM
Regarding books, it helped me to figure out why I didn't want to get rid of my favourites.

The answer was that I was scared I would forget about them.

So I made a spreadsheet. And every single book I read I add it on, with a really short plot synopsis (like one sentence just to jog my memory) and if I loved it I put a star next to it. That way I can still go back and see every book I have ever loved, without them getting musty on my bookshelf.

This might not work for everyone, as I am not a big rereader. But safe in the knowledge that I know exactly what my favourites are, I trust the library and Amazon to store them for me. I can buy secondhand usually for 1p plus postage, and then donate / resell, anytime I was to reread.

Thought of you this week while culling books!

I was torn between wanting to buy them as e-books now, or waiting to see if I actually miss them first.

In the end I just made a list of the titles, emailed it to myself, and piled up six more to get rid of.

I've taken to pouring myself a drink and standing in front of my bookshelves, staring at them while I ponder who is next to go...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 26, 2016, 08:17:35 AM
theadvicist: have you heard of goodreads.com ? You can put all that information on there, and it tracks how many books you read each year, as well as if you give books star ratings, then it recommends other books based on the books you like!

Thought this might be another good alternative if you're enjoying the tracking of which books you read / like!

Thanks for the recommendation! I have used it to look up titles and read reviews, or read their 'best 50 (whatever) books' lists, but I have never created an account. I don't know if that is something I would enjoy (the recommendations feature sounds great) or just another thing I'd feel was on my to do list... the spreadsheet is quick, but yeah, no feedback. I'll go and have a poke around, thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on July 26, 2016, 10:47:24 AM

I've taken to pouring myself a drink and standing in front of my bookshelves, staring at them while I ponder who is next to go...

I'm pulling them off the shelves and re-reading (fiction) - if I go "OK, but not to read again" it goes in the pile of donations. 

Non-fiction - I do prefer paper to ebooks - I can read them during a power failure, they won't disappear (unless fire/flood) and I can photocopy easily if I need a few pages.

And yikes I have lot of old personal finance books.  I am reading them (well, skimming), if there is nothing new then they are donate (general advice) or put in paper recycling (definitely outdated).  The only really outdated one I am keeping is Your Money and How To Keep It (Brian Costello)(1985) who introduced me to the value of paying off a mortgage early.  Of course his interest tables start at 8% and end at 19 7/8%.  Definitely those rates were an incentive to pay down the mortgage.

For the younger readers, yes those were real rates.  Our mortgage was at 9% back then, 5 year fixed, and a friend had her mortgage come up and she renewed at 18%. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on July 27, 2016, 03:14:45 PM
Picked up my KonMari cleaning after leaving it alone in the middle of Komono for a couple months (not so good at the "do it all at once part").  I finished up Komono and started on mementos.  I was able to throw out 5 lbs of photographs!

I was also able to reduce my clothing further, but I don't think I'm quite at my click point.  I noticed a few things bugging the back of my mind and completely stopped thinking of them once I just put them in the donation box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on July 27, 2016, 09:39:20 PM
I volunteered to host voice lessons tomorrow - that caused 2 bags of shredding, one old tower computer and keyboard, a box full of empty file folders and a broken adding machine to move out of the office. Funny, but I had actually stopped seeing the clutter/mess. Oops. That was where my konmari stopped a few months ago too, but I won't get back into anything until after October.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 28, 2016, 05:40:13 AM
Spent another few hours moving stuff into new place today.

I realised just how much of the stuff in our apartment belongs to my husband.

He has far less stuff than some of his friends, but I also know that most of it never gets looked at or used. I could have tossed half of it and he wouldn't have noticed because he's forgotten about it.

So I carted it over to new place and spread it out on the floor, and I've asked him to go through it all before any of it gets put away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 28, 2016, 08:47:19 AM
Got $400 for taking a crap top video gaming (lol) to Half Price Books.

We got rid of a Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, Game Gear, 2 Gameboy colors, an X-box and a Game Cube and all the games associated with them (except the Game Cube which we can still play in the Wii).

Probably would have made a ton more on ebay, but this took only a few hours of sitting in a bookstore and reading while waiting!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on July 28, 2016, 09:14:19 AM
My aunt was happy to receive the antique sewing machine that was handed down to me from my great aunt about 25 years ago.  OTOH, another aunt gave me two pairs of capri pants (which I may just donate, but it made her happy to find them a home), and the portrait of myself @ age ten that used to hang in my grandmother's house made it back to me.  OK with that though, as we don't have a ton of things on our walls.  Managed to come home from vacation with only two pint glasses from DH's friend's brewery, and no other non-consumable items.  I'm pretty good at breaking glasses, so it kind of makes sense to add to the collection over time anyway.

This morning I gave some unneeded dog supplies to a coworker. 

It's going to be hot this weekend, so am reading this thread for inspiration to do some decluttering again since I probably won't be inclined to spend time outside in the afternoons.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on July 28, 2016, 10:00:52 AM
Got $400...

NICE!  That's quite a haul.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fig on July 28, 2016, 01:33:29 PM
A pretty but unused rocking chair has gone to the charity shop, along with various clothes, including a dress I mended with new buttons so it didn't end up in landfill... Hmm.

Other good news: tidying up ready for my monthly house guest is getting easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on July 30, 2016, 08:26:33 PM
I got rid of some craft supplies and made $60. That was one bag I was thrilled to see head out the door!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 30, 2016, 09:23:32 PM
Moved yesterday.

Still decluttering as a I settle into new place.

I had offered things to friends and relatives - books, kitchen items, etc - but haven't seen those people to hand over their loot, so I have labelled bags lined up ready to go, as well as donations to three different charities.

Struggling for motivation to list anything on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 02, 2016, 04:58:39 AM
Has anyone on this thread moved from decluttering to minimalism? I've been so pleased with my progress (and my life) since cutting back significantly on stuff that I've been reading a lot and it is very tempting... I know I don't have to go 'full on' one or the other, I can just keep cutting down until it feels 'right'. But would love hear other's experiences if anyone here has come to consider themselves a 'minimalist'.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on August 02, 2016, 05:05:24 AM
I remember seeing on TV the interiors of a very famous minimalist architects home.  Very empty, very white.  Until you realised that in every room one wall was floor to ceiling white handleless cupboards stuffed full of stuff.  Which told me that "minimalist" can be either for show or for real.  I'm somewhat the other way: I have things on show (built in bookcases, built in glass-fronted cupboards for china) but very little stuffed away in cupboards.

Although I do need to declutter - a sofa to sell, papers to sort and burn, clothes to donate.  When I have a moment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 02, 2016, 11:22:07 AM
The worst thing/best thing ever happened! Our basement flooded. Not too much water (maybe 1/2 - 1 inch), but it soaked every cardboard box on the floor, had to be wet-vacced up. It took us over 8 hours to get everything ruined out of the house, vacuum the water up, identify what was junk and put it in a pile for the dump. We borrowed a dehumidifier and have that running 24 a day.

We bought more wire shelves to add to the ones on the wall currently, so nothing will be on the floor if there is ever a repeat. NO more cardboard boxes. We have plenty of rubbermaids (both colored and clear) to store things in.

It was a hard, sweaty, exhausting day, but at the end of it, I felt so great, because me and the Other Human had worked together to make the basement better than it has been since we moved in. The basement was the graveyard of things in our house, if we didn't know what to do with things, into the basement they went.

I was ruthless with tossing things that hadn't even gotten wet. I found some disgusting old shoes (my Other Human hates to throw away shoes) and I said, "I think these have mold on them", and bagged them and he didn't even complain.

Last night I went into the gardening area of the basement and threw away a whole other garbage bag of things that were just hanging out, wasting space. If we don't use it, it's GOING AWAY.

I feel like that old song, I am woman, hear me roar, in letters too big to ignore, this crap has got to get out of my house forevermore!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on August 02, 2016, 11:47:26 AM
We went through our miscellaneous electronics and found a whole lot of old boxes for things to throw away.  We also found that we have something like 8 or 9 pairs of functional headphones for our phones :P  At least now they are all in one place.

Today I'm going to go through some of my boxes of paper type items and shred a bunch of stuff.

I think that moving in ~6-8 weeks is really going to inspire me to get through a lot of stuff.  Because if I don't get through everything before we move, I'll probably just wind up moving a whole lot of junk with me and that would be terrible!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on August 03, 2016, 02:00:28 AM
I found some disgusting old shoes (my Other Human hates to throw away shoes) and I said, "I think these have mold on them", and bagged them and he didn't even complain.

Laughing

I know that feeling. You actually get mad at the stuff. "Be gone stuff!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on August 03, 2016, 04:30:13 AM
Okay well I cleared out a couple of my little random paper storage bins on my book shelf.  I probably got rid of about 100+ sheets of looseleaf with random stuff written on it, 5 or 6 old steno books, and some old exams I'd used with my tutoring students.  All in all not too bad.

Today I'm going to tackle the top of my dresser, which has just a ton of random toiletries, a whole bunch of books, and some supplements.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 03, 2016, 07:23:14 AM
Have been watching Courtney Carver's 21 Decluttering Challenge videos: http://bemorewithless.com/decluttering/

Went through the bathroom cabinets and tossed some old things.  Sorted through my jewelry collection and set aside a bunch of gold and silver items that I don't wear any more and should sell.  I need to figure out where to bring them.

Gathered a few more things for consignment and donation and will bring them in this weekend - it took me a while to reach a critical mass.  And I had some fall/winter clothes I put away in the spring that were out of season then but will be accepted now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 03, 2016, 09:51:51 AM
Any suggestions on what to do with half-used cleaning and laundry products?  All purpose cleaner that gives me a headache or a specialized laundry additive that didn't quite work?  Pour them down the drain?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on August 03, 2016, 09:55:33 AM
Any suggestions on what to do with half-used cleaning and laundry products?  All purpose cleaner that gives me a headache or a specialized laundry additive that didn't quite work?  Pour them down the drain?

Homeless shelter?  Or just post them on Facebook (if you are a user). I've found it pretty easy to give away stuff like that thru social media.  It's not something many people would but half used at goodwill!  But when you know the person giving it away it's easy to accept.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 03, 2016, 10:04:06 AM
Good suggestion but I don't do social media.  I may bring them to the local laundromat and just leave them with a note saying "free stuff"...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 03, 2016, 04:12:34 PM
Still sorting out things in old apartment while settling into new apartment.

I had hoped to "finish" decluttering before we hand the keys back, but I need to remember from experience that I will adapt to this new normal and then want to start again.

My big problem area is things from my mum. Letters, postcards, gifts, clothes, luggage... I know the money and thought that has gone into it. :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 03, 2016, 04:26:21 PM
In the spirit of the subject line of this forum, I asked my library to order the Minimalism Documentary rather than purchasing one myself, even though I reeeeeally wanted to buy it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on August 04, 2016, 02:07:25 AM
Still sorting out things in old apartment while settling into new apartment.

I had hoped to "finish" decluttering before we hand the keys back, but I need to remember from experience that I will adapt to this new normal and then want to start again.

My big problem area is things from my mum. Letters, postcards, gifts, clothes, luggage... I know the money and thought that has gone into it. :(

Fill the luggage with all the letters, postcards, gifts and clothes.

Put the luggage on a plane back to mum with a note saying "hi, can you store this in my old room pretty pretty please???"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 04, 2016, 06:49:16 AM
Any suggestions on what to do with half-used cleaning and laundry products?  All purpose cleaner that gives me a headache or a specialized laundry additive that didn't quite work?  Pour them down the drain?

I give stuff like this away on my local Buy Nothing Project group. I always get takers =)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 07, 2016, 12:44:42 AM
Oh MMM. It's been a hard week for Stuff.

We moved, only within our apartment building, but I drastically under-estimated the amount of Stuff involved.

I would say I've been permanently decluttering for at least a year, but it turns out I've only been decluttering my stuff or "joint" (practically mine) things like kitchen Stuff.

While I have been decluttering, my husband has been bringing so much into our home. Mostly freebies, due to his work (clothes, stationery, speakers, external hard drives, portable battery chargers, plus branded merch like USBs, clothes). But while those things are 'free', they still come at a cost. A cost of space.

My husband was embarrassed by the amount of his Stuff we had to move, and the cost involved in acquiring it all. That's a worthwhile lesson to learn, and he's willing to offload some to charity or eBay.

And a relative has offered to buy six pieces of furniture, we just have to store them for a week or two.

But I still feel like I'm drowning under it all.

For more than a week, I've faced a thousand questions of keep or toss, charity or sell, over and over again.

We've moved into a beautiful new space, we've bought a couple of new things for new place including a beautiful new chair (almost everything in old place was second hand), and I want to enjoy it rather than playing Tetris with Stuff to ensure it all fits in cupboards.

I have a tendency to make the perfect the enemy of the good, and I've realised I just need to move everything over then deal with it, rather than just trying to get rid of it all from old apartment.

TL;DR: I've realised I have a lot of room for improvement, and not a lot of room for stuff. But as with all things MMM, it is a process, and I'm still doing better than I was five years ago.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 07, 2016, 07:31:54 AM

Put the luggage on a plane back to mum with a note saying "hi, can you store this in my old room pretty pretty please???"

You really shouldn't declutter your house by cluttering up someone else's!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on August 07, 2016, 08:08:13 AM
My DH went through his gundam and warhammer today. Consolidated it to half the size, and chucked all kinds of little plastic and cardboard rubbish! I'm so proud of him!


Put the luggage on a plane back to mum with a note saying "hi, can you store this in my old room pretty pretty please???"

You really shouldn't declutter your house by cluttering up someone else's!
But, on the off chance this is someone who tends to buy many not-really-required gifts for other people, it could be a great lesson for "actually maybe I should stop buying my kid so many things..." :P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on August 07, 2016, 11:52:49 AM
Anyone have suggestions on what to do with old laptops?  We have *facepunch* 3 or 4 of them.  DH broke a perfectly good laptop by tripping over the cord and smashing it to bits.  Then others I've just been moving place to place *facepunch* because I didn't know what to do with them when they became obsolete...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on August 07, 2016, 02:48:27 PM
Anyone have suggestions on what to do with old laptops?  We have *facepunch* 3 or 4 of them.  DH broke a perfectly good laptop by tripping over the cord and smashing it to bits.  Then others I've just been moving place to place *facepunch* because I didn't know what to do with them when they became obsolete...
2 options I can think of right off the bat. 

There are charities that take old computers and laptops, make sure they work, and give them away to people who wouldn't get a computer otherwise.  This can work even if only some of the components work, they can be cannibalized.

If that isn't an option then electronic recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rubic on August 07, 2016, 03:03:13 PM
Anyone have suggestions on what to do with old laptops?  We have *facepunch* 3 or 4 of them.  DH broke a perfectly good laptop by tripping over the cord and smashing it to bits.  Then others I've just been moving place to place *facepunch* because I didn't know what to do with them when they became obsolete...

I tend to purchase redundant, used, laptops -- in pairs.  My current fav is the ThinkPad T420 which I've purchased from ebay in the $250 price range.  I keep one at the office and one at home, while syncing all my work between the two.  If one breaks, I can later cannibalize it for spare parts.  Both are running Linux and have been upgraded to 8GB RAM and SSD drives.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 07, 2016, 06:09:27 PM
I also need ideas for offloading a Macbook...

After falling into a junk funk yesterday, today I've decided to just suck it up and get on with it.

I just dropped three ziplock bags of foreign coins to the bank to be donated to UNICEF.

I kept currency for anywhere I'm likely to visit again, and offloaded the rest. Feels good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on August 07, 2016, 07:48:09 PM
Two more trips to goodwill this weekend. Also sent four bags of baby clothes to my sister and two to a friend. I'm starting to feel like I'm making progress.

Wrt gifts... I accept them, express my sincere appreciation and later quietly pass them on. No need to squash the givers joy in giving by sending them back. I know someone will be delighted to find the item at good will and I enjoy the tax deduction too. :)


Next up: kid closets and kitchen cabinets.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BeautifulDay on August 07, 2016, 08:10:11 PM
Pulled out 3 single use kitchen gadget and miscellaneous other kitchen items to be donated to goodwill. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on August 07, 2016, 08:20:18 PM
Has anyone on this thread moved from decluttering to minimalism? I've been so pleased with my progress (and my life) since cutting back significantly on stuff that I've been reading a lot and it is very tempting... I know I don't have to go 'full on' one or the other, I can just keep cutting down until it feels 'right'. But would love hear other's experiences if anyone here has come to consider themselves a 'minimalist'.

I like to think of myself as a minimalist. Stuff stresses me out, so I went through a period where so much stuff was donated and I feel much better. The stuff creep is real though and I need to keep on it.


There is a difference between the minimalist mindset and minimalist decor. My home isn't sterile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 07, 2016, 11:30:19 PM
An old broken down dresser and two bags of miscellaneous clothes and shoes are OUTTA HERE!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 08, 2016, 05:53:14 AM

Not a gift, but my mom was horrified at the idea of me sending my (non-moustashian) wedding dress to a charity after I was done with it. "But what if you have a daughter and she wants to wear it one day!?" Well I still have a bunch of my accessories so she can wear those instead. A hypothetical she, at this point. As a Christmas present I did the chasing around of getting it cleaned and boxed and then gave it to my mom instead of sending it to charity. A few years ago she was moving and asked if I'd have room for it. I told her if she gave it to me I'd send it to charity. She still has it.

Love this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 08, 2016, 11:29:36 PM
Pulled another garbage bag's worth of clothes out of my closet that are too big for me (yay!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 09, 2016, 12:20:26 AM
Gave away two things at work today.

One special item I gave to a colleague, the other I donated to the office in general.

Frustrated at not being home to declutter, I started a list on the train this morning of things I can get rid of.

I got up to 88 by the time I got to work...

I've been struggling a bit with the identity side of all this. I don't think of myself as someone with a lot of clutter. My friends tag me in minimalist posts on Facebook, and beg my help with decluttering their own homes.

After thinking about it for a bit today, I've decided it's not the number of possessions I own. I'm just acutely aware that there are possessions I don't want or need. Possessions which detract from my quality of life.

Any normal person would come into my home and think its tidy, lots of uncluttered surfaces. But I'm also intensely uncomfortable with excess, be it excess spending, excess consumerism or excess belongings. I hate the idea of being seen to be wasteful...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: snogirl on August 09, 2016, 06:31:07 AM
4 very old & dirty kitchen cabinets & 20 items of sentimental junk just hanging out in my garage set free on curb alert. Boom.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on August 09, 2016, 07:06:38 AM
Put 2 large heavy hardcover books into the Little Free Library that just sprung up a few blocks away from home. More going there soon!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaleidoscopicalkris on August 09, 2016, 10:13:46 AM
Joining this gauntlet as my fiancee and I are going to be moving into a new apartment on September 29th. The goal is to move as little as possible- I want the new place to stay tidy. We're moving from a two-bedroom with two roommates to a two-bedroom with just the two of us, so hopefully I'll be able to use up all my crafting materials and fabric when I actually have space to do so.

To-Do List:
-Konmarie clothes (mine and hers)
-Shred old mail (she still gets paper statements - I need to help her switch that to online)
-Eat down the pantry/freezer
-Donate the bags of clothes we've already pulled (I finally found a charity that has a box near our current place where we can drop them off)
-Cull my books (I have a lot of books/magazines that I need to read and pass on to either my sisters or to the donation pile. Finally done with my current semester as of today, so I'll have some time to read down the pile)
-Reassess Crafting 'stuff' to see if it's useful or should be disposed of.

I'll admit, I've read this entire thread, and it inspires me every time I see a new post.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on August 09, 2016, 11:57:50 AM
Yesterday we decluttered a little old,
Victorian house. We sold it,no mlonger my responsibility.Yay!! But
I miss it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 10, 2016, 09:31:24 AM
All our moving boxes will be going to my in-laws. Good timing on that. Unfortunately, they need to live in the back of my truck a couple weeks first, but at least they're not in the garage and I have a canopy so you can't see them. Sigh.

Started a goodwill box the second we moved in to the new house. In it so far: 4 small curtains, 1 shower curtain, shower curtain rings, old silverware organizer (the pieces slid around and husband hates it, so we replaced it), two forks from unknown sources. We also have the 3 forks we had accidentally brought back from the in-laws back to them.

Also in the "to sell or donate or gift" pile: a wire bathroom shelf, two stools with peeling paint, a crappy ikea coffee table. Once we get a new (to us) dining nook table, we will add to the pile the desk and lawn chair we're currently using. LOL. You have to slide it from side to side to open the back door or the pantry door, so we need to swap for a round one. With real chairs, ideally.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on August 10, 2016, 11:16:54 AM
All our moving boxes will be going to my in-laws. Good timing on that. Unfortunately, they need to live in the back of my truck a couple weeks first, but at least they're not in the garage and I have a canopy so you can't see them. Sigh.

Started a goodwill box the second we moved in to the new house. In it so far: 4 small curtains, 1 shower curtain, shower curtain rings, old silverware organizer (the pieces slid around and husband hates it, so we replaced it), two forks from unknown sources. We also have the 3 forks we had accidentally brought back from the in-laws back to them.

Also in the "to sell or donate or gift" pile: a wire bathroom shelf, two stools with peeling paint, a crappy ikea coffee table. Once we get a new (to us) dining nook table, we will add to the pile the desk and lawn chair we're currently using. LOL. You have to slide it from side to side to open the back door or the pantry door, so we need to swap for a round one. With real chairs, ideally.

I repurposed my desk to live in my garage as a nice storage spot. You might be able to do the same?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 10, 2016, 11:31:53 AM
All our moving boxes will be going to my in-laws. Good timing on that. Unfortunately, they need to live in the back of my truck a couple weeks first, but at least they're not in the garage and I have a canopy so you can't see them. Sigh.

Started a goodwill box the second we moved in to the new house. In it so far: 4 small curtains, 1 shower curtain, shower curtain rings, old silverware organizer (the pieces slid around and husband hates it, so we replaced it), two forks from unknown sources. We also have the 3 forks we had accidentally brought back from the in-laws back to them.

Also in the "to sell or donate or gift" pile: a wire bathroom shelf, two stools with peeling paint, a crappy ikea coffee table. Once we get a new (to us) dining nook table, we will add to the pile the desk and lawn chair we're currently using. LOL. You have to slide it from side to side to open the back door or the pantry door, so we need to swap for a round one. With real chairs, ideally.

I repurposed my desk to live in my garage as a nice storage spot. You might be able to do the same?

We have lots of big shelves out in the garage, or I would consider it =)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 10, 2016, 11:51:12 AM
2 garbage bags, 2 boxes and a fisher price farm are out on the front porch for the thrift store to pick up. How do I have enough stuff Every. Stinking. Month. to put out? Ugh!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 11, 2016, 02:50:41 AM
Unpacked from travelling to a wedding yesterday. Reminded me how much time it is possible to dedicate to 'stuff' - moving all the bags from the car, dumping everything out on the bed, sorting, sorting, sorting.

I was kind of depressed about it. It was a very formal wedding, so there were hat boxes, suit carriers, bottles of nail polish, endless cosmetics, various undergarments etc, just so much stuff!

I decided anything I couldn't put -easily- in it's rightful home was getting thrown out.

I was very surprised when 15 minutes everything (including suitcases, carriers, and hat boxes) was away, or in the linen basket waiting to be washed. Obviously my decluttering efforts have gone a long way to making my life a lot easier.

That said, it reminded me why I like to travel light, and that dressing up, whilst fun once in a while, is not a good default option for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on August 11, 2016, 04:12:54 AM
I found some more stuff to shove out the door this week.:D It is quite addictive as I love relishing the empty space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 12, 2016, 01:35:35 AM
Got a bunch of paper to go to the shredder. Have about a dozen books to put in our local Little Free Library. Cleaned out the drawer of my bedside table. There was some stuff in there that only needed to be returned to its home, but I got rid of a bunch of bits and bobs that were useless. Also found about a dozen of those giveaway notepads that you get at meetings. I am taking them to work and putting them out with a sign that says Free To A Good Cube. People might be able to use them, because I have way more than I need.

I am having insomnia so bad this week, so I am using the night hours to sort through things. I would rather be sleeping, but if that isn't happening, tidying and getting rid of stuff is okay too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 12, 2016, 05:46:05 AM
Sorry to hear about the insomnia, CU Tiger. Glad to hear you've found a good use of the extra time though! I hope you get some decent sleep soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on August 12, 2016, 02:28:35 PM
One last purse with broken strap has been filled with unwanted clothes -- ready to send that off to donation!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on August 12, 2016, 02:54:22 PM
I gave a puzzle I got for Christmas to a co-worker. I was never going to put it together and she cares for a grandchild who likes puzzles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 13, 2016, 05:20:09 AM
Dropped a large suitcase of donations to a charity shop

Returned two dishes to a friend.

Posted an eBay sale.

Added a lunch box and two drink bottles to the cull pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on August 14, 2016, 05:54:21 PM
Unpacked from travelling to a wedding yesterday. Reminded me how much time it is possible to dedicate to 'stuff' - moving all the bags from the car, dumping everything out on the bed, sorting, sorting, sorting.

I was kind of depressed about it. It was a very formal wedding, so there were hat boxes, suit carriers, bottles of nail polish, endless cosmetics, various undergarments etc, just so much stuff!

I decided anything I couldn't put -easily- in it's rightful home was getting thrown out.

I was very surprised when 15 minutes everything (including suitcases, carriers, and hat boxes) was away, or in the linen basket waiting to be washed. Obviously my decluttering efforts have gone a long way to making my life a lot easier.

That said, it reminded me why I like to travel light, and that dressing up, whilst fun once in a while, is not a good default option for me.

This is great motivation for me. My constant goal with organising is to make it easy for the other people who live in my house to be able to use and then put away stuff. If its not easy to get out or put away, likely there is too much stuff in the space it is being stored.

I've donated a two full banana boxes of stuff in the last couple of weeks. A small amount of it has been kitchen stuff. Got rid of 12 bowls (8 that were a frustrating size - donated. 4 that were larger but were in poor condition had to be tossed unfortunately) These have been replaced with 8 large-ish bowls that will serve multiple purposes.
My sister came past to visit the other day, and bought some books she was getting rid of with her. My other sister and I have looked over these for any we wanted and the rest (along with some extras from my shelves) are sitting in a box in my boot to take to the secondhand store. Whatever they are not interested in, will then be donated to one of the annual book fairs.
Have also heard today that a friend has bought a house, and so the small amount of stuff that we have been storing for him will soon be going to its new home. YAY!
Progress, however slow and frustrating it may be, is still progress. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on August 14, 2016, 07:52:33 PM
A little testimony...

This weekend, put around $600 of craigslist postings up for various tools (ladders, generator, weed sprayer, etc.) and also took $250 worth of clothing and electronics to Goodwill to shave off next year's taxes...   The ladder already sold so call it easily $200 worth of net worth increase for 3 or 4 hours of work, plus whatever comes in from the remaining ads...    And in the meantime, made plans to get rid of huge bulky toys like an air hockey table and a lacrosse goal the kids no longer use as well to reduce our total square footage requirements for holding "stuff" by at least 250 square feet.    Feels absolutely awesome!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 15, 2016, 02:58:11 AM

My constant goal with organising is to make it easy for the other people who live in my house to be able to use and then put away stuff. If its not easy to get out or put away, likely there is too much stuff in the space it is being stored.

YES! This is the very essence of it for me. Everything should be easy to put away, or there is too much stuff there.

I find it hard with things like reusable shopping bags. I have too many and they are always falling off their pegs and getting in a tangle. But I know they do wear out, and I will need them eventually. I should put some 'away' and use and reuse a few until I need some more.

I have noticed things do wear out more quickly when you have fewer of them. But it's also very satisfying to know that something has performed its function well to the very end, and then to let it go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 15, 2016, 05:19:49 PM
Saturday I put four things out in the driveway with free signs. Two ugly office chairs were taken. The things that were not taken were put back in the basement. Today, a woman came and bought a few more things, and my husband threw in an ugly chair for free.

Every useless thing (useless to us) that leaves the house leaves me feeling lighter and more at peace.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 15, 2016, 07:38:35 PM
Been dealing with a really difficult eBay buyer who is making me badly want to throw rocks at her. Endless questions and messages, all written "liek dis". Not happy with anything. Wants to negotiate everything.

I just keep reminding myself that it's still less stuff to deal with, even if the money isn't worth it for this amount of frustration.

I'm still blocking her from buying from me ever again though. Some measure of justice.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on August 15, 2016, 08:09:43 PM
A little testimony...

This weekend, put around $600 of craigslist postings up for various tools (ladders, generator, weed sprayer, etc.) and also took $250 worth of clothing and electronics to Goodwill to shave off next year's taxes...   The ladder already sold,,,

Soooo close to selling another $100 pump sprayer...    Next, going list another ladder and a yard artsy wheelbarrow that should add $350 or so...   

@mustachepungoeshere,  So sorry to hear about your eBay experience.    I've had surprising luck with local buyers on free sites like the US Craigslist and 1 other specialty site...   The amazing sale was a vintage surf board at collector prices... sold to a man 1 mile away from my house almost 200 miles in-land.    Have faith in the old fashioned personal touch type of sales.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 16, 2016, 12:13:03 AM
I keep reading here and also The Millenials and feel almost ready to release my books <sigh>
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on August 16, 2016, 06:50:27 AM
Not exactly "clutter" but my fiance spent a few hours tearing down old wiring in the basement that wasn't hooked up to anything.  WOW!  With open ceilings showing all the floor joists, it looks so much better.  Almost all the exposed wiring was from when our house was a rental and they kept running new phone and cable lines for each tenant.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on August 16, 2016, 05:02:50 PM
I haven't posted here is a while, but finally got 4 boxes of random bric-a-brac to the family store, and 3 green garbage bags of vetbed to the local animal rescue.
I have at least a car load of books to heave out yet - but at least I've worked out where to take them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 16, 2016, 06:02:41 PM
My son received the Lego he ordered with birthday money from Amazon and I'm planning to use the ridiculously large box (that held a tiny Lego set) to release some books to the thrift store:-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on August 17, 2016, 02:03:42 AM
Not exactly "clutter" but my fiance spent a few hours tearing down old wiring in the basement that wasn't hooked up to anything.  WOW!  With open ceilings showing all the floor joists, it looks so much better.  Almost all the exposed wiring was from when our house was a rental and they kept running new phone and cable lines for each tenant.


Now sell that copper!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 18, 2016, 07:48:26 PM
We have three printers in this house. THREE. For the last year or two none of them worked with my laptop. My Other Human never prints at home because he is a high lord muckety-muck of computers at his work, and he prints whatever needs to be printed there. After a day spent running large systems with thousands of users, the last thing he wants to do is mess with my one-user system.

Yesterday I got out the printer I could fit on my desk, hooked it up to the laptop and futzed with it a little, and winner-winner, chicken dinner, I can print.

So, good people,of the Internet, what does one do with two superfluous printers? Sell? Donate? Recycle? Is there a market for printers or where can I recycle them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on August 19, 2016, 01:22:08 PM
A set of ink cartridges costs about the same as a new inktjet printer (hurray for planned obsolescence and the razorblad business model), so around here used inkjet printers do about $ 5.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trudie on August 19, 2016, 01:28:59 PM
The thrift store is on my way to and from work so I've started taking stuff at least once a week.  Even if it's just a few items at a time it at least encourages me to keep going.

I have some nicer gardening pots that I'm going to sell (hopefully).  And I really need to go through my clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on August 20, 2016, 05:42:53 AM

So, good people,of the Internet, what does one do with two superfluous printers? Sell? Donate? Recycle? Is there a market for printers or where can I recycle them?

As the eloquent DagobertDuck noted, used printers are junk most likely.   I'd try a facebook post to friends to see if someone might want them (if the manufacturer or ink stop type online outlets still stock the cartridges for them).   Or just Goodwill/donate them and take the tax deduction.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on August 21, 2016, 02:45:11 PM
donated this Saturday: 1 steamer, used once (in the box), boys cargo shorts-never worn, 1 dress , 1 dressy shirt, 1 dressy T shirt, 1 pair jeans (tommy hilfiger), 1 pair pants H&M (were too small) and other 4-5 items...(I can't even remember what)
feels very good to have 1/2 drawer empty

conversely: I needed 1 pair flats for work and abstained from buying more, I only got 1 pair ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SaskyStache on August 22, 2016, 10:43:25 AM
Garage sale on the weekend and cleared out a lot of things from the house, including pairing down my books by about 75%. Sold or gave away all of the big items, so everything that remained at the end of the day fit easily into the back of the suburban and went to goodwill. Nothing made it back into the house! Well maybe 2 books... but otherwise nothing else.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaleidoscopicalkris on August 22, 2016, 11:22:31 AM
My fiancee and I had a free afternoon this weekend, so we went through and pulled two garbage bags worth of clothes to donate. My younger sister is doing a donation drive that will accept anything, so I would love to get everything cleared out by then.

Next up is the bucket of old bank statements that need shredded. Hey, maybe that one'll be tonight!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on August 22, 2016, 08:00:38 PM

Next up is the bucket of old bank statements that need shredded. Hey, maybe that one'll be tonight!

instead of shredding I am reducing them to a pulp, by dunking them in the water and mixing a bit
(doing this because I don't have a shredder)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 23, 2016, 01:00:11 AM

instead of shredding I am reducing them to a pulp, by dunking them in the water and mixing a bit
(doing this because I don't have a shredder)

What a great idea! And so obvious too ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 23, 2016, 01:28:11 AM
Put a belt in the donate box. I don't know why this decision was so hard, I've known I don't like it or wear it for months but couldn't part with it. Now the guilt every time I look at it will be gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on August 23, 2016, 04:08:43 AM

instead of shredding I am reducing them to a pulp, by dunking them in the water and mixing a bit
(doing this because I don't have a shredder)

Yes! Must remember this for when I next file/cull papers. And then I will add the pulp to our compost bin :D

What a great idea! And so obvious too ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Juneboogie on August 23, 2016, 09:57:56 PM
I am New to the boards so I haven't read many previous posts...forgive me if this has already been suggested.  My neighborhood of Boston has a "Buy Nothing *insert name of town or neighborhood here*" Facebook page which is amazing.  People post photos of items they want to get rid of, & those who are interested comment & then arrange for pickup.  I have gotten rid of so many things that otherwise would have gone into the trash ( half-used bag of charcoal, unwanted packaged food gift from family, once-used bottle of sunscreen that gave me a rash, etc).  Conversely, I have seen people post requests for items they want to upborrow or have.  I am always surprised at how often those requests are answered.  Check it out, there may be one for your town too, or you could start one!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on August 23, 2016, 10:54:12 PM
Funnily enough, I've been using my Buy Nothing group just today to pass on some kitchen stuff I no longer needed!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on August 23, 2016, 11:38:38 PM
Put one of those tiny potpourri crockpots in the giveaway box today. At this pace, it will take me 100 years to get the place in ship shape!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on August 24, 2016, 02:07:53 PM
I am New to the boards so I haven't read many previous posts...forgive me if this has already been suggested.  My neighborhood of Boston has a "Buy Nothing *insert name of town or neighborhood here*" Facebook page which is amazing.  People post photos of items they want to get rid of, & those who are interested comment & then arrange for pickup.  I have gotten rid of so many things that otherwise would have gone into the trash ( half-used bag of charcoal, unwanted packaged food gift from family, once-used bottle of sunscreen that gave me a rash, etc).  Conversely, I have seen people post requests for items they want to upborrow or have.  I am always surprised at how often those requests are answered.  Check it out, there may be one for your town too, or you could start one!
I also love our Buy Nothing group.  I've given away a few things, and I've received a few things that I would have spent money on otherwise. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: robtown on August 24, 2016, 02:28:32 PM
I put out a few dozen CDs for free and two nice stands for $5.   I also gave away a good sized bin with a dozen hardback and paperback books.  It also contained a camera, flip phone, blood pressure monitor, and other free stuff.

Another 20 lbs of stuff went to the trash can.       All in all,  it hardly put a dent in my office....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on August 24, 2016, 03:52:37 PM
Oi vey! This weekend I went to my dad's house and got Everything that is still mine but was in basement storage (excluding Christmas decorations) and brought it to my house. My formerly empty living room has 11 Rubbermaid totes I am now going through and purging.

Culled books from my childhood book collection for donation. About two totes are school papers I can burn/recycle (I didn't want to leave them behind for my stepmother to take care of) and the rest are either stuff from college or sewing/craft supplies. I also got my art desk and chair and my dressmaker mannequin. So I feel overwhelmed with stuff I want to sort through but am slammed the next two weeks with charity work in the evenings so I'm trying not to panic. I've been reminding myself once this is done we won't be bringing in more stuff. We have to make a wedding registry soon and it'll be only sorely needed items like bedsheets and meat thermometer, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on August 24, 2016, 09:09:41 PM
Soooo close to selling another $100 pump sprayer...    Next, going list another ladder and a yard artsy wheelbarrow that should add $350 or so...   

An update (to keep myself motivated)...   Ladder, sold!  Pump sprayer, sold!  Rusty lacrosse goal, sold! 2nd ladder, have a nibble so fingers crossed!!   So just in sold items that's $240 so far for around 4 hours work.   Not counting chickens, but have another $600 in listings that may net maybe another $400 after it's all done.   And I can actually walk through the basement and my garage again as a bonus!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: startswithhome on August 29, 2016, 11:40:15 AM
Sold a commercial cotton candy machine and related gear - $425,
papers waiting to be shredded for free at school (1 grocery bag),
and broke my food processor :(.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on August 29, 2016, 01:19:26 PM
Sorry about your food processor, startswithhome!  :(

~~~~~~~~~~~~
This weekend I:

Put a bag of knickknacks/dust collectors and a pair of slacks into my vehicle to be donated.

Rid of a few expired items from our medicine/vitamin drawer.

Two stacks of empty egg cartons are ready for my chicken owning friend to pick up.

Cleared out a bunch of never used recipes from a large binder, and replaced them with current low carb recipes.

My next goal in the next few weeks is to purge short sleeve, warm weather shirts I never wear before replacing them with the bin of cooler weather shirts and sweaters.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 29, 2016, 07:53:27 PM
On Saturday a friend and I are doing a flea market together. Our space costs $20, and we will be selling from 7:00 am - 2:00 pm. Usually we leave having made between $40-60 over the expenses, but that isn't really the point. We  sit in our deck chairs and people watch and talk and eat hotdogs. It is a chance to catch up and get rid of crap at the same time. And we bargain with buyers and just enjoy the day. Whatever does not sell goes to the Washington Area Rescue League's thrift store.

If you have never been to a flea market, you should go to one at least once, for the experience.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imustacheyouaquestion on August 29, 2016, 08:43:12 PM
CU Tiger, what's the flea market? I've been looking for a way to get rid of some items in the DC area - is it too late to sign up now? I don't have a yard to hold a garage sale and many items feel like they're not worth listing individually on Craigslist, but I'd love to get *some* money for them if possible.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on August 30, 2016, 01:22:07 AM
CU Tiger, what's the flea market? I've been looking for a way to get rid of some items in the DC area - is it too late to sign up now? I don't have a yard to hold a garage sale and many items feel like they're not worth listing individually on Craigslist, but I'd love to get *some* money for them if possible.

Here is the basic info:

Germantown Community Flea Market
The Germantown Community Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month from April through November. The Flea Market is open from 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM in the MARC train station parking lot located at Route 118 and Bowman Mill Drive. For information on renting a space, please call 301.972.2707.

The simple answer is that the spaces are first come, first served. You pay your space fee going in. You NEED to be there early to set up (we get there at 6:00 am and are always latecomers) because even though the market is supposed to start at 8:00 am, there are always early birds. Also, once the spaces are gone, they are gone.

My friend and I joke that some of the larger spaces must get there on Friday night.

Price stuff to sell, and be ready to bargain and come down on price. The point is to get rid of your stuff, so you have to let go of your attachment to things. We sell so many things for .50 - $1 and still make money because doing it together we have a lot of stuff.

We will be the two women with tables of misc stuff and a bunch of little cocker spaniels. The dogs are not for sale, we just bring them as company.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 30, 2016, 03:40:25 AM
Went through my shoes again and found two pairs I was ready to let go. Left some out for my husband to consider and he decided to keep them all despite never wearing them. Sigh.

However, my low pressure tactics did pay off in another area. I went through all his t-shirts and made a pile of ones I thought he might be ready to part with. Of 8 t-shirts he was done with 7 of them, only 1 went back in the drawer! So I'll take that, even with the shoe failure.

Spent yesterday getting the house ready for some building work. Making sure it was organised so as to be easy to dust sheet and cause minimal problems for the builders. Reminded me again that stuff = hassle.

I also threw out a pair of hotel slippers I had worn through. Of our stash I'm down to three pairs now. I don't know what we were keeping them for. Happy to 'use them up'. As a bonus I've 'needed' a new pair of slippers for about 18 months now but after deciding to make do with the hotel ones until they are all gone, I've put that purchase off for a long time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on August 30, 2016, 04:32:44 AM
With a little bit of sadness but a little bit more of decluttering joy I offloaded all my Terry Pratchett Discworld novels to the local library. About 25 of them all up including a couple of special editions.

Have loved them so much over the years, but been wanting to get rid of them for a few months now as they are just sitting there accumulating dust.

Someone else can share the joy of Rincewind, the Burser, Ridcully, the Dean and the Librarian "oook"; Nanny, Granny & Magrat; Lu Tze, Pteppic, Brutha; Lord Vetenari, Carrot, Vimes & Detritus; and of course the somewhat more mythical characters, from the Hogfather to the Death of Rats, Death himself and Death's granddaughter Susan, whom I had somewhat of a crush on :D

I will miss them much, but I am free of lugging them around in physical form!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on August 30, 2016, 10:18:09 AM
Sold old hockey elbow pads on eBay.  Only got a few bucks for them but still better than sending them to landfill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on August 30, 2016, 01:22:42 PM
I have such a pile of stuff waiting to be taken to goodwill that the stuff broke the storage hanger and all fell over!
Guess I really am going to goodwill tomorrow
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on August 31, 2016, 06:01:35 AM

instead of shredding I am reducing them to a pulp, by dunking them in the water and mixing a bit
(doing this because I don't have a shredder)

What a great idea! And so obvious too ...

glad to hear that :)

took a while to reply as we are vacationing in Nova Scotia now...has anyone any suggestions for things to do/ see while down here  (Lunenburg County) we love it!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 01, 2016, 04:25:22 PM
I'm off work next week and will be getting rid of the nearly useless tin shed that was on our property when we bought it.  Thanks to decluttering, there is plenty of room in the main shed/shop for the few useful items that are still in the tin shed.  Hoping someone will haul it off for free.

I also have a big box of items needing to be donated, and need to do a dump run to get rid of yard debris that is too recalcitrant to compost.

Thinking I might take a run at my clothes as well, since it's about time to do some wardrobe rotation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 01, 2016, 05:10:30 PM
I'm off work next week and will be getting rid of the nearly useless tin shed that was on our property when we bought it.  Thanks to decluttering, there is plenty of room in the main shed/shop for the few useful items that are still in the tin shed.  Hoping someone will haul it off for free.

I also have a big box of items needing to be donated, and need to do a dump run to get rid of yard debris that is too recalcitrant to compost.

Thinking I might take a run at my clothes as well, since it's about time to do some wardrobe rotation.

I'm thinking I'd rather be at work than have a week off like that.... :)

Good luck with it, though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 02, 2016, 04:40:01 AM
So excited to find a donation bag had come through the front door yesterday! We live in a tiny village and I've never received one before. Will definitely save me a trip as I have loads of stuff lined up that I haven't got around to donating because I hate to make a special journey, but am never passing anywhere when it's open.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: markstache on September 02, 2016, 09:45:08 AM
The wife and kids are running a garage sale today. She just sent me a message that big seller so far: DVDs for $1.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 03, 2016, 04:41:44 AM
Returned a top.

Threw out three bags of garbage.

Finally delivered a bag of specific donations I had been collecting for a local charity.

Putting together another bag of general donations.

Posted something I sold on eBay.

Photographed three more things for eBay.

I'm also slowly using up my stockpile of toiletries. I went a little overboard buying my favourite body wash, etc, when on sale, but I really don't have the space in new apartment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on September 03, 2016, 06:28:26 AM
Yesterday I spend *all day* attacking the paper monster that was eating our dining room table.  Oh my.  It is terrible.  It is still unfinished!  I have a full file cabinet and it seems we "need" all the stuff in there, but it never gets used.   I made great progress on the paper clutter though and recycled tons and tons, put others in file folders (with nowhere to go, maybe a file box?)

I will follow this thread more, as we need to make our home more pleasant and clutter free.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on September 03, 2016, 06:42:46 AM
DH put all of our data from 3 laptops onto Dropbox and we gave one of those laptops back to his sister. The other two will be recycled or donated shortly :) so excited, it's been on our to do list for months!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 03, 2016, 03:15:28 PM
I'm off work next week and will be getting rid of the nearly useless tin shed that was on our property when we bought it.  Thanks to decluttering, there is plenty of room in the main shed/shop for the few useful items that are still in the tin shed.  Hoping someone will haul it off for free.

I also have a big box of items needing to be donated, and need to do a dump run to get rid of yard debris that is too recalcitrant to compost.

Thinking I might take a run at my clothes as well, since it's about time to do some wardrobe rotation.


I'm thinking I'd rather be at work than have a week off like that.... :)

Good luck with it, though.

I have to do this at least once a year to keep my life running smoothly and preserve my sanity when I am working, since my garden and horse hobbies don't wait around until I have time for them.  And vacations are for preserving sanity, right?  I've been bumbling around the house most of the day today creating even more work for myself, but getting rid of the shed is still the most onerous task.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 03, 2016, 04:14:48 PM
I'm off work next week and will be getting rid of the nearly useless tin shed that was on our property when we bought it.  Thanks to decluttering, there is plenty of room in the main shed/shop for the few useful items that are still in the tin shed.  Hoping someone will haul it off for free.

I also have a big box of items needing to be donated, and need to do a dump run to get rid of yard debris that is too recalcitrant to compost.

Thinking I might take a run at my clothes as well, since it's about time to do some wardrobe rotation.


I'm thinking I'd rather be at work than have a week off like that.... :)

Good luck with it, though.

I have to do this at least once a year to keep my life running smoothly and preserve my sanity when I am working, since my garden and horse hobbies don't wait around until I have time for them.  And vacations are for preserving sanity, right?  I've been bumbling around the house most of the day today creating even more work for myself, but getting rid of the shed is still the most onerous task.

All the really good hobbies have a huge organizational component to them, I find. Though usually you can see the results pretty quickly, which isn't always true at work. I am just cranky about chores that involve sorting and putting things away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: markstache on September 03, 2016, 09:18:52 PM
Sold $160 worth of unused stuff. Cleared out several board games, many DVDs, too small kids clothes.

In addition, I took several shelves worth of books to my office (where I actually will use them), which allowed us move a shelving unit out of the living room. As an added bonus, we re-arranged the furniture which makes the room seem new, with nothing spent!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 03, 2016, 11:17:51 PM
I'm off work next week and will be getting rid of the nearly useless tin shed that was on our property when we bought it.  Thanks to decluttering, there is plenty of room in the main shed/shop for the few useful items that are still in the tin shed.  Hoping someone will haul it off for free.

I also have a big box of items needing to be donated, and need to do a dump run to get rid of yard debris that is too recalcitrant to compost.

Thinking I might take a run at my clothes as well, since it's about time to do some wardrobe rotation.


I'm thinking I'd rather be at work than have a week off like that.... :)

Good luck with it, though.

I have to do this at least once a year to keep my life running smoothly and preserve my sanity when I am working, since my garden and horse hobbies don't wait around until I have time for them.  And vacations are for preserving sanity, right?  I've been bumbling around the house most of the day today creating even more work for myself, but getting rid of the shed is still the most onerous task.

All the really good hobbies have a huge organizational component to them, I find. Though usually you can see the results pretty quickly, which isn't always true at work. I am just cranky about chores that involve sorting and putting things away.

Well, to make you really jealous, I'll just tell you that I also need to purchase, load and stack hay this week.  At least it's exercise?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on September 04, 2016, 04:54:33 AM
I did the flea market yesterday. Got seven boxes of stuff out of the house and made a little money. Win-win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 04, 2016, 06:04:19 AM
Gave two almost new bath sheets to my brother-in-law, and returned some of his financial papers after helping him out with a transfer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 04, 2016, 09:32:08 AM
I'm off work next week and will be getting rid of the nearly useless tin shed that was on our property when we bought it.  Thanks to decluttering, there is plenty of room in the main shed/shop for the few useful items that are still in the tin shed.  Hoping someone will haul it off for free.

I also have a big box of items needing to be donated, and need to do a dump run to get rid of yard debris that is too recalcitrant to compost.

Thinking I might take a run at my clothes as well, since it's about time to do some wardrobe rotation.


I'm thinking I'd rather be at work than have a week off like that.... :)

Good luck with it, though.

I have to do this at least once a year to keep my life running smoothly and preserve my sanity when I am working, since my garden and horse hobbies don't wait around until I have time for them.  And vacations are for preserving sanity, right?  I've been bumbling around the house most of the day today creating even more work for myself, but getting rid of the shed is still the most onerous task.

All the really good hobbies have a huge organizational component to them, I find. Though usually you can see the results pretty quickly, which isn't always true at work. I am just cranky about chores that involve sorting and putting things away.

Well, to make you really jealous, I'll just tell you that I also need to purchase, load and stack hay this week.  At least it's exercise?

You are just cramming your vacation with fun, aren't you? I am going to clean out the back hall, so that I have enough room to use it for cold storage. When I get it organized enough, I'm going to start calling it the mudroom.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on September 05, 2016, 04:19:19 PM
Hello after a long absence.

It is two years since I got so deeply into de-cluttering with all of you and it feels so good to know that much of the house is still quite clear.  Not all of it though and as I prepare to delve in again I do have some tips for myself:

-Go over the entire house quickly every month so nothing can accumulate for very long
-Deal with papers right away and get them out of the house (thank goodness for internet billing)
-Every week deal with any hotspots where things pile up, and take the time to put everything away
-Go back to keeping a list of everything other than food that enters the house
-Put Things Away!  I think this requires allowing time at the end of a task to put everything away - a new mindset.

Paper is still an issue but not so much.  I toss most receipts after I have recorded the purchases, I have no magazine subscriptions any longer, all bank statements are online, we receive very little junk mail…and yet old papers are still here in numbers too large to ignore (well actually I have done a great job of ignoring them until recently). Two years ago I sorted through the huge piles and put papers in folders according to type.  Now it is time to purge them.

Anyone else dealing with the paper monster?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 05, 2016, 06:37:33 PM
Anyone else dealing with the paper monster?

My life has changed dramatically since I last organized my papers 5 or 6 years ago. Many files are completely unnecessary now. This winter I will take a month to purge things and to determine what new documents are needed, like a new will and personal directive. It is a good project for January.

I have much less paper coming in that needs to be saved, since so much is online, but I needs a regular process for handling it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 05, 2016, 11:48:44 PM
My husband's team moved offices, from a beautiful and pricey waterfront office building to more of an industrial warehouse space. And they love it. No HR, no managers, just the boys.

I'm taking the opportunity to offload all manner of things - excess stationery, air freshener, carpet cleaning products (we no longer have carpet at home), coffee mugs, and some work-related books and resources he brought home when the previous office moved to hot-desking.

What I'm finding is that he wants to keep his new office space pristine. Funny that.

It's become a good test to see what he really wants and needs, and whether these event programs and training guides and business cards can go in the bin after all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sis on September 06, 2016, 08:04:06 AM
DH put all of our data from 3 laptops onto Dropbox and we gave one of those laptops back to his sister. The other two will be recycled or donated shortly :) so excited, it's been on our to do list for months!

My husband just did this as well.

Pro-tip:  If you have a best buy, you can sell them your old laptops.  We just got $100 for 3 old laptops.  $50 for one and $25 each for the other two.  I'm mostly glad that they aren't just around gathering dust.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ChipmunkSavings on September 06, 2016, 09:56:16 AM
I have porcelain dolls given to me by my grandma years ago. Not interested in keeping them, but I feel bad just throwing them out. I've tried Craiglist but no replies. Would it sell on EBay perhaps? I'm afraid of them breaking during shipping.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 06, 2016, 01:58:04 PM
I visited with my family over the last 3 weeks - they are all pack rats!  Seeing their places gave me new motivation to get rid of things, even though my place seems minimal and very tidy in comparison with theirs.  I am FIREing and moving overseas in just over 18 months so I need to pick up the pace of decluttering :-)

Have a couple of items to list on Craigslist and a new batch of clothes for the consignment store.  I will deal with that this coming weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Evgenia on September 06, 2016, 04:19:57 PM
My life has changed dramatically since I last organized my papers 5 or 6 years ago. Many files are completely unnecessary now. This winter I will take a month to purge things and to determine what new documents are needed, like a new will and personal directive. It is a good project for January.

I have much less paper coming in that needs to be saved, since so much is online, but I needs a regular process for handling it.

Hear, hear. I was able to get us down to two bankers boxes last year and I'd love to get down to one. The will and trust stuff (not just ours, but copies of those that belong to family members) is one box on its own. I still need a regular process for handling the ridiculous quantities of mail that still seem to come in.

In other news, FIRE means that we require a lot fewer things in our wardrobes, so several more bags have been taken to Goodwill, other things have been picked up via Freecycle this week, and two higher end things are posted on eBay. Whenever I think of getting a new thing, I need to remind myself how much work it actually is to get RID of things. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on September 11, 2016, 05:20:36 PM
My baby is almost at the moving stage, so this is promoting a fresh look around the lounge to see what items can be removed. Trying to make it so that items are removed permanently not solely shifted to another room for storing. Goal for today is to clear 10 items. So far I have found some items that should be rubbish, a couple more books to take to the second hand store (making room for her books on the lower shelves of the bookcase), and a couple of things to put in the donate box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 11, 2016, 07:17:22 PM
15 months ago, I consolidated the belongings I had in a rental house I had while on 3 years of contracts in another city into my primary household. I left a small pile of clothes and a few boxes that I hadn't unpacked on the table in "my project room."

This weekend I finished the unpacking. I have a few more clothes I can use, the books are shelved, papers have been moved into general filing, a bag of belongings is being tossed, and my mending is all in one box.  I also found a home for some items in the project room that had no place to be put away before now.  All of this only took a few hours.

The project room is ready to use, just in time for long winter evenings.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on September 12, 2016, 07:41:49 AM
My daughter, 12, wanted to have a garage sale.  She thought it would be fun.  We have been postponing getting rid of the stuff she was targeting for her sale.  This past weekend she had her sale.  After about 45 minutes of waiting for costumers she was so bored.  Hubs and I had been telling her that garage sales were a lot of work and not that financially rewarding. Most of the stuff she could part with was really just junk.  It was a great learning opportunity for her that took up most of our day (helping her set up, hanging around to make sure all was good and helping her haul it all back in) but it got tons of stuff out of our house and she is completely cured of thinking a garage sale would be fun.  She is quite happy to donate stuff.  Some of the better items I posted to kijiji but if they don't sell, we will donate them to charity.  There is now a big space in the basement and the garage might just be able to hold some cars this winter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on September 12, 2016, 09:29:58 AM

Next up is the bucket of old bank statements that need shredded. Hey, maybe that one'll be tonight!

instead of shredding I am reducing them to a pulp, by dunking them in the water and mixing a bit
(doing this because I don't have a shredder)
Watch this, dont become too crazy, haha!

I say this bcause my mother had Alzheimer's Disease and her method of getting rid of sensitive information was to tear off bits of paper woth the information and put them into a large jar of water, and hde the jar. We found that jar sitting on a high shelf after many months.

While that is not entirely crazy, the data she considered sensitive was her name and address. Umm, n sensitive. . By that time my brother was taking care of all of her financial transactions so she had no bank statements or anything within a social sexurity number or,etc. ahe had only junk mail with her name and address. So, she took elaborate pains to desteoy it..
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on September 12, 2016, 10:40:07 AM
Found myself browsing hangars on amazon this morning since we keep running out when all the laundry is clean (just by one or two hangars, but enough to be a weekly annoyance). Saw this thread on my new replies... walked into my closet, and got rid of 5 shirts, 1 tank top, 6 pairs of underwear, and 3 bras. End result: 4 unused hangars. The 1-2 I was short each week, plus a couple spares.

Gifted a desk to my mom. Happy to see it go to family- when we lived in 500sq ft, it was our dining room table plus the desk that took me through nursing school. Good memories, so it was sitting in the garage- I was having a hard time letting it go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: markstache on September 12, 2016, 10:43:49 AM
Had some good luck with Varagesale.com to sell some weights yesterday. Craigslist in my area can be hit or miss, but Varagesale seems little more active.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 12, 2016, 02:44:02 PM
Put together another donation bag.

Donated some mugs to work.

My husband has agreed to part with some pieces of a collection but doesn't want to be responsible for actually selling/donating, so I have to decide what to do with it.

My home looks tidy but, having moved a month ago, I'm keenly aware that there are still things in cupboards and drawers that I'm not using.

I'm seriously considering parting with my food processor, blender and stick mixer. They were fairly cheap and it shows in their performance, whereas a KitchenAid stick mixer would do the work of all three and take up less space. (Before you jump one me: my birthday is next month, and my grandparents, aunts, and great-aunts are asking for gift ideas.)

Mostly I just want time at home to declutter. Away last weekend, away next weekend, sigh...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on September 12, 2016, 04:25:58 PM
I'm seriously considering parting with my food processor, blender and stick mixer. They were fairly cheap and it shows in their performance, whereas a KitchenAid stick mixer would do the work of all three and take up less space. (Before you jump one me: my birthday is next month, and my grandparents, aunts, and great-aunts are asking for gift ideas.)

Mostly I just want time at home to declutter. Away last weekend, away next weekend, sigh...
Mustache, I recently did something similar to this.  I donated our rarely used toaster oven (we kept the toaster) and never used ice cream maker to a Boy Scout yard sale, and food processor to charity.   All were in good shape and still had their manuals.  Cupboard space gained was what, 5 sq ft?  And the peace of mind with less stuff is priceless.  :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on September 12, 2016, 07:13:16 PM
My daughter, 12, wanted to have a garage sale.  She thought it would be fun.  We have been postponing getting rid of the stuff she was targeting for her sale.  This past weekend she had her sale.  After about 45 minutes of waiting for costumers she was so bored.  Hubs and I had been telling her that garage sales were a lot of work and not that financially rewarding. Most of the stuff she could part with was really just junk.  It was a great learning opportunity for her that took up most of our day (helping her set up, hanging around to make sure all was good and helping her haul it all back in) but it got tons of stuff out of our house and she is completely cured of thinking a garage sale would be fun.  She is quite happy to donate stuff.  Some of the better items I posted to kijiji but if they don't sell, we will donate them to charity.  There is now a big space in the basement and the garage might just be able to hold some cars this winter.


I never really had a garage/ yard sale, I just donated all the time.  About two years ago a relative decided to have one and asked if I wanted to join. I figured why not. Well never again.  The amount I made was not worth my day and I ended up really exhausted the whole weekend. Way too much work for me and people are just exhausting. Garage sales a really a lot of work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on September 12, 2016, 07:57:42 PM
Cleaned out the file cabinets over two marathon sort and purge sessions. The Husband will shed them at the office where they have a huge industrial shredder.

I am a quilter and I had lots of leftover fabric, plus bags of scraps and yardage  that two friends gave me. I sorted through them, folding or rolling the larger pieces. Tomorrow I donate them to my guild's fabric sale. My trash might be someone else's treasure and make some $$ for the group. Whatever happens, it is not coming back to my house!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on September 12, 2016, 08:08:17 PM
we will have a friend visiting and got active de-cluttering and painting/refreshing the apartment; we got rid of
-ply wood, pieces of countertop, & various bits of wood that we didn't get to use while making cabinets
-1 bad bike
-1 metal shelf
-books/papers/
-Christmas stuff


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on September 12, 2016, 09:51:03 PM
I'm seriously considering parting with my food processor, blender and stick mixer. They were fairly cheap and it shows in their performance, whereas a KitchenAid stick mixer would do the work of all three and take up less space.

I was given a KitchenAid stick mixer as a wedding present. It's a beautiful tool.

It definitely outperforms any other stick mixer I've used, and works well for blender functions. I haven't used it for food processor stuff, and I use my food processor for some functions that the stick mixer can't replicate (grating and slicing).

Personally, I think the trend towards buying shit quality, borderline-disposable products such as appliances is part of what's wrong with society. If something is actually useful to you, buy a well-designed, high quality version. You'll use it your whole life, it'll be a joy to use, you won't be buying cheap crap that ends up in landfill, and your heirs can fight over it when you die.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on September 13, 2016, 03:56:52 AM
As far as the  porcelain dolls I gave mine to people that were holding local fundraisers and they sold them at their silent auctions.  It was a win-win for everyone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 13, 2016, 04:18:06 AM
Made a sale on ebay! Yay. I don't know why I hate listing so much. With the mobile app it really isn't very onerous anymore and I get so much joy out of making a sale (totally disproportionate to the effort and income involved). Must hold onto this feeling and list more stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 13, 2016, 05:01:55 AM
I'm seriously considering parting with my food processor, blender and stick mixer. They were fairly cheap and it shows in their performance, whereas a KitchenAid stick mixer would do the work of all three and take up less space.

I was given a KitchenAid stick mixer as a wedding present. It's a beautiful tool.

It definitely outperforms any other stick mixer I've used, and works well for blender functions. I haven't used it for food processor stuff, and I use my food processor for some functions that the stick mixer can't replicate (grating and slicing).

Personally, I think the trend towards buying shit quality, borderline-disposable products such as appliances is part of what's wrong with society. If something is actually useful to you, buy a well-designed, high quality version. You'll use it your whole life, it'll be a joy to use, you won't be buying cheap crap that ends up in landfill, and your heirs can fight over it when you die.

Glad to hear an endorsement for the KitchenAid.

I agree with you on everything else. I would rather have fewer, good quality appliances.

(The food processor, blender and cheaper stick mixer were all gifts. I've held off on replacing them while I worked out what I would actually use.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 13, 2016, 09:22:34 AM
Made a sale on ebay! Yay. I don't know why I hate listing so much. With the mobile app it really isn't very onerous anymore and I get so much joy out of making a sale (totally disproportionate to the effort and income involved). Must hold onto this feeling and list more stuff.

Totally this.  I was off work last week and sorted through my Get Rid Of pile and have the things that need to be listed on eBay arranged on top of my dresser.  But I can't bring myself to sit down and get them photographed and listed.

I can also vouch for the KitchenAid stick blender.  I have All the Kitchen Appliances, but if I had to move to a smaller house, I'd keep this and get rid of some bulkier things.

My aunt and uncle visited this weekend.  I previously gave her the Singer Featherweight sewing machine that had belonged to some old dead relative I never met.  Happened to find the pedal to it right before they got here, so I passed that on to her, as well as a couple reusable bags that I very rarely use (they're thrift-shopping their way across the country for things for her Etsy store, so she needed bags). 

Also took a large box of stuff to the thrift store last week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on September 13, 2016, 10:10:59 AM
I'm curious about what you are calling a "stick mixer"? Is it also called a "stick blender"? Or is it a different product?  I have been looking at stick blenders for the past year or two. Recommendations are appreciated. I've never used one, so Im not sure what they are good for but the small design makes them a good small apartment option.

I use a Lewis bag to crush ice for drinks. I use a fork to mix most things, but I have a single beater that I use in my cordless drill for the two times a year I make frosting. My main motivation for a blender is to make hummus, but if I bought it then I would have to commit to actually making hummus and life is pretty busy right now.  I sometimes think about homemade smoothies,

If only I could find a stick blender blade that fit my cordless drill...



I'm seriously considering parting with my food processor, blender and stick mixer. They were fairly cheap and it shows in their performance, whereas a KitchenAid stick mixer would do the work of all three and take up less space.

I was given a KitchenAid stick mixer as a wedding present. It's a beautiful tool.

It definitely outperforms any other stick mixer I've used, and works well for blender functions. I haven't used it for food processor stuff, and I use my food processor for some functions that the stick mixer can't replicate (grating and slicing).

Personally, I think the trend towards buying shit quality, borderline-disposable products such as appliances is part of what's wrong with society. If something is actually useful to you, buy a well-designed, high quality version. You'll use it your whole life, it'll be a joy to use, you won't be buying cheap crap that ends up in landfill, and your heirs can fight over it when you die.

Glad to hear an endorsement for the KitchenAid.

I agree with you on everything else. I would rather have fewer, good quality appliances.

(The food processor, blender and cheaper stick mixer were all gifts. I've held off on replacing them while I worked out what I would actually use.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 16, 2016, 03:52:39 AM
Got rid of a pair of sandals which I loved and have served me well, but are past the point of repair and usefulness.

Also wore out another pair of the hotel slippers which have been the bane of my existence for so long. Three pairs to go! (No, I am NEVER EVER opening up another pair at a hotel because I can't bear for them to be thrown away so I always bring them home).

And some tights / pop socks which had ladders. I'm pleased about this, because thanks to my 'less is more' philosophy, I am now buying exclusively the more expensive shiny tights that I vastly prefer. Yes, they are more money, but really, I only wear through 3 or so pairs a summer. I can afford nicer things when I buy so much less of everything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on September 16, 2016, 07:00:00 AM
Got rid of a pair of sandals which I loved and have served me well, but are past the point of repair and usefulness.

Also wore out another pair of the hotel slippers which have been the bane of my existence for so long. Three pairs to go! (No, I am NEVER EVER opening up another pair at a hotel because I can't bear for them to be thrown away so I always bring them home).

And some tights / pop socks which had ladders. I'm pleased about this, because thanks to my 'less is more' philosophy, I am now buying exclusively the more expensive shiny tights that I vastly prefer. Yes, they are more money, but really, I only wear through 3 or so pairs a summer. I can afford nicer things when I buy so much less of everything.


 New word I learned today: ladders, which I believe are the same thing as I call runs in tights or hose.


New word which I have not quite learned completely: pop socks. Are those tights? And do you and I mean the same thing when we say "tights"? When I say tights I mean opaque stretchy things that definitely cannot double as pants (and which have feet), but which are also not the same thing as pantyhose, which are not opaque.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 16, 2016, 07:16:15 AM
New word which I have not quite learned completely: pop socks. Are those tights?

Pop socks are knee-high pantihose, for wearing under slacks/trousers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on September 16, 2016, 11:05:56 AM
Got rid of a pair of sandals which I loved and have served me well, but are past the point of repair and usefulness.

Also wore out another pair of the hotel slippers which have been the bane of my existence for so long. Three pairs to go! (No, I am NEVER EVER opening up another pair at a hotel because I can't bear for them to be thrown away so I always bring them home).

And some tights / pop socks which had ladders. I'm pleased about this, because thanks to my 'less is more' philosophy, I am now buying exclusively the more expensive shiny tights that I vastly prefer. Yes, they are more money, but really, I only wear through 3 or so pairs a summer. I can afford nicer things when I buy so much less of everything.


New word I learned today: ladders, which I believe are the same thing as I call runs in tights or hose.


New word which I have not quite learned completely: pop socks.
Are those tights? And do you and I mean the same thing when we say "tights"? When I say tights I mean opaque stretchy things that definitely cannot double as pants (and which have feet), but which are also not the same thing as pantyhose, which are not opaque.
+1  :)

I added a pair of slacks, 6 shirts and two non perishable food items to next week's donate pile.  In the past month or so I  tossed out 2 beyond-repair skirts and a button down shirt.  Boy, is it difficult for me to rid of clothes!

I skimmed through and tossed about 6 work-related older magazines.

I also tossed my manual toothbrush, and cleaned and stored the holder.  I'll be forced to use the electric toothbrush gifted to me.

I brought some peaches and an apple from our tree to the local police station as a thank you gesture and I've given away a bowlful here at the office this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on September 17, 2016, 12:26:02 PM

I also tossed my manual toothbrush, and cleaned and stored the holder. 

Old toothbrushes make great crevice scrubbers. I have the old OLD style kitchen counters with sharp inner corners and chrome edges that collect dirt. Toothbrush is great for that.
----------
I have a huge box of inherited records. Very few are ebayable, or yardsaleable. Have been going through about 10 a day to make sure they have little value and then carrying the lot, right then, to the handy books, DVDs, and records donation bin in the church yard within walking distance.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on September 17, 2016, 06:21:36 PM
This weekend I went to my dad's house and got Everything that is still mine but was in basement storage (excluding Christmas decorations) and brought it to my house. My formerly empty living room has 11 Rubbermaid totes I am now going through and purging.

Culled books from my childhood book collection for donation. About two totes are school papers I can burn/recycle (I didn't want to leave them behind for my stepmother to take care of) and the rest are either stuff from college or sewing/craft supplies. I also got my art desk and chair and my dressmaker mannequin.

I went from 11 storage totes down to about 8 by the beginning of September. I donated one box of books to a used bookstore (any they can't sell they recycle into new books) & took one tote full of papers to the recycling center. I filled the largest tote with donations for goodwill. As of this afternoon I dropped off that donation tote when it became completely full. I also went through 3 more totes today! I have one more tote full of old school papers to take to the recycling center, 3 Walmart bags full of papers I need to put in the industrial shredder at my office and I started a new small Rubbermaid tote for more donations!

So from 11 totes I am looking at approximately 4 left to sort through (I had one that was just full of fabrics I stashed in my hobby room to go through at a later time). I am happy I am keeping only about an 8th of the things *cough*books and stationary* cough* as I sort.

I also was wondering if other people refer to the Rubbermaid-esque plastic storage totes as Bins or something else? I think I've heard people call them plastic tubs and storage boxes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on September 18, 2016, 07:37:50 AM
Banner week, had a friend over who berated me into getting rid of 2 garbage bags of clothes.  One trash and one of donate quality stuff.

Also we've been living with 4 boxes blocking off the 8 foot opening to the living room, I took some things to the local flea market (3 lamps and a box of random stuff, didn't get cash but it's gone!) and while I was there found an adjustable 8 to 12 foot baby gate with a door in it.  That's so much better than stepping over boxes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jesscj81 on September 18, 2016, 10:53:43 AM
Last two weekends I've been clearing out things from storage in garage that I just don't want or need but decided I need to keep for some reason over the years, ive been posting free ads on Craigslist most of the stuff I was going to trash but decided post free first and people have picked up almost everything I've listed. It's saved me from renting a dumpster. I'm truly surprised at what people will take when it's free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on September 18, 2016, 03:06:45 PM
Once upon a time gift bags were not a 'thing'.  You begged for pretty boxes at department stores, and saved them up like a squirrel hoarding nuts.  Reused them over and over, until they fell apart. Your standing as Christmas gift wrapper was contingent on being able to produce the perfectly sized box for any gift instantly.

I had a foot high stack (at least) of (collapsed) boxes in a little cubby under the stairs, and decided today that it was time for them to go.  At least 60 boxes.  I can't remember the last time I dug one out of the pile to use for anything.  They are now all in the recycling bin, and my Mom may faint when she hears that I purged them all.  This is sacrilege as far as she's concerned. 

Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on September 18, 2016, 04:13:43 PM
Once upon a time gift bags were not a 'thing'.  You begged for pretty boxes at department stores, and saved them up like a squirrel hoarding nuts.  Reused them over and over, until they fell apart. Your standing as Christmas gift wrapper was contingent on being able to produce the perfectly sized box for any gift instantly.

I had a foot high stack (at least) of (collapsed) boxes in a little cubby under the stairs, and decided today that it was time for them to go.  At least 60 boxes.  I can't remember the last time I dug one out of the pile to use for anything.  They are now all in the recycling bin, and my Mom may faint when she hears that I purged them all.  This is sacrilege as far as she's concerned. 

Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D

Oh dear. You are being very brave.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 18, 2016, 09:11:48 PM
Gave the Nerf amoury to little boys in the family.

Filled up my washing powder tin this morning with the last box I had bought on sale. Now I am firmly resisting the temptation to re-stock. It will take me months before the tin even looks like getting low - I don't need so much inventory stashed around the place.

(Still working on the bar soap, body wash, hand soap, dishwashing liquid, shampoo... did I think they were going to stop manufacturing this stuff???)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on September 18, 2016, 09:22:21 PM
Turfed a whole heap of paper last week. I don't know why I hang on to bits of paper I am clearly never going to refer to again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 19, 2016, 04:34:38 AM


 New word I learned today: ladders, which I believe are the same thing as I call runs in tights or hose.


New word which I have not quite learned completely: pop socks. Are those tights? And do you and I mean the same thing when we say "tights"? When I say tights I mean opaque stretchy things that definitely cannot double as pants (and which have feet), but which are also not the same thing as pantyhose, which are not opaque.

Yes, ladders are 'runs' so named because that's what they look like!

Tights here are:
1) Sheer 'nude' things (or 'barely black if you live in the 1990s), of approx 8-80 denier, such as The Duchess of Cornwall wears under a dress. I think you may call these hose? 
2) the thickers ones to which you refer - definitely not pants, opaque. We just call those, "thick tights" or "Winter tights".

I just reread what you said. Yes, what you call tights and pantyhose, we just call them all 'tights'.

Pop socks are ankle high, and I would wear them with a business suit and court shoes, made of the thinner pantyhose material. Different from 'knee highs', which are the same thing, only longer - they, as the name suggests, come up to your knees.

A relatively new product is the 'trouser sock', pop sock height (ie ankle), but made of the thicker 'tights' material. Designed to be worn instead of traditional cotton socks when your shoes reveal sock to the world.

Wow, that was complex!

And just to keep this on topic, I managed to purge... absolutely nothing over the weekend. Must do better!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on September 19, 2016, 08:58:56 AM


 New word I learned today: ladders, which I believe are the same thing as I call runs in tights or hose.


New word which I have not quite learned completely: pop socks. Are those tights? And do you and I mean the same thing when we say "tights"? When I say tights I mean opaque stretchy things that definitely cannot double as pants (and which have feet), but which are also not the same thing as pantyhose, which are not opaque.

Yes, ladders are 'runs' so named because that's what they look like!

Tights here are:
1) Sheer 'nude' things (or 'barely black if you live in the 1990s), of approx 8-80 denier, such as The Duchess of Cornwall wears under a dress. I think you may call these hose? 
2) the thickers ones to which you refer - definitely not pants, opaque. We just call those, "thick tights" or "Winter tights".

I just reread what you said. Yes, what you call tights and pantyhose, we just call them all 'tights'.

Pop socks are ankle high, and I would wear them with a business suit and court shoes, made of the thinner pantyhose material. Different from 'knee highs', which are the same thing, only longer - they, as the name suggests, come up to your knees.

A relatively new product is the 'trouser sock', pop sock height (ie ankle), but made of the thicker 'tights' material. Designed to be worn instead of traditional cotton socks when your shoes reveal sock to the world.

Wow, that was complex!

And just to keep this on topic, I managed to purge... absolutely nothing over the weekend. Must do better!
Took care of socks, lets move on to shoes.

Court shoes. Trainers.
We dont use those terms here. Your court shows are our pumps, I think. Leather formal shoes with a heel.

Trainers are tennis shoes.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on September 19, 2016, 09:04:05 AM
Set up our filing system, and added to the "to shred" bin about 1/3-1/2 of the total papers I was sorting. Win! Now I just need to go through the paperwork in the old clear tubs I've been avoiding from YEARS ago. These papers are much more emotionally fraught and interspersed with all sorts of landmines- like love letters from both my AND DH's ex's, since the paperwork ended up co-mingled during our last move.

I've managed to put this off for 5+ years now (especially because there's not much of them, etc). Time to deal with it and recognize that mental weight doesn't always relate to physical space taken up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on September 19, 2016, 10:45:12 AM
Once upon a time gift bags were not a 'thing'.  You begged for pretty boxes at department stores, and saved them up like a squirrel hoarding nuts.  Reused them over and over, until they fell apart. Your standing as Christmas gift wrapper was contingent on being able to produce the perfectly sized box for any gift instantly.

I had a foot high stack (at least) of (collapsed) boxes in a little cubby under the stairs, and decided today that it was time for them to go.  At least 60 boxes.  I can't remember the last time I dug one out of the pile to use for anything.  They are now all in the recycling bin, and my Mom may faint when she hears that I purged them all.  This is sacrilege as far as she's concerned. 

Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D

Oh dear. You are being very brave.

What your mom doesn't know won't hurt her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Piggy on September 19, 2016, 10:48:02 AM
Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D

Congrats on knowing that your son's potty training has "stuck" after all these years!  ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on September 19, 2016, 12:32:27 PM
Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D

Congrats on knowing that your son's potty training has "stuck" after all these years!  ;)

Well, actually, I could have offered them to said son for HIS newborn son, and put that in the 'how did you save money today thread'.       @_@     Except that DIL finds it hilarious that in ancient times (otherwise known as the early 80's) diapers were not prefolded, and you had to use PINS.  I had forgotten they were even out there, until we were sorting out the baby books, etc. for our grandson.  Sometimes having lots and lots of shelves in the garage is not necessarily a good thing. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 19, 2016, 12:37:17 PM
Cloth diapers make amazing burp cloths!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on September 19, 2016, 12:38:59 PM
Cloth diapers make amazing burp cloths!

So shirts, don't they?*


*I don't have kids. I have no freaking idea.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on September 19, 2016, 12:40:25 PM
Once upon a time gift bags were not a 'thing'.  You begged for pretty boxes at department stores, and saved them up like a squirrel hoarding nuts.  Reused them over and over, until they fell apart. Your standing as Christmas gift wrapper was contingent on being able to produce the perfectly sized box for any gift instantly.

I had a foot high stack (at least) of (collapsed) boxes in a little cubby under the stairs, and decided today that it was time for them to go.  At least 60 boxes.  I can't remember the last time I dug one out of the pile to use for anything.  They are now all in the recycling bin, and my Mom may faint when she hears that I purged them all.  This is sacrilege as far as she's concerned. 

Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D

Oh dear. You are being very brave.

What your mom doesn't know won't hurt her.

I'm definitely not telling her.  : D     In her defense, she's a child of the depression, and learned the lessons of never throwing anything away very well.  She was mustachian before that was a term, and we all love her slightly hoarding tendencies when it comes to gift wrap, boxes, bows, etc.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 19, 2016, 12:42:19 PM
Cloth diapers make amazing burp cloths!

So shirts, don't they?*


*I don't have kids. I have no freaking idea.

Shirts are less absorbent, and more of a pain in the butt to change when you are already dressed and the baby burps all over you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on September 19, 2016, 12:50:01 PM
Cloth diapers make amazing burp cloths!

DIL doesn't want them for that either, so I will use them for staining furniture I think.  No lint after all those washings!   She also didn't want the flannel swaddling cloths I found in the box, so my Mom has offered to make a quilt from them for when our grandson goes to daycare next year.  His blankie will be unique, anyway.  : D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on September 19, 2016, 05:42:40 PM


 New word I learned today: ladders, which I believe are the same thing as I call runs in tights or hose.


New word which I have not quite learned completely: pop socks. Are those tights? And do you and I mean the same thing when we say "tights"? When I say tights I mean opaque stretchy things that definitely cannot double as pants (and which have feet), but which are also not the same thing as pantyhose, which are not opaque.

Yes, ladders are 'runs' so named because that's what they look like!

Tights here are:
1) Sheer 'nude' things (or 'barely black if you live in the 1990s), of approx 8-80 denier, such as The Duchess of Cornwall wears under a dress. I think you may call these hose? 
2) the thickers ones to which you refer - definitely not pants, opaque. We just call those, "thick tights" or "Winter tights".

I just reread what you said. Yes, what you call tights and pantyhose, we just call them all 'tights'.

Pop socks are ankle high, and I would wear them with a business suit and court shoes, made of the thinner pantyhose material. Different from 'knee highs', which are the same thing, only longer - they, as the name suggests, come up to your knees.

A relatively new product is the 'trouser sock', pop sock height (ie ankle), but made of the thicker 'tights' material. Designed to be worn instead of traditional cotton socks when your shoes reveal sock to the world.

Wow, that was complex!

And just to keep this on topic, I managed to purge... absolutely nothing over the weekend. Must do better!


It becomes more complex: we have trouser socks here, but they come up to the knee.


We also have kneehighs, just as you described them, but have no equivalent that I know of for pop socks.


 Your tights are our pantyhose, and your winter tights we just call tights.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 19, 2016, 06:27:02 PM
On the subject of decluttering and tights...

I finally parted with my ballet tights. Most of them had been stitched or "glued" (nail polish) in places. It was time to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on September 19, 2016, 08:00:19 PM
Next up - the cloth diapers that I still have from when my son was a baby.  They've been sitting in a box in the garage since we moved into this house 20 years ago.  He's 34 now.  I think it's safe to cut them up, and use some for rags, and pitch the rest.  : D

Congrats on knowing that your son's potty training has "stuck" after all these years!  ;)

Well, actually, I could have offered them to said son for HIS newborn son, and put that in the 'how did you save money today thread'.       @_@     Except that DIL finds it hilarious that in ancient times (otherwise known as the early 80's) diapers were not prefolded, and you had to use PINS.  I had forgotten they were even out there, until we were sorting out the baby books, etc. for our grandson.  Sometimes having lots and lots of shelves in the garage is not necessarily a good thing.
Wow, you kept them? My mum used the nappies on 4 kids and then they went straight into the "awesome cloths for cleaning" bucket. They are all very used up now. Also, I was surprised that there's "prefolds" and things, I almost remember how to fold a flat nappy and I certainly remember pinning them! (I was 9 when the youngest was born, I'm only 27 now).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 20, 2016, 03:13:44 AM

Took care of socks, lets move on to shoes.

Court shoes. Trainers.
We dont use those terms here. Your court shows are our pumps, I think. Leather formal shoes with a heel.

Trainers are tennis shoes.

Yes, court shoes are formal, leather, heel, no straps at all. Quite open at the front.

Interestingly, my mum would describe any FLAT shoes as 'pumps'. I would never use that word myself, it seems to have gone out of fashion here. Interesting to hear that for you pumps have heels.

Yep to the trainers being tennis shoes. This is fascinating!

ETA fascinating, to me. Sorry for the thread hijack!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 20, 2016, 04:02:53 AM

Took care of socks, lets move on to shoes.

Court shoes. Trainers.
We dont use those terms here. Your court shows are our pumps, I think. Leather formal shoes with a heel.

Trainers are tennis shoes.

Yes, court shoes are formal, leather, heel, no straps at all. Quite open at the front.

Interestingly, my mum would describe any FLAT shoes as 'pumps'. I would never use that word myself, it seems to have gone out of fashion here. Interesting to hear that for you pumps have heels.

Yep to the trainers being tennis shoes. This is fascinating!

ETA fascinating, to me. Sorry for the thread hijack!

Are we going to talk about fascinators now?

This is like word-association...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 20, 2016, 11:25:24 AM
Friend who just got a new dog is coming to get our old dog house (our spoiled pooch comes inside and sleeps on the couch).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jim555 on September 20, 2016, 11:53:12 AM
I started a digitization project of all my old statements and papers which took up 4 boxes of space.  I know 7 years is the longest you have to legally keep things but I feel better scanning them first and then throwing them out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on September 21, 2016, 02:22:08 AM
Jacket, bathrobe and 3 books gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 21, 2016, 02:34:20 AM
I started a digitization project of all my old statements and papers which took up 4 boxes of space.  I know 7 years is the longest you have to legally keep things but I feel better scanning them first and then throwing them out.
I did this with all our tax records (started with old but realized I e-filed new ones, so I only have digital copies). Go ahead with removing the paper! It's so worth it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on September 21, 2016, 11:21:52 AM
by the end of this month, i'm going thru all of my winter clothes to put out. i'm not sure how much there will be to get rid of/donate, but i'm hoping to make some progress for the new season starting
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Secretly Saving on September 21, 2016, 06:51:18 PM
Can I just vent here for a second?  I just lost a parent.  I have two storage units to go through in two different states.  I am knee deep in boxes and papers AND grief.  I feel like I can barely breathe and my spouse's family is mailing us more stuff.  I think I may lose my mind.  I can't get rid of things fast enough before more things are introduced into the house. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!

Ok, back to regular programming...  someone tell me about their accomplishments so that I can at least celebrate then instead of feeling like having a pity party and crying here.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on September 22, 2016, 01:56:08 AM
I am sorry for your loss, Secretly Saving.  I have had to clear or help clear three different houses of elderly relatives, and it is difficult both emotionally and practically, at a time when one's personal reserves are low.  I found that taking a break every now and then rather than rushing through as soon as possible was the only way for me to get through it.

In personal news, I took a bag of old curtains and another of books to the charity shop two weeks ago.  A table and a wicker chair were picked up yesterday for a rehab/work experience centre being set up locally.  A sofa is advertised and I've put the word out locally but has had no responses yet - if it isn't gone by next week it will be off to the dump.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on September 22, 2016, 02:04:14 AM
So sorry to hear that, Secretly Saving. Hang in there - and don't be afraid to tell your in-laws you are overwhelmed at present and can't be dealing with more items in the mail. What are they sending anyway?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 22, 2016, 02:50:41 AM
Very sorry to hear that, Secretly Saving. Hope things feel less overwhelming soon.


Took care of socks, lets move on to shoes.

Court shoes. Trainers.
We dont use those terms here. Your court shows are our pumps, I think. Leather formal shoes with a heel.

Trainers are tennis shoes.

Yes, court shoes are formal, leather, heel, no straps at all. Quite open at the front.

Interestingly, my mum would describe any FLAT shoes as 'pumps'. I would never use that word myself, it seems to have gone out of fashion here. Interesting to hear that for you pumps have heels.

Yep to the trainers being tennis shoes. This is fascinating!

ETA fascinating, to me. Sorry for the thread hijack!

Trainers = sneakers (occasionally tennis shoes)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on September 22, 2016, 12:14:34 PM
I am sorry for your loss, Secretly Saving.  :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on September 24, 2016, 11:32:27 AM
we will have a friend visiting and got active de-cluttering and painting/refreshing the apartment; we got rid of
-ply wood, pieces of countertop, & various bits of wood that we didn't get to use while making cabinets
-1 bad bike
-1 metal shelf
-books/papers/
-Christmas stuff
adding to the discarded list: ski, frames , BBQ, toys,
used up: paint,
posted for sale: bike rack
will dispose of car parts (old car got replaced) , looking to donate to some tech school
gifted: unused good quality woolen fabric
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 24, 2016, 03:09:45 PM
Not really decluttering but I'm excited that all the decorations, food, chips, drinks bottles, cutlery and gift bags that I had stored at home for a party are finally out of the house and in the car. I'm hoping we don't bring back any.

More space FTW!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on September 24, 2016, 09:13:32 PM
We have a small chest of drawers next to the front door. On the top is a basket where DH dumps his wallet, keys and whatnot (so he can easily find them again and I don't get annoyed that they're randomly cluttering up a surface somewhere). One drawer is my diabetes supplies. Next drawer down is prescriptions and receipts and spare glasses.

The bottom drawer is where we put paper that needs to be filed. I have not done the filing for at least a year. There is about 6cm of paper. argh. I will aim to get through it all in the next 2 hours (before we go to our friends' house). I will also try to throw out more paper from our files. Our files are in lever-arch folders which is much more manageable for me than having papers loose in hanging files in a filing cabinet or box.

eep. wish me luck.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Noodle on September 25, 2016, 02:47:21 PM
Finally cleared out my patio closet. I had replaced two small wicker chairs with a larger one that is easier on my back, and I had never gotten around to disposing of a rusty folding chair the previous owner had left. The folding chair wasn't salvageable, but I did put the wicker chairs out in the "please take this" area of my complex where residents tend to leave hand-me-down items. I was pleased to say that when I took a bag of trash out later the chairs were gone. I've looked around the other patios to see where they moved on to, but haven't spotted them yet!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on September 26, 2016, 11:42:46 AM
I added 10-12 mini shampoo, conditioner and lotion bottles and another shirt to the donation pile I've been yapping about for weeks.  And I'm pleased to say I finally dropped off the donation this morning.  Two bags of items out of my life forever.  :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: doug111 on September 26, 2016, 06:31:45 PM
So I think this would be a good thread for me. I don't actually have that much stuff as I live in a small apartment, but I still have more than I need. I am also a bit of a hoarder. I have clothes that are getting seriously worn out which I still wear and can't bring myself to throw away. I also always seem to have snail mail that seems vaguely important so I don't throw it away and eventually it builds up. And forgotten pantry items that I should use up. And a bunch of other things.

If you're anything like me please join me in getting rid of your stuff. Whether this means throwing them out, donating them, giving them to friends/family, eating them, or selling them.

If you have any tips on how to deal with the my-clothes-have-holes-but-are-so-comfy or I-may-need-this-someday syndrome, please share. And also let me know when there are cases where I-may-need-this syndrome actually makes sense, so I can identify what things I should actually keep and what I should throw.

My progress so far:

I recently managed to find some clothes that I donated to a charity bin.

And today I put up an ad on an online board to sell off a kitchen appliance that I don't use. Hopefully I'll get a buyer.

I'm going to try to find more things I can get rid of. I may actually be moving out of my place within a year or so, which provides extra incentive.

Feel free to join me!
Ive been using an app called OFFERUP to get rid of stuff collecting lots of dust over the years that I never use. Ive been putting it all on my mortgage and its been a huge help towards becoming 100% debt free !!!!!! I like OFFERUP because you post it once and forget about it. Unlike craigslist where you have to baby sit your ad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on September 27, 2016, 04:49:17 PM
Two more bags of books and magazines donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on September 27, 2016, 05:27:13 PM
Threw out a tube of anti-itch cream last night. It expired in 2005. I think I need to go through the bathroom cabinet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on September 28, 2016, 11:01:01 AM
I put up a few things on our Buy Nothing neighborhood group.  I've also been amassing a pile of stuff to donate to the Salvation Army.  I'm planning to do a drop off on Saturday afternoon. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: doug111 on September 28, 2016, 10:36:30 PM
So I think this would be a good thread for me. I don't actually have that much stuff as I live in a small apartment, but I still have more than I need. I am also a bit of a hoarder. I have clothes that are getting seriously worn out which I still wear and can't bring myself to throw away. I also always seem to have snail mail that seems vaguely important so I don't throw it away and eventually it builds up. And forgotten pantry items that I should use up. And a bunch of other things.

If you're anything like me please join me in getting rid of your stuff. Whether this means throwing them out, donating them, giving them to friends/family, eating them, or selling them.

If you have any tips on how to deal with the my-clothes-have-holes-but-are-so-comfy or I-may-need-this-someday syndrome, please share. And also let me know when there are cases where I-may-need-this syndrome actually makes sense, so I can identify what things I should actually keep and what I should throw.

My progress so far:

I recently managed to find some clothes that I donated to a charity bin.

And today I put up an ad on an online board to sell off a kitchen appliance that I don't use. Hopefully I'll get a buyer.

I'm going to try to find more things I can get rid of. I may actually be moving out of my place within a year or so, which provides extra incentive.

Feel free to join me!
I SOLD AN OLD SUBARU BACK RUBBER MAT FOR $90 TODAY AND A SET OF SUBARU SKI RACKS FOR $70 AND 1OO% OF IT IS GOING ONTO MY MORTGAGE !!!! YOOHOO !!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on September 28, 2016, 10:43:40 PM
Proud of myself for finally sitting down and listing ~15 items on eBay tonight.  I've been dragging my feet on it for months. 

Also gave my dad a couple reusable bags as he was leaving the other day.

We're preparing for an office move, so rather than trust the movers to get my things back to me, I've taken most of my stuff home, and have also tossed/recycled loads of stuff in the process.  So far, I've hardly noticed that I have almost nothing at my office.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on September 28, 2016, 10:48:19 PM
Neighbour posted on our FB street group that she needed packing boxes. Now the last of our boxes from the move (over a year ago...) are finally out of the house :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on September 28, 2016, 10:57:42 PM
2 Buy Nothing giveaways.  5 items out of the house! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 03, 2016, 06:04:33 PM
I've started another round of the minimalist game.

Came up with three bags of clothes for charity over the weekend. (Most of it belonged to my husband, and all of it is being donated with his permission. I handle all the washing, folding and ironing in our house, and I was constantly feeling frustrated. All his favourite clothes were either being worn, waiting to be washed or waiting to be ironed, so what the hell is filling up the cupboard? This has made a dent.)

I'm also making a concerted effort to use up my stash of beautiful stationery.

And I'm promptly triaging the Stuff that husband brings home from work trips. Papers and receipts are scanned and/or trashed. Gifts (battery packs, LED torches, USBs, clothes, hats, Moleskin notebooks, pens, etc) and travel freebies (business/first class airline goodies, hotel toiletries) are given to charity or passed on to family or friends who ask.

Previously he wanted to keep everything as a memento, but he slowly realised it was just way too much Stuff (and also, he has his work product, the content he creates, to remember the trips.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 04, 2016, 07:27:33 AM
I've been good at getting items selected to donate... I've been bad at donating them.

The result was a car full of random items rolling around, half-filled boxes, and bags. And also bags with useful things in, such as my running gear, which was adding to the confusion and mess.

At the weekend I went through everything and bagged / boxed it properly for donation / the tip / the office. Wow, that feels better. I added a few more items too.

I really need to get some stuff listed on ebay. I have been putting it off so long, but 1) i want the money, as the budget is tight this month 2) I want the space back 3) these are good items which will sell for decent money. Why can't I motivate myself?!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on October 04, 2016, 08:33:46 AM
After finishing the entire KonMari method, I felt a few specific items niggling me.  I decided to re-do the sorting of my clothes and books and it turns out, all the items annoying my mind were not sparking joy.  Bye bye!  Got rid of a couple t-shirts and several pants. 

I re-affirmed to keep all my books and found a new recipe in one of the oft-neglected cookbooks: eggplant coconut curry.  It turned out great, yum!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 05, 2016, 05:37:42 AM
As it's autumn now I thought I would review my wardrobe and my house in general, I gathered up a bag of clothes off to donation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on October 05, 2016, 07:01:14 AM
I'm having another garage sale with my neighbor in a couple of weeks. We're in New England so I hope it's not too cold by them.

There is nothing like a deadline to motivate me. Yesterday went through the hand tools. There were at least 3 of everything. Why? Because I would not be able to find something and go buy another one. What a waste. All organized now.

Next is the garage. Ugh. Mostly old plastic plant pots. Those will probably just end up in the trash. You can't really do anything with them and everybody else has a million already as well.

As someone else stated, the work of getting rid of stuff makes one much more considered as to what comes into the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on October 05, 2016, 07:27:45 AM
i listed books that i had hanging around yesterday. the first one sold on amazon today!
next is the second round of purging my fall/winter clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on October 05, 2016, 11:37:36 AM
+1 regarding being more cognizant of what comes in to the house.  I attended an event yesterday which featured lots of give away swag.  I carefully chose a first aid cold pack and a lip balm.

I've been doing some fall sprucing up here at the office:

~Took out the last ream of paper out of it's box, stored it in the cupboard under the printer, and recycled the box
~Shredded and tossed 1.5 month's worth of stuff
~Stored my old computer (I need to pull off a few files before ridding of it completely) and keyboard
~DH took my old executive chair to his shop to hopefully repair it and he'll use it there
~Hung the broom and dustpan on an extra coat hook
~Put a tote full of giveaway marketing items into a cupboard
~Organized the political signs, stakes and stickers I've been giving away into one place

Next up:
~A backlog of paper files to filing cabinets
~Hang picture to get it off a surface
~Dust
~Sweep
~Wipe down microwave
~Clear out desk drawers
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 05, 2016, 09:09:20 PM
Broken umbrella and emptied pen to the trash. 

Throwing something like that away when I only have one umbrella or two pens is such a different feeling than when I had no idea how many umbrellas were in the car and in the closet or how many pens I picked up for free. I'm sure it sounds silly.  It might even be easier to throw things away now.  Previously I just "had things" for unidentifide reasons. Now if something no longer serves a purpose I can let it go, because it actually had a purpose to begin with and now it doesn't. 

Gave some fabric to an aquantence.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 06, 2016, 03:23:02 AM
I did the 'switch' yesterday from summer clothes to winter. Well, I took the winter ones out, and put away a few freshly washed summer things, the rest will go away once they've been washed for the final time this year.

I was surprised (and, I admit, disappointed) by how few non-work winter clothes I have. I must have really culled last year, huh? And even worse, I don't -love- any of them, except one top which is now pilling :(

My work wardrobe is in better shape. I guess I better get making! Also, in going through my fabric stash and looking for fabric to make into new casual stuff, I identified one piece I don't like. Charity shops round here don't sell fabric (at least, I have never ever seen any) so I think they wouldn't know what to do with it. I am tempted to make it into infinity scarves for Christmas presents, but that seems mean since I don't like the fabric. Ah, I just had a brainwave! I will make it into infinity scarves and give THOSE to charity. Perfect.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on October 06, 2016, 08:40:00 PM
Great week for me: 2 bags of items donated to charity shops, giving me 15% off on a needed purchase and keeping me from online shopping. Also listened to a few friends and matched them with robes, frames, yarn, and dishes they were looking for from my donate pile before they left the house. I love it when I know the items will be used immediately!  Also recycled a race T-shirt into a drawstring backpack to take to the gym use since I didn't have anything suitable for that am trying to get back into the routine. So way more items out than in, and re-use for the win.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on October 06, 2016, 09:15:44 PM
I FINALLY did it! I went through my college papers, including love poetry from ex's and photos of dead relatives and ALL that impossibly awful stuff I've put off for years.

Thank you guys.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 07, 2016, 03:17:08 AM
I FINALLY did it! I went through my college papers, including love poetry from ex's and photos of dead relatives and ALL that impossibly awful stuff I've put off for years.

Thank you guys.

Well done you! That sounds like a huge (and emotionally draining) task. Does it feel good to have it behind you?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on October 07, 2016, 06:13:25 AM
Cleaned out the entire garage in one day. And found a use for larger plastic plant pots - storage for one coiled outdoor electrical extension cord each. No more tangled mess.

There was quite a bit of stuff I had forgotten about for the yard sale - hedge trimmer I am afraid to use, huge space-sucking car battery charger for clunker car I no longer have.

Having a surprising amount of success with telling myself in a stern parental tone "You HAVE to" when facing big bad tasks. If I can just get started I get absorbed quickly and the result is always such a relief.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on October 07, 2016, 08:14:03 AM
I FINALLY did it! I went through my college papers, including love poetry from ex's and photos of dead relatives and ALL that impossibly awful stuff I've put off for years.

Thank you guys.

Well done you! That sounds like a huge (and emotionally draining) task. Does it feel good to have it behind you?

It does feel great. I'll probably need to take another pass down the road- I went from two bins down to one. The way I got through it was just deciding I wouldn't directly confront the really hard stuff. I would group them together, and move them to the top of the other box, so they can't "surprise me" in the future. I will know they're there, right from the get go. I put a sill poem from the ex on the top, as a reminder/warning, but not one with much emotional weight. This was really the only way I could make myself start, since I've managed to put it off for years.

My eventual goal is to move all the photos into a real album, and scan them into the computer too. And do the same with the few exams and essays I kept- scan them in with prof comments and everything. Then I would be down to just a few odds and ends (like old coins/foreign currencies). So there still a stuff to be done, but hopefully by rearranging it into chunks, the barrier to entry will be lower. It won't be a minefield in the same sense.

Funny enough, the way I got motivated to do it was watching videos of other people decluttering their closets on YouTube. Silly, but it worked!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 08, 2016, 07:46:52 AM
A whole van load of stuff left the garage yesterday - random bits of this and that. I still have lots to do but there is a noticeable difference in the house.  The basement is looking better and we may be able to park in the garage before the snow flies!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DailyGrindFree on October 08, 2016, 07:55:50 AM
Going through this process showed me how much money we wasted by buying stuff we didn't need/use over the years. Also, I realized that the bigger your house the more you accumulate. I didn't go to the extreme route but i have been getting rid of stuff almost everyday. We still have a long way to go. But, by the time we reach FI, we should get rid of everything we have so we can travel freely. Slow and steady always wins. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 08, 2016, 11:00:51 AM
I FINALLY did it! I went through my college papers, including love poetry from ex's and photos of dead relatives and ALL that impossibly awful stuff I've put off for years.

Thank you guys.

Good job!

Also, I am astounded you received love poetry. I have been married almost 20 years, but never, before or after I was married, have I received a poem. We lean towards the pragmatic, but a small part of me would love for my husband to even say, "I read this poem and thought of you."
It is a lovely thing that you have inspired poetry.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 08, 2016, 11:03:43 AM
I sold six music CDs. Donated two scarves, one good pair of wool socks, a pin, and seven paperbacks. Recycled a paper garbage bag of miscellaneous paper.

The work continues, because the clutter seems endless.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on October 08, 2016, 11:39:57 AM
I FINALLY did it! I went through my college papers, including love poetry from ex's and photos of dead relatives and ALL that impossibly awful stuff I've put off for years.

Thank you guys.

Good job!

Also, I am astounded you received love poetry. I have been married almost 20 years, but never, before or after I was married, have I received a poem. We lean towards the pragmatic, but a small part of me would love for my husband to even say, "I read this poem and thought of you."
It is a lovely thing that you have inspired poetry.

I guess it is pretty cool =) And part of why I keep them. The relationship was a complete wreck otherwise, that brought out awful parts of my personality that I don't like. But that was the pattern the relationship took- these volatile swoops up and down. We would have awful yelling matches, be the worst versions of ourselves, etc. But then we would make up, and he would write me poetry (I wrote quite a bit for him as well, although not nearly as good- he's published several pieces now). He literally commissioned some of his friends who are professional musicians, and played one part himself, and composed, sang, and recorded two songs for me. Really incredible from that perspective, and I do treasure those aspects of that relationship, but it was too volatile to be healthy for either of us. We're both married to other people now, and far better off for it. My husband and I are *much* more pragmatic. He once wrote "I love you, happy birthday" on the side of a coffee cup for me because we both dislike greeting cards =) It works for us. There aren't any mandolin-driven love songs, but my day to day life is peaceful and happy and something I am unfalteringly grateful for every day, five years later.

Maybe it's influenced by my own experiences, but I think all the romance novel big sweeping gestures are when we're trying to cover for our own uncertainties- we're trying to convince ourselves, and yell louder than our own hearts. What's that saying about the zealot being the one who holds the most doubts?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 10, 2016, 04:48:43 AM
I did the 'switch' yesterday from summer clothes to winter. Well, I took the winter ones out, and put away a few freshly washed summer things, the rest will go away once they've been washed for the final time this year.

I was surprised (and, I admit, disappointed) by how few non-work winter clothes I have. I must have really culled last year, huh? And even worse, I don't -love- any of them, except one top which is now pilling :(


Well ha ha ha. Joke's on me. I haven't been as good at decluttering as I thought I had - this weekend I found the rest of my winter clothes!! I really thought I'd pulled them all out, until I realised I had no coat... That's when I found three bags at the bottom of my wardrobe.

So, it's actually kind of good news, because like I said I am short of winter clothes. But, wow, despite being 'short' on clothes, my wardrobe is bursting - how is that possible?

I still have some summer stuff in the mix, so I need to get that put away. Then I can cull / plan what I need. Tops are going to be my main focus. I'm set for dresses, for work and casual, but I have nothing to wear with skirts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nnls on October 11, 2016, 12:54:08 AM
I now have one completely empty bedroom and in my bedroom I now have 3 empty draws (my draws all use to overflow with stuff as well as things in the now empty room)

Two more rooms to go (spare bedroom, loungeroom) and I am done
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on October 11, 2016, 11:22:23 AM
Update: already two of the books i listed have sold.
i'm going to go back thru my closet to purge cheap/disliked items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 15, 2016, 04:55:46 PM
Tossed four packets of seeds.  I tried growing some fall spinach and none of it sprouted.  All the seeds were minimum 4 years ago, so out they go. 

Cleaned up the spinach failure, cleaned my potted plants and got them back in the house. 

Cooked a bean/grain mix that I just don't like. Only about 1 cup of the mix left. Waste not, want not. Can't wait to have that jar out of my cupboard.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on October 15, 2016, 11:27:52 PM
Out went 5 boxes of books and another bag of clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on October 16, 2016, 01:48:08 AM
Had a yard sale yesterday with my neighbor. It was cold here is MA. But I got rid of all the big items I had cleaned out of the garage last week. I'll take it over the hassle of waiting for Craigslist pickups for each one.

If you live in NE though, and you want a big turnout, don't have your yard sale in October. Doh.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on October 16, 2016, 09:13:59 PM
I have been cleaning out a large hall closet. It was intended as a linen closet, but I use it for miscellaneous storage.

My goal was to clear one shelf to provide extra pantry storage. The closet is right near the kitchen.

Mission accomplished. Two garbage bags of stuff discarded. I have also relocated some useful items that I had been trying to find: a cordless drill, 2 complete sets of screwdrivers, and a crowbar.

Much easier to find and use are: household tools, small camping and outdoor stuff, and painting stuff.

The two cats found this hugely entertaining. They find "stuff" very interesting.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 17, 2016, 12:02:21 AM
Intangible decluttering for me today.

I deleted more than 25,000 work emails.

And, in the process of preparing my 2017 diary, I got rutheless with which birthdays and anniversaries I copied in for next year.

I left out more than two dozen. Previously I noted everything, but today I decided I don't need the visual pollution (a phrase I have stolen gleefully from marty998).

Why put myself through the process of opening my diary of a morning, seeing a note about birthdays/anniversaries, reading it, thinking, "Oh, that's the wedding anniversary for friends I haven't seen for four years and who have since moved overseas?"

Now I'm just sticking to the events I will actually act on. Post a card, send a text, call, reach out on Facebook, bake a cake, invite over for dinner. If I'm not doing any of those, they're not going in the diary.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on October 17, 2016, 01:19:34 AM
I hope you have copied my birthday in there!

25,000 emails holy crap. Good thing you are able to delete them... once mine get archived by IT we can't purge them. You have to delete them before the 6 week auto archive kicks in.

Of course, I am terrible at it, so I have well over 50,000 emails in there.

I need to put stuff away when I get home. Filing of bills, clothes hung up to dry, gym towels left on ding room chairs. Kitchen bench covered in odds and sods.

Reporting here in advance of actually decluttering doesn't count, does it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 17, 2016, 01:42:07 AM
I hope you have copied my birthday in there!

Of course. And as if I would forget!


25,000 emails holy crap. Good thing you are able to delete them... once mine get archived by IT we can't purge them. You have to delete them before the 6 week auto archive kicks in.

Of course, I am terrible at it, so I have well over 50,000 emails in there.

I need to put stuff away when I get home. Filing of bills, clothes hung up to dry, gym towels left on ding room chairs. Kitchen bench covered in odds and sods.

Reporting here in advance of actually decluttering doesn't count, does it?

I am mostly deleting them without reading, but I've left some that need to be acted on (I refuse to say actioned) before being culled. Mostly saving contacts.

No, it doesn't count. :) And hanging out your washing doesn't even count as decluttering! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on October 17, 2016, 05:42:19 AM
I'm sitting here right now staring at a pile of stuff designated for Goodwill piled in a living room chair, and it's been sitting there for the past 3 days. Including my $#% wedding dress I should have never bought (wanted a low key fun wedding with a dress or costume I could wear again. Mother threw a fit about not having a white poofy dress and walking down an aisle and insisted on buying one, so I caved).

I hate the idea of not getting a dime for this dress, and yet I did not spend a single dime of my own money on this dress. It was pretty and I still think so, but I honestly have no use for it and I have plenty of photos of the big day, so I don't know why the stupid thing causes me to freeze up trying to get it out of the house. I lost over 100 lbs., so even if I wanted to wear it as a costume, it would fall off me, and the box is HUGE and no one wants it for even a small amount of $ or as a donation to a "Wedding Gowns for X" since it's over 14 years old now. I am hung up on the stupid sunk cost fallacy and it wasn't even my money!

Sigh. I really hate being borderline cheap and having packrat tendencies sometimes.

I've managed to sell 5 bins full of books for just over $60, camera equipment for $60, Have a long box of comics and a few boxes of miscellaneous toys to go to the comic shop in November (they didn't want anything until after their big sale end of October).

I just went and started trying to look through our front room's closets again to see if there is more stuff to purge, and there actually isn't. It's been taken from full to bursting to about 50% empty, and the stuff in there is all "have a use" stuff.

I really need to tackle my garage, but that's likely next month.

Dress and other crap going out today. Even if I end up breaking down crying driving away, I want it gone, so the stupid emotional attachment to a stupid dress will just have to be dealt with after the fact. I really do want it gone dammit! Why is this so hard?



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 17, 2016, 05:53:29 AM
I don't know. I bought my dress second hand and thought I'd be fine selling it off afterwards, but it's still sitting in my cupboard and I have zero desire to get rid of it. Although in my case, I still fit it and am contemplating if there any way I can refashion it to be worn again... But, $1k! It cost so much! I doubt if get that much for it anyway...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on October 17, 2016, 06:29:06 AM
I really do want it gone dammit! Why is this so hard?

I have sets of classic books from my father and possibly from my grandfather. Unfortunately my dad stored them in the attic and most of them are falling apart or have mildew. I can't even give them away. So I started throwing them out. It is wrenching to see them out with the trash, but after they get picked up I just feel lighter. So far I regret nothing I have sold, given away, or thrown out.

Imagine some cash-strapped engaged girl going through Goodwill dresses and discovering yours, which is the exact sort of style that would look good on her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on October 17, 2016, 11:43:04 AM
12 books and 2 badly fitting t-shirts gone :-D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 17, 2016, 12:47:59 PM
I'm sitting here right now staring at a pile of stuff designated for Goodwill piled in a living room chair, and it's been sitting there for the past 3 days. Including my $#% wedding dress I should have never bought (wanted a low key fun wedding with a dress or costume I could wear again. Mother threw a fit about not having a white poofy dress and walking down an aisle and insisted on buying one, so I caved).

I hate the idea of not getting a dime for this dress, and yet I did not spend a single dime of my own money on this dress. It was pretty and I still think so, but I honestly have no use for it and I have plenty of photos of the big day, so I don't know why the stupid thing causes me to freeze up trying to get it out of the house. I lost over 100 lbs., so even if I wanted to wear it as a costume, it would fall off me, and the box is HUGE and no one wants it for even a small amount of $ or as a donation to a "Wedding Gowns for X" since it's over 14 years old now. I am hung up on the stupid sunk cost fallacy and it wasn't even my money!

Sigh. I really hate being borderline cheap and having packrat tendencies sometimes.

I've managed to sell 5 bins full of books for just over $60, camera equipment for $60, Have a long box of comics and a few boxes of miscellaneous toys to go to the comic shop in November (they didn't want anything until after their big sale end of October).

I just went and started trying to look through our front room's closets again to see if there is more stuff to purge, and there actually isn't. It's been taken from full to bursting to about 50% empty, and the stuff in there is all "have a use" stuff.

I really need to tackle my garage, but that's likely next month.

Dress and other crap going out today. Even if I end up breaking down crying driving away, I want it gone, so the stupid emotional attachment to a stupid dress will just have to be dealt with after the fact. I really do want it gone dammit! Why is this so hard?

Frankies Girl, I know it sounds hokey but what helped me in situations like you have with the dress, was using the KonMarie method.  What she suggests is taking the object into your hands and actually saying thank you for whatever it did.  In this case you could say something like: "Thank you for making me feel beautiful and witnessing my big day.  I loved wearing you and my family loved seeing me wear you."  You don't have to say it out loud, obviously.  But the physical contact with the object plus the acknowledgement of the service that the object provided to you really does the trick.   The act of properly saying Thank you and Good Bye is important and effective in this case.  Good luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on October 17, 2016, 12:55:38 PM
no one wants it for even a small amount of $ or as a donation to a "Wedding Gowns for X" since it's over 14 years old now.

I bet somebody out there wants it! I've definitely seen women trying on the wedding dresses at Salvation Army, and some of those dresses are reallll "vintage."

Have you tried putting it on craigslist? A friend of mine bought her wedding dress on craiglist for $50 -- she was so thrilled. It might even be fun to meet a bride-to-be who's giving your dress a second life :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on October 17, 2016, 01:49:33 PM
I couldn't get anyone to buy my wedding dress either, even when I listed it on CL for 5 bucks. It was at least 10 years old at that point - so, not vintage but also not modern. Ended up donating it, because I was NOT moving with it again!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on October 17, 2016, 01:56:58 PM
I had success with a local want ads newsletter selling my first dress.  Traditional, white, poofy, lace, froo froo, the whole deal.  I cannot remember how much my dad paid for it.  I sold it, along with the veil, necklace and earrings, to a special needs woman for $100.  She was so happy as was I.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Money Badger on October 17, 2016, 01:59:56 PM
Strangely, I find disposing of old computers a joy...    2 old HP laptops bit the dust last year and weren't worth fixing and had been sitting on shelves...    Removed the hard drives and pummelled them with a large hammer (shattered disk drives make such nice tinkly sounds), then recycled the batteries and carcases separately...   MOST satisfying!   :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on October 17, 2016, 09:06:38 PM
I bought my wedding dress for $200 from a Goodwill. It was from the 80s (the scrunchy straps over the shoulder of an otherwise off the shoulder dress gave it away) and I bought it in 2006. I loved it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on October 17, 2016, 09:46:01 PM
Dress is gone! Dropped off at goodwill this afternoon and the went to the grocery and bought crap food, came home, ate lots of crap and had a very minor panic attack and the took an epic nap. But it is gone and I think I am just going to pretend it is around here for a while until it doesn't cause me to feel bad thinking about it.

And yes I am happy I did it. But fighting the programming is still hard.



And I could have tried to sell it, but honestly I get weird about dealing with people in general, and if I was lucky I might get $50 for my efforts, and it would be hour or two of dealing with taking photos, writing up the description, getting a throwaway email for listing, fielding questions and wanting to see more photos and then having to travel to meet up if I actually did get anyone interested... the money just wasn't worth the efforts (although it was still a very pretty dress - just not in style at the moment).

And the KonMa method would have caused me to personify the dress and feel awful for abandoning it at a grungy thrift store... I didn't want to even open the box other than to make sure the dress actually was in there because seeing it or handling it would cause me to attach HARD again. I already have to avoid naming my current car and other everyday objects as the last time I had to trade in a vehicle for instance, I bawled like freaking baby because "Aggie" had been with me for 17 years and I felt like I was having her put to sleep like a pet.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: stashgrower on October 18, 2016, 03:21:08 AM
Got a pile of clothing to take to the op shop :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 18, 2016, 03:29:42 AM
Dress is gone! Dropped off at goodwill this afternoon and the went to the grocery and bought crap food, came home, ate lots of crap and had a very minor panic attack and the took an epic nap. But it is gone and I think I am just going to pretend it is around here for a while until it doesn't cause me to feel bad thinking about it.

And yes I am happy I did it. But fighting the programming is still hard.

Well done! Someone is going to love it - even if you worry that the style is dated a talented seamstress can turn it into something else entirely. I sure some bride is going to be thrilled.

So I sent something to charity last week I have just thought of a use for. Argh! However, PSA, the world hasn't stopped turning. It turns out I'm... just fine. A little bummed, but life goes on. The decluttering does get easier!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 18, 2016, 10:11:26 AM
Dress is gone! Dropped off at goodwill this afternoon and the went to the grocery and bought crap food, came home, ate lots of crap and had a very minor panic attack and the took an epic nap. But it is gone and I think I am just going to pretend it is around here for a while until it doesn't cause me to feel bad thinking about it.

And yes I am happy I did it. But fighting the programming is still hard.



And I could have tried to sell it, but honestly I get weird about dealing with people in general, and if I was lucky I might get $50 for my efforts, and it would be hour or two of dealing with taking photos, writing up the description, getting a throwaway email for listing, fielding questions and wanting to see more photos and then having to travel to meet up if I actually did get anyone interested... the money just wasn't worth the efforts (although it was still a very pretty dress - just not in style at the moment).

And the KonMa method would have caused me to personify the dress and feel awful for abandoning it at a grungy thrift store... I didn't want to even open the box other than to make sure the dress actually was in there because seeing it or handling it would cause me to attach HARD again. I already have to avoid naming my current car and other everyday objects as the last time I had to trade in a vehicle for instance, I bawled like freaking baby because "Aggie" had been with me for 17 years and I felt like I was having her put to sleep like a pet.
Totally understood, Frankies Girl.  Glad that you were able to do it anyway!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on October 18, 2016, 10:39:15 AM
So I sent something to charity last week I have just thought of a use for. Argh! However, PSA, the world hasn't stopped turning. It turns out I'm... just fine. A little bummed, but life goes on. The decluttering does get easier!

I have to take back my no-regrets statement too. Saturday I had a yard sale and got rid of "duplicate" hand tools. Somehow I sold my only trowel for 50 cents. Now I have to patch some cement this week. Argh! They are pretty small patches so I will make do with a plastic knife.

Bravo on the wedding dress, Frankies Girl.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on October 18, 2016, 10:53:09 AM
Wow, you totally just made the leap, Frankies Girl! Awesome job!

Don't feel bad about not selling it -- the key here was decluttering, and you rocked it! The fact that it was hard just makes it that much more meaningful that you DID it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on October 19, 2016, 10:48:32 AM
Wow, you totally just made the leap, Frankies Girl! Awesome job!

Don't feel bad about not selling it -- the key here was decluttering, and you rocked it! The fact that it was hard just makes it that much more meaningful that you DID it!

You are doing better then me.  I am using you as inspiration.  I still have my wedding dress, and I am divorced.  Plus assorted bridesmaid dresses, most of which are horrible, and the one nice one (a bit like Kate's dress) is too small (many years and a baby ago).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on October 19, 2016, 04:03:27 PM
Dress is gone! Dropped off at goodwill this afternoon and the went to the grocery and bought crap food, came home, ate lots of crap and had a very minor panic attack and the took an epic nap. But it is gone and I think I am just going to pretend it is around here for a while until it doesn't cause me to feel bad thinking about it.

And yes I am happy I did it. But fighting the programming is still hard.

Well done! Someone is going to love it - even if you worry that the style is dated a talented seamstress can turn it into something else entirely. I sure some bride is going to be thrilled.


This.  Example:  A seamstress I know has a client who is going to have a steampunk wedding.  She bought a wedding dress at a thrift shop, is going to dye it down from the bright white, and add kerchiefs and such to it.  She showed us an example.  Fantastic!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 19, 2016, 04:42:55 PM
Today I decluttered 27 dishtowels, dish rags, and hot pads. All were stained, torn, or generally ratty. Even with getting rid of all that, I have a more than adequate supply of kitchen towels, hot pads/mitts, etc.

The more I think about it, I decide that the reason my house has more things than I have storage for, is that this house is like a dammed up lake. Water from above enters the lake, but doesn't leave until it rises above the level of the dam. For years and years I've bought things, my husband has bought things, and we've been given things. The level of stuff in the house went up all the time. Every once in a while I would get tired of clutter and I'd donate or throw a box of stuff away, but since we were always buying/receiving things, the level of crap really never went down.

The last two months (ever since our basement flood) has been the first time I've systematically gone through rooms/drawers/closets and tossed without mercy. If something hasn't been used or worn in a year, or doesn't provide utility or beauty, out it goes. I'm not totally into the Marie Kondo method, but once or twice I have asked myself whether something made me feel good, or was I just keeping it out of guilt, sentiment, or fear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 19, 2016, 07:15:57 PM
Today I decluttered 27 dishtowels, dish rags, and hot pads. All were stained, torn, or generally ratty. Even with getting rid of all that, I have a more than adequate supply of kitchen towels, hot pads/mitts, etc.

The more I think about it, I decide that the reason my house has more things than I have storage for, is that this house is like a dammed up lake. Water from above enters the lake, but doesn't leave until it rises above the level of the dam. For years and years I've bought things, my husband has bought things, and we've been given things. The level of stuff in the house went up all the time. Every once in a while I would get tired of clutter and I'd donate or throw a box of stuff away, but since we were always buying/receiving things, the level of crap really never went down.

The last two months (ever since our basement flood) has been the first time I've systematically gone through rooms/drawers/closets and tossed without mercy. If something hasn't been used or worn in a year, or doesn't provide utility or beauty, out it goes. I'm not totally into the Marie Kondo method, but once or twice I have asked myself whether something made me feel good, or was I just keeping it out of guilt, sentiment, or fear.

Great progress CU Tiger. The more storage you have, the more stuff you have.

I live in a small apartment. It was liberating when I could finally just put things away instead of playing Tetris with the contents of a cupboard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on October 20, 2016, 01:50:12 PM
I FINALLY messaged a friend to see if she could make use of my small cache of knitting supplies. I haven't touched any of it in years and just kept thinking "I'll contact friend A, B, or C and give it to them" but never actually did it (don't see any of these friends very often). Hopefully, the items will be exiting sometime next week when we meet for a drink!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 20, 2016, 04:11:43 PM
Got rid of an ice cooler and a wall photoframe. Gave them to my house cleaner who was so happy to get them. Thinking I should get rid of some clothes while I'm at it as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 20, 2016, 04:13:31 PM
Office clean-out day.

I'm tossing a couple of hundred newspapers, offloading books and magazines to colleagues, and recycling a pile of notes I no longer need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 21, 2016, 03:04:58 AM

The more I think about it, I decide that the reason my house has more things than I have storage for, is that this house is like a dammed up lake. Water from above enters the lake, but doesn't leave until it rises above the level of the dam. For years and years I've bought things, my husband has bought things, and we've been given things. The level of stuff in the house went up all the time. Every once in a while I would get tired of clutter and I'd donate or throw a box of stuff away, but since we were always buying/receiving things, the level of crap really never went down.


This is really key. I stopped bringing in ANYTHING except food. I mean, even 'consumable' stuff I stopped, until we ran out, so I could see what it was like to be without.

Makeup remover? I just never bought it again, because actually, I prefer face wipes. I ran out of those, and after a couple of days decided yes, I do want to 'stock' them.

I have reduced the number of 'products' in my house so much this way. Turns out dish soap is fine for pretty much all household cleaning, and we both reach for it anyway, since it is on the counter and the 'multi-purpose' cleaner was under the sink. I never replaced it.

Ladies shave gel? Actually, conditioner works perfectly and is helping me use up three half used bottles that would last for years if I only used them on my head.

Q-tips? Yes, useful. Replenished.

The only thing I didn't let us fully run out of was toothpaste & loo roll. Everything else it was really eye opening to try a substitute and see if I liked the results any less.

Also, this may seem mean, but gifts? I decide straight away - would I have BOUGHT this if I had the budget? If not, it gets put in the donate box immediately. I don't need to feel guilty / wonder / obsess over it for a few months and then give it away. I thank the giver genuinely, because I am thankful that they were thinking of me, and know I can pass the item onto someone who will love it more, whilst honouring the giver's intention of making me feel loved and special.

Sidenote - no-one has ever asked where a gift they have given me is. Just like I would never ask someone else that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wintersun on October 21, 2016, 10:04:17 AM
@theadvicist, 

Yes I found great relief at allowing things to run out as well. I had so many lotions and shampoos and travel conditioners and spare make up remover bottles and multiple bottles of aspirin and so on.  I always used to just buy more stuff occasionally until I was haunted by bottles.  I must confess I did get rid of a few things but mainly I let them run out and now have one of each thing and no more. Aaaaaah!  What a freeing feeling.  I still have about 5 different tubes of lotion but they are on their last legs.

I was in a pharmacy yesterday and that old urge to restock came over me and I shook it off and moved on to the cashier with the one item I went to buy. Phew!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on October 21, 2016, 10:36:12 AM
Makeup remover? I just never bought it again, because actually, I prefer face wipes. I ran out of those, and after a couple of days decided yes, I do want to 'stock' them.

I fell in love with a cleanser from FatFaceCo that was an oil based cleanser that worked well for waterproof makeup remover. I ran out and did not replace it and instead tried using coconut oil (I already have a jar for moisturizing purposes in the bathroom) and wouldn't you know it worked just the same!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lbdance on October 22, 2016, 12:59:25 AM
My DH is out at a friends birthday tonight. I'm at home looking after the tiny person. Time to reorganise the lounge. And a few things will probably end up in the donate box

Love the concept of a donate box, really easy to get rid of stuff. Having it there, but out of site, is a great way to remove the needing something two seconds after you get rid of it.
One box is already in the car ready to drop off when we go out tomorrow.

We are planning to relocating in the next year or two (based round tiny people and the lifestyle we want to promote for them) and that's a great motivator to ask myself "do I really want to shift this?" and/or "does this fit in my ideal home?"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on October 22, 2016, 01:02:08 PM
I've been attacking my office for the past two weeks. I've been selling a lot online lately and stuff has just been flying out of the house! Generally small stuff, some books, a board game, a lamp et cetera. Really happy with the progress! Some things only sell for like 5 bucks, but it adds up quickly.

I live in an old house with built-in closets and I've cleared two of them so extensively that I'm considering just putting my books in there. I now have three bookcases in my office and once I declutter them, I would be able to get rid of all three... and then, I also have a desk in my office that I never really use (I prefer to sit at the kitchen table with my laptop). If I got rid of the desk and the bookcases, using my now-empty built-in closets to store my important books, I would only have 1 item left in my office... the litter box.

I think I'll keep the desk. Makes me look less like a crazy cat lady...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on October 24, 2016, 12:34:00 AM
Where is she? Lurking around somewhere. Come on, I know you're online!......

Wishing a very special happy birthday to our resident decluttering expert mustachepungoeshere!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 24, 2016, 01:45:11 AM
Where is she? Lurking around somewhere. Come on, I know you're online!......

Wishing a very special happy birthday to our resident decluttering expert mustachepungoeshere!

Thanks mate! And thanks for being part of my birthday weekend extravaganza! It meant a lot that you were there to celebrate with me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on October 24, 2016, 02:03:59 AM
Happy birthday!


I've put a t-shirt and 2 pairs of work trousers in a donation bag. They no longer fit me, but if I do lose the weight I'm unlikely to be the same shape, so better they go now rather than lurk in my wardrobe indefinitely.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on October 24, 2016, 04:42:31 AM
I have a new rule.

Everytime I walk out the front door, morning and evening, I take something to the bin.

It seems to be working in getting rid of paper, cartons, recyclables, old wallet cards etc. May not be efficient, but it feels good to take things outside, rather than constantly bringing them in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anje on October 24, 2016, 05:29:42 AM
I do a cull of the kitchen every year before christmass. Lets me see if I have something I actually do use that needs replacing (if so it goes on the christmass wish list) and toss out those things I don't use before new things might come in.

I find items I use every day tend to go dodgy without me noticing, so I need to look at them all in one go. Is that pan a-ok? Is that plastic item safe to use? This year I've already replaced my oven and blender, so I do hope nothing else is ready to break. Last year I got new frying pans and plastic containers.

Plan for this week: look at my (ever growing) collection of plastic plant pots and see if I really need a heap of each size or (most likely) can fill my outdoor space to the brim with plants having less of them. Also bring my pile of no longer useable clothes to a place for fabric recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FrugalShrew on October 25, 2016, 05:39:40 PM
Just saw a nice summary of some of the biggest foes in decluttering:
http://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/organizing-tips/g3848/unhappy-clutter-decor/?slide=1

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 27, 2016, 07:47:32 AM
So not so much decluttering, as preventing recluttering. Yesterday at the supermarket there was an offer of two tubs of margarine with a free baking tray for £2. £2!!!!

I put it in my trolley. Then I thought about it and... I would have to make something just to use up the margarine because it's not something we buy. The baking tray wasn't a great shape for my needs - it was square and a rectangle would work better for what I use it for. Also... all that stuff for £2... someone's losing out, and I'm guessing it was whoever had to make that cheap baking tray in China.

I put it back.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on October 27, 2016, 01:37:36 PM
Way to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Miss Piggy on October 27, 2016, 01:47:26 PM
Had a garage sale last weekend. Cleared out the basement (we've been putting stuff down there for months in preparation for the sale) and made $450. Win-win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on October 27, 2016, 08:08:07 PM
Tonight I went back to my filing cabinet and got rid of a stack of papers 4" high. That felt good, especially since it went out in the recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 28, 2016, 02:31:55 AM
Tackled the piles of post and papers. I have stopped most things coming through, but husband is stubborn about keeping a credit card for work expenses which still has paper statements. Made a small pile for him and asked him to sort, since there were only a few items he did.

The rest of the stuff I actioned / filed / binned. I know I should do it daily, but when I've been dealing with paper all day at work it just seems like the final insult to come home to more of it on the doormat, and I let it pile up. Must do better. And carry on unsubscribing from anything I can, it's made a big difference.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on October 28, 2016, 02:36:29 AM
Giving away several things on Buy Nothing today :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nnls on October 28, 2016, 03:28:21 AM
Last week I cleaned out a bunch of books and clothes, and then took them to the swapmeet and sold them, I only made $50 but still better than nothing. everything I didnt sell was donated to the salvos.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on October 29, 2016, 08:30:22 PM
Boyfriend and I did some work on our basement storage locker in our building. In a former life, I was a journalist/newspaper page designer and I think I kept EVERY single one of my clips. Sometimes multiple copies. We're talking daily reporting for 5 years followed by 2 years of design.

Did I mention this was 20 years ago and I don't do this any more so these are little to no value as work samples? And that they all looked pretty awful anyway, all yellowed and sometimes disintegrating? And that I've been hauling these from apartment to apartment since the mid-90s?!?

I got through one entire box of clips. One big plastic bin of them to go. This was harder than I imagined because I really loved these jobs and looking through my work brought back lots of good memories and a sense of accomplishment. I told Boyfriend that I felt like I was throwing out literally years of my life, so much hard work, so many late nights. But I stayed strong and kept only a couple of samples that were my best work, just for the memory.

Also trashed a bunch of handmade craft fair displays that I don't use any more because they don't work with my current setup. Fought that "but if I do X type of show then I'll need something like this" or "maybe it'll be useful someday" syndrome! Still one entire bin of store-bought displays like necklace busts and earring holders, that I can probably sell to some other crafter.

Usually I'm pretty ruthless about pitching stuff but these two categories - craft show supplies/displays and my past work - are tough for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 30, 2016, 05:12:47 AM
Brought 2 bags to Goodwill yesterday but haven't made much progress other than that.  Need to renew my efforts :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on October 30, 2016, 09:09:59 AM
Finally drove a couple boxes that were sitting in the garage to Goodwill. But it seems like ItsDeductible is having serious issues since their update, it keeps eating my data. Very frustrating. Anyone else having this problem?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on October 30, 2016, 09:39:48 AM
I have sort of slowed down on my decluttering efforts lately. I did give a huge load of stuff away in August, but not much since then. I have some craft stuff by the door to give to a lady that can use it, and I will make another attack on the basement. Posting here to make sure I follow through. if I do it before Tuesday, it will still count for October. lol.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on October 30, 2016, 11:56:15 AM
Yesterday I sent off a bag of canning jar rings to someone on Facebook.  I still need to get rid of another bag.  This morning tossed some stuff that was in the work space in the garage (like empty packaging that "might be useful someday, and a pair of shoes that were worn out and missing the insoles).

Getting closer to having all my the garden produce put up for winter.  I think having piles of tomatoes and potatoes and things laying around counts as clutter.

And DH's football season is coming to a close, so he can put all that crap away, and we might have clear counter spaces in the house again.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mel70 on October 30, 2016, 12:55:21 PM
I've always wanted to paint and draw. I have some materials and they are hard to part with. I don't use them but I'm hopeful. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on October 30, 2016, 02:23:08 PM
I've always wanted to paint and draw. I have some materials and they are hard to part with. I don't use them but I'm hopeful. :D

It's hard for me to do this as well, because it's for me an admission that I did not do the thing I wanted to do.  I don't really care about the stuff itself, just what it represents.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on October 30, 2016, 02:24:07 PM
I only pop in here once in a while but you all keep inspiring me!  Just posted a few toys on an online sale group just now . . . but should probably just bring them all to the thrift shop!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: fidgiegirl on October 30, 2016, 02:26:46 PM
I should add that I am rereading Simplicity Parenting and this is encouraging me to revisit and pare down the visual clutter, physical clutter and choices my boy has access to.  I am beginning to wonder if he doesn't have some anxiety as falling asleep is difficult for him - fights it tooth and nail - and he doesn't do it on his own, only with momma or daddy laying with him.  I wonder if some changes in the household might help.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on October 30, 2016, 10:18:36 PM
Good progress this week - removed pictures from a few frames on the wall and the shelf that I hate to dust and donated them. Worked through 3 big boxes of supplies from former side gig and sold 1 box for $60, trashed one box, and have a drop off date booked for the third.  I could have made $100-200 for the supplies but I just wanted it gone so I advertised it that way and it was taken away within a few hours. Feeling so free and calm now. I should have done this ages ago.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on October 31, 2016, 03:22:31 AM
I've always wanted to paint and draw. I have some materials and they are hard to part with. I don't use them but I'm hopeful. :D

I was like this with jewellery making (and the supplies). I always thought I wanted to do it and would give it a go sometime!

But then I realised. I have plenty of free time. I choose to use it dressmaking and cooking. So actually, I didn't want to do the jewellery making as much as I thought I did, or I would have done it already.

I wanted to want to make jewellery. But I had the supplies and the time available, so it turns out I didn't actually want to make jewellery.

Just my experience.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 31, 2016, 03:40:38 AM
We got a large plastic tub of DH's old toys from his mum a couple of months ago. Last week I sorted it into what I thought would be the "keep" and "Chuck" piles, then left him to check over and change anything I'd gotten wrong. We've kept at most a quarter of the box! It made it easier on him to have it pre-sorted. It's easier to answer "right pile - y/n" than for him to pick up each piece, try to recollect memories, then get sentimental, and find it hard to do more than a piece or two at once.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 31, 2016, 06:16:07 AM
Got rid of a bag of clothing. Too big or worn out. 

Returned a borrowed book.

Delivered a fairly large piece of art.

Slow and steady for me. I did the big purge a couple years ago, now I am finding empty space in my cupboards. I guess I completely changed my consumption patterns.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on October 31, 2016, 06:25:27 AM
I did some Spring (or Autumn) cleaning today and found some more rubbish and things to be binned or put into the recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on October 31, 2016, 07:13:23 AM
Listed some items on a local Facebook group that didn't sell at the yard sale. Now I'm going through the no-show reschedule crud that I remember from Craigslist. Next stop Freecycle. You can just leave free stuff on the front steps and be done with it.

Today is a massive eBay listing day for things that were too good for the yard sale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on October 31, 2016, 09:25:46 AM
Listed some items on a local Facebook group that didn't sell at the yard sale. Now I'm going through the no-show reschedule crud that I remember from Craigslist. Next stop Freecycle. You can just leave free stuff on the front steps and be done with it.

Today is a massive eBay listing day for things that were too good for the yard sale.

I recommend checking for a local Buy Nothing Project if you have one in your area. Way less flakey than random internet people, plus you get to know your neighbors which is pretty cool. Way more limited scope of who knows my address, which I prefer!

The craigslist thing is so frustrating though. I've ended up super judgmental about grammar. IME, the better the grammar the less likely to no-show. Which I suppose ends up being classist, but it saves enough aggravation for me I just don't care. One I gave myself permission to do this, my no-show rate dropped substantially.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on November 01, 2016, 11:55:07 AM
I recommend checking for a local Buy Nothing Project if you have one in your area. Way less flakey than random internet people, plus you get to know your neighbors which is pretty cool. Way more limited scope of who knows my address, which I prefer!

The craigslist thing is so frustrating though. I've ended up super judgmental about grammar. IME, the better the grammar the less likely to no-show. Which I suppose ends up being classist, but it saves enough aggravation for me I just don't care. One I gave myself permission to do this, my no-show rate dropped substantially.

Yup. The one coming today at 5, supposedly, already bailed once. Perfect grammar. I think she's a flipper. Good luck to her, trying to ship the huge glass punch bowl she's picking up. My local Facebook groups are such a joke. Half the members are not really from the town and a very high percentage are the same people trying to get a flip deal on Craigslist. I don't care about the flipping except that they tend to respond to everything possible immediately and then decide if they are really going to follow through or not.

My 2 best yard sale customers were professional junkers who, between the two of them, almost cleaned me out. Fair on offers, when I could understand them. One guy carried his yard sale quarters in a knotted handkerchief. I'll take that sort of customer any day.

I am lucky to have 2 free groups for my town. We have FreeCycle AND BuyNothing although I haven't listed anything with either yet. You are right. I should just go that route.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on November 01, 2016, 12:08:49 PM
I recommend checking for a local Buy Nothing Project if you have one in your area. Way less flakey than random internet people, plus you get to know your neighbors which is pretty cool. Way more limited scope of who knows my address, which I prefer!

The craigslist thing is so frustrating though. I've ended up super judgmental about grammar. IME, the better the grammar the less likely to no-show. Which I suppose ends up being classist, but it saves enough aggravation for me I just don't care. One I gave myself permission to do this, my no-show rate dropped substantially.

Yup. The one coming today at 5, supposedly, already bailed once. Perfect grammar. I think she's a flipper. Good luck to her, trying to ship the huge glass punch bowl she's picking up. My local Facebook groups are such a joke. Half the members are not really from the town and a very high percentage are the same people trying to get a flip deal on Craigslist. I don't care about the flipping except that they tend to respond to everything possible immediately and then decide if they are really going to follow through or not.

My 2 best yard sale customers were professional junkers who, between the two of them, almost cleaned me out. Fair on offers, when I could understand them. One guy carried his yard sale quarters in a knotted handkerchief. I'll take that sort of customer any day.

I am lucky to have 2 free groups for my town. We have FreeCycle AND BuyNothing although I haven't listed anything with either yet. You are right. I should just go that route.

Wow, I'm pretty shocked your Buy Nothing culture is so different over there! I'll admit I'm pretty biased, because I'm an admin for my local group, but that really surprises me. Sorry that's been your experience!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on November 02, 2016, 07:07:17 AM
Noooo! It's not BuyNothing with the problems, it's the local Facebook groups for my town. You know, like [townname] Online Yard Sale. I'm a member of BuyNothing and Freecycle so I see the posts but I haven't tried offering on them yet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 02, 2016, 12:18:54 PM
I went through some bookshelves and pulled some books to be donated to our local library.

I also downloaded Decluttr and scanned some of them to see what they are worth. Sadly, almost nothing. This will remind me that once brought into the house, these suckers will depreciate faster than a car leaving the sales lot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 04, 2016, 12:33:06 AM
Nice work, people, keep it up! :D

I discarded two puzzles and half a dozen craft magazines today. I also have a "make your own clock" set that looks brand new and hasn't been opened, so I'm donating that to a Christmas Toy Run.

Fingers crossed DH will go through the board games with me tonight, we have some that have been unopened for years (plastic wrap and everything still on, as-new, but they're his, not mine...)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: englyn on November 04, 2016, 01:26:45 AM
I volunteer to relieve you of any surplus board games! Will swap for ... um... not sure. Marmalade?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 04, 2016, 02:13:24 AM
I volunteer to relieve you of any surplus board games! Will swap for ... um... not sure. Marmalade?
I was gonna donate to the kiddies. We're talking Simpsons themed chess and dr who Monopoly. Still interested? (Obviously DH probably has a say in this...)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 04, 2016, 09:09:01 AM
Please give me some encouragement, fellow declutterers.

I was buying some (much needed) winter running gear, and was given three free pairs of running socks with my purchase. Actually, I do need them, my running socks are worn at the heel so that there are only threads going in one direction.

But then... I know that they are still functional. I have been for two runs now since the purchase, and both times I have selected the new socks. So I know I will not end up using the old ones until they rub all the way through to holes unless I put the new ones away somewhere.

But then I think, these socks have done their job... let them go. But I can't help but think they have life left in them, and it's an irresponsible waste (environmentally) not to use them 'all the way up'. I would recycle them at our local recycling centre.

Please give me permission to get rid of these socks! I don't know why I'm struggling with this so much.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 04, 2016, 09:16:16 AM
Theadvicist, the socks have done their duty and if you were to wear them until holey, they would then be doing a disservice to your feet, which work much better in good socks.

Does that help?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on November 04, 2016, 12:05:14 PM
I was buying some (much needed) winter running gear, and was given three free pairs of running socks with my purchase. Actually, I do need them, my running socks are worn at the heel so that there are only threads going in one direction.

Please give me permission to get rid of these socks! I don't know why I'm struggling with this so much.

You old socks are not protecting either you or your new shoes. Noone else needs socks that won't protect them.

Thank them for their service, and throw them out. Harsh wording, I know. ;)

Welcome the new socks wholeheartedly into your life.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 05, 2016, 08:30:09 AM
Do you really want blood (from the blisters your old socks are going to give you) on your shoes?  Throw the socks.  Use them for cleaning rags.  But no more wearing them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on November 05, 2016, 03:31:54 PM
I posted about this one in "made your day,' and I'm not generally a declutterer, but this is too good not to leave here:


Today we sold not one, not two, but three trucks that no longer run. Money in our pockets, the trucks will be rehabbed and put to good use again, and the woods around the house are nearly dead vehicle-free! Plus the buyer brought three (much younger than us) friends and hauled them all down off this mountain without us having to do more than help direct things.The only (not serious) downside is I'm no longer in the running at all for oldest Mustachian vehicle - one of them was our '71 Dodge Power Wagon. But I think I was out once it quit running, anyway. The '81 Tercel (which does run) is now our resident antique.$2,500 for all three , so not what we had in them, but then we got long years of use out of them all. We did, however, have under 10k in all of them put together (purchase price, not counting DIY maintenance and repairs), and we'd had the Dodge for over 20 years and ran it for more than half that, and one of the others for more than 10, ran it for about 8.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 06, 2016, 05:17:55 PM
As I've been decluttering I have found some things that just got postponed and postponed because I didn't know what to do with them.  Help?!?

Medals - DD (and me to a much lesser extent) used to compete in an activity where lots of medals got handed out.  I now have a grocery bag full of medals on ribbons, many with little clips.  They are from a bunch of different host groups, and do not get reused.  I hate to just throw them out, but they are so specific I can't see using them for something else (unless I do Christmas tree ornaments or streamers with them,but that is a desperation move).  Any suggestions?  Or just throw out?  They are not even worth putting in recyclng.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 06, 2016, 05:30:48 PM
As I've been decluttering I have found some things that just got postponed and postponed because I didn't know what to do with them.  Help?!?

Medals - DD (and me to a much lesser extent) used to compete in an activity where lots of medals got handed out.  I now have a grocery bag full of medals on ribbons, many with little clips.  They are from a bunch of different host groups, and do not get reused.  I hate to just throw them out, but they are so specific I can't see using them for something else (unless I do Christmas tree ornaments or streamers with them,but that is a desperation move).  Any suggestions?  Or just throw out?  They are not even worth putting in recyclng.
coin collection plastic sleeves may have pockets the right size for the medals, then you can have a ring binder to flick through instead of the bag.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on November 06, 2016, 06:56:24 PM
Dropped off a bag at the local consignment shop. It sat around for years without being used before I got the wherewithal to cart it down. One. Less. Thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on November 06, 2016, 08:22:19 PM
Threw out a 20 year old bottle of clear nail polish. I used it just a few months ago to glue to ends of some threads but tonight it was almost solid.

Wore out a pair of yellow rubber gloves.

Did some sewing using supplies I had.  Emptied and tossed a spool of ribbon.

My shampoo is getting low and I'm very tempted to buy more but I keep reminding myself to wait until it is actually all used up.  Last time I bought some a friend ended up giving me some fancy stuff.  It's taken me several years to use it all.  This time I'm going to wait until the need is real! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on November 06, 2016, 08:32:50 PM
As I've been decluttering I have found some things that just got postponed and postponed because I didn't know what to do with them.  Help?!?

Medals - DD (and me to a much lesser extent) used to compete in an activity where lots of medals got handed out.  I now have a grocery bag full of medals on ribbons, many with little clips.  They are from a bunch of different host groups, and do not get reused.  I hate to just throw them out, but they are so specific I can't see using them for something else (unless I do Christmas tree ornaments or streamers with them,but that is a desperation move).  Any suggestions?  Or just throw out?  They are not even worth putting in recyclng.

Pick 1-3 of the most meaningful, and frame with a picture of you guys in the event. Then it can be on display, and loved. Release the rest. If they're in storage, you aren't finding them useful or beautiful already.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 07, 2016, 05:46:52 AM
Anatidae V and Bracken Joy, good suggestions - but - we have trophies too (we got better).  So displaying them as medals is not really needed, I am trying to think of alternate uses.  For medals and for ribbons.  I can't donate the medals, it wouldn't be right that someone could have medals for something they didn't do.  I could donate all the ribbons they hung on though, someone else might have a group that could use them. So the choices are alternate use, or garbage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 07, 2016, 06:26:42 AM
I've seen breakfast trays covered with coins and a clear sealant, maybe something like that? I don't know that medals really have a use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 07, 2016, 06:46:01 AM
I've seen breakfast trays covered with coins and a clear sealant, maybe something like that? I don't know that medals really have a use.
If the kid that earned the medals were still at home, that would be a fun idea. 

It looks like they may be off to the garbage - I will actually put them in recycling (in a bag) in case the metal can be re-used.  Ribbons to donations.  The don't take up that much room, but every time I am sorting and pick them up they are a mental weight.  Time to be gone!

OR, maybe keep them and see how they do as small Christmas tree ornaments, and then if that works keep a few, ditch the rest.  Hmm, maybe keep them to hang on the cherry trees (the birds presently get 99.9% of the cherries, I should net them), would the flashing metal keep birds away?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 07, 2016, 11:42:31 AM
Brought some books to the local library. I'm slowly going through my shelves.

Brought four boxes of instant pudding also, as they are doing a Thanksgiving food collection at the moment. (I don't eat pudding unless it's sugar free).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on November 08, 2016, 12:25:56 PM
Someone in my neighborhood started a Goodwill run. They put big plastic bags in our mailboxes with the request to fill them with usable clothes/shoes and put them on the curb on Friday morning to pick them up. I put out 1 bag of shoes and two bags of coats and sweaters I no longer use. Only had to put them on the curb and off they went! Fantastic. I love when I get to be lazy! Next pick up is in six weeks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on November 09, 2016, 11:37:30 AM
I'm sure this list of stuff is going to look pretty random and unusual here.  All sold on craigslist or specific car and racing forums:

Pnumatic 20 ton jack on CL.  I gave my son my harbor freight gift card one day.  He bought this thing for reasons unknown.  Didn't keep the box or receipt, so off to a construction guy it went.

Single layer Simpson racing suit and balacava.  Some years ago, I used to own a prepared racecar that required this stuff.  Sold the car long ago.  Someone else can use it now.

Wrangler TJ front spring bag helpers.  I used these to help stiffen up the front end of my 02 Wrangler when I put the snow plow on it.  I sold that Wrangler well over 10 years ago.  Pulled the bags out in case I ever get another.  They don't fit my present Wrangler.  Mailed them to a guy in Maine.

Kids radio flyer wagon:  This had been sitting next to our driveway, in the woods forever.  I first put it into my scrap metal pile, then thought someone else might have use for it, so put it at the end of the driveway and a day later, it was gone.  Glad it's not just getting me $0.01 for the scrap value.

Bunch of watches:  When my dad passed away, I inherited all his watches.  Out of all of them, 2 were of any value.  A 50 year old Longines, which I kept and a citizen eco titanium.  The rest were really novelty junk.  I put up the whole lot on eBay and sold them in one fell swoop.  I haven't worn a watch myself in 10 years.....my phone tells me the time.  Sold the Citizen separately.

I've been slowly going through our bins of toys from our 2 kids.  Most are appropriate for 6 year olds.  My youngest is 16 so you know these will never be used again.  Anything paper or wood is being used for starter for my wood furnace.  Plastic into recycling.  Legos or Brio is kept in a box because I know I can sell these easily on either craigslist or ebay.  I've been known to fill 4 trash barrels with this stuff when the family is gone for a few hours......and nobody even notices any less clutter.  There's that much stuff.  Grandparents never entered the house without a $10 plastic Wal*Mart piece of junk and both wife and one kid are pack rats. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on November 09, 2016, 12:59:43 PM
I'm sure this list of stuff is going to look pretty random and unusual here.  All sold on craigslist or specific car and racing forums:

Pnumatic 20 ton jack on CL.  I gave my son my harbor freight gift card one day.  He bought this thing for reasons unknown.  Didn't keep the box or receipt, so off to a construction guy it went.

Single layer Simpson racing suit and balacava.  Some years ago, I used to own a prepared racecar that required this stuff.  Sold the car long ago.  Someone else can use it now.

Wrangler TJ front spring bag helpers.  I used these to help stiffen up the front end of my 02 Wrangler when I put the snow plow on it.  I sold that Wrangler well over 10 years ago.  Pulled the bags out in case I ever get another.  They don't fit my present Wrangler.  Mailed them to a guy in Maine.

Kids radio flyer wagon:  This had been sitting next to our driveway, in the woods forever.  I first put it into my scrap metal pile, then thought someone else might have use for it, so put it at the end of the driveway and a day later, it was gone.  Glad it's not just getting me $0.01 for the scrap value.

Bunch of watches:  When my dad passed away, I inherited all his watches.  Out of all of them, 2 were of any value.  A 50 year old Longines, which I kept and a citizen eco titanium.  The rest were really novelty junk.  I put up the whole lot on eBay and sold them in one fell swoop.  I haven't worn a watch myself in 10 years.....my phone tells me the time.  Sold the Citizen separately.

I've been slowly going through our bins of toys from our 2 kids.  Most are appropriate for 6 year olds.  My youngest is 16 so you know these will never be used again.  Anything paper or wood is being used for starter for my wood furnace.  Plastic into recycling.  Legos or Brio is kept in a box because I know I can sell these easily on either craigslist or ebay.  I've been known to fill 4 trash barrels with this stuff when the family is gone for a few hours......and nobody even notices any less clutter.  There's that much stuff.  Grandparents never entered the house without a $10 plastic Wal*Mart piece of junk and both wife and one kid are pack rats.

Excellent job, Car Jack!  Very methodical and inspiring!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 09, 2016, 03:25:57 PM
Tossed a lot of papers today. And more books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on November 09, 2016, 03:57:48 PM
Cleaned out the fridge - feels like de-cluttering to me.  :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on November 09, 2016, 04:32:37 PM
ItsDeductible finally is working again, so I logged my last goodwill trip. FINALLY.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on November 09, 2016, 05:11:59 PM
Out:

A dried up bottle of super glue

A old  pair of panties

A used up notebook

A small pile of receipts

The packaging for my mace (why did I keep it?!)



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 10, 2016, 06:17:19 AM
Cleaned out the fridge - feels like de-cluttering to me.  :)

I keep our fridge soooo minimalist now, and it gives me joy everytime I open the door! I don't buy interesting condiments etc because they always became suspect before I finished them. It makes such a difference to my serenity being able to see everything I have in at a glance, and knowing nothing is 'lurking' at the back.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 10, 2016, 07:04:36 AM
Well, I'm in the UK, so I think I have (as most people do) what you would call a mini-fridge or a bar fridge or something? 600mm wide and fits under the worktop.

Even then it's never full (except for parties), though I admit the only fruit I keep in there is grapes, everything else is on the worktop, which is not possible in some climates, I know.

Yes, we do call big fridges "American" fridge freezers!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 10, 2016, 11:45:09 AM
Basement entryway only...Tackled in 15 minute increments over the weekend and first two days of this week. I threw away one huge garbage bag, took a laundry basket full to Goodwill, and put away about 2 garbage bags full of stuff in the rightful location in said basement.  Dusted, wiped, and vacuumed 1/2 of the basement.  My dirty secret is getting less dirty. I still need to sell/donate a hoarder's anonymous amount of stuff from the storage area of the basement, but at least that door closes (and locks) in case of company....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on November 10, 2016, 12:03:28 PM
This one's embarrassing to admit.. Back when we bought our house in August, the homeowners left a few things. One was a set of big glass food storage jars- one filled part way with sugar, the other white flour. I wanted to keep the jars, but not knowing how old the food was, was not going to use it! So I just needed to empty and clean them. And you know what? I FINALLY did today. So now they'll be off the counter and holding useful items (or on the counter and holding useful items- either way, they won't be Totems of Procrastination Shame now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 10, 2016, 06:26:19 PM
I finally got the 2 kiddie craft kits still pristine in their boxes put the door for the Christmas toy run yesterday, and today I'm taking in the board games :) so glad to be passing them on! Plus two puzzles to be dropped in the Sammie's bin, because they're already opened.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nnls on November 10, 2016, 07:45:32 PM
My spare bedroom is now completely empty with nothing in any of the cupboards. I know I should probably utilise this space and rent it out or something but I enjoy living by myself for the moment (not very mustachian I know)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on November 11, 2016, 02:39:31 AM
We had a spring cleaning afternoon at work today. I chucked years and years of paperwork that was collecting dust on my desk.

It's so amazingly clean now, I'm almost afraid to keep anything on it for fear of spoiling it!!!

All that is there is a monitor screen and a desk phone. Even the laptop is put away in a draw when not in use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 11, 2016, 03:32:41 AM
Medals - DD (and me to a much lesser extent) used to compete in an activity where lots of medals got handed out.  I now have a grocery bag full of medals on ribbons, many with little clips.  They are from a bunch of different host groups, and do not get reused.  I hate to just throw them out, but they are so specific I can't see using them for something else (unless I do Christmas tree ornaments or streamers with them,but that is a desperation move).  Any suggestions?  Or just throw out?  They are not even worth putting in recyclng.

I posted this idea earlier in the thread.

Some churches who do mission trips to poorer countries collect medals and trophies (regardless of sport/event) and hand them out to kids as prizes for soccer, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 11, 2016, 05:04:35 AM
Or the medals, would they be fun for dress up? Perhaps a local children's centre / preschool could use them if you can't find a Church with the programme mentioned above.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 12, 2016, 07:02:09 AM
Rearranged my walk in closet this morning.  I put away a few things for consignment and basically moved everything onto one side of the closet.  It feels cramped but I'm hoping that the cramped feeling will motivate me to get rid of more stuff.  If I spread the clothes around, it feels like I have lots of space that could be filled with more things...

Got rid of one house plant that was really old and scraggly.  Trying to pack a bag of things for donation as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 12, 2016, 12:15:29 PM
Does anyone know if an enameled cast iron pot can be recycled?  I just bought a replacement for mine because the enamel started wearing off on the old one but I'm not sure what to do with it?  Should I put it in the recycling bin?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on November 12, 2016, 01:51:26 PM
Does anyone know if an enameled cast iron pot can be recycled?  I just bought a replacement for mine because the enamel started wearing off on the old one but I'm not sure what to do with it?  Should I put it in the recycling bin?

Google "scrapping metal in ct" and a bunch of places come up. Call them and see what they buy.

I looked at one CT scrap buyer's web page and they buy tons of things that surprised me. It is worth a phone call.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 12, 2016, 09:27:26 PM
The stuff is getting me down this week.

A birthday means I had more stuff coming in, a weekend away means I had more stuff sitting around, and a busy couple of weeks means I have bagged things up for donation but not actually gotten rid of them.

It's now all piled at the front door, along with some empty cardboard boxes and glass jars for recycling. Time to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 13, 2016, 11:00:52 AM
I  took some clothes to the Salvation Army over the weekend, and just tossed a large amount of paper into the recycle bin.
It is a bit discouraging. I know I'm taking baby steps, but it feels like a drop in the ocean, compared to what's in the house. Attic, basement, and six rooms. oy vey
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on November 13, 2016, 02:14:58 PM
I got another bag of clothes and shoes ready for drop off tomorrow.  It feels good to get some more out.  My walk in is starting to feel emptier.   Love it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 13, 2016, 03:29:19 PM
I took the easy way out this morning and asked my husband to take the pile away to donate.

I did all the work sorting through cupboards and draws and listing on eBay, so he can do this.

Once that load is gone, I can start another round of decluttering ahead of Christmas.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on November 13, 2016, 08:21:13 PM
I'm working on Christmas gifts using supplies on hand.  I finished a package of quilt batting.  I am down to 3 medium sized boxes of supplies and one box of current projects. I could consolidate them more, but this system makes them easy to use. A year ago I thought I didn't have any fabrics left to work with but every few months I manage to go through the boxes and find inspiration for a new project.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 13, 2016, 09:10:53 PM
Feel like I might jinx myself by posting this, but DH ON HIS OWN asked if we could go through some clothes in advance of our Thanksgiving shopping trip. I had him review the Kids' winter clothes donations and shoe donations before putting them in the car, so that had him on the donations thought process. Plus he was trying to avoid yard chores. He donated 35 dress shirts, 11 pants, 7 pairs of shoes, 2 winter coats, and 8 shorts. He balked when we got to polo shirts, t shirts and PJs, so I let it go. He lost a bunch of weight 2 years ago, and hadn't let those larger clothes go. He is by far the clothes pack rat of the family.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on November 13, 2016, 10:10:59 PM
Someone is stopping by this evening to pick up an old chest of drawers and some unused spice racks. Yay!

Yesterday I asked Mr Happier to look through his video games and see if there were any he didn't think he'd play again. He picked ONE out of hundreds. Sigh. Still, he's doing much better with decluttering than he used to - he let me give away four old jigsaw puzzles on the weekend!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: UKMustache on November 14, 2016, 02:15:03 AM
My wife and I are currently undertaking the 'minimalist challenge'. 
I've had a glance over the thread and haven't seen it mentioned elsewhere so I'll explain briefly the idea.

Day 1 - Sell, Trash or Donate 1 item
Day 2 - Sell, Trash or Donate 2 items
Day 3 - Sell, Trash or Donate 3 items

and so forth, we're up to day 14 and have so far removed 105 items from our lives :)

I've been amazed at some of the stuff we've accumulated over the years that I never realised was just completely useless. 

As a for instance we had several nearly empty bottles of spirits that people had brought to parties over the years, we didn't like them but kept them in case the original party goers ever wanted their drink of choice at our house again. 
Some of these bottles were 6 or 7 years old and have moved house with us several times, we haven't seen the people we were saving them for since either!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on November 14, 2016, 09:06:58 AM
In the declutter vein, I packed my travel bag with (imo) minimum stuff for four days away.  Didnt clutter up my backpack with more stuff just because had extra room.  Didn't bring extra books, art supplies, or various other things would have brought in the past due to fear of missing something i might need.  I'll just have to miss it. 

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 14, 2016, 11:44:32 AM
Dropping off six books at the library, and giving one away to an acquaintance at work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: .x. on November 14, 2016, 12:45:05 PM
WootWoot, i thought you said "giving away an acquaintance at work" and I thought that was so awesome!! =:O

Made me think of an acquaintance i am ready to give away! In the interest of deleting and lightening the load. 

Inadvertent inspiration!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on November 14, 2016, 01:25:56 PM

As a for instance we had several nearly empty bottles of spirits that people had brought to parties over the years, we didn't like them but kept them in case the original party goers ever wanted their drink of choice at our house again.

Do you make Christmas cakes or home made mincemeat? Those are pretty flexible in terms of the alcohol you can use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Chranstronaut on November 14, 2016, 02:14:18 PM
Fiance was using the term "spark joy" sarcastically for a few weeks after I showed him how I was following the KonMari method, but I think it sunk in subconsciously over the last few months.  Yesterday, he put a few things in our on-going donation bag because, "they no longer spark joy." ^.^
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: UKMustache on November 15, 2016, 02:52:56 AM

As a for instance we had several nearly empty bottles of spirits that people had brought to parties over the years, we didn't like them but kept them in case the original party goers ever wanted their drink of choice at our house again.

Do you make Christmas cakes or home made mincemeat? Those are pretty flexible in terms of the alcohol you can use.

If we ever find ourselves with left-over booze we don't drink again I'll certainly try that!  The booze has already gone down the toilet and the bottles have been recycled this time though :)

Day 15 of the challenge today.  I threw away 15 miscellaneous items including old watch boxes (I have a fancy watch / cufflink jewelry box my mum bought me for Christmas years ago so the individual boxes don't get used), some old t-shirts and some half-broken headphones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 15, 2016, 11:25:12 AM
I have two days off work this week, and am getting back on the Fly Lady bandwagon after abandoning all by my kitchen habits for Kon Mari.  Kon Mari got ko'd at paper....and since I still have so much paper I stalled out.  Plus I have ADHD, and can't keep with something for very long.

So, back to Flying...it's the main bathroom zone this week.  I've thrown away a full trash bag of 1/2 used items or almost empty items someone put back.  I have a large stash to donate to the homeless shelter that takes partially used grooming products.  I can actually see things on the shelves again - maybe I won't keep buying duplicates.  I also have a large bin of expired meds/vitamins to dispose of at the Fire Department.  Whew. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 15, 2016, 12:44:26 PM
Five more books. A coworker took two; I put one on a table at the library where I work that says "Free" (it's a career guide for young folks) and the others are going to the public library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mel70 on November 15, 2016, 02:43:41 PM
And... out with more books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on November 15, 2016, 08:49:47 PM
Bag of donations going out tomorrow. The bag is by the door so I do not forget it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 17, 2016, 05:44:51 AM
I bought some drawer dividers yesterday. Usually I balk at buying stuff with which to organise. For two reasons: 1) I can often fashion something out of something I already have and 2) usually I don't need to 'organise' I need to declutter.

But I relented because the kitchen utensil drawer is currently divided up by two shoe box lids, and a few old takeaway containers, and they don't fit well and waste space in between. They are also tatty and battered.

I put the new dividers in, and told myself that anything that didn't fit in the specified place had to go. I have put a lettuce knife (I mean, how single-purpose is that?! A regular knife will do just fine thanks*) and a spatula in the donate box. My drawer looks fab.

*It's plastic and is supposed to prevent the cut edges browning. They still brown. Also, I not totally anti single-use knives. My tomato knife changed my life. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on November 17, 2016, 09:17:25 AM
Threw out a piece of scrap carpet I was saving in case I needed to repair the main piece of carpet it came with.  The main carpet has reached the point where it will be replaced in whole if it needs repair.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 17, 2016, 11:38:55 AM
I threw out some plastic and aluminum foil containers that were languishing in the kitchen cupboards. Also an old pair of shoes and a broken nightlight.

This is really eye-opening. You just get used to seeing so much CRAP lying around, it becomes part of your world/the landscape. When you really begin to question every single item...wow. It's life changing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: eeho on November 17, 2016, 04:48:48 PM
I sold a brand new in packaging cappuchino frother today that I've been carting round for about 10 years (and moved with at least 6 times).  Here's hoping that the person who is supposed to buy my old hair straightener turns up today as well!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 17, 2016, 04:51:10 PM
I threw out some plastic and aluminum foil containers that were languishing in the kitchen cupboards. Also an old pair of shoes and a broken nightlight.

This is really eye-opening. You just get used to seeing so much CRAP lying around, it becomes part of your world/the landscape. When you really begin to question every single item...wow. It's life changing.
It's amazing how your tolerance for junk changes as you get used to having less of it around as well!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 19, 2016, 09:37:52 AM

*It's plastic and is supposed to prevent the cut edges browning. They still brown. Also, I not totally anti single-use knives. My tomato knife changed my life.

I rip lettuce - but then I don't like iceberg lettuce so rarely have it in the house to need a knife for.

What makes the tomato knife so special?  I just use a sharp paring/kitchen knife.  Am I missing something?  I do have several small kitchen knives, some are better at tiny tasks (hulling strawberries, for instance) and some are heavier duty (slicing cheese).

Duplicates - I found that with the dishwasher and cooking for one, I needed lots of some things because they collected in the dishwasher and I only ran it every second day.  If I were hand washing on a regular basis I could cut spatulas and tongs by 2/3.  On the other hand I would be using a lot more (expensive) hot water if I did dishes in small numbers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 20, 2016, 03:25:50 AM
I bought some drawer dividers yesterday. Usually I balk at buying stuff with which to organise. For two reasons: 1) I can often fashion something out of something I already have and 2) usually I don't need to 'organise' I need to declutter.

But I relented because the kitchen utensil drawer is currently divided up by two shoe box lids, and a few old takeaway containers, and they don't fit well and waste space in between. They are also tatty and battered.

I put the new dividers in, and told myself that anything that didn't fit in the specified place had to go. I have put a lettuce knife (I mean, how single-purpose is that?! A regular knife will do just fine thanks*) and a spatula in the donate box. My drawer looks fab.

*It's plastic and is supposed to prevent the cut edges browning. They still brown. Also, I not totally anti single-use knives. My tomato knife changed my life.

I've been coveting a new cutlery tray since moving earlier in the year. The kitchen drawers in the new place are three times the size, and I'm not utilising that space properly.

I've held off on spending the money but if I get Christmas money...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on November 20, 2016, 05:06:06 AM
Gave away tea, alcohol and a spare paper towel holder through my local Buy Nothing group.

Mr Happier commented that he feels much more able to release items when he knows someone else needs or wants them :-) Buy Nothing might be the answer to his 'stuff' attachment!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on November 20, 2016, 07:51:24 AM
I have resisted Facebook for all these years.  Sometimes brag about it, but not often because I have to brag then it means it is still affecting me.  But, Buy Nothing may be the thing that breaks me and I join.  Still pondering it.  And also pondering my 2 large storage units full of stuff.  I live in a 23' motor home, but still have the stuff.

On topic:  I sold Mom's portable air conditioner/heat pump yesterday that is part of what is in the storage unit.  It will be gone Wednesday morning and she will be $275 richer.  She moved into an apartment and no longer needs it.  Now to get rid of 2 microwaves, a small carpet cleaning machine...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BeautifulDay on November 20, 2016, 08:04:17 AM
Two tubs of junk ready to go to the charity shop today.  We are getting ready to move from a 3 bed house to a tiny (0-1 bed most likely) apartment in Denver as soon as I find a job.  But starting the clear out now.  I am so excited to move into a smaller place that better fits our needs and lifestyle.  Hate cleaning a big house and hate how big houses collect junk.  By the time they feel cluttered it's too late.  In a tiny place we will have to keep the clutter under control. Yea for freedom from junk. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 20, 2016, 10:14:13 AM
Posted 9 items for sale on CL. And a bag of stuff almost ready to go to Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 20, 2016, 12:56:39 PM
Yesterday was a big day. I took everything off four different bookshelves, vacuumed all the books, and decided which ones I was keeping. I had a lot of cookbooks that I never made a single item from (husband is the cook and he rarely uses books). I rearranged some books so they went into another shelving unit. I try to keep similar subjects together. Also threw out a lot of paper from grad school. I don't even know why I was keeping it. They were early drafts of papers, not even final drafts. I also put in the "toss" pile several old books that I used when I was doing a lot of collage.

One thing I'm having trouble with: Art supplies. Although I have not embroidered in OMG, six or seven years, I can't seem to part with the fabric, the threads and the books I have. It's like I keep saying, "I did enjoy it. I'm going to do it again sometime." Well, if I enjoyed it so much, why haven't I touched these items since 2010? Yet I'm afraid if I get rid of them, I'll be sorry.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 21, 2016, 07:17:51 AM
I have resisted Facebook for all these years.  Sometimes brag about it, but not often because I have to brag then it means it is still affecting me.  But, Buy Nothing may be the thing that breaks me and I join.  Still pondering it.  And also pondering my 2 large storage units full of stuff.  I live in a 23' motor home, but still have the stuff.

On topic:  I sold Mom's portable air conditioner/heat pump yesterday that is part of what is in the storage unit.  It will be gone Wednesday morning and she will be $275 richer.  She moved into an apartment and no longer needs it.  Now to get rid of 2 microwaves, a small carpet cleaning machine...

Craigslist or ebay or similar an option? Not everything is on FB.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 21, 2016, 07:21:54 AM
Earlier this year, a neighbor was an exploding volcano of waste and threw out half a house full of stuff. Roommie and I trashed picked a ton. Microwave, car stereo, sound bar, furniture, baby stuff, etc. Donated some stuff right away (including 2 boxed of diapers!), kept a few things for ourselves, sold a bunch on craigslist, gave a few as gifts to friends. I took the remainder to Goodwill as it clearly wasn't going to sell (or my roommate wasn't going to bother selling, and that was our deal). Boy, is it nice to be able to vacuum where all that stuff was.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 21, 2016, 08:47:41 AM

One thing I'm having trouble with: Art supplies. Although I have not embroidered in OMG, six or seven years, I can't seem to part with the fabric, the threads and the books I have. It's like I keep saying, "I did enjoy it. I'm going to do it again sometime." Well, if I enjoyed it so much, why haven't I touched these items since 2010? Yet I'm afraid if I get rid of them, I'll be sorry.

I had exactly the same struggle. I decided to let them go, and let the craft shop store them for me. If I do want to take up cake decorating / jewellery making / embroidery again I will buy some new supplies, and actually, that will make the whole thing more fun! Looking at them in the corner instead fills me with dread, like they are remonstrating with me for ignoring them, so the supplies somehow suck the joy out of the thought of doing that thing anyway. Does that make sense or help at all?


I rip lettuce - but then I don't like iceberg lettuce so rarely have it in the house to need a knife for.

What makes the tomato knife so special?  I just use a sharp paring/kitchen knife.  Am I missing something?  I do have several small kitchen knives, some are better at tiny tasks (hulling strawberries, for instance) and some are heavier duty (slicing cheese).

Duplicates - I found that with the dishwasher and cooking for one, I needed lots of some things because they collected in the dishwasher and I only ran it every second day.  If I were hand washing on a regular basis I could cut spatulas and tongs by 2/3.  On the other hand I would be using a lot more (expensive) hot water if I did dishes in small numbers.

Yes, I too rip all lettuce except iceberg, which I only use for fajitas. So it really was the most single-purpose and therefore stupid knife ever. Glad it's gone.

The tomato knife is serated, which makes it easy to make that first cut in the shiny skin without it bouncing off. It's wavy along it's length so that the slice of tomato doesn't stick to it once cut. It's Global brand, and cost the ridiculous price of £70, but it was a birthday gift for my husband and genuinely improves my quality of life every day. We eat a lot of tomatoes! 

And my decluttering for the weekend: I went through all the paperwork from our new mortgage we completed on over the summer. There was a huge stack! Got it down to a small folder with just the important legal stuff. I am hopeful that this is our last ever mortgage! I would like to be done with it before DH turns 40.

This also gave me figures and head room for some FIRE calculations. All on track for 48 for DH and 45 for me. Pretty shocked by that as we have never been big earners. The power of MMM and maths!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 21, 2016, 12:21:42 PM
Yes, that does help. It's funny--I had a dream last night that I was trying to make something to embroider, and the experience was awful! Maybe it's a sign...


One thing I'm having trouble with: Art supplies. Although I have not embroidered in OMG, six or seven years, I can't seem to part with the fabric, the threads and the books I have. It's like I keep saying, "I did enjoy it. I'm going to do it again sometime." Well, if I enjoyed it so much, why haven't I touched these items since 2010? Yet I'm afraid if I get rid of them, I'll be sorry.

I had exactly the same struggle. I decided to let them go, and let the craft shop store them for me. If I do want to take up cake decorating / jewellery making / embroidery again I will buy some new supplies, and actually, that will make the whole thing more fun! Looking at them in the corner instead fills me with dread, like they are remonstrating with me for ignoring them, so the supplies somehow suck the joy out of the thought of doing that thing anyway. Does that make sense or help at all?


I rip lettuce - but then I don't like iceberg lettuce so rarely have it in the house to need a knife for.

What makes the tomato knife so special?  I just use a sharp paring/kitchen knife.  Am I missing something?  I do have several small kitchen knives, some are better at tiny tasks (hulling strawberries, for instance) and some are heavier duty (slicing cheese).

Duplicates - I found that with the dishwasher and cooking for one, I needed lots of some things because they collected in the dishwasher and I only ran it every second day.  If I were hand washing on a regular basis I could cut spatulas and tongs by 2/3.  On the other hand I would be using a lot more (expensive) hot water if I did dishes in small numbers.

Yes, I too rip all lettuce except iceberg, which I only use for fajitas. So it really was the most single-purpose and therefore stupid knife ever. Glad it's gone.

The tomato knife is serated, which makes it easy to make that first cut in the shiny skin without it bouncing off. It's wavy along it's length so that the slice of tomato doesn't stick to it once cut. It's Global brand, and cost the ridiculous price of £70, but it was a birthday gift for my husband and genuinely improves my quality of life every day. We eat a lot of tomatoes! 

And my decluttering for the weekend: I went through all the paperwork from our new mortgage we completed on over the summer. There was a huge stack! Got it down to a small folder with just the important legal stuff. I am hopeful that this is our last ever mortgage! I would like to be done with it before DH turns 40.

This also gave me figures and head room for some FIRE calculations. All on track for 48 for DH and 45 for me. Pretty shocked by that as we have never been big earners. The power of MMM and maths!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 22, 2016, 10:10:39 AM
And today, tossed some books and donated some others.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 22, 2016, 11:50:00 AM
DH's closet refresh continues.  He identified 15 t-shirts to let go. His side of the closet looks AMAZING. He also found winter pjs from last year....that hadn't been washed. (Eww gross.)

FIRE house - basement demo was completed and we threw away 2 big black trash bags of remaining items that had been in there and the final nails/bits from the walls.  Now that protruding nails are not a problem, we were finally able to move the construction supplies from the main level back to the basement without worrying about someone tripping and catching themselves on an exposed nail.

Found about 2 large plastic bins full of unused construction stuff to return to various stores if possible...if not, it will go to ReStore.  Threw out one large plastic trash bag of broken toys/games/etc.  The house looks so much better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on November 23, 2016, 08:56:41 AM
I hosted a clothing swap and now have tons of stuff left over (I didn't insist on people removing their not-taken stuff). I've sorted it into different bags but without a car to easily ferry, it's all sitting in my bedroom! So I need to commit to going home after work starting next week and taking the bags out to their various new homes for donation. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BeautifulDay on November 23, 2016, 08:26:28 PM
Went thru the Christmas decorations today.  Downsized from two tubs to one by getting rid of anything we didn't absolutely love.  I adore my minimalist decorations - always had them, but they were hidden in all the extra crap we collected over the years.   

We got rid of our tree two years ago.  Didn't want to buy and store another fake tree.  They take up too much space and can end up smelling musty.  And I don't like the idea of cutting down real trees for Christmas since they end up in the trash after Christmas.  What a waste.  So I'm going to use a plastic table top tree that I got from my grandmother when she passed away.  It is the cutest retro 50s tree and brings me joy to think of her and remember that tree in my grandma's house and all the other Christmas memories. 

Now our decorations are meaningful to us and reflect our personality and style.  Perfect.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: UKMustache on November 24, 2016, 12:39:40 AM
I tackled two thirds of the filing cabinet of doom yesterday.  It was the home to a whole host of paperwork which was relevant once upon a time.  I filled our recycling bin and will attack the remainder once it gets emptied on Monday.

Highlights included a hotel booking confirmation from a friends wedding in 2010 and some store card statements from 2008.

I also closed an old bank account and two credit cards I'd forgotten about.

It feels like the weight of that pile of papers has been lifted from me, I hadn't realised how anxious I was about sorting it out (I've been putting it off for years and just adding to it).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on November 24, 2016, 03:24:16 AM
Another car load out today. A old push mower, books, cushions, various no longer used linen items,  and clothes. Just how did I mange to accumulate so much stuff.  Aiming for 1 load a month.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 25, 2016, 03:33:26 AM
I don't know if this counts, as I haven't actually got rid of it... but I've downgraded it.

I was hanging up clean laundry when I noticed a series of holes in a bottom sheet. I gave it to DH straight away who needed a dust sheet for a messy job. So it's out of my linen cupboard, but still on the property. Felt good anyway, usually I'd hang onto it but not use it. No more!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 25, 2016, 06:43:14 AM
I don't know if this counts, as I haven't actually got rid of it... but I've downgraded it.

I was hanging up clean laundry when I noticed a series of holes in a bottom sheet. I gave it to DH straight away who needed a dust sheet for a messy job. So it's out of my linen cupboard, but still on the property. Felt good anyway, usually I'd hang onto it but not use it. No more!

We used old sheets to rake up leaves - rake leaves into pile, rake onto sheet, gather up sheet, dump in woods, repeat.  Very efficient.  Reuse is the second R in the 3 Rs after all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 25, 2016, 05:27:16 PM
Loaded some stuff into the car and drove it to its new home. I'm finding the more I do this, the easier it is getting.

I still have a certain amount of weird guilt when it comes to getting rid of gifts I never liked. I keep asking myself, "Do I love this? Do I really LOVE this?" and a lot of times, the answer is NO.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 28, 2016, 08:20:50 AM
Loaded some stuff into the car and drove it to its new home. I'm finding the more I do this, the easier it is getting.


So true, it's a virtuous cycle, you get rid of stuff, you see how good it (and the space it created) feels, you get rid of more stuff. It's really starting to have an effect on my husband as well now. He's getting so much better at letting things go having seen what a difference it made for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 28, 2016, 08:42:54 AM
I have permission from DH to send Xmas tree to the recycle after this year. It's on its 11th year of service, and we will be doing LED next year (and going smaller with the size as well).  Less to store, less to put away.

The new trees plug into each other via the trunk, so I envision plastic wrapping each section upstairs, walking the sections from upstairs to the basement fully decorated but plastic wrapped, and then just hauling the tree sections up again the next year and unwrapping carefully. I have a friend that has done this for the past two years. Our current tree is too large to do this with, but a smaller tree will be able to do this.

In anticipation of this, I got rid of all the ornaments I didn't LOVE this year.  The tree is slightly barer than I would like, but I am holding out until next year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on November 28, 2016, 12:11:49 PM
As part of our 10-year plan, DH and I found a house out in the country we really like over the weekend.   This means we'll put our current home on the market.  The new house is smaller, but is on acreage.   I filled another box to be donated with an almost full set of DH's dishes from before we started living together, a random, unused water bottle, small plastic measuring cup, a coffee mug, a large, unopened bottle of apple juice leftover from our Halloween party and an unopened box of hot chocolate envelopes from last year for the food bank, and a few other random kitchen items.  Compared to our current location, the new kitchen has approx 4 less cupboards and no pantry.

And I'll give a never used, very nice Coleman thermos to someone for Christmas.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 28, 2016, 05:28:31 PM
Recycled a pile of old college term papers today. Donated some local history books to the library. And decided to bring a gift I got for Xmas last year to our office's annual Secret Santa.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 29, 2016, 03:53:54 PM
More books are gone! and some cheap plastic containers went into the recycle bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 29, 2016, 05:09:54 PM
I am trying to compress 6 file drawers into 4 (or fewer).  I am doing a lot of shredding.  I am at the car paperwork - I am keeping all my maintenance records, and of course registration, but insurance policies - I don't need them going back forever, do I?  Same with house insurance, I would assume this year's and last year's is enough?

(I'm in Canada, if that matters).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 29, 2016, 06:57:32 PM
I am trying to compress 6 file drawers into 4 (or fewer).  I am doing a lot of shredding.  I am at the car paperwork - I am keeping all my maintenance records, and of course registration, but insurance policies - I don't need them going back forever, do I?  Same with house insurance, I would assume this year's and last year's is enough?

(I'm in Canada, if that matters).

I tend to keep a few years, so that sounds right about to me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on November 29, 2016, 10:38:47 PM
I keep the current one and digital copies of last two years
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 30, 2016, 12:07:27 PM
I never know what kind of papers to keep. Is there a good guide to that somewhere?

Like, how long do you keep credit card bills after they're paid.

More books to the library!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on November 30, 2016, 01:10:33 PM
Collected items to take to children's resale shop:
 
* Huge bag of 0-3 baby clothes.
* Smaller bag of 3yo clothes.
* This year's Halloween costumes
* Collection of gifted new "lovies"
* Train sets (2)

Pulled out two diaper bags we were gifted to try to resell on eBay.
Pulled out a never-worn (how did I miss it!) Janie & Jack newborn outfit to try to resell on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on November 30, 2016, 01:42:09 PM
Like, how long do you keep credit card bills after they're paid.


Get enrolled in online billing. Then my answer is never.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 30, 2016, 03:24:05 PM
I do pay all my bills online, but I feel better having them mailed to my house. Usually I try to shred them after a year goes by. So maybe that's what I ought to aim for.

Like, how long do you keep credit card bills after they're paid.


Get enrolled in online billing. Then my answer is never.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 02, 2016, 02:17:17 AM
I do pay all my bills online, but I feel better having them mailed to my house. Usually I try to shred them after a year goes by. So maybe that's what I ought to aim for.


What makes you feel better about having them mailed to the house? Security-wise I would think this is riskier as people can get into your mail (and the copies are already in your email presumably, so it's just another point of weakness). Or am I missing something?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 02, 2016, 04:46:52 AM
I do pay all my bills online, but I feel better having them mailed to my house. Usually I try to shred them after a year goes by. So maybe that's what I ought to aim for.


What makes you feel better about having them mailed to the house? Security-wise I would think this is riskier as people can get into your mail (and the copies are already in your email presumably, so it's just another point of weakness). Or am I missing something?
Even if you have copies mailed to you, your statements are available on line, I believe.  Log in and check how far back they go.  And then shred the paper ones. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on December 02, 2016, 11:46:24 AM
+1 for e-statements

~~~~~~~~~~~

The getting-ready-to-stage-the-house and move project continues.  Last night I tossed 6 expired container of spices, put a duplicate, unopened container of nutmeg into the donation box, and DH donated a stack of magazines to a friend's son stationed overseas.  :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Izybat on December 02, 2016, 04:40:24 PM
After reading a large part of this thread, I'm finally posting to it.

I've been trying to downsize our crap for a while. Our last house was ~1700 sq ft, but when we moved to our current house, we bought a bigger one (what were we thinking?), so our house is now closer to 2100 sq ft. Every where I look there is just so much stuff on every surface. I came to this conclusion about 6 months ago, and I've been doing my best to declutter every since. I think I've taken somewhere around six full SUV loads worth of stuff to Goodwill, with plenty more to go.

Some stuff is easier for me (I'm not a sentimental person, so old birthday cards and school projects from elementary school went straight into the trash). Other stuff, usually hobby related, is harder. I'm working on it. I'm trying to work around to selling a bunch of old photography gear on Ebay, but I haven't gotten very far. To date, I have taken inventory of all the stuff I don't use (it was three pages long) and plan to try to price everything out before I attempt to sell it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 04, 2016, 05:41:55 AM
Just ditched 2 broken photo frames and rearranged our charging station for tablet & phones. Found the keys for the windows in the process, lucky I found them before summer really hit!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 04, 2016, 05:46:38 AM
Today I gave away all my religious Christmas decorations, some Easter decorations, two lamps and a knickknack. Woot! I love my Buy Nothing group.

Anytime I think I've got rid of the last knickknack, I find another one...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on December 04, 2016, 07:12:45 AM
Anytime I think I've got rid of the last knickknack, I find another one...
 
They have a hidden breeding ground, and the young and reckless venture out into the house where you can find them.

I figured this out when I kept finding more things after I knew I had purged - I think they found where the hangers breed and settled next to them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Metric Mouse on December 04, 2016, 07:25:36 AM
Anytime I think I've got rid of the last knickknack, I find another one...
 
They have a hidden breeding ground, and the young and reckless venture out into the house where you can find them.

I figured this out when I kept finding more things after I knew I had purged - I think they found where the hangers breed and settled next to them.

I may have to move. My hangars must keep relocating somewhere else; I have to keep restocking them, even as I have fewer clothes each year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on December 04, 2016, 08:27:55 AM
I found a stack of Natural History magazines from 2000 and I dropped them off at my kids' piano teacher, who took them gladly. His waiting room needs some "new" material. I have to admit I do have a problem if I can't just throw away 16 year old magazines!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on December 04, 2016, 10:51:23 AM
Decided I had way too many under t-shirts going.  Took an inventory and cut it down to about to about half of what it was.  Cut up the old ones for rags.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on December 04, 2016, 12:13:14 PM
Jumping in again. Shredded some papers over the weekend, and recycled some others. I couldn't for the life of me understand why I was holding on to some of them.

I'm going to look into the e-statements thing. I've already done it with two bank accounts. Thanks for being the voice of logic!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on December 04, 2016, 02:34:39 PM
I took some stuff to SVDP today!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 04, 2016, 05:43:46 PM
I've started another round of the Minimalist Game.

More than 20 things gone on the weekend.

One camera bag will sell on eBay this week, that's a big thing to have out of the house. Still have a few things to list.

I need to join a Buy Nothing group so I can flood them with donations.

And I've contacted our building manager to ask about council clean-up in December or January.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 04, 2016, 06:09:08 PM
I need to join a Buy Nothing group so I can flood them with donations.

There's also freecycle, which I think is more active in some areas. Freecycle wasn't user friendly enough for me; my local Buy Nothing group is run as a facebook page and thus is super easy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on December 04, 2016, 10:11:13 PM
Put a stack of Sesame Street books in our Little Free Library, and since someone recently added a free shirt, I put out two onesies we were sent as part of a freebie kit. They are already too small for my 3mo but someone with a newborn would appreciate them.

Also packed a bag of "easy reader" books to donate to my son's school. I have started volunteering at my son's school and while most of the kids in his one-room schoolhouse are reading very well, there are two younger kids who are struggling and I think part of the problem is lack of quality reading material at their level (past Bob books but before denser chapter books).

Also posted some newborn cloth diapers for sale on eBay. Wish me luck.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TightFistedScot on December 05, 2016, 06:09:07 AM
I don't know if this counts, as I haven't actually got rid of it... but I've downgraded it.

I was hanging up clean laundry when I noticed a series of holes in a bottom sheet. I gave it to DH straight away who needed a dust sheet for a messy job. So it's out of my linen cupboard, but still on the property. Felt good anyway, usually I'd hang onto it but not use it. No more!

We used old sheets to rake up leaves - rake leaves into pile, rake onto sheet, gather up sheet, dump in woods, repeat.  Very efficient.  Reuse is the second R in the 3 Rs after all.

This is genius! Going to try this next time.

This thread inspired me to clean out 2 filing cabinets yesterday. I got rid of a few pounds of papers and old journal articles I will never read again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 05, 2016, 07:42:48 AM
Shredded a big bag of paper this morning - some old CC and bank statements and a whole bunch of receipts and random things.

Other than that, I haven't really done any other decluttering recently.  I'm focused on using up things I have and taking a break until I know when I'm moving and what I'm taking with me and what I need to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on December 05, 2016, 11:50:49 AM
More books to donate to the local library, plus some old papers. My, I do seem to like to collect papers.

I found some printouts from a web page design course I took online in 2009. Surely the stuff must be outdated by now! Into the recycle bin it goes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Izybat on December 05, 2016, 06:39:23 PM
I'm stuck on how to get rid of items that are semi-personal, or personalized. For example, we have a blanket that was given to us for our wedding, which is not to my taste. The problem is that it has our names and wedding date on it. We've never used it, so it's in perfect condition, but it feels totally weird to give away something with our names on it. I have other similar items that I don't know what to do with. Thoughts?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on December 05, 2016, 06:59:57 PM
I'm stuck on how to get rid of items that are semi-personal, or personalized. For example, we have a blanket that was given to us for our wedding, which is not to my taste. The problem is that it has our names and wedding date on it. We've never used it, so it's in perfect condition, but it feels totally weird to give away something with our names on it. I have other similar items that I don't know what to do with. Thoughts?

If it's monogrammed using thread, you may be able to unpick the thread.

And this is why I don't do monogramming.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 05, 2016, 10:12:54 PM
I'm stuck on how to get rid of items that are semi-personal, or personalized. For example, we have a blanket that was given to us for our wedding, which is not to my taste. The problem is that it has our names and wedding date on it. We've never used it, so it's in perfect condition, but it feels totally weird to give away something with our names on it. I have other similar items that I don't know what to do with. Thoughts?

What is the blanket made from? Could you cut off the monogrammed section and run a new seam, then give it away?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on December 05, 2016, 11:30:05 PM
I'm stuck on how to get rid of items that are semi-personal, or personalized. For example, we have a blanket that was given to us for our wedding, which is not to my taste. The problem is that it has our names and wedding date on it. We've never used it, so it's in perfect condition, but it feels totally weird to give away something with our names on it. I have other similar items that I don't know what to do with. Thoughts?

Maybe donate it to a local dog/cat shelter? I assure you that a dog couldn't care less about your names and wedding date as long as he gets a soft blanket :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Knapptyme on December 06, 2016, 10:39:23 AM
Couldn't possibly have read through the entire thread, but enjoy the concepts discussed. On my decluttering efforts, I have found a couple truths:

1. Settling (dealing with) the physical contents of an estate instills a desire to declutter. Things just aren't as valuable as your time.

2. My two sons want to play with everything that goes into the donate/throw away pile, which in turn puts most things into the throw away pile. I only hope my DS does not develop some hoarding tendencies as we get rid of so much unnecessary stuff.

3. Americans have absurd abundance.

And then I ask myself and DW, how do we become less wasteful and more efficient with space, time, and future purchases?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 06, 2016, 01:21:08 PM
I'm in Christmas card mode (yes, I understand that being a hard-core decutterer while sending people something they will almost certainly throw away in three weeks leaves me wide open).

My little nephews are very excited about Christmas, and they're also at an age where they love receiving mail. I have a few stray blank cards leftover from previous years, all in different designs, so I'm sending a few to my nephews. A countdown to Christmas and a little message about some of the the things we will do when I visit (Nerf wars? Oh yes!)

So that declutters the card box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on December 06, 2016, 02:01:01 PM
I'm stuck on how to get rid of items that are semi-personal, or personalized. For example, we have a blanket that was given to us for our wedding, which is not to my taste. The problem is that it has our names and wedding date on it. We've never used it, so it's in perfect condition, but it feels totally weird to give away something with our names on it. I have other similar items that I don't know what to do with. Thoughts?

My MIL made us a horribly tacky non-functional wedding "thing" (it was not large enough to call it a blanket, had tons of ugly badly done embroidery and little tassels and trinkets sewn all over it). She'd put our names and marriage date in the center. I got a small pair of nail scissors and cut all the name stuff off and donated it as the fabric might have been useful to someone that sews.

As long as it doesn't have your images on it or phone/address... remove whatever personalization if you can and donate, if you can't then donate it to a thrift shop that isn't in your friend/family member's area. That's what we do anyway. ;)



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on December 06, 2016, 02:04:10 PM
Jumping in again. Shredded some papers over the weekend, and recycled some others. I couldn't for the life of me understand why I was holding on to some of them.

I'm going to look into the e-statements thing. I've already done it with two bank accounts. Thanks for being the voice of logic!

I used to be really spooked at the idea of e-statements and not having a paper trail. But then I did start doing all of online and the forms, statements and everything possible is neatly organized in my online accounts for each bank/utility/whatever. I'm now actually annoyed that my water district still hasn't made the jump to all for e-billing now! It is soooo much nicer to just have them email you your bill and then pop online and pay it and you can even set up reminders and alerts and schedule payments weeks in advance. You'll wonder why you didn't try it sooner. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 06, 2016, 02:22:33 PM
I'm in Christmas card mode (yes, I understand that being a hard-core decutterer while sending people something they will almost certainly throw away in three weeks leaves me wide open).

My little nephews are very excited about Christmas, and they're also at an age where they love receiving mail. I have a few stray blank cards leftover from previous years, all in different designs, so I'm sending a few to my nephews. A countdown to Christmas and a little message about some of the the things we will do when I visit (Nerf wars? Oh yes!)

So that declutters the card box.

Just did cards for a niece and nephew myself :-) except they live in my 'hood, so I just walked over and popped the cards in their postbox.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on December 06, 2016, 02:53:23 PM
I'm in Christmas card mode (yes, I understand that being a hard-core decutterer while sending people something they will almost certainly throw away in three weeks leaves me wide open).


Getting rid of the guilt ridden things people had given me really opened up my eyes to how I give things!  Most of the time it doesn't need to be stated but there have been a few times I made sure to tell family members that they only needed to keep my gift as long as they enjoyed it.  I will not be hurt when they let it go. 

Cards are really about an experience right?  It's about finding something fun in the middle of the junk mail.  It's about a joke or a warm sentiment.  For your nephews you are really building it into your visit.  It doesn't matter what happens with those pieces of paper after they have supplied the experience.

(or that's what I think anyway...)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 06, 2016, 04:12:11 PM
I'm in Christmas card mode (yes, I understand that being a hard-core decutterer while sending people something they will almost certainly throw away in three weeks leaves me wide open).


Getting rid of the guilt ridden things people had given me really opened up my eyes to how I give things!  Most of the time it doesn't need to be stated but there have been a few times I made sure to tell family members that they only needed to keep my gift as long as they enjoyed it.  I will not be hurt when they let it go. 

Cards are really about an experience right?  It's about finding something fun in the middle of the junk mail.  It's about a joke or a warm sentiment.  For your nephews you are really building it into your visit.  It doesn't matter what happens with those pieces of paper after they have supplied the experience.

(or that's what I think anyway...)
As I consider gifts and Christmas this year, I'm finding myself leaning strongly towards Christmas cards instead of gifts because I can make a nice card, write a note about our year and good wishes for them in it, and they can throw it out when Xmas is over! Of course I'd have trouble getting rid of cards if I received them, but shhh.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 07, 2016, 03:21:53 AM
I'm in Christmas card mode (yes, I understand that being a hard-core decutterer while sending people something they will almost certainly throw away in three weeks leaves me wide open).


Getting rid of the guilt ridden things people had given me really opened up my eyes to how I give things!  Most of the time it doesn't need to be stated but there have been a few times I made sure to tell family members that they only needed to keep my gift as long as they enjoyed it.  I will not be hurt when they let it go. 

Cards are really about an experience right?  It's about finding something fun in the middle of the junk mail.  It's about a joke or a warm sentiment.  For your nephews you are really building it into your visit.  It doesn't matter what happens with those pieces of paper after they have supplied the experience.

(or that's what I think anyway...)

Absolutely.

And I try to keep the reverse in mind when triaging my own mail.

Do I expect people to keep every piece of mail I send them? No, and I would think it absurd if the did.
So I shouldn't feel compelled to keep everything I receive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on December 07, 2016, 02:26:04 PM
Cards are really about an experience right?  It's about finding something fun in the middle of the junk mail.  It's about a joke or a warm sentiment.  For your nephews you are really building it into your visit.  It doesn't matter what happens with those pieces of paper after they have supplied the experience.

(or that's what I think anyway...)

All of which I believe.  But I also kept all the cards my grandmother sent me that had more than just to & from written.  Now that she is gone, it's important to me to have them - the tangible evidence of the effort and care she put into keeping the relationship alive even though we lived in different countries and saw eachother once a year.  She always found the perfect card from Hallmark - like "to my granddaughter and her husband on their first anniversary".  When she passed away, they found on her kitchen table the cards for the next several months already purchased and in a card holder as to what month they'd be needed.

When they were going through my _other_ grandmother's papers, they found letters I had written to her, with her notes in the margin of when they arrived, little commentaries (written by her, or later by my aunt who read the letters to her).  Since she never replied directly, it was very important to me to get those back.

In other words - to everyone else, this is clutter and I should just take photos to remind myself of the memories.  But they fit into a small box, and I'm keeping them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on December 07, 2016, 02:49:43 PM
Cards are really about an experience right?  It's about finding something fun in the middle of the junk mail.  It's about a joke or a warm sentiment.  For your nephews you are really building it into your visit.  It doesn't matter what happens with those pieces of paper after they have supplied the experience.

(or that's what I think anyway...)

All of which I believe.  But I also kept all the cards my grandmother sent me that had more than just to & from written.  Now that she is gone, it's important to me to have them - the tangible evidence of the effort and care she put into keeping the relationship alive even though we lived in different countries and saw eachother once a year.  She always found the perfect card from Hallmark - like "to my granddaughter and her husband on their first anniversary".  When she passed away, they found on her kitchen table the cards for the next several months already purchased and in a card holder as to what month they'd be needed.

When they were going through my _other_ grandmother's papers, they found letters I had written to her, with her notes in the margin of when they arrived, little commentaries (written by her, or later by my aunt who read the letters to her).  Since she never replied directly, it was very important to me to get those back.

In other words - to everyone else, this is clutter and I should just take photos to remind myself of the memories.  But they fit into a small box, and I'm keeping them.

I understand. 

Personal belongings are so... personal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 07, 2016, 03:52:54 PM
Wow, 80 odd pages of decluttering, that makes me so happy! I love getting rid of stuff!

I'm joining in - for December I'm going to declutter old Xmas cards bought but never sent by actually sending them. I'm just not into Xmas but I really need to restablish contact with heaps of rellies on the other side of the world that I never see. By making it a Decluttering objective it gives me the incentive I need. It sounds awful, I do actually like these people, I just forget to keep in touch.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on December 08, 2016, 03:30:48 PM

I can beat that. One of my best friends and her first husband got a Gourmet Magazine cookbook with their names embossed on it. The photos of the food inside were the sort of thing that ends up on a "bad recipes" web site. They were hideous. She never made a thing from the book, and was afraid to give it to a charity shop because their names were on it. Finally, she just tossed it in the trash.


I'm stuck on how to get rid of items that are semi-personal, or personalized. For example, we have a blanket that was given to us for our wedding, which is not to my taste. The problem is that it has our names and wedding date on it. We've never used it, so it's in perfect condition, but it feels totally weird to give away something with our names on it. I have other similar items that I don't know what to do with. Thoughts?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on December 08, 2016, 08:33:45 PM
This thread is so inspiring! It's been slow going here - a pair of shorts here, a small stack of paper there. But I keep telling myself that so long as we're getting rid of more than we're bringing it it's still progress! And we're giving a sofa and loveseat to a friend next week that have just been taking up room in the basement to clear some room for the new baby.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 08, 2016, 09:24:54 PM
In-laws are still in the process of moving, which means they're still dumping stuff on me.

Why throw things in the bin at their house when they can drive 250kms and dump it on me so that I can throw it in the bin?

They keep saying, "We thought you might need this. We would keep it, but we're moving into an apartment." (So far this has included books, clothes, old electronics, office supplies, and more.)

Newsflash: I live in an apartment. I don't need it. I'm not storing it for you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on December 08, 2016, 10:17:49 PM
Got rid of 4 big boxes of misc items. Also went back through old sentimental boxes and took apart old cards and recycled the not great ones, or insides with our names on and kept only the really good ones.  A few that just said 'from mom & dad' I donated to the reuse centre as whole cards together with the other card fronts.  When I was at the centre donating them there were 3 care-workers with severely disabled clients with them who were looking at all the used cards for craft supplies, so I'm happy I found them a good home.

On the flip side I found about a dozen unused cards that I took for the non-profit I work at and a few other supplies for that office.

Also sold a few items, and cleared off an additional half shelf of random supplies. This process has been slowing down as the obvious items are already gone but it still feels great!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 08, 2016, 10:56:50 PM
I listed a couple of things for free on our local FB buy/sell/swap group today. Felt great as they needed cleaning up first and I'd been putting it off. No takers yet tho.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 09, 2016, 03:49:00 AM
Husband sold the two remaining dead vehicles on the property. This is huge!


Meanwhile, I'm figuring out why I have trouble with this concept in the house. I needed something for a white elephant exchange at work and had to search for almost an hour to find something we weren't using, and then it wasn't something we'd bought (a travel alarm clock that had been left behind in my hotel room on a recent trip - yes, I did check with the front desk before bringing it home).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on December 09, 2016, 06:04:06 AM
Husband sold the two remaining dead vehicles on the property. This is huge!

I'm impressed! This is quite a few vehicles off the property now. It must feel great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jim555 on December 09, 2016, 06:56:42 AM
I scanned in almost all my physical photographs made over the decades.  Physical DVDs and CDs are next on the list for digitization.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on December 09, 2016, 09:02:28 AM
Seven grocery bags of stuff and a pet carrier are ready to go the thrift store! Most of it is DH's stuff, but I'll take credit anyway since I nagged him for a month to do it. ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 09, 2016, 03:05:53 PM
Husband sold the two remaining dead vehicles on the property. This is huge!

I'm impressed! This is quite a few vehicles off the property now. It must feel great.


Yep, total of five gone (and two of the trucks are already on the road again. But this has all brought he to me what a good job he's doing in keeping clutter out of the house. He does try.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Izybat on December 09, 2016, 06:50:29 PM
I have a partial win. I tried to take my Xbox 360 game console and 16 games to Gamestop to trade them in for money. Sadly, I forgot one of the cords for the Xbox, so I couldn't trade it in, but the games brought in $55. Now I just have to grab the cord to the Xbox and make a second trip to the store to get rid of the console. Sadly, since this time I'll be trading it in for cash rather than a store credit (used on Christmas gifts), I'll get $8 less than I would have if I'd done it today. Oh well. Still a win, and probably another $32 in my pocket.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rachellynn99 on December 09, 2016, 06:57:04 PM
Took maybe 17 items to a nicer consignment shop this week. I also have a bag started for the goodwill of clothing and a box started for books for our local library sale. I hope to get some items cleaned out over Christmas break and get my house in a less cluttered state...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 09, 2016, 08:04:00 PM
Neighbors are collecting new and gently used items for December foster care placements.  Donated all the boy 6-9 months clothes I had bought last year when I was pregnant (about 15 items), a new in box 20 year old collector Barbie, and a small pile of books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DailyGrindFree on December 10, 2016, 07:47:58 AM
I scanned in almost all my physical photographs made over the decades.  Physical DVDs and CDs are next on the list for digitization.

I also got rid of all my music CDs and movie DVDs. I have a few CDs and DVDs with pictures in them. As soon as I upload them to a free online site, I will get rid of them too. Physical photos? I don't have a scanner anymore. May be I will start by discarding the ones we don't need anymore and duplicates. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DagobertDuck on December 10, 2016, 11:18:00 AM
Sold some bike parts, including a wheel and a frameset, to two of my very nice colleagues! Quite a thing, since selling bike related stuff is the hardest for me.

Some Christmas decoration given away too, and the $50 voucher I got as a christmas present from my job went to charity immediately.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on December 10, 2016, 01:38:07 PM
Had a miraculous hour of motivation.  I started gathering things to deliver on my holiday travels. A crockpot I no longer need for a sibling. A box of canning jars for a friend.  A couple books for another friend's daughter.

I cut down an Amazon box to fit under my bed and hold the shoes I store there. Hope it makes things neater, less dusty and easier to access. I'll try it for a few weeks and if I like it I'll cover the box with pretty fabric so it matches all my other diy storage. 

I am almost done with two huge research projects which means that this week I'll be able to move dozens of books out of my apartment and back to the libraries! 

A few weeks ago I accepted some free fabric for the first time in years (since I started the serious downsize effort). I have used up my supplies so thoroughly that I knew I could use more and I knew I could accept it without over filling the space I have allotted to it. It felt really good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on December 10, 2016, 04:22:38 PM
A couple of weeks ago on Saturdays I started collecting a number of things to get rid of, equal the day of the month (so on Nov. 26, 26 things, Dec. 3, 3 things, and today, 10 things).  Today my husband joined me and collected his own 10 things.  So we have a couple of boxes to donate, some boxes and papers in recycling, books to the library for them to sell, and a few clothes to our town's holiday drive.  Hooray!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 10, 2016, 06:41:45 PM
Gave away a whole heap of paperbacks on Buy Nothing this week :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 10, 2016, 07:52:20 PM
Spent the morning having a garden tidy up. Washed out old pots with a bleach solution. Got rid of a couple of broken pots, then sorted things into 3 crates so it's a bit more organised - one for seedlings, one for seed raising pots and what not and one for all the natural pesticides, fungicides etc we've got in spray bottles. Planted some seeds even though we have no space so that I can swap them for veggies in the new year. Not that seeds take up space but they don't last forever and I can't just chuck them out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on December 11, 2016, 01:59:51 AM
I'm clearing the clutter on my kindle by reading the books I have there. I've fallen into the trap of ignoring books on there just because they aren't actual paper books cluttering up the place.

I'm going to go through my linen cupboard next week as I know I have some things that can go to textile recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on December 11, 2016, 12:12:45 PM
Shredded a LOT of paper on garbage night. I can't believe some of the stuff I've saved. Like credit reports from 2003 and 2008. You're entitled to a free one every year, as far as I know.

Kept old paychecks from my last job. I have no idea why. I guess I just shove things in the file drawer sometimes and forget about them.

I threw out some candles from memorial services. I realized that I will never forget the people or events memorialized (one was 9/11) and I don't need to keep the candles as a reminder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Metric Mouse on December 12, 2016, 04:11:15 AM
Shredded a LOT of paper on garbage night. I can't believe some of the stuff I've saved. Like credit reports from 2003 and 2008. You're entitled to a free one every year, as far as I know.

Kept old paychecks from my last job. I have no idea why. I guess I just shove things in the file drawer sometimes and forget about them.

I threw out some candles from memorial services. I realized that I will never forget the people or events memorialized (one was 9/11) and I don't need to keep the candles as a reminder.

A free one from each of the reporting agencies, actually.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 12, 2016, 04:52:17 AM
Someone is supposed to pick up one of my Craigslist items today - a large suitcase that I don't need.  Since I didn't get any takers for my skis, I'm thinking about bringing them in to a consignment store in the neighboring town instead.  They sold my skates a couple of years ago, so I may get lucky with the skis as well.  I'll try to do that later on this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on December 12, 2016, 07:35:46 AM
Two big tubs of cloth diapering supplies.  All done with babies! (my own, that is)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on December 12, 2016, 03:00:35 PM
Tossed some old makeup and a couple of misc. pieces of paper that were hanging around for no good reason. On my way out the door, I spotted a well-worn pair of sandals DH picked up for me a couple years ago that do not fit me. I think they will be in the trash this week...They are so worn I am surprised Goodwill sold them to anyone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 12, 2016, 03:37:43 PM
Another donation bag out the door, mostly clothes and white elephant/Secret Santa gifts*.

*I've seen other people complaining about the great crap exchange that is white elephant/free Secret Santa, but I actually like it as a way of getting rid of stuff.

I give things that I'm a bit reluctant to donate but happy to give to a friend.

In return, I receive crap I can cast off easily.

So, overall, there is less stuff in my house.

Still waiting on a council clean-up to toss three or four larger items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: seemsright on December 12, 2016, 03:56:19 PM
I am in full on get rid of crap mode. I have been on this train for awhile. But this last weekend I got into it again and hubby and I filled the donation bin.

And just by luck I was looking on craigslist to see if the rower in my garage was worth anything. And I saw a post for a guy that was wanting one. He gave me $470 for it. I will take it. I refuse to feel bad for buying something years ago that did not work out. My life is different now.

But that money is going straight to Vanguard!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on December 12, 2016, 09:17:40 PM
* Took a bag of baby clothes and a bag of old linens to Goodwill
* Sold $30 of clutter on eBay
* Listened to KonMarie on audiobook for inspiration on future decluttering/minimalism
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 12, 2016, 09:27:27 PM
I just threw out this unused kids scrapbook that has followed me around at least 3 house moves and possibly overseas. I was keeping it for a sketch pad but it's all discoloured and bent so it's gone. The silly things we hang on to.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 13, 2016, 09:23:25 AM
We've had a hard time getting rid of stuff. We bought our house from my in-laws, who were downsizing to a one-bedroom condo. We moved in as they were moving out, and a few months later we realized that they had stopped taking stuff. Their new place was full, so they just started stashing stuff in our garage, basement and attic.

My MIL has always been a pack rat, and a lot of it stems from growing up in the Philippines during WWII, when people had very little of anything.

A few weeks ago, I decided to clear some attic space so that I could put my weight bench and rollers (for the bicycle) up there. I donated two carloads of clothes, filled the recycling and trash cans two weeks straight, and can finally move around up there without falling over stuff.

i also went thru the stuff in the basement and filled another recycling can full of old papers (from various associations they belonged to over the years).

I think after the holidays I'll start on the basement again. There's a pool table I want to get rid of, plus the Lenox collection (MIL's) that I've hidden down there (we had vases all over the house when we moved in), and some boxes of LPs and other stuff that I need to look at. I even found a box of 8-track tapes down there.

I've been a pack rat myself when it comes to books. I must have at least 5,000 books in the attic. It might be worth trying to sell them online, but we'll see. If it's more trouble than it's worth, they'll end up at Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on December 13, 2016, 12:27:57 PM
House staging continues.  Tossed the very dusty, faux ivy from our wedding 10 years ago, last year's phone book (WHY do they still print these?), and a few beyond-their-years Christmas decorations.

I put two unopened bottles of Bath and Body works lotion into the donation box and asked family not to buy any more for me for Christmas.

I used up the hand soap and Shout refills bottles, and hopefully won't have to buy more before the move.  We're down to our last jars of pasta sauces and misc canned goods in the pantry, bottles of mayo and salad dressing in the fridge, and shampoo and conditioner in our HBA stockpile for me.  We'll see if I can refrain from restocking during this week's monthly grocery shopping.  ;)

Food stockpile consumption continues as posted on the Eat ALL The Food MM thread.

Next I need to toss several pairs of sandals.  It is very difficult for me to throw away clothing and shoes, even when beyond donation condition, for some reason.

Now, if someone would just buy our home.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 13, 2016, 02:43:09 PM
We've had a hard time getting rid of stuff. We bought our house from my in-laws, who were downsizing to a one-bedroom condo. We moved in as they were moving out, and a few months later we realized that they had stopped taking stuff. Their new place was full, so they just started stashing stuff in our garage, basement and attic.

My MIL has always been a pack rat, and a lot of it stems from growing up in the Philippines during WWII, when people had very little of anything.

A few weeks ago, I decided to clear some attic space so that I could put my weight bench and rollers (for the bicycle) up there. I donated two carloads of clothes, filled the recycling and trash cans two weeks straight, and can finally move around up there without falling over stuff.

That's a tough situation. How are they responding to you decluttering?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 13, 2016, 03:56:23 PM
We've had a hard time getting rid of stuff. We bought our house from my in-laws, who were downsizing to a one-bedroom condo. We moved in as they were moving out, and a few months later we realized that they had stopped taking stuff. Their new place was full, so they just started stashing stuff in our garage, basement and attic.

My MIL has always been a pack rat, and a lot of it stems from growing up in the Philippines during WWII, when people had very little of anything.

A few weeks ago, I decided to clear some attic space so that I could put my weight bench and rollers (for the bicycle) up there. I donated two carloads of clothes, filled the recycling and trash cans two weeks straight, and can finally move around up there without falling over stuff.

That's a tough situation. How are they responding to you decluttering?

My FIL never cared what we kept and what we tossed, but my MIL was much more resistant to change. At first, my wife would be questioned whenever one the "beautiful" (uh, "hideous") vases disappeared to the basement or attic, but she adjusted over time.

I can now sneak out the really useless crap, like an electric footbath from the '60s that I'd be afraid to plug in, or drawers full of clothes that haven't seen the light of day since the '80s. We're getting there.

Some of the stuff we'll just keep for now, as it's only taking up space in the storage section of the attic, and it's out of sight.

I'm going to start sorting the stuff in the basement soon, and get rid of what I can. I don't think she'll notice, as she really doesn't go down there anymore.

Funny story - there was a chest freezer in the basement that was last manufactured in 1976 (not sure how old it was) and was still filled with food. I decided to empty it out one day and found a huge fish wrapped in newspaper that my FIL had caught...in 1997. It started to stink after only a few minutes, and my daughter and her friend quickly took it to the creek in the back yard and set it free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on December 13, 2016, 07:59:25 PM

I've been a pack rat myself when it comes to books. I must have at least 5,000 books in the attic. It might be worth trying to sell them online, but we'll see. If it's more trouble than it's worth, they'll end up at Goodwill.

There are some apps you can get that let you use your phone to scan the ISBN from the book and tell you what you can sell it for. If you have any collectible or valuable books you can quickly sort them out and drop the rest off at a local thrift store or school/prison book drive.

Do not discount finding one or two books worth money, I have a set of hard to find paperback novels worth about $240.00.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 14, 2016, 08:35:25 AM

I've been a pack rat myself when it comes to books. I must have at least 5,000 books in the attic. It might be worth trying to sell them online, but we'll see. If it's more trouble than it's worth, they'll end up at Goodwill.

There are some apps you can get that let you use your phone to scan the ISBN from the book and tell you what you can sell it for. If you have any collectible or valuable books you can quickly sort them out and drop the rest off at a local thrift store or school/prison book drive.

Do not discount finding one or two books worth money, I have a set of hard to find paperback novels worth about $240.00.

Yeah, that's what I need. Some of them are obvious enough, but not all. I looked up one book because I'd forgotten the author's name, and found that the book I paid $5 for is now selling for $95 and up. It's always worth checking.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on December 14, 2016, 09:14:09 AM
Had our work Christmas party along with mystery presents.  Was struggling to figure something out and my wife says "I have these holiday mugs that we got from my work a few years (probably 15) ago that you can have, we'll never use them".  There ya go.  As it turned out, the person who picked my gift thought it was the cutest thing they ever saw.  Excellent.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on December 14, 2016, 10:16:27 AM

Funny story - there was a chest freezer in the basement that was last manufactured in 1976 (not sure how old it was) and was still filled with food. I decided to empty it out one day and found a huge fish wrapped in newspaper that my FIL had caught...in 1997. It started to stink after only a few minutes, and my daughter and her friend quickly took it to the creek in the back yard and set it free.

Eeeeeeeyugggh!!!!

Today I am sad because although I got rid of a big sack of cloth diapers, within a few days I found an even larger sack on my doorstep... a mom at my son's school dropped off clothes from sizes 3-7 for my daughter. Nice, but now I lose storage room again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on December 14, 2016, 01:06:30 PM
Sold an over-priced pair of boots through the consignment shop. Now I have one less pair of boots and I can finally put that stupid purchase behind me. >.<
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 15, 2016, 03:12:30 AM
Sold an over-priced pair of boots through the consignment shop. Now I have one less pair of boots and I can finally put that stupid purchase behind me. >.<

It feels so good to stop beating yourself up everytime you see a 'bad' purchase! Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on December 15, 2016, 07:48:43 AM
Sold an over-priced pair of boots through the consignment shop. Now I have one less pair of boots and I can finally put that stupid purchase behind me. >.<

It feels so good to stop beating yourself up everytime you see a 'bad' purchase! Yay!
\

Does it ever! I was shopping with a friend and she convinced me to buy the boots. Cursed peer pressure! But now they're gone, I have a little bit of cash, and I can put it behind me. Even partially fixing financial mistakes lets me forgive myself and move on, especially now that I don't have evidence of the mistake sitting in my closet and taking up space. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on December 15, 2016, 08:15:12 AM
I've been challenging myself to either use up or throw out my old toiletries and cosmetics. I used up  some samples of shampoo and conditioner and I'm working on a small bottle of body wash that I've had for 2 or 3 years. Tossed some old nail polish and some perfume I've had since high school (I'm 30!). Started using a couple of face products that I haven't used in a while. Even though this stuff doesn't take up much space it definitely contributes to the cluttered feel of my bathroom.

Not sure what to do with a couple bottles of hairspray; I use it very rarely so I probably have a lifetime supply. Does hairspray go bad?

This weekend friends are coming to take an old loveseat that's just taking up space in the soon-to-be nursery. They were going to take a sofa too but changed their minds so I guess I need to list that on Freecycle.

Listed our Kitchenaid mixer that we never use on Craigslist last week but no offers yet. I thought I priced it fairly but I might reduce the price to get it sold.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mr. Paws on December 15, 2016, 08:43:45 AM
I have a bunch of old paintings painted by my grandfather and mother.  Also, my mom bought many paintings i don't care about.  I plan on keeping some of their personal paintings but this stuff just takes up so much space.  I feel bad if I throw it away but I am not really sure what to do with it?  Any ideas would be great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on December 15, 2016, 09:08:45 AM
I have a bunch of old paintings painted by my grandfather and mother.  Also, my mom bought many paintings i don't care about.  I plan on keeping some of their personal paintings but this stuff just takes up so much space.  I feel bad if I throw it away but I am not really sure what to do with it?  Any ideas would be great.
Offer them to other family members first.  Then try to sell them (Do you have any local auction houses?  Maybe the place your mother bought them from will buy them back?).  Then try to give them away (charity shop, secret Santa, raffle prizes).  Then use what you can as kindling/firewood and send the rest to the dump.

I've just listed a sofa on Freegle.  Bought second hand 13 years ago, still a good and comfortable sofa but no fire safety certificate so not worth trying to sell.  Dedicated reading of this thread has led me to the conclusion that I'd rather have the floor space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on December 15, 2016, 11:42:39 AM
Tossed the above mentioned sandals, plus some art supply bits and bobs that would be of no use to anyone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 15, 2016, 05:55:16 PM
Not sure what to do with a couple bottles of hairspray; I use it very rarely so I probably have a lifetime supply. Does hairspray go bad?

Hairspray is useful for fixing drawings in pastels/ pencil if that helps. Do a test patch first I guess.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 15, 2016, 06:09:52 PM
I saw this message on a local community FB page today. I poked around and found a nice winter coat, a fleece jacket and a pair of snow pants that my daughter outgrew. I'm glad someone will be able to use them in such a sad time.

"Hello Facebook friends I need to ask a huge favor... I was just told by a friend of mine that 2 little girls ages 6 and 8 have just lost there mother today while we were in church service... she died in cooper hospital . The 2 little girls are on there way from Mexico to New Jersey, a week and some days before Christmas day and now have no mother to come home to.. my favor to ask is if you have any little girls winter cloth, coats, shoes ect. Sizes 6 to 10 in kids cloth with shoe size 3y to 4.5y that you can donate to help these little ones out it would be greatly appreciated and I know God will bless you tremendously. Please inbox me for pick up... these cloths are needed asap.. have a blessed night."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on December 15, 2016, 07:30:06 PM
Not sure what to do with a couple bottles of hairspray; I use it very rarely so I probably have a lifetime supply. Does hairspray go bad?

Hairspray is useful for fixing drawings in pastels/ pencil if that helps. Do a test patch first I guess.
I have about as much artistic talent as my toddler, but your post inspired me to Google alternative uses for hairspray and apparently there are tons, including removing stains and lint; and helping your nails dry faster. Who knew?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on December 17, 2016, 07:24:53 AM
Sofa has gone: message sent to Freegle Thursday evening, posted Friday morning, gone this lunchtime (Saturday).  I liked the sofa but I'm loving the space it has left much more.

Giving things away is more pleasant and easier than selling them: hassle factor on this one was nil.  Plus, the sofa was a good one but I bought it second hand 13 years ago so I got my money's worth out of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rachellynn99 on December 17, 2016, 10:56:56 AM
I dropped off two more items at the consignment shop. They only take nicer brands and certain items. These haven't fit in a while so off they went.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 17, 2016, 02:59:55 PM
Yesterday was a productive day on the decluttering front.

I sorted out the medicine box and tossed expired medication and some other bits and pieces.

Went through my stationery and put a pile of spare envelopes out for recycling.

Took a mallet to the pinboard that was dumped on me last weekend, so now it is in small enough pieces to go in the garbage bin.

I also have a pile of things to distribute to family over Christmas (gifts, a borrowed Esky, baby clothes a friend gave me to pass on). Can't wait to be rid of it all!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on December 19, 2016, 07:18:11 AM
Seventeen things (well, actually 20) culled on Dec. 17.  Including a notebook from high school and a brochure from the summer session of my college the year I graduated, more than 20 years ago!  Why do I even have these things??
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 19, 2016, 08:20:02 AM
Giving away some hard to get consumable stuff to visiting family - phew, I'm finally going to run out of shower gel that I had in stock in one pile. I still have another to work through. I also have loads of oils and lotions to work through :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 21, 2016, 05:19:11 PM
Two more shirts gone! One step at a time
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on December 21, 2016, 06:00:17 PM
I might be moving soon - another decluttering opportunity! :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on December 21, 2016, 11:11:07 PM
* Filled another grocery bag with weird socks, outgrown baby clothes, children's clothes and assorted blankets and geegaws.
* Cleared out a stack of children's books by donating to a nearby Little Free Library that gets a tremendous amount of traffic.
* Refilled our Little Free Library with some adult non-fiction and cookbooks I probably won't get to until the children are in college. Let it go, let it go...


* I've been listening to KonMarie as an Audible audiobook in the car and while I haven't absorbed it all, I'm reconsidering how I fold my socks and finding her "sparks joy" guideline quite useful. Among other things it allows me to relinquish quite a few things we've been given by the in-laws, LOL.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on December 22, 2016, 01:05:28 AM
Last year around this time I purged everything I thought possible. This past month I've given away four boxes worth of school supplies to students, filled several bags of clothes to donate (more than I thought I owned, and my TARDIS-like closet still looks full), shredded three boxes worth of records I no longer need, and emptied a large bookshelf. I still have empty bookshelves in the garage from the last purge (nine for a grand total of ten -- book addiction is real!), and I'm going to try and sell them via Craigslist. They're in excellent condition. I can also sell our now empty aquarium, a kayak I got cheap at a garage sale but can't transport in my current car, some redundant yoga equipment, a really nice, sturdy dresser, a less nice but still useful set of drawers, and a large file cabinet. I'm not sure there will be any takers, but we also have a barely used mattress to get rid of; it aggravated my joint pain (too soft) and we promptly replaced it. We've used it twice for guests, but we have a traditional futon for that now and don't need it. I've also got a small box full of trinkets -- bracelets, necklaces, etc., largely unworn as I haven't got the first idea how to accessorize (mostly gifts). I've kept the ones I use on fancy occasions (also gifts).

At some point I may brave the drawer of abandoned electronics. For now, that stuff is hidden away.

There's probably even more to get rid of, but I think it can wait until I drop off these donations and list the items for sale right after Christmas.

Now if somehow I could quell this daily wave of mail...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MommyCake on December 22, 2016, 04:53:43 AM
I saw this message on a local community FB page today. I poked around and found a nice winter coat, a fleece jacket and a pair of snow pants that my daughter outgrew. I'm glad someone will be able to use them in such a sad time.

"Hello Facebook friends I need to ask a huge favor... I was just told by a friend of mine that 2 little girls ages 6 and 8 have just lost there mother today while we were in church service... she died in cooper hospital . The 2 little girls are on there way from Mexico to New Jersey, a week and some days before Christmas day and now have no mother to come home to.. my favor to ask is if you have any little girls winter cloth, coats, shoes ect. Sizes 6 to 10 in kids cloth with shoe size 3y to 4.5y that you can donate to help these little ones out it would be greatly appreciated and I know God will bless you tremendously. Please inbox me for pick up... these cloths are needed asap.. have a blessed night."

Dave, do you have more info on this?  I'm not on Facebook.  I'm in north jersey; if its close maybe I can do something to help.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on December 22, 2016, 05:09:21 AM
My decluttering had paid dividends in the last 24 hours. Since finishing some renovating we had to move basically EVERY ITEM on the ground floor of our house (excluding the kitchen). It took... 20 minutes? Including giving everything a good dust / vacuum.

It was quick because there not much in there in the first place, so not much to move,  but also because we weren't having to move stuff to move stuff, you know? Like those puzzles where you have to move everything around and there's only 1 empty square? That used to be us. Now we could move stuff straight to where it needed to go.

Also, moving bookcases, which would have taken ages of loading and reloading (in a very specific order, so every single bin and box and book fit precisely) was easy! Half the shelves are empty, the others are neat and organised essentials. Every box had a lid, no overflowing bins of old!

Thank you to everyone on this thread! I also decided this morning to get rid of a blazer I do not like. Don't know why I've been hanging on to it for so long. Wish me luck as I battle the onslaught of Christmas junk - and I wish it to everyone on here too!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 22, 2016, 05:48:48 AM
I finally sacrificed my beach pants.

About a year ago I took them home to Mum to get them fixed and she laughed and told me to buy new ones. (She is very thrifty and has a real gift for sewing but there wasn't much she could do with holes in such thin fabric.)

I kept wearing them around the house. The elastic gave out so much I was using a hair elastic to ratchet them on. Then there was a bleach incident and the holey khaki fabric became white and pink at the ankles.

It was time.

:(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 22, 2016, 06:35:28 AM
I saw this message on a local community FB page today. I poked around and found a nice winter coat, a fleece jacket and a pair of snow pants that my daughter outgrew. I'm glad someone will be able to use them in such a sad time.

"Hello Facebook friends I need to ask a huge favor... I was just told by a friend of mine that 2 little girls ages 6 and 8 have just lost there mother today while we were in church service... she died in cooper hospital . The 2 little girls are on there way from Mexico to New Jersey, a week and some days before Christmas day and now have no mother to come home to.. my favor to ask is if you have any little girls winter cloth, coats, shoes ect. Sizes 6 to 10 in kids cloth with shoe size 3y to 4.5y that you can donate to help these little ones out it would be greatly appreciated and I know God will bless you tremendously. Please inbox me for pick up... these cloths are needed asap.. have a blessed night."

Dave, do you have more info on this?  I'm not on Facebook.  I'm in north jersey; if its close maybe I can do something to help.

This is in south Jersey (Cherry Hill area), so it's probably out of your range. I don't actually know any of the people involved, but the woman who picked up the coats said she would give me an update at some point. From what I saw on FB, they had a good response from people who could help.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 22, 2016, 06:47:02 AM
Freecycle lady finally came and picked up the Futon!  My dog is super sad, as she loved laying on it- but something had to go, and it didn't seem like it would be the handmade oak bed...

So now the twin bed moves into the office where the futon used to be and there is room in the baby's room for a crib.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on December 22, 2016, 08:59:59 AM
5 bags of clothes and toys to Goodwill, including the entire bag of toys that a well meaning neighbor dropped on our doorstep.  One cubic yard of space regained!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on December 23, 2016, 09:23:35 AM
I have a filing cabinet that I've moved as-is, without going through and purging anything that might be in it, through several moves. As we're hoping to move again this spring, this is a winter project for me.

I'm sure there is an EXCELLENT reason why I still have a whole file folder of wedding congratulations cards in there... (Married in 1998, divorced in 2004.)

Out they go!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 23, 2016, 09:26:22 AM
Threw out some old essential oils - my holding cabinet is a lot more spacious and I think it's time to reorganize a few drawers in the bathroom. Yay!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 23, 2016, 10:43:21 AM
Sold 2 of the items listed on Craigslist for a total of $100.  Very happy :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on December 23, 2016, 11:48:01 PM
Cleaned out the fridge very thoroughly. Found a jar of something that expired in 2014. I need to keep a more minimalist kitchen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: handsnhearts on December 24, 2016, 01:54:39 AM
GOt rid of nice futon.  It was our bed for 6 years, and then we got another bed.  But it was very useful for the flow of overnight guests that we had, especially after the grandchild was born.  But 18 mo ago, we moved back to hometown, and now it has housed someone for exactly 3-4 nights in 18 months.  Not often enough, and we wanted that space to be more of a TV, game, and crafting space, not a spare bedroom for no one! 

Sent it to my mom's house (she was in the market for one), and she is happy and I am happy.  It was worth it and we got our use out of it, and now I can say good bye. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 24, 2016, 02:45:50 AM
I have a filing cabinet that I've moved as-is, without going through and purging anything that might be in it, through several moves. As we're hoping to move again this spring, this is a winter project for me.

I'm sure there is an EXCELLENT reason why I still have a whole file folder of wedding congratulations cards in there... (Married in 1998, divorced in 2004.)

Out they go!

Wow. Just wow.

Glad you could lighten your load.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 24, 2016, 09:22:32 AM
I have a week off work... I'm taking on the craft room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: choppingwood on December 24, 2016, 12:03:34 PM
I have a week off work... I'm talking the craft room.

You're a brave woman.

I'm sorting my papers and reorganizing my files in January.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on December 24, 2016, 12:47:30 PM
Gave a loveseat to a friend. Gave away a vase that was too big to be useful at a white elephant exchange (got a multimeter in exchange, but that is both smaller and more useful). Sold my stand mixer on Craigslist. I'm now $150 richer and my house is a couple hundred pounds lighter! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on December 24, 2016, 09:21:01 PM
I'm getting down to the hard stuff. Today I was able to empty half a drawer out of three of a file cabinet of all my undergraduate work. I was feeling like I could get rid of my class notes and just hang on to my writing (which is what I did for some classes I didn't love), but every file brought back such wonderful memories. This is going to be a rough one.

Instead on Monday, I'm going to attack the last cluttered part of my room -- my desk and one box of misc. items that I couldn't find places for as I cleaned out the rest of the room. This will be difficult (I honestly don't know where to put that stuff), but at least not *emotionally* difficult. I may have to leave that file cabinet until the very end of this project.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 25, 2016, 06:10:53 AM
Can't wait to attack the cabinets this week - having more people at home has shown how much more clutter we have and how much less we can live by. Time for another purge before end of year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on December 26, 2016, 05:02:03 PM
Boyfriend took a big stack of DVDs (and I think a few CDs too) to the used-media store and they took everything! $60 cash. Bam!

(He was offered more in trade but "I decided we don't really need anything new." Good boy!)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 27, 2016, 12:22:27 AM
Received Spark Joy by Marie Kondo for Chrissy, read the whole thing yesterday! Wow, I know it's not for everyone but I'm very very excited. I think I was Japanese in a past life. I was worried about the books but I think I can handle it.

So, Thurs is expected to be about 38C so is an ideal day to lock myself indoors with air con/ fans and get into it. I've already started saying thank you to my things when I use them, hubby thinks I've gone mad!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on December 27, 2016, 06:36:17 AM
Lots of backward progress this week due to the holidays and having a chunk of my planned vacation time @ home cancelled.

Other than the thoroughly cleaned-out fridge.

Oh, well. I need to tackle something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 27, 2016, 07:30:36 AM
Some more stuff out the door yesterday. Need to tackle a crib today and do some dropoffs at Savers nearby. I'm loving the space that's showing up again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on December 27, 2016, 11:11:39 AM
I made my big Goodwill donation yesterday.

I still haven't taken any photos for Craigslist sales. I've got soooo many bookshelves to get rid of, all of them in excellent condition. I'd really like to make a little bit of money off of them, but if I don't get those pictures done by January 9th, I may just donate them. I also have an aquarium and aquarium stand, a gorgeous dresser, and a Kayak that need to go. All of those together should get me at least $300 total, I think.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 27, 2016, 12:06:05 PM
I've been working on clearing everything out of my spare/computer/storage room the past few weeks. Sold my big computer desk (and hopefully the computer) to a friend for cheap. Cleared out nearly the rest of the room. Some of it was removed from my life entirely, but a lot found it's way to drawers, shelves, etc that had been emptied through previous decluttering. I just have a few more things to deal with before the room is completely empty and I can start fixing up and painting.

It amazes me how much STUFF I still have after 2 years of declutering. At this rate it'll take me another 4 years to condense everything down to fit in a camper.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 27, 2016, 12:12:08 PM
I'm getting down to the hard stuff. Today I was able to empty half a drawer out of three of a file cabinet of all my undergraduate work. I was feeling like I could get rid of my class notes and just hang on to my writing (which is what I did for some classes I didn't love), but every file brought back such wonderful memories. This is going to be a rough one.

I run that kind of thing through the scanner and then toss it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on December 27, 2016, 03:49:07 PM
That's what I'm thinking... I'll have to take them to work* a notebook at a time, though, since I don't have a scanner at home. I'll just make that a long-term project. :)

*99% of this stuff is directly related to my work, so it wouldn't be a misuse of the scanner. Still, I'll do it off the clock.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on December 27, 2016, 05:18:55 PM
Purple Heart called and asked if they could pick up tomorrow.  I am dismantling the "goodwill pile" and adding as much stuff as I can in the mix before they come to the house tomorrow.

I think that maybe pick-up services are better.  However the scheduling can be difficult for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on December 28, 2016, 12:40:25 AM
Gave away a pile of truly bizarre Christmas presents on Buy Nothing yesterday. People give me some weird, weird shit, I tell you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 28, 2016, 04:56:16 AM
More stuff out the home and money in pocket. Need to take care of some stuff for shipping tomorrow and return a few toys we got as gifts. Also found we have enough diapers for my kiddo. So no more diaper buying for sometime. Phew!

Resisted buying some stuff at Target. Does that count in decluttering?  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on December 28, 2016, 03:08:40 PM
Started another donation box yesterday.  Added a very old, plastic poinsettia serving tray my mom left at our house Saturday.  She's decluttering her condo by giving away stuff.  Yay us.

Also added to the box is a pair of slippers received for Christmas (I already have way too many slip on types to wear about the house), a Pez dispenser and it's candy from my stocking, and another random coffee mug.  DH and I each received an oversize mug and the cupboard is already crammed full.

To the box I'm going to add a table mirror with lights I received for Christmas about a decade ago and never used and a cute, but unneeded pair of mittens received this year.  Someone will appreciate them.

Tossed random items such as a semi rusty cookie tin received last week.  I am so over having "stuff" around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 28, 2016, 03:52:52 PM
Listed 3 boxes of baseball cards from the early 90s (aka worthless) for $10 and was shocked to get an offer immediately. I thought I'd be giving them away for free!

She can't pick up until next week, but she already paypaled the money!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 28, 2016, 04:19:43 PM
We were lucky this year (or maybe my gentle requests for a low-stuff Christmas are paying off!) and didn't receive too much clutter.

I will go through the cupboards again before work goes back and put together another donation bag.

The cupboard that's really bugging me at the moment is the electrical/camera/games cupboard. Assorted leads, battery packs, etc. I've gone through it several times and tossed what we don't "need", but it seems that the only time anyone is in the cupboard looking at that stuff is when I'm decluttering it!

We moved earlier this year and changed some furniture around, and I'm not happy with how these things are being stored. (No, storage tubs are not a substitute for decluttering, but I do need something to sort this out.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Upgrayed on December 28, 2016, 05:03:32 PM
I'll be throwing away a pair of very lightly used, name brand, winter boots later tonight. They were given to me by my employer at the time and have been hanging around for 15 years. They've been moved to four different places. I doubt they were even worn once a year to shovel snow, but I could never get rid of them because free. This morning, I wore them for the 1.2 mile walk to work and they're disintegrating. Rubber from the lowers on both boots is peeling and flaking off and the lowers and uppers on one boot have almost completely separated. They should be pretty comical looking after the walk home tonight. They will not be missed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 28, 2016, 07:01:44 PM
Listed a bunch of stuff for free on FB - nobody is interested in clothes and accessories but I have got people to take wire coat hangers and a part bottle of shampoo I started but didn't like. So random!

I've also got a bagful of old clothes only good for rags and about 3 things I'll donate or bin. Plus a bagful of things to wash - one mouldy skirt and a bunch of musty things. The humidity here is so frustrating but at least it gives me a good reason to be minimalist - I hate washing the mould and mildew off things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on December 28, 2016, 09:11:36 PM
Two broken office chairs and a broken desk lamp, FINALLY out of the house. I recycled what was possible and stuffed the rest into the trash. My husband had a hard time letting his go (!), but after I took it apart, he cut up the cushions so they would fit in the container. Mine was bought new in 1986!

pulled out my skis (not used since the 90s) and backpack (even longer) and added to the donate pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: OmahaSteph on December 29, 2016, 09:43:51 AM
Found an amazing upscale ladies' consignment shop in town. They carry plus sizes, but the current selection is a bit thin (ohh, bad pun) so I raked through my closet and found a ton of winter clothes, a pair of shoes and some jewelry that I'm hoping they'll accept. Then I get to shop for "free" whenever I need something. WIN!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on December 29, 2016, 10:39:41 AM
Boyfriend destashed his closet and took a huge pile of T-shirts to my city's version of Goodwill. Also took the VCR that we never use.

The clearing-out of the filing cabinet continues. Hello, credit card and bank statements going back to the late 90s!

I am in a quandary, though. I recently learned that in my city one cannot recycle shredded paper. Unbelievable, right? Apparently, it clogs the machinery. (source: https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20151214/lincoln-square/hold-phone-papers-not-recyclable-nope-not-always)

And I don't want to just toss unshredded statements for accounts and credit cards I still have (yes, some of my credit cards date back that far) or stuff that's got my SSN on it. Most of the public shredding events here cost money, and are also in summer, which won't work since we're moving in April/May. Argh. I do not want to pay to dispose of all of this.

I'm considering bringing the shredded statements to work and either sneaking it into the work recycling, or dumping it into some recycling dumpster nearby. I work just over the border of the city in a suburb that does take shredded paper. There is a LOT of it, though, and both of these options are unethical if not illegal. Probably too much to be inconspicuous, too; certainly more than I'm comfortable hauling onto a crowded train due to its bulk. Maybe do it in small batches?

This really surprised me. I've been putting shredded paper in recycling for years, and now I found out that I contaminated the entire bin and doomed it to the landfill. :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on December 29, 2016, 10:43:42 AM
Very shocked to hear about the shredded paper! That's crazy.

As for what to do with it- it costs some money, but do you have an office supply store that does shredding? That's what we've done in the past.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on December 29, 2016, 11:30:26 AM
Probably. I think the Fedex stores here do that. I've gotta admit, though, I'm kind of pissed that I have a perfectly good shredder that I now apparently cannot use.

Recycling in Chicago is widely thought of as a joke anyway. We're pretty behind the times compared to other large cities, from what I've read. The city makes it difficult and expensive to recycle; our building doesn't even have a bin because we're 5 units and the city only provides bins for 2-4 unit buildings. Otherwise the landlord has to pay for it, and apparently ours doesn't want to. (so, um, I throw my recycling into the bin of the building next door. Yes, it's illegal, but with no car I can't haul all this stuff to a recycling center.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on December 29, 2016, 12:07:35 PM
I think I need to get involved in this group...I have been trying to get rid of all the crap we have around our house, as I am definitely a minimalist at heart. I thought I'd been doing pretty well with going through stuff, but it still seems like all of our closets, cupboards, etc, all full of stuff we don't use/need, that I don't even remember. I went through the china cabinet cupboard two nights ago and found 34 placemats. I haven't used a placemat since we moved to our new house 4 years ago! I counted them and was appalled. I itemize everything we donate in It's Deductible, but even though we have donated a lot in 2016, there is still so much more. I told my husband I want us to go through and lay hands on everything in the house and determine whether we use it and it's worth keeping, or not. It's daunting and may take years with our giant clown house. I can't wait until we can downsize to something smaller and not have the excuse of having space to store all this junk. I want it gone!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on December 29, 2016, 12:23:23 PM
An exercise from Your Money Or Your Life is to inventory everything you own.  Ive started at least 3 times if not more in the past 15 years and have yet to complete even one room each time, there is just so much to have to count t, categorize (and justify?).  Could be a way for you to get into the nitty gritty of laying hands on everything in your house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on December 29, 2016, 12:25:39 PM
Yep, I read Your Money or Your Life this year (free ebook checked out from the library). Pretty daunting in our home. I wouldn't call my husband and actual hoarder (though I will tell him to his face that he is out of exasperation), but he is a borderline packrat anyway. If I hear "just in case" as a justification for keeping something one more time...sigh. Working my way through the things I control for now!
Title: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on December 29, 2016, 01:05:17 PM
Tris, I would give yourself permission to put it in the regular trash. The powers that be have said it doesn't get recycled if you put it in the recycling (wtf I know) so you won't actually be making anything worse. If there's not enought room in your bin, do you have an outdoor area or friends house where you might be able to have a little bonfire and burn it? Huge stack could be gone in 15 minutes and VERY secure :) Again, not the perfect environmental solution but you have tried your best.

I've got some drawers and a lamp going via free cycle this weekend. Need to tackle the new linen cupboard next week now that we have finally got everything into it and get rid of all the 'just in case' stuff. With a clothes dryer as a back up plan, there's no need to keep more than the 2 nicest sets for each bed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 29, 2016, 01:09:25 PM
Hi Tris, if you know anyone with a Bokashi bin, worm farm or compost they might be able to take small amounts of shredded paper?

I know it's more work, but for future statements, could you remove and shred the vital details from the top and recycle the rest? What a pain.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 29, 2016, 01:17:42 PM
I threw out / donated / listed so much clothing yesterday that we now have space in a cupboard to store all our jackets and shoes. Will make a huge difference to the tidiness of the house.

Today, it's books and hopefully bathroom/ makeup products if time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 29, 2016, 01:22:29 PM
I got rid of SO MUCH stuff in 2015 and continued working at it in 2016, but with a lot less effort. I thought I'd worked my way down to the essentials and my house and heart felt much lighter. Well recently I've been clearing out the storage/spare/computer room and I've eliminated more things, and moved most things to other locations, and I feel cramped again!! The spare room is now completely empty, minus a computer I'm selling to a friend next week, but the rest of the house, and especially the garage reminds me just how much STUFF I still have.

I'm hoping to declutter enough to fit everything into a small camper, and I'm realizing this week that I have a LONG way to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 29, 2016, 01:34:27 PM
Is anyone else decluttering to help with mildew?  I started this thread if anyone has ideas:

http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/ask-a-mustachian/cheaper-and-greener-ways-to-stop-mildew-in-wardrobes/msg1356370/#msg1356370

It's a particular problem to humid areas as far as I know.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Izybat on December 29, 2016, 02:24:16 PM
I finally got rid of an older Xbox we no longer used. I didn't get much money for it, but just reminded myself that $14 is better than the $0 I had when it was sitting unused on the shelf.

I also did a major purge of my (large) craft closet. Some of the things were for hobbies I had once and no longer do (like making mosaics) and some were things where I needed ONE and could only buy A LOT (like buttons/beads/Popsicle sticks/etc). My husband even asked "What if we need it?" and my response was "I would probably wind up going out to buy more because I didn't even remember that I had most of this." Which is true enough.

I'm having a hard time with photos, and not even sentimental photos of friends and family. For several years I was into photography as one of my hobbies (which I hardly do anymore). I have TONS of albums and framed photos from those days and I don't know what to do with them. I'm tempted to throw them out as I rarely look at them, but once I open them, I start going "Oooh, I like that one.... That one's nice..." etc. I have several moving boxes full. I'd like to say that I'll scan them all to digital, but it's highly unlikely. I actually got a scanner years ago for film negatives. I think I did like three rolls of film and gave up. Something to work on, I guess.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on December 29, 2016, 02:28:19 PM
I've found someone to take my dresser and at least two bookshelves in exchange for something I need (a repair I'm not qualified for). Perfect!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 29, 2016, 10:40:11 PM
I Marie Kondo-ed our books today. We have a few hundred and I only wanted probably less than half. I was so proud that I even managed to let go some unread ones I'd bought that I know will never get read. Unfortunately DH wanted most of those I discarded including the unread ones that I bought that he knows nothing about and being a one book a year type of guy will never read them either :| We are getting rid of 25, none of which are sellable. But 25 out is better than none.

 We still don't have an attractive storage solution so I'm putting them back where they were. It's a good job we aren't planning a move to a camper like some of you guys!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on December 30, 2016, 07:44:35 AM
Due to a family emergency I did not have time to finish all of the pieces for my Christmas gifts, so I robbed my bookshelves and gave away half a dozen books too. Many by local authors, books I really liked but if I need them again I can find them again.  Until then my life is lighter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on December 30, 2016, 09:20:10 AM
I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 30, 2016, 03:09:54 PM
Two big bags of fabric scraps picked up today.  Glad to have them out of the house and not in the trash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on December 30, 2016, 03:11:50 PM
Exchanged a sweater I got for Christmas that wouldn't have gotten worn. Got much needed jeans for DH instead.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 30, 2016, 06:28:21 PM
I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 30, 2016, 06:49:19 PM
Got rid of a pair of shoes and five saucepans that don't work on induction plus a rusty wok. The space in the pan cupboard means that the slow cooker and chopping boards now have a proper home. DH chucked five magazines and a bike helmet. Together we are tackling another kitchen cupboard and have found a home for the blender and bread maker. The bread maker is used every other day but Marie Kondo told me to put it in a cupboard so I'm trying it. We are unstoppable.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Dave1442397 on December 30, 2016, 06:58:24 PM
Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

I use Calibre to convert ebooks to mobi format. You can use Calibre to convert from any format to any other format, as far as I know - https://calibre-ebook.com/download

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on December 30, 2016, 07:14:11 PM
I'm offloading some furniture to my siblings as they move into a rental together. So far they're taking a couch and a full length mirror :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 30, 2016, 10:14:01 PM
Five toys out the home! And we got back $100 for them. Also I'm finally ready to work through my lipstick stash and throw out ones I don't use anymore. Moved a shower lotion and body lotion to regular use - I'm finally starting to work through my second stash of cosmetics. At this rate, I think I'm set for atleast 2-3 years of lotions and shower gels.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on December 31, 2016, 01:51:31 AM
I've said it before and I'll say it again ... drinking through my tea stash before I buy any new tea!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on December 31, 2016, 06:07:58 AM
I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 31, 2016, 09:07:59 AM
I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 31, 2016, 10:20:27 AM
Probably. I think the Fedex stores here do that. I've gotta admit, though, I'm kind of pissed that I have a perfectly good shredder that I now apparently cannot use.

Recycling in Chicago is widely thought of as a joke anyway. We're pretty behind the times compared to other large cities, from what I've read. The city makes it difficult and expensive to recycle; our building doesn't even have a bin because we're 5 units and the city only provides bins for 2-4 unit buildings. Otherwise the landlord has to pay for it, and apparently ours doesn't want to. (so, um, I throw my recycling into the bin of the building next door. Yes, it's illegal, but with no car I can't haul all this stuff to a recycling center.)

Do you know anyone with a fireplace or a burn barrel?

I've been out of the decluttering game for a bit, but I've got a few days off and it's cold AF outside, so I'll be housebound and tidying a bit. 

Texted with someone this morning who is sending her husband to purchase a ski jacket I posted on Craigslist last week.  I gave up on skiing, and this jacket is white, a color I'm unqualified to wear in daily life due to my inability  to  keep things nice.  It's been  taunting me from  the coat closet for a couple years now.  I did a round of eBay for some excess horse equipment a few weeks ago but only sold two out of ten items.  I'll get everything I want to sell cleaned and photographed and try again in the spring.  I also have about five saddle pads set aside to give away, and need to add a few other things to freecycle to fellow horse people.

Recently I went through my garden seeds and discarded anything that was old, and empty envelopes that somehow made their way back into storage.  Also have a large box of clothes, shoes and random items  ready to be donated and will certainly find things to add over the next few days.

I went through my home-canned goods a couple months ago and prioritized using up  previous years' supplies.  Need to drop off a food donation I purchased before Thanksgiving and didn't manage to get onto the food bank truck in time.  Will probably find some other things lurking around the house to add to that box as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Metric Mouse on December 31, 2016, 11:18:07 AM
Tris, I would give yourself permission to put it in the regular trash. The powers that be have said it doesn't get recycled if you put it in the recycling (wtf I know) so you won't actually be making anything worse. If there's not enought room in your bin, do you have an outdoor area or friends house where you might be able to have a little bonfire and burn it? Huge stack could be gone in 15 minutes and VERY secure :) Again, not the perfect environmental solution but you have tried your best.

This thread comes to a similar conclusion - in many cases recycling does as more or more damage to the environment than tossing stuff in the trash: http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/welcome-to-the-forum/recycling-debate/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on December 31, 2016, 05:05:01 PM
It worked!

As you said, from a pdf I got full Kindle, text size changes, etc.  I never email kindle so I had to find my email address first  ;-)

I wish I had done this while I was still working, it would have been nice to take online journal papers and "kindleize" them so they were easy to read on a laptop or tablet.

I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on December 31, 2016, 06:28:52 PM
It worked!

As you said, from a pdf I got full Kindle, text size changes, etc.  I never email kindle so I had to find my email address first  ;-)

I wish I had done this while I was still working, it would have been nice to take online journal papers and "kindleize" them so they were easy to read on a laptop or tablet.

I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.


 Fabulous! Yes, I've done it for a lot of things for work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 02, 2017, 01:58:20 AM
I've decided to try The Minimalism Game (http://www.theminimalists.com/game/) with my husband and kids (aged 9 and up) in preparation for moving in the spring. Printed off a January calendar for each of us. Will modify for kids where they do 1 item the first day, 2 the second day, etc and then start back on day 1 for each week of the month.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 02, 2017, 08:53:38 AM
I tried the minimalist game in December, but I had trouble sticking to the low numbers. It went something like this: 1, 2, 3, 584...

Once the ball was rolling, I couldn't stop.

I'm at a pause right now only because the CDs I want to get rid of are behind some heavy things I can't move, and my husband is sick, so I want to wait to ask him for help after he feels better.

Yesterday, though, I made incredible progress in the file cabinet of college memories. I'm down to one drawer, not completely filled, and the rest I'm putting into a plastic storage bin so I can get rid of the file cabinet. That takes considerably less room, so I don't feel bad about hanging onto what I'm keeping. My guess is I can still probably cut it in half, but not right now. I know when I'm beaten.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 02, 2017, 08:55:36 AM
Friend came over for a craft day yesterday. She left with a giant bag stuffed with fabric. I let her dig through the bins and take whatever she wanted.  Some of it was my "favorites" but I have too much, so I didn't wince and let it go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 02, 2017, 10:27:05 AM
I've said it before and I'll say it again ... drinking through my tea stash before I buy any new tea!!

+1. I have a Serious Tea Problem. And some of it I don't even like. I think I'm taking the stuff I don't like to work; I'll set it out in the lunchroom and someone will drink it.

I'm still working on the filing cabinet. I have tossed more greeting cards, utility bills from three apartments ago, and a whole file folder of bills and statements for my last cat's final illness (he died in 2011).

Not certain about whether I should keep some paperwork. Like, do I need the bill of sale from a car I sold privately more than 15 years ago? I'm thinking not, but is there some reason I'd need to prove I don't own it any more? And, what about certificates of creditable coverage from the health insurance I had at past jobs? I have a whole stack of these, because at most of my past jobs our insurance carrier changed annually since the companies were small and trying to outrun big premium increases. Am I OK with just keeping the most recent of these, or in a Trump presidency am I going to have to prove that I never had a gap in coverage, if I lose my job and have to go on whatever Obamacare is replaced with?

Struggling with what to do with my "attagirl" folder - basically, thank-you notes I got when I was a lifestyle reporter for a tiny newspaper in the suburbs, performance reviews from past jobs, other evidence that I did well at long-ago jobs. There is a lot and the folder is pretty thick. I don't have a scanner or else I'd just scan everything and toss the originals. Phone photos, maybe?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 02, 2017, 11:02:30 AM
I haven't even thought about tea yet! I have so much, and now I'm on medication that doesn't allow me any caffeine. I think I'll donate it to the work lounge.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 02, 2017, 11:38:59 AM
I've said it before and I'll say it again ... drinking through my tea stash before I buy any new tea!!

+1. I have a Serious Tea Problem. And some of it I don't even like. I think I'm taking the stuff I don't like to work; I'll set it out in the lunchroom and someone will drink it.

I'm still working on the filing cabinet. I have tossed more greeting cards, utility bills from three apartments ago, and a whole file folder of bills and statements for my last cat's final illness (he died in 2011).

Not certain about whether I should keep some paperwork. Like, do I need the bill of sale from a car I sold privately more than 15 years ago? I'm thinking not, but is there some reason I'd need to prove I don't own it any more? And, what about certificates of creditable coverage from the health insurance I had at past jobs? I have a whole stack of these, because at most of my past jobs our insurance carrier changed annually since the companies were small and trying to outrun big premium increases. Am I OK with just keeping the most recent of these, or in a Trump presidency am I going to have to prove that I never had a gap in coverage, if I lose my job and have to go on whatever Obamacare is replaced with?

Struggling with what to do with my "attagirl" folder - basically, thank-you notes I got when I was a lifestyle reporter for a tiny newspaper in the suburbs, performance reviews from past jobs, other evidence that I did well at long-ago jobs. There is a lot and the folder is pretty thick. I don't have a scanner or else I'd just scan everything and toss the originals. Phone photos, maybe?

Genius Scan is the app my work has us use. Converts scans to PDFs and saves them. The other option is evernote. I've used both and love them both. =) Good luck. I think "attagirl" folders are great. I keep mine too- clinical and work reviews, thank you notes, that sort of thing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on January 02, 2017, 12:54:47 PM
Visiting my parents yesterday I let them know I am taking a load to the reuse centre and asked what I can take for them. Went away with a bag from them and a commitment that both our families will go through more items for the next donation load.

I'm finding it much easier to put aside a few items each day by having some dedicated 'collection' boxes for donate, re-use centre, and a 'burn' box. My next project will probably be a swap with friends to get rid of some nicer items. I don't really need or want anything new though - so may be more work than it's worth.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Izybat on January 02, 2017, 04:11:07 PM
I went through two moving sized boxes of old photos and managed to get rid of one of them. These were photos of people I thought it desperately important to take pictures of when I was in middle school and high school, but now I can't even tell you their names or why I would know them. Still plenty of pictures left to go through, but huge progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 02, 2017, 06:36:21 PM
I went through two moving sized boxes of old photos and managed to get rid of one of them. These were photos of people I thought it desperately important to take pictures of when I was in middle school and high school, but now I can't even tell you their names or why I would know them. Still plenty of pictures left to go through, but huge progress.

Just did the same thing with my digital photos.  If there aren't any people that are immediate family members or close friends in the photo, it's gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on January 02, 2017, 07:03:33 PM
Took all the unopened  Christmas sweets and snacks we don't like into work. Planning to do the same with groceries we have accidentally doubled up on and won't get through in the next year (eg two huge bottles of fish sauce when one has lasted us two years already).

Need to do a wardrobe sweep now I have switched to summer clothes and pass on anything that no longer suits. Maybe tonight.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on January 02, 2017, 07:04:09 PM
Took all the unopened  Christmas sweets and snacks we don't like into work. Planning to do the same with groceries we have accidentally doubled up on and won't get through in the next year (eg two huge bottles of fish sauce when one has lasted us two years already).

Need to do a wardrobe sweep now I have switched to summer clothes and pass on anything that no longer suits. Maybe tonight.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 02, 2017, 07:12:18 PM
By means of donating, giving to friends, throwing out, and depositing, I have offloaded a TV, a couple of chargers, two small models, a bag of clothes, and a bowl full of change.

I cleared unopened bottles of wine, champagne and soft drink from my fridge and stashed them in a cupboard. The booze will likely be regifted.

Took all the unopened  Christmas sweets and snacks we don't like into work.

I love this idea! Waste not...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 02, 2017, 07:14:52 PM
Brought some of the Christmas leftover snacks to my ILs when we visited this weekend. New place and they had no food. So it's a win-win.

On the other hand, my mom visited... and brought a box full of Christmas decor >.<
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mrsstache on January 02, 2017, 07:45:23 PM
Jumping in. Today, got rid of some old shoes, cosmetics, miscellaneous stuff that wasn't being used. Not a ton of stuff, but you've got to start somewhere, right? I'm aiming to do a little every day until my life is clutter free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 02, 2017, 07:47:15 PM
Jumping in. Today, got rid of some old shoes, cosmetics, miscellaneous stuff that wasn't being used. Not a ton of stuff, but you've got to start somewhere, right? I'm aiming to do a little every day until my life is clutter free.

That's a great start, mrsstache. Keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 02, 2017, 07:56:04 PM
I have got rid of a bag of kitchen things for free on FB - well nearly - someone needs to pick them up. I find when I give away free stuff people are quite flaky, not turning up, or saying that they want something on a public post but not expending the energy to message me to find out the pick up address. Awkward.

I've now freed up a kitchen drawer which in the long run will mean we can have an under-sink in-cupboard bin. We don't really have floorspace for a bin so it kind of gets in the way.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 02, 2017, 08:50:31 PM
Jumping in. Today, got rid of some old shoes, cosmetics, miscellaneous stuff that wasn't being used. Not a ton of stuff, but you've got to start somewhere, right? I'm aiming to do a little every day until my life is clutter free.

I am starting the year off with the Minimalism Game. On the first day of January I got rid of one thing. Today I donated two things. Tomorrow, three things. So on and so on until at the end of the month I will find 30 things to dispose of on the 30th. I try to sell, donate, or recycle things first, and only toss what can't be reused.

Why not join in? It is fun to report on your progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 02, 2017, 09:32:30 PM
I've now freed up a kitchen drawer which in the long run will mean we can have an under-sink in-cupboard bin. We don't really have floorspace for a bin so it kind of gets in the way.

Awesome. Love when decluttering results in a win like that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 02, 2017, 09:37:50 PM
Rearranged the crib area, got rid of some boxes and covers and got all paper to one area that I'll go through tomorrow. Also set to clear up two closets tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 03, 2017, 04:55:57 AM

I kept wearing them around the house. The elastic gave out so much I was using a hair elastic to ratchet them on. Then there was a bleach incident and the holey khaki fabric became white and pink at the ankles.

It was time.

:(

My husband brought me some trousers to 'mend' yesterday. He was like, "there's a hole here, if you could just patch it. But maybe extend the patch up? It's already thin here". I asked about the other leg, I had already patched it, but where the patch ended it was weak and maybe they needed a further strenghtening patch there. And since I was already at it, this part needs reinforcing too.

In the end I was like, "so basically just make you a new pair of trousers, but inside this pair?". Apparently they are his favourites.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 03, 2017, 05:08:17 AM
Sold another item on Craigslist yesterday.  I still have a few things listed but they fell way down so I will repost them this week.  Got the new Marie Kondo book from the library to give me some fresh motivation to continue with my efforts. 

I am planning to put together another batch of clothing for consignment this week.  There are definitely things in my closet that I don't wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 03, 2017, 09:44:19 AM
It worked!

As you said, from a pdf I got full Kindle, text size changes, etc.  I never email kindle so I had to find my email address first  ;-)

I wish I had done this while I was still working, it would have been nice to take online journal papers and "kindleize" them so they were easy to read on a laptop or tablet.

I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.


 Fabulous! Yes, I've done it for a lot of things for work.

If any of you need assistance with Calibre, I can help. I've been using it and my kindle (and tablets) consistently for over 5 years. I've yet to find anything it can't do. I have over 6000 books in my library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 03, 2017, 10:56:40 AM
Does anyone else have parents who keep giving you their (mostly worthless) stuff to sell online? I've got a couple rubbermaid bins of Stuff from my mother. She has expressed to me that she does NOT want it donated or given away; she wants money for it. Ugh.

I've hauled this Stuff through the last two moves and we're hoping to move again in spring. I do not want to haul it through yet another move. I have had this stuff listed on Craigslist, ebay, Facebook yard sale groups, etc. for literally years and I've now given up. No one wants to pay money for this. Of course, my mother will not believe this because "they're collectibles! They're worth something!" She cannot sell it herself online as she doesn't have a computer, smartphone, or Internet service, and her HOA doesn't allow yard sales so she can't sell it in person.

I only took this stuff from her in the first place because she has hoarding tendencies and I was happy to see her willing to let stuff leave her house. Now it's in MY house and I can't seem to get anyone to buy it!

The way I see it, my options (other than continue hanging onto it, which will piss off Boyfriend) are:

- Give it all back to her. I no longer have a car, and it's too much to haul onto public transport, so this would mean renting (and paying for) a car to get it to her. I would really rather not do this. Her house is full to bursting as it is.

- Donate it and don't tell her. She's got a memory like an elephant, though, and often asks me about stuff she gave me literally decades ago. (and I think it's likely that eventually she'll ask for it back, in which case I'll have to do option 1.....)

- Donate it and tell her. This will result in repeated angry phone calls in which she screams and cries at me for not respecting her things.

- Donate it, tell her I sold it, and give her the money she wants for it. This is sort of what I'm leaning toward, mainly because she's in pretty dire financial straits and I can afford it. But man, it would piss me off to pay her to get rid of this crap. (This would also encourage her to give me yet MORE crap to sell "because you're so good at it!" and I really don't want to do this any more.)

What would you all do? Has anyone dealt with this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nessness on January 03, 2017, 11:03:46 AM
Does anyone else have parents who keep giving you their (mostly worthless) stuff to sell online? I've got a couple rubbermaid bins of Stuff from my mother. She has expressed to me that she does NOT want it donated or given away; she wants money for it. Ugh.

I've hauled this Stuff through the last two moves and we're hoping to move again in spring. I do not want to haul it through yet another move. I have had this stuff listed on Craigslist, ebay, Facebook yard sale groups, etc. for literally years and I've now given up. No one wants to pay money for this. Of course, my mother will not believe this because "they're collectibles! They're worth something!" She cannot sell it herself online as she doesn't have a computer, smartphone, or Internet service, and her HOA doesn't allow yard sales so she can't sell it in person.

I only took this stuff from her in the first place because she has hoarding tendencies and I was happy to see her willing to let stuff leave her house. Now it's in MY house and I can't seem to get anyone to buy it!

The way I see it, my options (other than continue hanging onto it, which will piss off Boyfriend) are:

- Give it all back to her. I no longer have a car, and it's too much to haul onto public transport, so this would mean renting (and paying for) a car to get it to her. I would really rather not do this. Her house is full to bursting as it is.

- Donate it and don't tell her. She's got a memory like an elephant, though, and often asks me about stuff she gave me literally decades ago. (and I think it's likely that eventually she'll ask for it back, in which case I'll have to do option 1.....)

- Donate it and tell her. This will result in repeated angry phone calls in which she screams and cries at me for not respecting her things.

- Donate it, tell her I sold it, and give her the money she wants for it. This is sort of what I'm leaning toward, mainly because she's in pretty dire financial straits and I can afford it. But man, it would piss me off to pay her to get rid of this crap. (This would also encourage her to give me yet MORE crap to sell "because you're so good at it!" and I really don't want to do this any more.)

What would you all do? Has anyone dealt with this?
Tell her that you can't sell the stuff and if she doesn't pick it up by [some reasonable date in the future] that you're going to donate it. Then follow through.

Lying will just encourage her to give you more stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 03, 2017, 11:15:24 AM
Tell her that you can't sell the stuff and if she doesn't pick it up by [some reasonable date in the future] that you're going to donate it. Then follow through.

Lying will just encourage her to give you more stuff.

Yeah, she won't come to me. I live in the Big Scary City where there is Crime so therefore she will not drive here. I wish she would come pick it up.... but she won't. I do worry that if I lied and said it sold, I'd just be encouraging more Crap to come into my house. (sometimes she mails it to me, as she will not drive to my apartment -- ugh.) You've definitely got a good point there.

If I tell her I am donating it, I'll just have to be prepared for a whole torrent of verbal abuse to be unleashed at me. I guess that's all part of the hoarding behavior... people who hoard care more about their things than about others. :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on January 03, 2017, 11:48:51 AM

...

I've hauled this Stuff through the last two moves and we're hoping to move again in spring. I do not want to haul it through yet another move. I have had this stuff listed on Craigslist, ebay, Facebook yard sale groups, etc. for literally years and I've now given up. No one wants to pay money for this. Of course, my mother will not believe this because "they're collectibles! They're worth something!" She cannot sell it herself online as she doesn't have a computer, smartphone, or Internet service, and her HOA doesn't allow yard sales so she can't sell it in person.

...

What would you all do? Has anyone dealt with this?

I would send her a letter: cuts down on the opportunity for her to scream at you.  Put in the letter that you have her stuff, that you have been unable to sell it despite your best efforts (and set them all out), that you will not be able to take it with you when you move in the spring.  Tell her that you have for a last time listed it on [Craigslist] but if it doesn't sell, then unless she collects it by [date a month before you move] you will dispose of it by the means available to you at the time.

Best you can do in the circumstances, I think.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 03, 2017, 01:43:52 PM

I kept wearing them around the house. The elastic gave out so much I was using a hair elastic to ratchet them on. Then there was a bleach incident and the holey khaki fabric became white and pink at the ankles.

It was time.

:(

My husband brought me some trousers to 'mend' yesterday. He was like, "there's a hole here, if you could just patch it. But maybe extend the patch up? It's already thin here". I asked about the other leg, I had already patched it, but where the patch ended it was weak and maybe they needed a further strenghtening patch there. And since I was already at it, this part needs reinforcing too.

In the end I was like, "so basically just make you a new pair of trousers, but inside this pair?". Apparently they are his favourites.

:D Fantastic.

I had a favourite pair of jeans when I was about 17. Jeans were tough for me to buy because I don't really have hips (Levis, etc, now have Curve ID which is awesome).

Anyway, I wore this particular pair to death. Eventually they got dangerously thin, so Mum confiscated them and stashed them in the sewing room for a future project. But I knew they were there so I would retrieve them and keep wearing them. Eventually she cut them off at the knees.

:(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 03, 2017, 04:18:06 PM
It sounds to me like you did the best you could. I'd tell her she can either have it back by X date or you're donating on Y date. If she doesn't take it back, then I would say there's no more responsibility on your shoulders.

I feel your pain. There's hoarding in my family, too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 03, 2017, 06:25:26 PM
If any of you need assistance with Calibre, I can help. I've been using it and my kindle (and tablets) consistently for over 5 years. I've yet to find anything it can't do. I have over 6000 books in my library.

Over 6000, wow.  I love reading, I love books, lately I have been able to satisfy the cravings through the library.   But at my highest book-owning moment I don't think I had that many - if the shelves were full, something had to go when something came in.

There are books I can easily ditch (the library has them), fairly easily ditch (probably will never want to read again) and those I want to hold onto that the library doesn't have.  And are not in Gutenberg, so will have to buy if I want to trade paper for electrons.  Too bad there isn't a site where I send in my paper copy and they let me download the ebook equivalent.  Of course a lot of my books are not even available as ebooks.

Spoiler: show
Is that many books even mustachian?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 03, 2017, 06:31:48 PM



Spoiler: show
Is that many books even mustachian?


Not as physical books. But I switched to eBooks before they even had readers. And they take up no physical space. A good chunk were premustachian too. No clutter for me. 😀
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 03, 2017, 07:05:06 PM
Alright I am doing this decluttering/cleaning thing now! Some parts of my house haven't been properly cleaned in the 20+years we've lived here, but since I retired in the summer, this is my winter project.

So far: I've washed the walls around light switches and corners, where 20 years of fingerprints had built up. I've cleaned the fridge, even taking out the shelves in the door and washed them. Except for the very bottom vegetable bin, I got sidetracked right at that point. (Squirrel!)

I've washed the drapes in 3 rooms, and wiped the cobwebs off the curtain rods and top of the window frames. The cobwebs, omg, I don't know how they snuck up on me like this. In an anti-anticluttering moment I bought a lightweight stick vacuum and I've done my ceilings with it.

One room had turned into a combination shrine to my daughter (who is almost thirty and hasn't lived here in a decade) and general overflow dumping ground. I've cleaned out her closet, filled 4 big garbage bags of pure trash, a medium one of recyclable papers (spelling tests from 5th grade, that sort of thing), and tonight I posted up some old dolls of hers on craigslist.

I also donated several bags of work clothes I don't need any more to a local thrift shop.

I've been listening to the marie kondo audio book and some minimalist podcasts among other things while cleaning, for inspiration. I can't quite get behind thanking my purse when I put it down after shopping or making my clothes stand up in the dresser drawers, but I do like the idea of "curating" my environment and feeling peaceful when I walk into a room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 03, 2017, 07:53:09 PM
In December, a woman at work mentioned that she wanted to start decluttering so I gave her a few pointers.

Just caught up with her and she has made huge progress over the break.

She raved about how much bigger her house seems, how much easier it is to tidy, how much her kids are enjoying the space, and how much happier she feels.

I stood there and clapped when she told me. So thrilled for her.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rachellynn99 on January 03, 2017, 08:02:23 PM
Listed 9 items on ebay today. Gave my friend two of my old books for her to read, then told her she could keep or donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 03, 2017, 08:04:22 PM
Does anyone else have parents who keep giving you their (mostly worthless) stuff to sell online? I've got a couple rubbermaid bins of Stuff from my mother. She has expressed to me that she does NOT want it donated or given away; she wants money for it. Ugh.

I've hauled this Stuff through the last two moves and we're hoping to move again in spring. I do not want to haul it through yet another move. I have had this stuff listed on Craigslist, ebay, Facebook yard sale groups, etc. for literally years and I've now given up. No one wants to pay money for this. Of course, my mother will not believe this because "they're collectibles! They're worth something!" She cannot sell it herself online as she doesn't have a computer, smartphone, or Internet service, and her HOA doesn't allow yard sales so she can't sell it in person.

I only took this stuff from her in the first place because she has hoarding tendencies and I was happy to see her willing to let stuff leave her house. Now it's in MY house and I can't seem to get anyone to buy it!

The way I see it, my options (other than continue hanging onto it, which will piss off Boyfriend) are:

- Give it all back to her. I no longer have a car, and it's too much to haul onto public transport, so this would mean renting (and paying for) a car to get it to her. I would really rather not do this. Her house is full to bursting as it is.

- Donate it and don't tell her. She's got a memory like an elephant, though, and often asks me about stuff she gave me literally decades ago. (and I think it's likely that eventually she'll ask for it back, in which case I'll have to do option 1.....)

- Donate it and tell her. This will result in repeated angry phone calls in which she screams and cries at me for not respecting her things.

- Donate it, tell her I sold it, and give her the money she wants for it. This is sort of what I'm leaning toward, mainly because she's in pretty dire financial straits and I can afford it. But man, it would piss me off to pay her to get rid of this crap. (This would also encourage her to give me yet MORE crap to sell "because you're so good at it!" and I really don't want to do this any more.)

What would you all do? Has anyone dealt with this?
If you can afford it, donate and give her some money for it ( less than $50) since she is in dire financial straits. Also make it clear you can't sell any more for her because it's not worth your time (over three years) to sell them. The way I see it, you are paying to get rid of it from your life. While it's true that asking her to pick up by X and donating by Y will work, it'll not help your mom's hoarding tendencies (she'll come pick it up and store it at her place making you deal with it at a later stage). If you give her very little money, she'll atleast realize that most of what she hoards is crap and may be ready to let them go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on January 03, 2017, 08:57:24 PM
It worked!

As you said, from a pdf I got full Kindle, text size changes, etc.  I never email kindle so I had to find my email address first  ;-)

I wish I had done this while I was still working, it would have been nice to take online journal papers and "kindleize" them so they were easy to read on a laptop or tablet.

I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.


 Fabulous! Yes, I've done it for a lot of things for work.

If any of you need assistance with Calibre, I can help. I've been using it and my kindle (and tablets) consistently for over 5 years. I've yet to find anything it can't do. I have over 6000 books in my library.


Ooh. Yep. I've got a textbook in Bookshelf (iOS) that'd I'd love to convert (to something actually functional; I hate Bookshelf). But I have no clue how to get the file itself; I just get to it in the app (it's a desk copy because I'm teaching with it; the publisher sent it to me through an online service that syncs to the app). But maybe that's not a Calibre question?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 03, 2017, 09:01:02 PM
It worked!

As you said, from a pdf I got full Kindle, text size changes, etc.  I never email kindle so I had to find my email address first  ;-)

I wish I had done this while I was still working, it would have been nice to take online journal papers and "kindleize" them so they were easy to read on a laptop or tablet.

I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.


 Fabulous! Yes, I've done it for a lot of things for work.

If any of you need assistance with Calibre, I can help. I've been using it and my kindle (and tablets) consistently for over 5 years. I've yet to find anything it can't do. I have over 6000 books in my library.


Ooh. Yep. I've got a textbook in Bookshelf (iOS) that'd I'd love to convert (to something actually functional; I hate Bookshelf). But I have no clue how to get the file itself; I just get to it in the app (it's a desk copy because I'm teaching with it; the publisher sent it to me through an online service that syncs to the app). But maybe that's not a Calibre question?
Not directly, but it might be. This is iBooks Bookshelf right? I'll check back in the AM.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on January 03, 2017, 09:07:07 PM
It worked!

As you said, from a pdf I got full Kindle, text size changes, etc.  I never email kindle so I had to find my email address first  ;-)

I wish I had done this while I was still working, it would have been nice to take online journal papers and "kindleize" them so they were easy to read on a laptop or tablet.

I've been sorting books too.  The ones I want to hold on to are old ones that the library doesn't have, but some of them are old enough they are on Gutenberg.ca (I'm in Canada and respecting Canadian copyright limits - Australia has the same limits we do so I may also download from them).  If I can have an e-book version I am OK with donating the paper version.

Question: Has anyone downloaded Gutenberg books and if yes, what e-reader did you download to read them with?  I will be reading on a desktop (Windows 7) and a tablet (Android).

Related question: Also some slightly more recent ones are now on Kindle, but they cost, and I already own the paper version!  A lot are free on Amazon Kindle Prime.  Canadian Kindle Prime users, how easy is it to download lots and lots of free books and then get off Kindle Prime?  It is the only reason I would sign up for it.

On a "gone" note, all my Kathy Reichs and Dana Stabenow mysteries are in the donate pile.  A lot of my Tony Hillerman ones too (the ones the library has).  Progress.


On Gutenberg books: Kindle is my preferred, and sometimes it's an option (.mobi files). Failing that, usually I'll convert a text or PDF file to kindle (email to your kindle device address with the subject line "convert" - instructions on Amazon if you search).  I like that format for readability, for exporting notes – usually for students – and for the ability to pick up and read where I left off on any kind of device. I have the Kindle app for Idevices, Android, and Windows.
Thanks Rural
A few were mobi files and are now on my Kindle.
Most of the books were html or text - I saved to Word.  If I save those Word documents to PDF this should work?  I just email to my Kindle address, subject line convert, and send the files as attachments?


Yes.  Apparently, you can also send other document formats (like Word) and read them in kindle, but sending a PDF with the convert command gives you access to more of the Kindle functions. Here's a link:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email (https://www.amazon.com/gp/sendtokindle/email)


 There's also an app that will convert various ebook files to other formats. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I'm going to. It's called Calibre.


 Fabulous! Yes, I've done it for a lot of things for work.

If any of you need assistance with Calibre, I can help. I've been using it and my kindle (and tablets) consistently for over 5 years. I've yet to find anything it can't do. I have over 6000 books in my library.


Ooh. Yep. I've got a textbook in Bookshelf (iOS) that'd I'd love to convert (to something actually functional; I hate Bookshelf). But I have no clue how to get the file itself; I just get to it in the app (it's a desk copy because I'm teaching with it; the publisher sent it to me through an online service that syncs to the app). But maybe that's not a Calibre question?
Not directly, but it might be. This is iBooks Bookshelf right? I'll check back in the AM.


Yes, iBooks. Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 03, 2017, 09:50:13 PM
Does anyone else have parents who keep giving you their (mostly worthless) stuff to sell online? I've got a couple rubbermaid bins of Stuff from my mother. She has expressed to me that she does NOT want it donated or given away; she wants money for it. Ugh.

I've hauled this Stuff through the last two moves and we're hoping to move again in spring. I do not want to haul it through yet another move. I have had this stuff listed on Craigslist, ebay, Facebook yard sale groups, etc. for literally years and I've now given up. No one wants to pay money for this. Of course, my mother will not believe this because "they're collectibles! They're worth something!" She cannot sell it herself online as she doesn't have a computer, smartphone, or Internet service, and her HOA doesn't allow yard sales so she can't sell it in person.

I only took this stuff from her in the first place because she has hoarding tendencies and I was happy to see her willing to let stuff leave her house. Now it's in MY house and I can't seem to get anyone to buy it!

The way I see it, my options (other than continue hanging onto it, which will piss off Boyfriend) are:

- Give it all back to her. I no longer have a car, and it's too much to haul onto public transport, so this would mean renting (and paying for) a car to get it to her. I would really rather not do this. Her house is full to bursting as it is.

- Donate it and don't tell her. She's got a memory like an elephant, though, and often asks me about stuff she gave me literally decades ago. (and I think it's likely that eventually she'll ask for it back, in which case I'll have to do option 1.....)

- Donate it and tell her. This will result in repeated angry phone calls in which she screams and cries at me for not respecting her things.

- Donate it, tell her I sold it, and give her the money she wants for it. This is sort of what I'm leaning toward, mainly because she's in pretty dire financial straits and I can afford it. But man, it would piss me off to pay her to get rid of this crap. (This would also encourage her to give me yet MORE crap to sell "because you're so good at it!" and I really don't want to do this any more.)

What would you all do? Has anyone dealt with this?

I've learnt to keep my mouth shut about selling on eBay, after having multiple people try this on with me.

A friend of mine announced that she wanted to declutter and said she would give me all her books, DVDs, etc to sell online. She was planning to let me keep the money, but it came across almost like charity the way she tried to sell me on the idea. Also, she's a SAHM and I work full-time. Sell your own stuff! (She couldn't be bothered in the end, donated the lot.)

MiL tried this repeatedly. Eventually I agreed, listed 20-30 articles of outdated women's clothes at 99 cents each. She texted me every day to ask if anything had sold. When nothing sold, I donated the lot. I later taught her how to sell on eBay, and she listed things at such ridiculous prices that nothing sold then either. "These are good shoes, I paid $300 for them!" "... they're 15 years old. You don't want them because they're dated and they're your shoes. Why would anyone else want them?"

I would probably give in and dump the lot, give her a small amount of money, and do everything in your power to stop the influx of crap from her again. Baffle her with bullshit if you have to, tell her eBay put up their fees and it's not worth your time, or tell her eBay and Paypal had a security breach (true) and you're not comfortable selling online anymore.

While she can't have a personal garage sale, she could look into community garage sales or car boot sales and sell things that way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 04, 2017, 07:11:41 AM



Is that many books even mustachian?

Not as physical books. But I switched to eBooks before they even had readers. And they take up no physical space. A good chunk were premustachian too. No clutter for me. 😀

I was thinking more of the cost, I would happily have unlimited books (but that is why I need a big library wherever I move to).  $$ is what is stopping me from replacing perfectly good paper books with ebooks.  Plus so many are not even available as ebooks (the older ones, that are not old enough for Gutenberg).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Just Joe on January 04, 2017, 11:43:10 AM
DW and I decided that it was time to turn our attention to the interior of the house. It needed cleaning and decluttering foremost. Needed some paint and minor remodeling.

We're both sentimental fools and have boxes of old books and papers. We now have a single box of those things. Next up is a thinning of other books, music and movies. Had no idea how much we had until we unboxed some things. Things were haven't enjoyed in years. What is the point in having it?

We've made stabs at making real progress before and accomplished a little each time.

This holiday we got serious.

And it was easier each time something left the house - as either donations, recycle materials or plain garbage.

Along the way we painted one room and have plans to paint a few more in the next week or so. New carpet too. Night and day difference.

Our house wasn't dirty but it wasn't clean either. So much dust around things that had not been moved in such a long time. Someone here talked about creating a home that is easy to clean so that is what we're focusing on. Everything needs to have a home or it needs to go.

Still have a ways to go but we are getting there. On a another note the Goodwill store people know us by sight now. I considered a garage sale or eBay but I've been down that route before. Takes a long time, lots of packing and boxing - assuming I have materials to do this with in the first place. Our time is worth more than the stuff we donated. Most of it would have been $5 items at best.

We noticed how many gifts we've received as a family that were never really used much. We've tried to make our relatives remember we have a small house but with mixed results. Whatever comes into the house needs to be easy to store when not in use. The holidays are wonderful but we don't need anything. Time together and good eats and laughter are more important to us.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 04, 2017, 02:24:30 PM
The decluttering endeavor has driven home the irreconcilable differences between my husband and me.

Last night. Me: Do I really have to get rid of my Annie Dillard and Dorris Lessing books? I haven't read them since college, but they were so good ... (Pulitzer Prize and Nobel Prize winners, respectively)

My husband - face lighting up, pointing to one of his books: THIS is the BEST BOOK EVER!

I squint at the title: "Linear Algebra and its Applications."

We seem happy enough together, but this makes me think we aren't compatible at all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 04, 2017, 03:45:21 PM
The decluttering endeavor has driven home the irreconcilable differences between my husband and me.

Last night. Me: Do I really have to get rid of my Annie Dillard and Dorris Lessing books? I haven't read them since college, but they were so good ... (Pulitzer Prize and Nobel Prize winners, respectively)

My husband - face lighting up, pointing to one of his books: THIS is the BEST BOOK EVER!

I squint at the title: "Linear Algebra and its Applications."

We seem happy enough together, but this makes me think we aren't compatible at all.

What about Breakfast at Tiffany's?


Thanks for the laugh!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BiscuitsForBreakfast on January 04, 2017, 06:30:31 PM
I'm reasonably good at not bring excess into my house...I THOUGHT...but I'm doing the Apartment Therapy cure this January and re-discovered that I have five whisks/egg beaters (one stolen from my mom, four gifted from my mom...ya think she wants the one I stole back?) and three containers of curry powder.

On the upside, today's task (cleaning out the pantry) has me feeling really good about the space. Which still has three things of curry because I will eventually use them, but has less of the stuff I never will.

...anyone have any good recipes for curry powder?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on January 04, 2017, 06:47:13 PM
I'm reasonably good at not bring excess into my house...I THOUGHT...but I'm doing the Apartment Therapy cure this January and re-discovered that I have five whisks/egg beaters (one stolen from my mom, four gifted from my mom...ya think she wants the one I stole back?) and three containers of curry powder.

On the upside, today's task (cleaning out the pantry) has me feeling really good about the space. Which still has three things of curry because I will eventually use them, but has less of the stuff I never will.

...anyone have any good recipes for curry powder?


Curry powder improves almost everything that isn't ice cream. Next time you're too sick to do more than heat up a can of chicken soup, add some curry powder to it and feel even more better. Unless you're vegetarian, that is, in which case do it with vegetable soup.


Seriously, I go through tons of curry, powders and pastes both, because they're useful in so very many things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 04, 2017, 06:48:50 PM
I'm reasonably good at not bring excess into my house...I THOUGHT...but I'm doing the Apartment Therapy cure this January and re-discovered that I have five whisks/egg beaters (one stolen from my mom, four gifted from my mom...ya think she wants the one I stole back?) and three containers of curry powder.

On the upside, today's task (cleaning out the pantry) has me feeling really good about the space. Which still has three things of curry because I will eventually use them, but has less of the stuff I never will.

...anyone have any good recipes for curry powder?

Curried Lentils and chickpeas!
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2016/07/slow-cooker-coconut-curry-lentils/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2016/07/slow-cooker-coconut-curry-lentils/)
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2015/01/curried-lentils/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2015/01/curried-lentils/)
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2011/02/quick-curried-chick-peas/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2011/02/quick-curried-chick-peas/)
and this one doesn't have curry but is delicious lol: https://www.budgetbytes.com/2010/09/dal-nirvana/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2010/09/dal-nirvana/)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BiscuitsForBreakfast on January 04, 2017, 07:13:54 PM

Curried Lentils and chickpeas!
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2016/07/slow-cooker-coconut-curry-lentils/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2016/07/slow-cooker-coconut-curry-lentils/)
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2015/01/curried-lentils/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2015/01/curried-lentils/)
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2011/02/quick-curried-chick-peas/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2011/02/quick-curried-chick-peas/)
and this one doesn't have curry but is delicious lol: https://www.budgetbytes.com/2010/09/dal-nirvana/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2010/09/dal-nirvana/)

Oooh, thank you Bracken_Joy! (How did you know I also had an open packet of lentils in there??)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 04, 2017, 07:20:35 PM
I love adding curry powder to chicken salad. Also, you can use it for roasted crunchy chick peas, or seasoning for pumpkin seeds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 04, 2017, 08:01:10 PM
I make chicken curry with leftover chicken - saute onions, garlic, peppers, any other veg, diced apples, add diced chicken, add chicken broth, add curry.  Serve over rice.  Also good with left-over turkey.  I also saw a turkey curry once that added diced canned peaches (syrup well rinsed off) - sounds odd but was very nice.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 04, 2017, 08:02:23 PM

Curried Lentils and chickpeas!
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2016/07/slow-cooker-coconut-curry-lentils/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2016/07/slow-cooker-coconut-curry-lentils/)
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2015/01/curried-lentils/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2015/01/curried-lentils/)
https://www.budgetbytes.com/2011/02/quick-curried-chick-peas/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2011/02/quick-curried-chick-peas/)
and this one doesn't have curry but is delicious lol: https://www.budgetbytes.com/2010/09/dal-nirvana/ (https://www.budgetbytes.com/2010/09/dal-nirvana/)

Oooh, thank you Bracken_Joy! (How did you know I also had an open packet of lentils in there??)

I feel like EVERYONE has a partial pack of lentils creeping around the pantry, haha.

I love adding curry powder to chicken salad. Also, you can use it for roasted crunchy chick peas, or seasoning for pumpkin seeds.

Oooh, I love the chicken salad plan! I also want to try it now on top of deviled eggs. Mmmm.

I make chicken curry with leftover chicken - saute onions, garlic, peppers, any other veg, diced apples, add diced chicken, add chicken broth, add curry.  Serve over rice.  Also good with left-over turkey.  I also saw a turkey curry once that added diced canned peaches (syrup well rinsed off) - sounds odd but was very nice.

That turkey recipe is gonna come in handy. Thawing a 16lb turkey... for just DH and I =o
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 04, 2017, 08:02:57 PM
I am also doing the January Cure. Pantry day was both satisfying and horrifying. The horror came when I found a package of weevil-y flour and a jar of very elderly instant coffee that had molded. It was gaggingly nasty.

The satisfaction was consolidating things and tossing and planning some meals to use up items I have a lot of. I have three packages of couscous, a food I rarely eat...but buy often apparently.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 04, 2017, 08:19:03 PM
I love adding curry powder to chicken salad. Also, you can use it for roasted crunchy chick peas, or seasoning for pumpkin seeds.

Also good in potato salad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on January 04, 2017, 08:58:49 PM
Thank you for the reminder about curry chicken salad.  It was a favorite lunch for awhile and then I just quit making it.

Today I sold my ski jacket and ski pants via Craigslist.  Super happy because I really tried to learn to ski a few years ago and gave up, so seeing those items was a reminder of my husband feeling guilty about trying to get me into the sport and my complete inability to enjoy hurtling down a mountainside.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 04, 2017, 10:33:16 PM
I love adding curry powder to chicken salad. Also, you can use it for roasted crunchy chick peas, or seasoning for pumpkin seeds.

Also good in potato salad.

And egg salad sandwiches!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 05, 2017, 03:14:58 AM
I agree, I'm afraid. Tell her that you have made your best efforts to sell it, but cannot, so if she doesn't collect it by x date, you will get rid of it.

If it leads to a torrent of verbal abuse, honestly, you need to stand up for yourself.

"Mom, I tried to help you out by selling it. I am sorry it is not worth anything. Please don't shoot the messenger". I would just repeat that over and over every time she mentions it, but I am kind of a bitch. If you are more embroiled in her (what honestly sounds like narcissistic) behaviour you may find that hard / impossible. But I think it's good to start establishing these kind of boundaries (ie you can't ask me to do you an impossible favour, and then berate me for not doing it) because, IMO, people like this tend to get worse as they get older.

I agree that giving her cash and lying, whilst very appealing, will lead you further down this path which you do not want to go on. I know it's great that she's letting things go, and it's good to encourage that, but, honestly (this is going to be direct, sorry if it's harsh) if you are trying to encourage her to let stuff go so that one day it's easier to deal with her estate, it's not working, because, when that sad day comes, you can donate it all without anyone's agreement. Doing it now means you are having to negotiate with her.

Sorry she's being like this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 05, 2017, 06:50:28 AM
Today's goals:

1. Organize the pantry (I've been dreading this).
2. Get rid of/find a place for 50% of the clutter on my desk.
3. Sell a box or two of books and CDs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 05, 2017, 08:27:17 AM
OKAY!

-Holiday guests are gone, after 2 weeks
-Christmas decor is all packed and away (except the tree and the outdoor lights- icy out so we can't deal with those yet)
-Husband is gone at work alllllll day

Time to get my declutter on! So much crap came in over the holidays, it was insane. Two whole families where gifts are their love language, and both sets of parents are moving. I'll have plenty to keep me busy.

Today I'll try to tackle:
-Pantry
-Fridge
-Make sure nothing was snuck into kitchen cupboards
-Bathroom cupboards
-Dining room built-ins, which ended up as a weird catch all

Later days:
-OFFICE. There's a giant mattress that got left in there. No friggin clue what to do with it. Plan had been to sub it with the guest mattress, but it's a weird size (Cali Queen) and frankly not comfortable. Came from Brother who lives 100+ miles away from his storage unit. At our request, but I thought it was a queen and not AWFUL. Anyway, need to start there, THEN do DH's desk and closet and un-filed filing. And another pass through our books is probably a good idea.
-DH's clothes again
-My clothes again, although I did this pretty recently

Once it's a bit warmer:
-Tree and outdoor lights, stash final xmas bin
-Organize garage shelves and camping gear

Wish me luck!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on January 05, 2017, 08:38:41 AM
Ok, this was a big labor declutter for one item.  My son's home from college for the break and wanted the old recliner chair that's made it's way out of every room in our house (nobody wanted it so it would move to whatever room didn't have someone currently in it to defend the territory).  He asked me if he could trash it and I said yes.  Put it in the basement and I'll dismantle it for recycling as much as possible.  Well, we heat our house partly with a wood furnace so as I pulled the thing apart, the hardwood frame was thrown piece by piece into the furnace.  Free heat, yay!  The screws, bolts, nuts all went into the metal recycle bin and the steel recliner mechanism and springs went in with them.  There is fabric, foam and padding that's going to be trashed but a good 80% of the weight is now converted to heat or being recycled.  Less clutter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 05, 2017, 08:45:43 AM

"These are good shoes, I paid $300 for them!" "... they're 15 years old. You don't want them because they're dated and they're your shoes. Why would anyone else want them?"

Right? Why do they not understand this simple concept?

While she can't have a personal garage sale, she could look into community garage sales or car boot sales and sell things that way.

Yeah, no, she thinks this should be MY job because I am not elderly so therefore have allllll this time and energy to do for her. Never mind the fact that I work fulltime and she does not work (and that I live in a high crime neighborhood where I would not dare to have a yard sale myself; I'd be robbed of my cash within 5 minutes of setup.)

If you are more embroiled in her (what honestly sounds like narcissistic) behaviour you may find that hard / impossible. But I think it's good to start establishing these kind of boundaries (ie you can't ask me to do you an impossible favour, and then berate me for not doing it) because, IMO, people like this tend to get worse as they get older.

I agree that giving her cash and lying, whilst very appealing, will lead you further down this path which you do not want to go on. I know it's great that she's letting things go, and it's good to encourage that, but, honestly (this is going to be direct, sorry if it's harsh) if you are trying to encourage her to let stuff go so that one day it's easier to deal with her estate, it's not working, because, when that sad day comes, you can donate it all without anyone's agreement. Doing it now means you are having to negotiate with her.


You're not wrong, she is definitely a narcissist and gets very angry when I refuse to do something that she wants me to do. The fact that I'm even considering tossing this stuff out is progress for me.

When she goes, I am going to call up Got Junk and dump the entire lot without looking back. I read somewhere that the whole "this is worth something, I should sell it (you should sell it for me)" mentality is part of the hoarding mentality. Seeing worth and value in stuff that is, frankly, clutter and crap. At the time I thought it was a sign that she's getting better but I'm realizing that wasn't the case. :(

Meanwhile, this just makes me want to double down on getting rid of my own crap! I have been excavating this damn filing cabinet since before New Year's and I feel like I have got to start hitting bottom at some point. Found an old diary in there from my early 20s, WTF. Shredded the entire damned thing; wow, was that an embarrassing read.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kms on January 05, 2017, 08:47:49 AM
My wife has had this tradition (or rather spleen I should say) of decluttering on Jan 1st. I've always hated it not because I hate decluttering, infact I love it, but because on Jan 1st I have more important things on my mind than decluttering. Such as hydration after last night's binge, trying to get rid of that nasty feeling in my throat after last night's binge, and fighting the massive headache that never seems to respond to Aspirin, Advil, Iboprofen, etc.

This year has been the second year in a row that we didn't declutter though. Last year we had just moved out of our old apartment shortly before christmas and moved into a spare bedroom at my parents' house so there was nothing to declutter (although truth be told my parents' place is a giant mess but that's a different issue). This year we didn't have anything to declutter yet because after travelling around the world in 2016 living out of two backpacks we have only just arrived in the US and have only just moved into our new apartment a bit less than two months ago. And since we've been very conscious and careful in what we're buying I don't think there will be any need to declutter next year or the year after that, either.

Maybe I can finally start sobering up on new year's the way it was meant to be: dirty, smelly, nasty, but with no regrets whatsoever.

I kinda miss that satisfactory rush of throwing stuff out, donating it, selling it, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 05, 2017, 08:52:40 AM
Ha! I came across a box of journals from the 90s. I was going to shred them all unread, but my brother convinced me to read them first. There's some cool stuff, for sure, but mostly embarrassing judgmentalism. They'll be shredded when I'm done reading. I may take a few pictures of pages, but for someone who was so afraid of forgetting details at the time, I'm surprised by how much I just want to let that past go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on January 05, 2017, 03:25:06 PM
I could have written that last sentence of yours, Mezzie. Every time I've looked back through old journals I cringe! Guess I need to deal with those at some point...reading through one last time and then shredding sounds like it could be cathartic.

I found 16 more placemats, added to the donate box. Seriously, I am never stepping foot inside a Pier 1 again.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 05, 2017, 04:35:24 PM
Arrrgh, old journals! So embarrassing. I have some travel journals from a 4 month solo trip when I was 18 and I need to read them before I chuck them. They are really the best record of the trip but I have a feeling the records of what boys I kissed and the attempts at being funny may be too cringeworthy.

I just removed about 3 inches of paper from files of bills and statements. My poor 5-page-at-a-time shredder will not cope (gets too hot and shuts down) so it will have to be done gradually over days...! I might be able to consolidate what was in 2 x lever arch file and a paper folder into one lever arch. My overall aim is to convert three shelves of paperwork into one.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 05, 2017, 04:58:52 PM
Arrrgh, old journals! So embarrassing. I have some travel journals from a 4 month solo trip when I was 18 and I need to read them before I chuck them. They are really the best record of the trip but I have a feeling the records of what boys I kissed and the attempts at being funny may be too cringeworthy.

I just removed about 3 inches of paper from files of bills and statements. My poor 5-page-at-a-time shredder will not cope (gets too hot and shuts down) so it will have to be done gradually over days...! I might be able to consolidate what was in 2 x lever arch file and a paper folder into one lever arch. My overall aim is to convert three shelves of paperwork into one.

PDF them! :-) Digital clutter vs. actual clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 05, 2017, 05:14:18 PM
Arrrgh, old journals! So embarrassing. I have some travel journals from a 4 month solo trip when I was 18 and I need to read them before I chuck them. They are really the best record of the trip but I have a feeling the records of what boys I kissed and the attempts at being funny may be too cringeworthy.

I just removed about 3 inches of paper from files of bills and statements. My poor 5-page-at-a-time shredder will not cope (gets too hot and shuts down) so it will have to be done gradually over days...! I might be able to consolidate what was in 2 x lever arch file and a paper folder into one lever arch. My overall aim is to convert three shelves of paperwork into one.

PDF them! :-) Digital clutter vs. actual clutter.

It would take so much time to do that though, and I would just be swapping one clutter for another. I am having an issue with digital clutter too! I am probably going to pdf a few important contracts and certificates but not the bills etc., because....

.....I've agreed with hubby that bills and statements older than 7 years old can go. Wonderfully, all our bills except our council rates (which have parking stickers attached) come electronically now, so in a few more years, all the remaining bills and statements - whoosh, gone!   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on January 05, 2017, 10:45:06 PM
Kitchen:
* Decluttered a bunch of old terrible alcohol. (Down the sink not down the gullet.) Goodbye blueberry vodka and strawberry daquiri beers.
* Decluttered baking cupboard of expired small amounts of cornmeal, cream of tartar, etc.

BATHROOM
* Had to fix the plumbing anyway so cleared out everything and threw out expired OTC medicines and assorted bottles of lotion.

HOME APPLIANCES
* Collected electronic knife sharpener, 2nd ice cream maker, 2nd food dehydrator and Shark sewing machine for garage sale pile

KID STUFF
* Plastic slide was passed along to another family through Buy Nothing group
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 06, 2017, 01:30:07 AM
A friend who runs a home daycare wants our 3 car seats and playpen! So glad to find a home for these things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 06, 2017, 01:36:44 AM
Listed another couple of things on FB for free, yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 06, 2017, 05:11:46 AM
Reposted a bunch of stuff on Craigslist.  Hopefully I will get some takers this time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 06, 2017, 05:18:08 AM
My siblings got accepted for a rental! Woohoo! Goodbye furniture we don't want/ they need :D

Time to go through the kitchen cupboards for anything there that can be passed along as well...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 06, 2017, 06:52:20 AM
Seriously considering if we can ship away some speciality foodstuff to my sister or if it's not worth it, to give them to a cousin who stays close by. We can't use them anymore since my kid is allergic to them and since they are available only in a particular part of India, I ended up bulk buying them when I went. Now I don't want to waste it but can't use it either. Decisions, decisions!

We are slowly eating down the freezer and the pantry. My husband hates this so I'm doing it very gradually but my goal is to have a mostly empty freezer and pantry by the time we move in 8 months (yep! It'll take us that long to eat them up :( )
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 06, 2017, 07:31:41 AM
Seriously considering if we can ship away some speciality foodstuff to my sister or if it's not worth it, to give them to a cousin who stays close by. We can't use them anymore since my kid is allergic to them and since they are available only in a particular part of India, I ended up bulk buying them when I went. Now I don't want to waste it but can't use it either. Decisions, decisions!

We are slowly eating down the freezer and the pantry. My husband hates this so I'm doing it very gradually but my goal is to have a mostly empty freezer and pantry by the time we move in 8 months (yep! It'll take us that long to eat them up :( )

Do you have a local facebook buy/sell? You may be able to get some money for them.
Or if it's too much in shipping- is there a university nearby? Maybe there are some international students organizations who could help find a home for these foods for a student who really misses them.  Or a local buy nothing group if you just want them out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on January 06, 2017, 08:26:35 AM
Ok, this was a big labor declutter for one item.  My son's home from college for the break and wanted the old recliner chair that's made it's way out of every room in our house (nobody wanted it so it would move to whatever room didn't have someone currently in it to defend the territory).  He asked me if he could trash it and I said yes.  Put it in the basement and I'll dismantle it for recycling as much as possible.  Well, we heat our house partly with a wood furnace so as I pulled the thing apart, the hardwood frame was thrown piece by piece into the furnace.  Free heat, yay!  The screws, bolts, nuts all went into the metal recycle bin and the steel recliner mechanism and springs went in with them.  There is fabric, foam and padding that's going to be trashed but a good 80% of the weight is now converted to heat or being recycled.  Less clutter!

THIS is seriously mustachian.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 06, 2017, 04:16:26 PM
Someone picked up all the leftover pregnancy and ovulation tests I have. (I don't think we are trying again, but they technically expire before I do.) Space saved under the sink, and I got $25 :) 
That's basically what I paid, so it's like the ones I used were free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 06, 2017, 04:18:05 PM
You all keep inspiring me.

Sorted and recycled so much junk mail.

Cleaned up last semesters notes and got supplies ready for this semester (salvaged plenty of notebook paper from 10-15 year old notebooks and journals I am tossing)

Sent some books back to the library.

Consolidated some things in the closet and freestanding cupboard. Doing some rearranging to make sure things are accessible and efficient.

Started a new bag of things for goodwill, a dress, wrong color pantyhose, a pair of shoes.

Built some more custom sized storage boxes to fit in the cupboard and make better use of the space. Better aesthetic helps ease the mind as well.

Tossed an old bottle of tanning lotion.

I prepped a pile of photos and things to scan and toss when I get my new thrift shop scanner going.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 06, 2017, 04:23:35 PM
Woohoo! My dad is coming by to pick up our old fridge that they're going to use. It's been delayed by 2 winter storms now. Garage space incoming.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 06, 2017, 04:31:58 PM
Filled a bag with garbage from the garage.

Tossed a spare mesh bag for goggles. (Why we have a spare is beyond me. It's not like we really need one, let alone two.)

Topped up bottles of liquid hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, surface spray, etc, from the large bottles and tossed a couple of empties.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter
Post by: Mezzie on January 06, 2017, 04:44:47 PM
Three more boxes of good (but no longer useful to me) stuff sold!

I've got maybe five more boxes to go (harder to sell stuff, but I think worth trying to sell; if I can't get buyers by summer, I'll donate). Other than that, it's all furniture and an aquarium. So close!

There are still photos and documents to go through, but that amount has shrunk considerably. I feel optimistic that I'll be able to take care of that over Spring break (for now, I'm taking a break from the tough stuff).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 06, 2017, 05:07:31 PM
I supposed to be doing other things so obviously am  decluttering instead... More paper gone. I've got three more files to go through and I think most of it will be rubbish. Then all I have to do is consolidate all the bits I'm  keeping from about 8 files into 2, get hubby to reduce and consolidate 3 files to 1 and then, bingo - I've got my one shelf of paperwork.

I'm having trouble throwing out ultrasounds and X-rays. I think the doctors get electronic copies anyway and it's not like they'd look at old ultrasounds if anything similar happened again, so I should just chuck them, right? One set is an awkward A3+ shape that it's impossible to find a home for!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on January 06, 2017, 06:31:27 PM
i took 4 bags of "stuff" and a small table to donate today.  It looked like a lot of stuff but there is still so much  more I can do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 06, 2017, 09:57:14 PM
Went through my old maternity clothes and clothes I used after delivery and sorted out the ones I would use this time and started a bag for donation with the rest. Also went through my kid's baby clothes to make sure we have everything we need for baby#2. Looks like we don't have to buy anything at all. Also donated some of the baby clothes that were stained or ones I didn't like the first time around. Guess we are set for baby#2 wrt clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 06, 2017, 09:58:27 PM
Seriously considering if we can ship away some speciality foodstuff to my sister or if it's not worth it, to give them to a cousin who stays close by. We can't use them anymore since my kid is allergic to them and since they are available only in a particular part of India, I ended up bulk buying them when I went. Now I don't want to waste it but can't use it either. Decisions, decisions!

We are slowly eating down the freezer and the pantry. My husband hates this so I'm doing it very gradually but my goal is to have a mostly empty freezer and pantry by the time we move in 8 months (yep! It'll take us that long to eat them up :( )

Do you have a local facebook buy/sell? You may be able to get some money for them.
Or if it's too much in shipping- is there a university nearby? Maybe there are some international students organizations who could help find a home for these foods for a student who really misses them.  Or a local buy nothing group if you just want them out of the house.
This is a great idea. I'll contact the student org in nearby university. I'm sure there'll be someone who'd love to take these off my hands. Thanks iowajes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 06, 2017, 11:23:20 PM
Someone bought our ladder!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: englyn on January 07, 2017, 05:35:40 AM
I condensed a 40cm x 40cm box full of drop files into one-and-a-bit 8cm wide neat box files that fit on a bookshelf. I'm very pleased.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 07, 2017, 05:52:53 AM
Someone bought our ladder!
Yay! We're about to put a tyre + rim on Gumtree and fingers crossed it goes for a decent price. Otherwise, we'll just drop it slowly.

I condensed a 40cm x 40cm box full of drop files into one-and-a-bit 8cm wide neat box files that fit on a bookshelf. I'm very pleased.
Wooh! That is awesome, a huge amount gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 07, 2017, 08:07:37 AM
Someone bought our ladder!

Ok, I gotta ask.  Why would you get rid of a ladder?  Don't get me wrong, I love decluttering but my ladders are neatly hung on the garage wall ready for any task around the house.  Given how frequent I use them, it's not the kind of thing I want to make arrangements to borrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 07, 2017, 09:36:20 AM
We use our ladder as a bike rack in the garage - it's mounted to the side wall, and we bungee the bikes to the rungs.

People like my parents, though - one has a heart condition, the other has stability issues after knee and foot surgery, and they are older - they are never going to be up on ladders again; they aren't at a point where they should even be setting one up, let alone climbing it. I can understand why people might get rid of them. 

Anyway - I did 5 steps forward, one step back in the last couple days. I have foot issues (skinny feet with a bunion) that make it hard to find the perfect boots. When the front is roomy enough, the back slides around and gives me blisters. And I bike when it's way below freezing so I need something warm without laces. I kept buying thrift shop boots and not loving them, so buying more and trying them. Ugh. I finally got the perfect pair, boxed up all the rejects and donated them to a thrift shop yesterday along with a large box of sweaters I didn't love. But the shop had their five for $5 sale, and I bought 5 comfy fleece shirts. :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on January 07, 2017, 02:52:27 PM
I am taking a bag of books, a lamp, a candle to the thrift shop.  I also am recycling a bunch of old magazines, pounds of them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 07, 2017, 03:32:55 PM
Dropped a bag off to charity while I walked to the supermarket this morning.

Took cloth bags to slow the influx of plastic bags, then packed up a heap of plastic shopping bags for a friend who uses them for nappies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on January 08, 2017, 03:11:52 AM
Someone bought our ladder!

Ok, I gotta ask.  Why would you get rid of a ladder?  Don't get me wrong, I love decluttering but my ladders are neatly hung on the garage wall ready for any task around the house.  Given how frequent I use them, it's not the kind of thing I want to make arrangements to borrow.

Too old and uncoordinated to use it any more. Sold mine at a yard sale last summer. Any outdoor work that is higher than arms reach from a sturdy stepstool gets outsourced now. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 08, 2017, 03:15:05 AM
Dropped a bag off to charity while I walked to the supermarket this morning.

Took cloth bags to slow the influx of plastic bags, then packed up a heap of plastic shopping bags for a friend who uses them for nappies.

Because I use green bags and don't really shop much I have no bags for all my giveaway and donated stuff! Had to use brand new bin liners to put clothes in charity bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 08, 2017, 06:28:49 AM
I attacked the junk drawers today.

They won, but were not completely unscathed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on January 08, 2017, 09:11:49 AM
More than seven more things culled for the weekend of 1/7!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 08, 2017, 10:10:17 AM
OK, so, this week I've been trying to get rid of stuff responsibly. Stuff that the donation shop won't take. And it's turned into such a pain in the ass!

Exhibit A: A sword that we have hanging on our wall. We don't feel comfortable putting it in the trash as, while it's decorative and not that sharp, it could definitely be used as a weapon and we're in a high-crime neighborhood with folks regularly going through our trash. I posted this in a few nerdy/geeky Facebook groups I'm in. Got a response Friday night. He said he can come pick it up any time this weekend. I said, great! Sunday's better for me. What time works? Complete radio silence ever since.

Exhibit B: A big stash of jewelry gift boxes (like, the kind that a store puts your jewelry in, when you buy it; small shiny cardboard boxes with a cottony liner). I posted these on a couple of crafters' forums that I'm on, offering them for free pickup, or just the cost of shipping if mailed. Got a taker right away. We set up a time when she could pick them up. She didn't show and stopped answering messages. OK then, back on offer. Got another taker. She balked at the shipping cost ($10). I offered to send her fewer boxes to get the shipping cost down. She agreed, we agreed on a price, I packed them up.... now radio silence and no payment. I'm not paying to give stuff away! I guess I'll bug her one more time and then put them in the recycling. It's too bad because many jewelry artists use these and they're in good shape.

Exhibit C: A stack of fan magazines for a musical artist. I did successfully get rid of these; they are on their way to the recipient. I offered them for the cost of shipping, which she paid. However, didn't realize I didn't have anything to mail them in; had to buy a padded mailer. It was only $2 but still, grrrr. (She wanted media mail rate so I couldn't use the free priority packing materials. Understandable as this was several pounds of printed material.)

Exhibit D: Some posters we don't want any more. I posted these to Facebook, just to my friends. I have someone interested. Of course it's my friend who lives in Sweden. Who says she'll pay for shipping.... but I don't own any poster tubes so I'll have to go get one and then figure the shipping. Which I'm certain will be more than she wants to spend.

I am starting to feel like this is turning into a ton of work and time spent, and it's not making the pile of crap get any smaller. These are just the most recent examples and I'm getting really tired of chasing down the people who say they want my stuff but then don't follow up.  I am starting to feel like I should just be pitching or recycling this stuff - but, there's been so much publicity lately about how most recycling in our city actually ends up in the landfill. And I have so many zero-waste friends who get on me for discarding ANYTHING that's useful. (of course, they don't offer to take this stuff either.) So I end up feeling guilty about tossing it.

Does anyone have any ideas on how I can get rid of the sword? I've tried my friends, nerdy groups, SCA groups, bellydance groups. Really not comfortable putting it in the trash, though I guess I could wrap it up in a ton of garbage bags to disguise it? Maybe add some used kitty litter or otherwise stinky garbage so no one's tempted to dig through it?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on January 08, 2017, 11:27:15 AM
Maybe a local theater group for the sword?  Or a highschool's theater department?

I've had better luck on freecycle than anywhere else giving things away.  We always do porch pick up - give me an approximate time, and I will make sure the item is out.  In about 50 giveaways, I've only had 2 no shows.  Those items just got offered to the 2nd people who had requested them, and were taken immediately.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 08, 2017, 11:35:27 AM
Tris -- your experience is exactly what's making me drag my feet when it comes to posting things on Craigslist. I want to add something like, "only available for pickup Saturdays from 8am-12" which is when I'm generally puttering around the house or garden. At least if I get a no-show then, I won't feel put-out.

Regarding the sword, I second the theater donation idea.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 08, 2017, 12:53:15 PM
The buy nothing group on facebook seems to have reliable pick ups in my area. Plus then I know who is coming to my house a bit better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Secretly Saving on January 08, 2017, 01:43:47 PM
Pulled five boxes out of the storage unit to go through.  So hard going through a recently deceased parent's things, but so necessary.  I just keep reminding myself of the cost of keeping these items in storage and then I steel myself for more sadness and plunge in...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 08, 2017, 02:02:07 PM
Working my way through perhaps four inches of scrapbook and yearbook pages I decided to scan before recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on January 08, 2017, 02:18:22 PM
How would I go about getting rid of an old pair of skis? I also have an old backpack. Both are in good condition, but they are incredibly outdated compared to what people us today, I don't think any resale store would want them even as a donation. To give you an idea, I haven't skied since 1995, and my last backpacking trip was even longer ago.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on January 08, 2017, 04:55:02 PM
How would I go about getting rid of an old pair of skis? I also have an old backpack. Both are in good condition, but they are incredibly outdated compared to what people us today, I don't think any resale store would want them even as a donation. To give you an idea, I haven't skied since 1995, and my last backpacking trip was even longer ago.

Local scout troop?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 08, 2017, 05:05:37 PM
Theater group is a good idea for the sword. I'll ask around. I think the difficulty is going to be getting someone to pick it up. I don't have a car and I don't want to take it on public transport, though I guess I could just wrap it up in garbage bags or something.

I can't do porch pickup for Freecycle - high-crime neighborhood; it'd get immediately stolen. :( I envy people who can do this.

I just found and joined the Buy Nothing FB group for my city, hooray! It's almost entirely people requesting stuff, though, and the giveaway posts all seem to not have any takers. Hmm.

Today I spent a couple hours in the basement and tossed nearly all of my work samples from when I worked at newspapers. In the '90s. Fairly certain these are too old to get me a job at this point, haha, especially since I'm not reporting any more. I did keep a handful of my favorites. Also tossed some of my writings from high school. Yes, high school. I'm 45. Why do I still have all this?

In this pile of crap, I also found my college diploma and my 8th grade school picture, which I posted on Facebook and gave all my friends a good laugh.

Mezzie, that's a good idea, set a small time window for people to show up. I HATE sitting around waiting for people to show up when I could be doing other things (and our buzzer doesn't work so I have to make sure my phone is always on me, which is not a thing I normally do)

Noralenderbee, do you have a Burning Man community where you live? Seems to me that those folks might take the backpack. Here, the burners have a lot of local camping trips in addition to the big Burning Man event (and they tend to be broke and/or into reusing stuff.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 08, 2017, 07:46:21 PM
I just kept finding things today!   I've got a pile of paper to recycle, a few more things in the goodwill bag and a lot more empty shelf space. I was able to hide the less pretty paperwork and show off a few books.

I burned the last of a huge candle.

Finished up three small sewing projects.

Feeling good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 08, 2017, 09:45:19 PM
I think it's better to do what works for you (recycle or trash or donate) than hang on to something trying to do the right thing and be guilty about it. If your friends give a hard time, unless they are willing to spend the time finding a way for reuse, they don't have any right to guilt you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 08, 2017, 11:06:13 PM
Final day of going through 'papers' as part of my Marie Kondo quest. It was the mysterious kitchen top drawer today, aka the junk drawer. I found a receipt from car hire in 2011. We moved to this house in 2013. Glad I kept that...

I haven't filed away the warranties I need to keep yet but I've done all the sorting and the drawer is now almost empty. The rest of the junk (used batteries! Rusty paper clips!) will wait til near the end of the big quest. It's not difficult to sort, it's just gross. I've saved a couple of gift boxes which will make four trays to keep necessary odds and ends tidy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 09, 2017, 01:21:34 AM
Nora -- do you have a local Sierra Club chapter? Someone may appreciate the backpack there. Also check your local community college; mine has a backpacking course, and the backpack itself is easily the most expensive part of it. The teacher might be able to use it as a loaner.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 09, 2017, 06:08:12 AM
Who watched The Simpsons last night? 😀
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 09, 2017, 07:11:44 AM
Growing up, everyone I knew used their garage for storage. I don't think I saw a car actually parked in a garage until my mid-twenties. So, to combat that bad association, I've made a short list of what can be in the garage:
- washer & dryer
- vehicles (cars, bikes, wheelchairs, scooters)
- tools
- PA system and amps (musicians here)
- board games (will be moved to office closet when it becomes an office again; we have renters)
- toy box for visiting nieces and nephews (same as above)
- camping equipment
- emergency water stores
- wok station and barbecue

The end.

I'm actually pretty close to this once I get the furniture gone.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 09, 2017, 07:32:09 AM


I can't do porch pickup for Freecycle - high-crime neighborhood; it'd get immediately stolen. :( I envy people who can do this.


There's your answer. Anything you are happy to give away for free... do so by putting it on your porch.

I'm serious. I had some garden furniture I didn't want. Left it at a friend's* house who has had things go missing with a sign that said 'Free' to assuage any guilt felt by non-thieves who wanted it. Sorted.

*with agreement! In fact it was their suggestion. I live in the middle of nowhere.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on January 09, 2017, 07:56:27 AM
We are in a small village, touristy in the summer and fall, and use the curb as our porch.  DH painted "FREE" on an old shingle which we used many times to deaccession things; works like a charm, usually in a few hours.  Last time, someone also nabbed the free sign...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 09, 2017, 08:22:06 AM
There's your answer. Anything you are happy to give away for free... do so by putting it on your porch.

Yeah, we "donate" stuff to the alley often, and it gets picked up pretty frequently. Could switch that to the front porch to add that extra illicit thrill of stealing. Our current landlord doesn't live in the building like our old one did so we could do this (old landlord would not have been OK with us leaving our crap on the porch).

Still not OK doing that with a weapon, though. BUT, might have another taker from one of the FB groups? Stay tuned....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 09, 2017, 08:24:30 AM
Yeah, I agree it's not a good idea with the sword! How about your local police station? They might take it to 'get a weapon off the streets'. Or scrap dealer? Though I guess it depends what's walkable to you, as I agree about the public transport thing. Though bin bags might make it look even more suspicious.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on January 09, 2017, 10:23:17 AM
I'm slowly sorting through things again.  I cleaned out about a quarter of our bathroom.  It's insane how many random items and almost empty boxes we kept. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 09, 2017, 08:16:23 PM
Got rid of the extra mattress!

This is huge and wonderful!  The city will pick it up for free. When I called to schedule it today they told me to put it out tonight and they would come within 5 days.  I seriously hope that means tomorrow.

Moved a power strip so that now the loveseat will hide the unsightly cords.

Rearranged socks and underwear drawers. Getting rid of 11 items.





Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 09, 2017, 08:52:07 PM
Have gone through my cook books and got rid of 6. Now I can store the iron in the same cupboard above the fridge without everything falling out on my head when I try to get it out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 10, 2017, 05:16:29 AM
Have gone through my cook books and got rid of 6. Now I can store the iron in the same cupboard above the fridge without everything falling out on my head when I try to get it out.

I have found this to be the best thing of all about decluttering! The bathroom, the utility, the kitchen. No more open-cupboard-crouch-and-brace. Just, open the cupboard!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 10, 2017, 09:12:47 AM
Looks like someone is going to pick up the sword tomorrow! Fingers crossed that she actually shows up....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 10, 2017, 01:10:38 PM
I'm going to try and consolidate my paper files into a single bin that I keep in my closet and get rid of the filing cabinet.  It matches the desk that I am listing for sale, so hopefully they will sell as a set.

I'm planning to list my desk chair as well.  Any ideas on how to best sell it? - it's an expensive chair that costs around $700 new. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on January 10, 2017, 01:13:41 PM
The problem with free (and with facebook in general) is that you bring out all the flakes who know that they have no real commitment (what are you going to do?  Ask for a deposit for a $0 item?).  I put stuff on Craigslist at a very low price.  3 chairs?  $15.  3 tires?  $15.  Local pickup.....you come to me or to my work.  I've sold thousands of things on Craigslist and that's the best way to work it.  Free doesn't work (are you sure it's worth my gas from Cambridge?  Can you hold it till I can get a ride from my girlfriend's father's bosses son?  No.  Come to my house and give me $15 and I know that someone who has an actual use for the thing will come pick it up.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 10, 2017, 01:40:50 PM
If I post anything for free, I usually just leave the stuff outside my house so that I don't have to waste time dealing with the flakes.  If they come and pick it up then great, if not, I relist it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 10, 2017, 01:45:02 PM
I've had way more flakes on paid items than free ones.
Though I put free things on the porch, they have always been claimed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on January 10, 2017, 01:54:47 PM
I have pretty good success getting rid of things on freecycle, possibly because I give first choice to people who are polite enough to ask "please" and say "thank you".  They tend to be more considerate about no-shows than the guy who writes "yeah I'll take that".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Secretly Saving on January 10, 2017, 02:45:02 PM
Headed back over to the storage unit.  One more box out of there!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 10, 2017, 02:55:48 PM
Who watched The Simpsons last night? 😀

Here it is: http://www.fox.com/watch/849850435762/7684601088

Should be worth a few LOLs for this crowd.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 10, 2017, 03:19:00 PM
Today's mission is jam jars, candles, light bulbs and under the kitchen sink.

Will also cut up some old tees used for rags into proper squares so they are easier to store folded in my new drawer that I emptied the other day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 10, 2017, 03:45:27 PM
I was planning on replacing some bookcases I'm offloading to siblings with nicer ones, but now I'm wondering if there's a chance I can just declutter or rearrange 2 bookcases worth of stuff. That's the dream...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on January 11, 2017, 12:33:45 AM
Thrift store coming to pick up 3 boxes and 3 bags of misc. household goods and clothing ... its all out on my porch for the a.m. pickup!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TOgirl on January 11, 2017, 09:26:40 AM
Decluttering could be considered my new addiction...I've been at it for a long time, but it's always a work in progress. Before Christmas I posted a bunch of items on Facebook buy and sell groups, and did well. Donated some older toys, so that Santa had room to bring a few new ones. Over the holidays I went through the kids dressers and took out all the too small clothing, along with items they rarely wear. Hubby and I did the same. We sent 3 huge bags to the local thrift shop. We also attacked our basement storage room, and sent many more items to the shop, along with two large bags to the dump.

My new routine after the kids are in bed is walking through the house going...hmmm...what else can I get rid of? Last night I happened upon a post in a local buy nothing group asking for young boys clothes - was able to pull together a bunch for a local mom in need, and threw in some toys as well.

On top of that, someone is coming to pick up an old purse I had posted...left it out on my front step this morning, and when I get home from work, there will be $25 sitting in my mailbox for me.

Next step is selling some of the rubbermaid plastic bins we used to store unnecessary crap in!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 11, 2017, 03:43:51 PM
TOgirl, getting rid of all our excess stuff may mean there is a glut of plastic storage containers on the market!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 11, 2017, 04:20:20 PM
Yesterday was very successful. Threw out a bunch of take away container lids and  jars I'd kept but won't use for food storage. Found someone to take candles I won't use. Also found three cleaning fluid bottles with about a tablespoon in each!

So now I've made the space for the under cupboard bin and also freed up another kitchen drawer. All the dogs medicines and bowls etc are going to move in there, so today's job is sorting through his stuff. That will free up a cupboard for my camera bag that currently lives on the study floor. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 11, 2017, 09:25:11 PM
Your attention please:

THE SWORD HAS LEFT THE BUILDING. :D Picked up this evening. Hooray!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 11, 2017, 10:02:44 PM
Went through a pile of papers, trashed half of them, scanned and trashed the remaining half and put away some of them in our filebox for tax purposes. So  nice to see a clear table and all the to-do stuff corralled into one small box.

Also caught up on greeting cards finally.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 11, 2017, 10:17:23 PM
Your attention please:

THE SWORD HAS LEFT THE BUILDING. :D Picked up this evening. Hooray!

Hooray!

I seem to have broken my shredder :( It's well and truly jammed so I'll get the pliers out. What a pain! In better news, I've sorted another kitchen drawer and chucked out 4 IKEA tape measures and random bits.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 12, 2017, 10:32:41 AM
Arranged for Brother to get his WEIRD sized mattress back. (California Queen). This will open up the office so I can get back to other decluttering! Unfortunately it's still a couple weeks until pickup, but at least the end is in sight.

Your attention please:

THE SWORD HAS LEFT THE BUILDING. :D Picked up this evening. Hooray!

Woohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 12, 2017, 12:09:04 PM
We have a cross continent move next year (or worst case the year after). Even though we knew this day might come some time, now that timeline is more concrete. So I'm concentrating on letting go of what we won't use in the next two years. Made a list of items I want to tackle sooner than later (we are welcoming baby in June) so I can get through it when I have more time for it. But the move is also intimidating since it means we'll be moving with two toddlers and will have some large items (beds, sofa, cars) that we'd need to hold till the end but most others can go sooner. My plan is to get the clothes and toys out as the baby outgrows them and try not to buy new clothes or stuff if we can help it. Would be harder to do it for my eldest though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on January 12, 2017, 02:18:55 PM
I am joining in on this.

I have so much car stuff that I've accumulated that needs to go.  I'm also returning it to a closer to stock condition and will be selling those parts, also.

We will also be getting rid of as much stuff as possible soon to make our move easier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 12, 2017, 06:53:59 PM
I still haven't done the cords and cables cupboard.

Husband went through it last night looking for something and was making very obvious noises of frustration and displeasure.

(Most of it is his stuff or he has been the hold up because we might need that cable one day. *rolls eyes*)

So when I heard him muttering away, I said, 'Yeah, it's awful in there, we really should sort it out. Make it easier to find what we need.'

He thought that was a great idea.

(Part of the problem is that I don't know what some of these cables and cords are for. My new system is to tag any new ones with washi tape to prevent the situation getting worse.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 12, 2017, 07:53:39 PM
3 skirts and 2 dresses in the goodwill bag. 1 pair of leggings cut up for rags.

I sew, and I really struggle to know when something is worn out or too big. I can always make adjustments and make it fit!  These pieces I chose tonight are all things I made or customized and though they are all too big I could rework them... but I haven't even wanted to wear them in several years. I told myself that the next time i goodwill shop i will look for a skirt that coordinates with my
Current wardrobe.  One skirt that fits and is easy to wear instead of this difficult pile of skirts and dresses.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 12, 2017, 08:03:42 PM
I still haven't done the cords and cables cupboard.

Husband went through it last night looking for something and was making very obvious noises of frustration and displeasure.

(Most of it is his stuff or he has been the hold up because we might need that cable one day. *rolls eyes*)

So when I heard him muttering away, I said, 'Yeah, it's awful in there, we really should sort it out. Make it easier to find what we need.'

He thought that was a great idea.

(Part of the problem is that I don't know what some of these cables and cords are for. My new system is to tag any new ones with washi tape to prevent the situation getting worse.)

I think the cords and cables drawer is the hardest. I'm insisting hubby and I do it together. We have millions of discs for software but our current laptop has no disc drive... We also have an old laptop that needs clearing off and recycling but it's too painful a job so a year after we bought a new one, still not done.

I have attached tags to a lot of cables, but when you look at them, many fit multiple devices/ purposes. I don't the names of the cables but there is one with a USB one end  and a small thingy the other end and it fits both cameras and some phone or other. Maybe I can rid of a couple, but then if one splits...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 12, 2017, 08:13:22 PM
I still haven't done the cords and cables cupboard.

Husband went through it last night looking for something and was making very obvious noises of frustration and displeasure.

(Most of it is his stuff or he has been the hold up because we might need that cable one day. *rolls eyes*)

So when I heard him muttering away, I said, 'Yeah, it's awful in there, we really should sort it out. Make it easier to find what we need.'

He thought that was a great idea.

(Part of the problem is that I don't know what some of these cables and cords are for. My new system is to tag any new ones with washi tape to prevent the situation getting worse.)

I think the cords and cables drawer is the hardest. I'm insisting hubby and I do it together. We have millions of discs for software but our current laptop has no disc drive... We also have an old laptop that needs clearing off and recycling but it's too painful a job so a year after we bought a new one, still not done.

I have attached tags to a lot of cables, but when you look at them, many fit multiple devices/ purposes. I don't the names of the cables but there is one with a USB one end  and a small thingy the other end and it fits both cameras and some phone or other. Maybe I can rid of a couple, but then if one splits...

I give you Michael McIntyre on The Man Drawer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgUpDGAIdds
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 12, 2017, 08:21:24 PM
I still haven't done the cords and cables cupboard.

Husband went through it last night looking for something and was making very obvious noises of frustration and displeasure.

(Most of it is his stuff or he has been the hold up because we might need that cable one day. *rolls eyes*)

So when I heard him muttering away, I said, 'Yeah, it's awful in there, we really should sort it out. Make it easier to find what we need.'

He thought that was a great idea.

(Part of the problem is that I don't know what some of these cables and cords are for. My new system is to tag any new ones with washi tape to prevent the situation getting worse.)

I think the cords and cables drawer is the hardest. I'm insisting hubby and I do it together. We have millions of discs for software but our current laptop has no disc drive... We also have an old laptop that needs clearing off and recycling but it's too painful a job so a year after we bought a new one, still not done.

I have attached tags to a lot of cables, but when you look at them, many fit multiple devices/ purposes. I don't the names of the cables but there is one with a USB one end  and a small thingy the other end and it fits both cameras and some phone or other. Maybe I can rid of a couple, but then if one splits...

I give you Michael McIntyre on The Man Drawer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgUpDGAIdds

DH and I quite enjoyed that. Although he visibly winced at the battery part. He's the anti-ManDrawer I guess =P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 12, 2017, 09:49:34 PM
The Man Drawer is hilarious - so true!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on January 12, 2017, 11:58:27 PM
I still haven't done the cords and cables cupboard.

Husband went through it last night looking for something and was making very obvious noises of frustration and displeasure.

(Most of it is his stuff or he has been the hold up because we might need that cable one day. *rolls eyes*)

So when I heard him muttering away, I said, 'Yeah, it's awful in there, we really should sort it out. Make it easier to find what we need.'

He thought that was a great idea.

(Part of the problem is that I don't know what some of these cables and cords are for. My new system is to tag any new ones with washi tape to prevent the situation getting worse.)

I think the cords and cables drawer is the hardest. I'm insisting hubby and I do it together. We have millions of discs for software but our current laptop has no disc drive... We also have an old laptop that needs clearing off and recycling but it's too painful a job so a year after we bought a new one, still not done.

I have attached tags to a lot of cables, but when you look at them, many fit multiple devices/ purposes. I don't the names of the cables but there is one with a USB one end  and a small thingy the other end and it fits both cameras and some phone or other. Maybe I can rid of a couple, but then if one splits...

Funny thing is that decluttering cables have become so much easier over the last few years. I have reduced my cables to basically this bunch:

1. USB Cables - I kept 2 of every type of usb connector.
2. 1 VGA Cable (the blue one) as a backup in case somebody shows up with old stuff
3. 1 DVI Cable (the white) in case somebody show up with not-so-old stuff.
4. 6 standard power cables (may be a bit much)
5. All the HDMI cables I had (about 3-4 extra)
6. All Cat 5E or better network cables
7. 1 roll of loudspeaker cable
8. 5 assorted audio cables (coax, optical...)
9. 4-5 usb sticks of at least 1 gigabyte

This fits nicely in a small drawer and I have never wanted for a second cable. I have also thrown away all old software on cds, I have no machines that can read them anyway so they are effectively useless.

Really at this point everything is USB, network and HDMI if you're dealing with digital stuff. So just dump the rest.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TOgirl on January 13, 2017, 08:39:13 AM
I still haven't done the cords and cables cupboard.

Husband went through it last night looking for something and was making very obvious noises of frustration and displeasure.

(Most of it is his stuff or he has been the hold up because we might need that cable one day. *rolls eyes*)

So when I heard him muttering away, I said, 'Yeah, it's awful in there, we really should sort it out. Make it easier to find what we need.'

He thought that was a great idea.

(Part of the problem is that I don't know what some of these cables and cords are for. My new system is to tag any new ones with washi tape to prevent the situation getting worse.)

I think the cords and cables drawer is the hardest. I'm insisting hubby and I do it together. We have millions of discs for software but our current laptop has no disc drive... We also have an old laptop that needs clearing off and recycling but it's too painful a job so a year after we bought a new one, still not done.

I have attached tags to a lot of cables, but when you look at them, many fit multiple devices/ purposes. I don't the names of the cables but there is one with a USB one end  and a small thingy the other end and it fits both cameras and some phone or other. Maybe I can rid of a couple, but then if one splits...

Funny thing is that decluttering cables have become so much easier over the last few years. I have reduced my cables to basically this bunch:

1. USB Cables - I kept 2 of every type of usb connector.
2. 1 VGA Cable (the blue one) as a backup in case somebody shows up with old stuff
3. 1 DVI Cable (the white) in case somebody show up with not-so-old stuff.
4. 6 standard power cables (may be a bit much)
5. All the HDMI cables I had (about 3-4 extra)
6. All Cat 5E or better network cables
7. 1 roll of loudspeaker cable
8. 5 assorted audio cables (coax, optical...)
9. 4-5 usb sticks of at least 1 gigabyte

This fits nicely in a small drawer and I have never wanted for a second cable. I have also thrown away all old software on cds, I have no machines that can read them anyway so they are effectively useless.

Really at this point everything is USB, network and HDMI if you're dealing with digital stuff. So just dump the rest.

This is what I'm struggling with! We had a pile of cables and cords in the office. I asked hubby to go through them and figure out what we need. I came home to them all separated out on the floor. No less of them, and not organized....just...spread out. Tempted to toss the whole bunch!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 13, 2017, 08:55:41 AM
Mailed 2 unwanted posters to a friend (she paid shipping); crappy poster frames "donated" to the alley.

Tossed another stack of paper from the filing cabinet. Why did I have entire file of vet expenses for the cat who died in 2011?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 14, 2017, 07:31:21 AM
I was able to volunteer to house some records at my school since my file cabinets are getting emptier and emptier. I may be able to get rid of a work file cabinet by the end of the year (people are always scrambling for them), freeing up some valuable space in my middle room. I no longer keep anything in bins; everything is in a file drawer or on a shelf (or on my desk, which is still a mess, but I'm getting to that soon!). I have a table and two large awesome teacher desks in my classroom. I'd like to move one of my desks to the middle room and rearrange some things to allow more room for the Chromebook cart that's a fairly new addition and really doesn't fit.

At home I need to do some more culling in the one file drawer in my office for financial records. I had a Cingular contract in there. How many years ago did that company disappear?

Things are going well.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 14, 2017, 12:53:03 PM
We did the cable drawer (man drawer!) and now have a bag full of recycling. I'm not really sure who takes misc cables in Australia. Phones and chargers are easy so maybe I'll put then all in a mobile phone bin? I found two phones as well!

Listed 2 more things on FB for free. No bites so will put on gumtree.

I'm going to google uses for old CDs as I have 15+ software discs...

Today's job is cleaning up and listing some kitchen stuff that should go for decent $$$.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PerpetualWanderlust on January 14, 2017, 01:17:29 PM
Two bags of clothes. Donated everything I haven't worn in the last year.

Feels great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 14, 2017, 04:18:51 PM
I have craigslist takers lined up for all my foreign language books!

Languages either I or my daughter have taken up over the years: Sign language, Latin, Polish, Russian, Italian, Spanish. Also German and French, but at least I don't have the books for them anymore.

And, ironically, I have no use for any of those languages now - but here in my hometown in the midwest, depending where I shop, people just assume I speak Arabic. It's so common here, at one point a woman behind me in line at the grocery store started reading something in Arabic from the checkout line magazine rack - and when I couldn't understand her, she asked "Really?! Where are you from?"

I might have to hit up youtube or the library and get some basic phrases down.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rachellynn99 on January 14, 2017, 05:33:54 PM
Took 4 30 gallon trash bags to Goodwill full of outgrown toys clothing and books from the three kiddos. I also threw in an unneeded Christmas gift- a cheapo blender from Walmart.

The kids rooms look so. much. better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 14, 2017, 08:42:38 PM
Donated some cookbooks and am going through my stash of food magazines and the newspaper clippings of recipes that my mother keeps sending me. I can find pretty much any recipe I want on the Internet so no reason to keep these.

A big stack is getting recycled, and as an added bonus, I found some of my grandmother's holiday recipe cards that I couldn't find at Christmastime!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 15, 2017, 08:28:29 AM
Can't resist posting this for your decluttering pleasure.

http://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/the-life-changing-magic-of-decluttering-in-a-post-apocalyptic-world (http://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/the-life-changing-magic-of-decluttering-in-a-post-apocalyptic-world)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 15, 2017, 08:52:10 AM
ahahahhaha!

I just folded my socks last night!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 15, 2017, 06:21:23 PM
So you are ready for the apocalypse!   ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 15, 2017, 08:27:35 PM
Got rid of two more books through FB today, and one of them was really big, so that's good.

Aussies - there is a place called Quantum Technical Services in SA that recycles X-Rays. Apparently they contain silver. You can post them to them, so that's what I've done! Got quite the bundle together. Have to pay postage but that feels better than binning something useful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 15, 2017, 08:50:05 PM
Cleaned out my food cupboard and the fridge. Recycled a couple glass jars. Tossed some brown rice that was rancid. I'm pretty sure it was rancid when I brought it home from the store, but I let it sit for months. Ugh. Gone now.

Boxed almost two dozen assorted sized mason jars. They'll sit in the closet for a couple months before I see my friend who cans, but now they won't clog my cupboard space.

Put my favorite (worn out and too big) sweater in the bag for textile recycling... we'll see if I can leave it there for a few weeks before I actually donate it.


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on January 16, 2017, 12:58:42 PM
Mezzie, Tris Prior, TomTX--thanks for the suggestions!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 16, 2017, 02:39:34 PM
Huge dresser is gone! And I got my fixed bike in exchange. They'll be back for bookshelves soon, but it was too much to fit in their car in one trip.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 16, 2017, 02:49:43 PM
I am proud of myself. I had a bunch of female stuff I have no need for anymore (yay menopause!). I finally gathered it all up today and donated it to a women's shelter.

Doesn't sound like an accomplishment, but knocking on a stranger's door to announce "I have tampons" is not any introvert's ideal activity. I decided getting over it makes more sense than throwing that stuff in a landfill, when the shelter is a half mile from my house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 16, 2017, 02:54:03 PM
I am proud of myself. I had a bunch of female stuff I have no need for anymore (yay menopause!). I finally gathered it all up today and donated it to a women's shelter.

Doesn't sound like an accomplishment, but knocking on a stranger's door to announce "I have tampons" is not any introvert's ideal activity. I decided getting over it makes more sense than throwing that stuff in a landfill, when the shelter is a half mile from my house.

You crack me up, Jakejake!

Congrats on the decluttering, environmentalism, and forced interaction with strangers. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 16, 2017, 02:55:22 PM
I am proud of myself. I had a bunch of female stuff I have no need for anymore (yay menopause!). I finally gathered it all up today and donated it to a women's shelter.

Doesn't sound like an accomplishment, but knocking on a stranger's door to announce "I have tampons" is not any introvert's ideal activity. I decided getting over it makes more sense than throwing that stuff in a landfill, when the shelter is a half mile from my house.

Good for you! I laughed at the "not an introvert's ideal activity" thing. =P I'm right there with you. Glad you overcame though!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on January 17, 2017, 08:57:48 AM
Mezzie, Tris Prior, TomTX--thanks for the suggestions!

You're welcome!

Now if I could just remember what I suggested....

Anyway, confirmed retention schedule on utility bills with the wife (1 year retention, plus final bill from any former utilties) - and yay, I got to shred!

Need to work out an arrangement on old credit card bills and bank statements next...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 17, 2017, 12:11:37 PM
Mezzie, Tris Prior, TomTX--thanks for the suggestions!

You're welcome!

Now if I could just remember what I suggested....

Anyway, confirmed retention schedule on utility bills with the wife (1 year retention, plus final bill from any former utilties) - and yay, I got to shred!

Need to work out an arrangement on old credit card bills and bank statements next...

I just keep the last letter that says we've closed the credit card. I've also got a few paper folders with a shred date for things that we don't need to keep but DH isn't comfortable chucking!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 17, 2017, 12:13:43 PM
Signed up for two more electronic bills yesterday. As far as I know, that only leaves one paper bill coming to the house!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 17, 2017, 02:25:33 PM
The food service sized container of dried parsley that I inherited in 2005 and then never used because dried parsley tastes like horse feed?

GONE!!!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Secretly Saving on January 17, 2017, 03:17:23 PM
Hit the local storage unit hard this weekend.  Emptied out another 15+ boxes.  Took two loads to local charity, have a box going to a resale shop.  Stuck now with the final few boxes that have sentimental items from my deceased parents -- letters, photos, documents etc.  I just pulled out my father's wallet out of the last pair of pants he wore.  All the coins in his pocket were from the 1990s.  My mother just kept it all and now that she is gone I have the task of doing it alone.  It sucks to lose both parents so young and this is one case where it also stinks being an only child.   My spouse is so supportive, but really can't help because it's paperwork and photos.  I just need to stop read through it all and make decisions.  I feel like there might be light at the end of this storage unit tunnel and then I realize that I have two more storage unit crates in another state... I'll get there, eventually!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 17, 2017, 03:33:41 PM
As part of my decluttering goal, I took a look at our small bookshelf (15 books after KMing) and decided to let go of my Harry Potter books. This is huge for me since I've loved and read them regularly but I now realize the large books don't give me joy anymore and I'd rather have Kindle versions of them so I can read them whenever I want. Passing on those books to my niece who is starting to get into Potter magic.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mwulff on January 18, 2017, 12:30:53 AM
Hit the local storage unit hard this weekend.  Emptied out another 15+ boxes.  Took two loads to local charity, have a box going to a resale shop.  Stuck now with the final few boxes that have sentimental items from my deceased parents -- letters, photos, documents etc.  I just pulled out my father's wallet out of the last pair of pants he wore.  All the coins in his pocket were from the 1990s.  My mother just kept it all and now that she is gone I have the task of doing it alone.  It sucks to lose both parents so young and this is one case where it also stinks being an only child.   My spouse is so supportive, but really can't help because it's paperwork and photos.  I just need to stop read through it all and make decisions.  I feel like there might be light at the end of this storage unit tunnel and then I realize that I have two more storage unit crates in another state... I'll get there, eventually!

Can I suggest scanning all the family photos. We did that with my grandmothers. Then we sorted out the ones that were relevant and added them to our screensaver so they pop up from time to time. The rest went into digital cold storage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 18, 2017, 10:05:48 AM
I've had 2 boxes in the living room that got added to as I found things to donate.  Yesterday I added a bit more to them, and the 2 full boxes and 3 boxes of books got dropped off.  Now I can start filling more boxes.
 
At first it was easy to fill the car with low-hanging fruit.  Some areas are getting visibly better, harder to declutter (I am sure in a month it will be obvious what still needs to go).  Other areas - lots to get rid of still, easy pickings.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on January 18, 2017, 12:56:07 PM
i'm making a promise to the internet that i'm taking out the donations and returns tomorrow.
i have another bag of things to donate (mainly clothes) and four more amazon returns.
i also emailed to get rid of my ex-roommate's stuff
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on January 18, 2017, 12:59:33 PM
got rid of 5 boxes of books! Didn't even know I had so many... and these were just the 'obvious outs'. Still have two more bookcases to sift through...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: zinethstache on January 18, 2017, 03:43:22 PM
Next Friday is my last work day. I've already cleaned my tiny closet out and kept like 2 nice tops for "dressing up" during FIRE.

I plan to take them up to my mom's house, she can chose what she wants to keep and the rest will GO.

I really, really wanted to have a burning party but that seems a waste for perfectly good clothes.

I am sure I will find something else work related to burn, cut up etc. Like my Badge I will definitely be shredding that the MINUTE I am home on friday!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 18, 2017, 03:56:55 PM
Next Friday is my last work day. I've already cleaned my tiny closet out and kept like 2 nice tops for "dressing up" during FIRE.

I plan to take them up to my mom's house, she can chose what she wants to keep and the rest will GO.

I really, really wanted to have a burning party but that seems a waste for perfectly good clothes.

I am sure I will find something else work related to burn, cut up etc. Like my Badge I will definitely be shredding that the MINUTE I am home on friday!

This is SO exciting!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 18, 2017, 04:00:12 PM
I really really enjoy decluttering. I'm supposed to be doing other things but am itching to tackle another area.

I'm a bit worried about the day that I run out of areas / categories to tackle...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on January 18, 2017, 04:01:40 PM
Next Friday is my last work day.
Woohooooo! Congratulations!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on January 18, 2017, 05:06:44 PM
I really really enjoy decluttering. I'm supposed to be doing other things but am itching to tackle another area.

I'm a bit worried about the day that I run out of areas / categories to tackle...

Maybe you could help my wife...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on January 18, 2017, 05:13:56 PM
Next Friday is my last work day. I've already cleaned my tiny closet out and kept like 2 nice tops for "dressing up" during FIRE.

I plan to take them up to my mom's house, she can chose what she wants to keep and the rest will GO.

I really, really wanted to have a burning party but that seems a waste for perfectly good clothes.

I am sure I will find something else work related to burn, cut up etc. Like my Badge I will definitely be shredding that the MINUTE I am home on friday!

CONGRATULATIONS!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 18, 2017, 05:15:34 PM
I really really enjoy decluttering. I'm supposed to be doing other things but am itching to tackle another area.

I'm a bit worried about the day that I run out of areas / categories to tackle...

Would you like to experience a Canadian winter?  I am sure I will have stuff for you to have fun decluttering when you are done there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 19, 2017, 02:16:27 AM
I really really enjoy decluttering. I'm supposed to be doing other things but am itching to tackle another area.

I'm a bit worried about the day that I run out of areas / categories to tackle...

Maybe you could help my wife...

Well it's a bit like trying to help an addict, they have to *want* help.... ;) My sister is the complete opposite of me, a spender and hoarder and I have made no headway :( I've tidied up and helped to sell stuff but it reverts back as soon as I'm gone. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 19, 2017, 02:17:38 AM
I really really enjoy decluttering. I'm supposed to be doing other things but am itching to tackle another area.

I'm a bit worried about the day that I run out of areas / categories to tackle...

Would you like to experience a Canadian winter?  I am sure I will have stuff for you to have fun decluttering when you are done there.

Ooo careful, I might take you up on that. Are you near a ski-field?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on January 19, 2017, 02:22:04 AM
I decluttered one big thing (a sofa, given away on TrashNothing) before Christmas.  I am still astonished and delighted by the change it has made to my sitting room, which looks bigger and lighter and is far, far easier to keep clean.

I have a box of bits and pieces ready to go to the charity shop, and there has been some decluttering of papers but not yet enough, partly because of the tax man's requirements and partly because of an unfinished research project I hope to get back to - I had to give up when I became a carer for three years and I'm not yet quite ready to acknowledge that going back to it may be wishful thinking.  Which I guess tells me how emotionally based my decisions about "stuff" are.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 19, 2017, 05:31:02 AM
Since now my house clutter is mostly waiting on takers for the big stuff, I'm focusing on my classroom. Yesterday I avoided creating clutter by giving prospective students a password to access the handouts for my meeting instead of copying them. It worked really well. :)

I have the tops of two desks to declutter today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 19, 2017, 05:47:38 AM
I really really enjoy decluttering. I'm supposed to be doing other things but am itching to tackle another area.

I'm a bit worried about the day that I run out of areas / categories to tackle...

Would you like to experience a Canadian winter?  I am sure I will have stuff for you to have fun decluttering when you are done there.

Ooo careful, I might take you up on that. Are you near a ski-field?

Define "Near".  I am about 100km and a 1.5 hour drive to Mont Tremblant, but about 1/2 hour to a baby hill that is still not too bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 19, 2017, 08:54:45 AM
Ugh, I really need to destash my makeup. But it is all opened and used so I've got to pitch it. It feels like literally throwing out money.

I have a bunch of skincare stuff too that's meant to address all my skin problems (blotchiness, wrinkles) but never really worked.

SO wasteful! :( Also, how on earth did I end up with this many gray eyeshadows?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 19, 2017, 11:56:58 AM
I inventoried my freezers (yes "s")...and made a plan.  Threw away lots of old bread and unfortunately some meat and expensive items as well - but I wasn't going to eat them.  My goal is to completely empty the second freezer and turn it off/sell it on Craigslist after I prove to myself I don't need/want it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 19, 2017, 01:08:20 PM
Ugh, I really need to destash my makeup. But it is all opened and used so I've got to pitch it. It feels like literally throwing out money.

I have a bunch of skincare stuff too that's meant to address all my skin problems (blotchiness, wrinkles) but never really worked.

SO wasteful! :( Also, how on earth did I end up with this many gray eyeshadows?
I hear you. This morning, I threw away some facial moisturizers from a costly, well known brand from my preMMM days because they had turned rancid. They might have stayed intact but I had used 1/10th and left the remaining (beats me why I didn't finish one before I started the next) in the jar. Waste of $$$ :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on January 19, 2017, 03:43:44 PM
I worked on my email inbox and the paper clutter today.  Was terrified I misplaced our property tax stuff, but found it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on January 19, 2017, 03:51:38 PM
Good work everyone!

Last weekend, I put away the lawnmower :-O. My wife cleared out all the old sheets from the guest bedroom! I plumped up the dog's bed with a few, took a bunch of white ones for the rag bag, and chucked the rest. My son cleared his junk from the guest bedroom! That allowed me to continue to declutter my office. Of course, the day after I picked up my new prescription sunglasses, I found my old glasses, which had a sunglasses clip.

Recycled or tossed a badly chipped mixing bowl, a bunch of mismatched/damaged water bottles/caps, some coffee cups, and some beer glasses (thanked them VERY much for their service :-). Moved some holey dish towels to the rag bag, but there is still work to be done. Son gave wife several new ones for Christmas.

Cleaned out several drains, and found my screwdriver and bits right where I had left them. So they are back where they belong, and the hair clog and ankle-deep shower water clutter is gone.

Working on eating down a few leftover holiday items. Will continue working on the office, as it is looking really good with the reduced clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 19, 2017, 04:55:36 PM
Yesterday I cleared out the pantry. I threw two or three infested things and made a list of meals to use up bits that aren't our usual staples so would otherwise be forgotten. I have left a few things out on the counter purposefully to annoy me until I use them.

Tonight is laksa and margarita night! We are using up an inch of tequila bought for a get together many many moons ago. We happen to have triple sec in the cupboard, which I believe came from someone else's house when they left the country about eight years ago.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 19, 2017, 09:54:25 PM
Husband bought batteries at the airport because he "couldn't find" them in the cord cupboard. (I wasn't home.)

That's it. I'm going scorched earth on that cupboard this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 19, 2017, 10:23:31 PM
Husband bought batteries at the airport because he "couldn't find" them in the cord cupboard. (I wasn't home.)

That's it. I'm going scorched earth on that cupboard this weekend.

Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 20, 2017, 06:27:10 PM
Husband bought batteries at the airport because he "couldn't find" them in the cord cupboard. (I wasn't home.)

That's it. I'm going scorched earth on that cupboard this weekend.

Yay!

Husband bought batteries at the airport because he "couldn't find" them in the cord cupboard. (I wasn't home.)

That's it. I'm going scorched earth on that cupboard this weekend.

Yay!

I've had a busy morning!

Sorted out the cable cupboard, then rearranged parts of the linen cupboard.

The score:

Donated: three pairs of husband's jeans, one polo shirt, four books, and two DVDs.

Tossed: six cables, an old router, some paperwork, dead batteries, and a book.

I also put together a bag of things for a family member (things she has requested; I'm not just dumping stuff on her), and put aside six magazine files for my husband to take to work.

I reorganised the shelves to group like with like, and separated some cables into ziplocks to make life easier in the future.

Now to condense the contents of (wince) four external hard drives...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 20, 2017, 06:52:59 PM
I found yet MORE stuff to give away to students. They were happy, as was I. :)

I also did more purging in my classroom. I could have done more had it not been raining; I'll have to wait for clear skies to deliver things across campus to those who will make use of them, but at least I've got them ready to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 20, 2017, 07:25:14 PM
...
Now to condense the contents of (wince) four external hard drives...

If you need it, there are a variety of free duplicate file finders that may assist.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 20, 2017, 09:26:26 PM
We rearranged our storage so that our DVDs and video games are now visible on a bookshelf, while my exercise gear and our board games are tucked under the TV. After having them out for an hour, DH started going through the DVDs and I joined him - and I think we cut our collection back by 10+ items! That's about 20%+ of what we have. I'm extremely pleased, and I think we'll actually watch the remaining ones more now we can see them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RobFIRE on January 21, 2017, 10:56:44 AM
Yesterday I sold a piece of home gym equipment that I bought several years ago, have hardly used since and have been telling myself to get rid of for at least several months. Though I knew it wouldn't sell for much after allowing for the postage cost I still wanted to sell it so somebody would use it rather than it just becoming scrap metal and recycling. So I was pleased today after dropping it off at the courier collection point, only a small bit of clutter really but did feel like a little source of stress in my life was gone.

Now need to do the same with three old/in parts laptops, which hopefully at least are worth enough that I can give some money to charity from their sale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 21, 2017, 02:07:45 PM
I reorganised the shelves to group like with like, and separated some cables into ziplocks to make life easier in the future.
I saw someone at work using bull clips to keep cables organised and immediately stole the idea.

It's made my life so much easier with the multiple charging cables I have around the place.

Basically, it looks something like this:

http://www.marciafrancois.com/blog/2011/08/12/how-do-you/

I just use elastic bands for the ones in the cupboard, but this could be good for others. We have three chargers plugged in together and to stop them getting tangled they all feed through a small carabiner half way up. We also use the bread tag method to label wires on a power board so you know what you're switching on and off. Just write the name on a bread tag and attach to the cable near the plug.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 22, 2017, 02:52:48 AM
Decluttered 3 large bags of clothes, 3 boxes of books, and 2 boxes of miscellany to donate, and a few bags of rubbish. DS and DD were enlisted and half of DD wardrobe was wiped out clean and all the clothes tidied, and the floor of half DS's.

The house looks no different : sooner or later it must get better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 22, 2017, 03:15:13 AM
I was planning on replacing some bookcases I'm offloading to siblings with nicer ones, but now I'm wondering if there's a chance I can just declutter or rearrange 2 bookcases worth of stuff. That's the dream...
Nope, couldn't decluttered the problem away; needed new bookcases to free up space in a dresser so it can become the baby's. So, technically the only furniture we've had to source for the baby has been the cot; I've wanted to replace those bookshelves for ages regardless.

The bookcases, a couch, shoe rack, mirror, office chair and some spatulas have been picked up by the siblings and I'm told they're excited about using them!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 22, 2017, 03:20:58 AM
Decluttered 3 large bags of clothes, 3 boxes of books, and 2 boxes of miscellany to donate, and a few bags of rubbish. DS and DD were enlisted and half of DD wardrobe was wiped out clean and all the clothes tidied, and the floor of half DS's.

The house looks no different : sooner or later it must get better.

It will. My bookcase is still full so at first I didn't really notice a difference but then a few days later it seemed like the books had a bit of breathing space. Looks much better I realise now.

My big wins were in the kitchen. Storing chopping boards, baking trays and racks vertically in a dish rack thingy from IKEA in a cupboard has changed my life!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on January 22, 2017, 12:58:39 PM
Great work everyone. You might not see a big difference straight away but I think the next time you are looking for something you will be so glad.

On Wednesday I read a news story about this UCLA study http://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/trouble-in-paradise-new-ucla-book, which led to watching videos on YouTube of Marie Kondo implementing her method in New York apartments, which led to a huge clothing cull.

I didn't think there would be much to get rid of as I'm not a big shopper and donate as I go but I managed to fill three bags. Got rid of most of the office wear purchased for a contract role last year (thrifted, can easily rebuy similar if I decide to change jobs again in future), hand me downs from friends that didn't quite work and a few items that don't flatter at my current weight. Also decided to part with a black coat that is lovely but attracts fluff and hair so I always feel dirty. Life is to short to lint roller your coat multiple times daily.

Had been using a scarf hanger to store my (many, much loved and worn) scarves but it just wasn't working so rearranged my draws and folded them instead. I'm not a huge fan of the Kondo folding in general (who has the time?) but it looks and works so much better, I wish I had done it earlier.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 22, 2017, 02:04:02 PM
Tested and tossed four lightning cables and three non-Apple wall plugs last night.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 22, 2017, 04:59:30 PM
On a whim, I looked up and tried the Kondo folding on my laundry yesterday, and I think I'm converted. It's space-saving and easier to find things. I'm sure my version was a little less exact than hers, but it worked.

Right now I'm in the middle of shredding some bad writing. I'm taking on the emotional boxes little by little.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KL2001 on January 22, 2017, 07:34:07 PM
I was able to volunteer to house some records at my school since my file cabinets are getting emptier and emptier. I may be able to get rid of a work file cabinet by the end of the year (people are always scrambling for them), freeing up some valuable space in my middle room. I no longer keep anything in bins; everything is in a file drawer or on a shelf (or on my desk, which is still a mess, but I'm getting to that soon!). I have a table and two large awesome teacher desks in my classroom. I'd like to move one of my desks to the middle room and rearrange some things to allow more room for the Chromebook cart that's a fairly new addition and really doesn't fit.

At home I need to do some more culling in the one file drawer in my office for financial records. I had a Cingular contract in there. How many years ago did that company disappear?

Things are going well.

Cingular bought AT&T Wireless in 2004...

Leading to the Colbert report:

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/videos/colberts-take-on-att/955486/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on January 22, 2017, 08:32:58 PM
I was able to volunteer to house some records at my school since my file cabinets are getting emptier and emptier. I may be able to get rid of a work file cabinet by the end of the year (people are always scrambling for them), freeing up some valuable space in my middle room. I no longer keep anything in bins; everything is in a file drawer or on a shelf (or on my desk, which is still a mess, but I'm getting to that soon!). I have a table and two large awesome teacher desks in my classroom. I'd like to move one of my desks to the middle room and rearrange some things to allow more room for the Chromebook cart that's a fairly new addition and really doesn't fit.

At home I need to do some more culling in the one file drawer in my office for financial records. I had a Cingular contract in there. How many years ago did that company disappear?

Things are going well.

Cingular bought AT&T Wireless in 2004...

Leading to the Colbert report:

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/videos/colberts-take-on-att/955486/

Goddamit. I know we still have our original Houston Cellular contract. With unlimited data for $4.99/month.

They became Cingular in 2001.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 23, 2017, 08:36:17 AM
On a whim, I looked up and tried the Kondo folding on my laundry yesterday, and I think I'm converted. It's space-saving and easier to find things. I'm sure my version was a little less exact than hers, but it worked.

Right now I'm in the middle of shredding some bad writing. I'm taking on the emotional boxes little by little.

I was super annoyed when my husband "made" me start folding everything the way the air force required it. But a lot of it makes a ton of sense. Storing shirts vertically instead of stacked in piles makes a ton of sense, as does socks. After about 8 years I said "screw it" to folding my underwear though. I just wear whichever ones I pick out, so it doesn't matter if I can easily see them. His still get folded.  And we still stack shorts/pants, but those are on shelves so it's easy to see.

It's pretty similar to Kondo, though the socks I do differently (just fold in half). 


Haven't reduced the 'stuff' in the house much lately. I need to drop another box at Goodwill, but feel like I should list some of it to buy nothing group since I've gotten a few things from there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on January 23, 2017, 10:11:49 AM
I was skeptical about the Kondo folding method, but now that I've been doing it for a couple months I am completely converted. So far I've only done it with my clothes, but I love it!

I had an exceedingly productive day yesterday, as far as decluttering goes. We pulled out ALL of the DVDs and video games, matched up discs to cases, and weeded them out. We eliminated 68 discs in total, and now everything that is remaining fits neatly in the cupboards of the entertainment center instead of spilling over to other places.

And then, in the afternoon, my five year old daughter went to her best friend's house for her birthday, and was gone for several hours. I pulled out all the old tubs/boxes/bags of clothes that don't fit anymore. I can't do that when she's there because it turns into mayhem. I sorted them and put the nice stuff aside for my neighbor up the street and I am donating the rest. That's probably 6-8 bags/boxes of stuff gone. VVA is scheduled to pick up on Wednesday and I have 11 boxes/bags total, with everything itemized to go into It's Deductible for next year.

We still have a TON to eliminate in the house, but I feel like we made real progress this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 23, 2017, 02:22:53 PM
Tossed so much on the weekend that I freed up two empty boxes.

One went into the recycling bin this morning, the other is being drafted into helping me declutter the utensil drawer.

We have a freebie table at work, so I brought in four books yesterday. All gone this morning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 23, 2017, 02:50:23 PM
Tossed so much on the weekend that I freed up two empty boxes.

One went into the recycling bin this morning, the other is being drafted into helping me declutter the utensil drawer.

We have a freebie table at work, so I brought in four books yesterday. All gone this morning.

This weekend I opened the tv cabinet with the hopes of organising into a games cupboard, and: duh duh DERRRR! There's another cluster of cables. Hubby is going to have to help as tv cables are beyond me. If the tv and playstation and apple tv are working, why do we need other cables?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 23, 2017, 04:29:19 PM
My husband finally listed our old TV and a few devices we had at home. I also went through all the articles I had saved in the past four years and let 95% of them go. We are talking 1000s of articles I had saved in my reader. I'm glad to let them go (still have about 50 saved that I want to work through) since it removed a dead weight off my mind. I guess the best time for an article is when you see it. After that it starts diminishing in value and ends up languishing like all the physical clutter. Anyway glad to have them gone. Next up is tackling more digital clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 23, 2017, 08:42:43 PM
I have so much digital clutter it's unreal :( My first digital job is to sort out my email as I've got some POP accounts and multiple devices and it is a total shambles and adding to the clutter daily.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on January 24, 2017, 04:37:09 AM
I have so much digital clutter it's unreal :( My first digital job is to sort out my email as I've got some POP accounts and multiple devices and it is a total shambles and adding to the clutter daily.

We may have more emails than we do dollars of net worth. Both are well into 6 figures.

It's a bit of an extended story, but information retained in my email archive very likely saved a child's life - so I am especially loath to dispose of everything wholesale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 24, 2017, 05:21:43 AM
I have so much digital clutter it's unreal :( My first digital job is to sort out my email as I've got some POP accounts and multiple devices and it is a total shambles and adding to the clutter daily.

We may have more emails than we do dollars of net worth. Both are well into 6 figures.

It's a bit of an extended story, but information retained in my email archive very likely saved a child's life - so I am especially loath to dispose of everything wholesale.

I, for one, would be fascinated to hear the story, if you would like to tell it.

I just moved all the old stuff into a folder called 'Archive'. Then I kept my inbox at zero going forward. Anything I have to act on stays in the inbox, once it's dealt with it gets filed.

I personally use a few simple folders, "Shopping and Bills", "Friends and Family", "Community Organisation" I volunteer with. But I believe research shows it will be just as quick to find something by filing everything in one folder once it's dealt with. Archive, Completed, Dealt With, whatever you want to call it.

I don't see a benefit to deleting everything if you have available storage space.

Oh, one other thing I do, I have a folder called 'Vouchers'. Whenever I get an offer (eg 10% of a hotel stay, free burger somewhere I actually go) I put it in that folder. Then when I need a hotel room, am meeting a friend for dinner, or want new socks or whatever, I check that folder first. I just delete stuff over a month old every so often, though I'm sure you could automate that part. It means less stuff I might not use sitting in the inbox, but I don't worry I'm 'throwing away' something useful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Secretly Saving on January 24, 2017, 08:03:47 AM
I use the vouchers file as well.   Always looking for coupons!

Last weekend, we got a few more items to a resale shop and two boxes off to a charity.  Today is paperwork.  Going to reorganize some stuff and get ready for taxes. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 24, 2017, 04:34:25 PM
I struggle with the 'keep emails since Google offers unlimited storage' vs 'delete ones that are of no value (old newsletters, promo emails that I found interesting way back when, etc)'. But I want to make sure my email has only my personal emails and not promo mails, newsletters, etc.

I really like the idea of deleting everything that is more than a month old from promo folder. Will help with my email clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 24, 2017, 09:33:17 PM
Digital decluttering in the past week:

- Deleted 16,000 emails from my husband's work account (with his permission) (and that's just a drop in the bucket)
- Deleted more than 600 from my Gmail
- Deleted a couple of hundred photos from my phone
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 24, 2017, 09:42:38 PM
Digital decluttering in the past week:

- Deleted 16,000 emails from my husband's work account (with his permission) (and that's just a drop in the bucket)
- Deleted more than 600 from my Gmail
- Deleted a couple of hundred photos from my phone

So jealous right now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 24, 2017, 10:29:57 PM
Digital decluttering in the past week:

- Deleted 16,000 emails from my husband's work account (with his permission) (and that's just a drop in the bucket)
- Deleted more than 600 from my Gmail
- Deleted a couple of hundred photos from my phone

So jealous right now.

Don't be jealous, there is a LOT left for me to do.

It's one of those little jobs I can work through on my train home (apart from those days where I'm going cross-eyed from too much screen time).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 25, 2017, 03:21:51 AM
Got rid of another bottle from the pantry - Gin this time. It's a public holiday tomorrow hence cocktail hour.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 25, 2017, 05:42:52 AM
Got through two more tubes of moisturizer. Got half a dozen more to go. I just don't know why I have SO MUCH moisturizer in the first place. It's like they just breed :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on January 25, 2017, 07:36:27 PM
Just went through my jewellery box - the one full of sentimental pieces I never wear. Not sure if it's all the 'Kondo recaps' I'd just been reading online or that I'm getting married this year, but today I finally got rid of all the gifts from ex-boyfriends that are no longer my style but that I felt I should keep for the memories.

I also set aside some nice jewellery from when I was young - delicate chains, padlock bracelets, tiny rings etc - to offer to a friend's little girls.

Feeling good!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 25, 2017, 10:15:46 PM
It's a public holiday here and from my house I can hear three parties going on, everyone is having fun. I'm a bit of a loser as I've been inside decluttering skin care, make up and jewelry! I've thrown out 2 x small carrier bags and I have a small box of odds and sods I'm about to list for free before they are thrown out.

I found we have four rolls of dental floss. Better get flossing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 26, 2017, 01:08:19 AM
Deleted 1006 more emails.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 26, 2017, 02:18:57 AM
Another bottle gone from the drinks shelf - the Pimms. We sound like alcoholics. Tomorrow it's the second bottle of rum with a target on its back. We have limes, mint and fizzy water ready for mojitos.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 26, 2017, 02:26:57 AM
Another bottle gone from the drinks shelf - the Pimms. We sound like alcoholics. Tomorrow it's the second bottle of rum with a target on its back. We have limes, mint and fizzy water ready for mojitos.

Drinking rum counts as decluttering?

Oh I am IN!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on January 26, 2017, 02:48:20 AM
The best decluttering. You've got me pondering an after dinner drink....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 26, 2017, 03:08:02 AM
Another bottle gone from the drinks shelf - the Pimms. We sound like alcoholics. Tomorrow it's the second bottle of rum with a target on its back. We have limes, mint and fizzy water ready for mojitos.

Drinking rum counts as decluttering?

Oh I am IN!

Of course it counts, I've made room in the pantry cupboard to store onions. They were previously kept in the fruit bowl!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on January 26, 2017, 03:09:54 AM
Another bottle gone from the drinks shelf - the Pimms. We sound like alcoholics. Tomorrow it's the second bottle of rum with a target on its back. We have limes, mint and fizzy water ready for mojitos.

Drinking rum counts as decluttering?

Oh I am IN!

Woo hoo, party at Freshwater's house!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 26, 2017, 03:10:38 AM
Another bottle gone from the drinks shelf - the Pimms. We sound like alcoholics. Tomorrow it's the second bottle of rum with a target on its back. We have limes, mint and fizzy water ready for mojitos.

Drinking rum counts as decluttering?

Oh I am IN!

Woo hoo, party at Freshwater's house!

Happy Australia Day!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 26, 2017, 04:54:28 PM
We moved a coffee table out of our lounge area to construct our new replacement bookcases. After a few days of it being out of the way, we realised we actually don't want a coffee table there. We'll use a tray if we need one, or really, we can see the TV from the dining table just fine! So we've gotten rid of it :) Moving items out of the way to see if you actually need them was a great exercise!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 26, 2017, 05:36:46 PM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 26, 2017, 06:02:34 PM
I started going through my recipe file... 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 26, 2017, 06:26:59 PM
Done with 10k+ articles I had saved. Working on giving away some of the old tech stuff we have at home that is no longer used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on January 26, 2017, 09:40:07 PM
Dropped six bags off at the op shop today. The guest room/retreat is so clean now, just in time as we are hosting friends from interstate next week.

Planning to knock off two bits of mending this afternoon while it's too hot to be in the garden, then clothes and accessories will be pretty much DONE.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on January 27, 2017, 02:50:47 AM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.

Hurry up and get to zero... I need to read something from you other than deleting emails!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 27, 2017, 03:20:58 AM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.

Hurry up and get to zero... I need to read something from you other than deleting emails!

Not my fault you went to work and left me home alone! :D Had to occupy myself somehow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on January 27, 2017, 03:24:35 AM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.

Hurry up and get to zero... I need to read something from you other than deleting emails!

Not my fault you went to work and left me home alone! :D Had to occupy myself somehow.

Were you really the only person in Australia to take an annual leave day today when you were actually sick??
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 27, 2017, 03:47:57 AM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.

Hurry up and get to zero... I need to read something from you other than deleting emails!

Not my fault you went to work and left me home alone! :D Had to occupy myself somehow.

Were you really the only person in Australia to take an annual leave day today when you were actually sick??
I, uh, will probably be taking an annual leave or unpaid leave day when I was actually sick. But that's partly because I have no sick leave (wait, maybe it reset with calendar year?) And also, it just feels wrong to take it as a sick day...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 27, 2017, 04:03:28 AM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.

Hurry up and get to zero... I need to read something from you other than deleting emails!

Not my fault you went to work and left me home alone! :D Had to occupy myself somehow.

Were you really the only person in Australia to take an annual leave day today when you were actually sick??

I've missed part of this story. Where MPGH was sick and where Marty went to live with her.

I threw out some bandages and other random first aid stuff today. Cleared off the dining table by finishing a project...and then dumped a whole load more stuff on it to sort through.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on January 27, 2017, 04:37:29 AM
Deleted more than 500 emails.

Down to <5000 in Gmail.

Hurry up and get to zero... I need to read something from you other than deleting emails!

Not my fault you went to work and left me home alone! :D Had to occupy myself somehow.

Were you really the only person in Australia to take an annual leave day today when you were actually sick??

I've missed part of this story. Where MPGH was sick and where Marty went to live with her.

I threw out some bandages and other random first aid stuff today. Cleared off the dining table by finishing a project...and then dumped a whole load more stuff on it to sort through.

Hahaha... ahh we talk a fair bit offline. Sometimes we get mixed up between Facebook and here :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 27, 2017, 12:55:17 PM
Gave away yet MORE school supplies. I really wondering how much longer I can keep this up. Every time I think I can'5 possibly have more to spare.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 27, 2017, 04:12:16 PM
Physical decluttering progress from this morning:

Three books, one DVD, a wine bag, pasta measurer thingy (never used), paper bunting, skewers, a course book, notebook, unused photo album, a set of sheets, a tablecloth and a cooler bag.

Confession time.

I just discovered that, for the first time, we replaced something simply because we couldn't find the original.

And it wasn't something small. It was a tripod!

We just assumed my husband had left it in a hotel room or on a trip somewhere because, well, he does things like that.

Nope, apparently it got put away under the spare bed when we moved. I just found it, but he had already replaced it. >.<
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 27, 2017, 04:57:32 PM
Oops! Ours is also kept under the spare bed, must be the universal storage space for tripods.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Metric Mouse on January 27, 2017, 04:59:45 PM
Oops! Ours is also kept under the spare bed, must be the universal storage space for tripods.
The space under spare beds is a great place to lose stuff. I couldn't even tell you what is under mine - no doubt valuable things that I just couldn't throw out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 27, 2017, 05:13:04 PM
Oops! Ours is also kept under the spare bed, must be the universal storage space for tripods.
The space under spare beds is a great place to lose stuff. I couldn't even tell you what is under mine - no doubt valuable things that I just couldn't throw out.

I just did an audit: lots of dust, tripod, easel (never used), 2 beach chairs, a broken sander (forbidden to throw out), shoes that never get worn (ditto) and a broken hi-fi. I was just dragging the hi-fi out to get rid when DH told me I'm an addict. It's true, but...it's broken...?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on January 27, 2017, 05:35:17 PM
Listed two jackets for sale today on a Facebook group. Gathered up a bunch of odds & ends for a lady doing a craft project. I decided to give away my waffle maker, just have to give it a wipe down. Feeling a bit of reluctance despite not having used it for years as I used to make Sunday morning pancakes or waffles every week when my kids were little.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 27, 2017, 08:16:47 PM
Went through the tv cabinet and have thrown out 3 x videotapes, don't even know what's on them but we don't have a video player. Went through the mysterious cables with hubby, still don't understand them but I have four for recycling. I've reorganised the CDs and DVDs to make a shelf for 'games' so that's a big win.

Bit early to celebrate though as I found and removed a big pile of CDs that have photos on - I have to figure out if they are on the computer and back them up somewhere before I can chuck them. We also have about 10 DVDs to watch and then they can go on FB.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on January 28, 2017, 04:13:34 AM
All the stuff from last week is gone ( 2 carloads.)
Working on the living rooms now.
Room 1 is done except I have to repot the big pot plant, and wrap the soap sitting "curing" on the coffee table.
Speaking of grog, I decluttered the large vintage port bottle collection on the sideboard. Sadly none was consumed in the act of decluttering. The recycling bin is full ( ahem its not ALL bottles I promise), and there's 3 boxes of recycling waiting for next fortnight's bin.
Collected up a box of candle making jars, washed a few. Chucked a few too dirty and hard to clean.
Filled a box with CDs, DVDs and videos. And chucked a big bag of un-named ones out.

Its not looking bad at all, just a few more things to do and it will be pristine. Whats more, there is empty space in the TV stand and another small wall cupboard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 28, 2017, 06:53:07 PM
Tossed 57 more things, including a bunch of notebooks and some magazines.

I've also been using up some cleaning products I don't plan to replace.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on January 29, 2017, 02:46:58 AM
Gave away a heap of things on Buy Nothing today. Feels so good!

Mr Happier painted an old hutch so that it will be visually pleasing to me, for use as nursery furniture. That turned clutter into furniture :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alsoknownasDean on January 29, 2017, 04:02:05 AM
I've got three plastic tubs on my living room floor. I'd like to consolidate the contents to at least two, if not one. I've already thrown out some stuff.

There's some rather weird and niche electronic stuff that I'm not sure what to do with (for example, a USB DAC). I've got two spare Apple keyboards and a spare Airport Express. An iPad camera connection kit even though I no longer own the iPad in question (I did throw out the iPad box the other day).

I'll jump onto Mazuma Mobile and get rid of my old LG phone (apparently they'll pay a bit of money for it even if it doesn't work).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 29, 2017, 04:16:06 AM
I've got three plastic tubs on my living room floor. I'd like to consolidate the contents to at least two, if not one. I've already thrown out some stuff.

There's some rather weird and niche electronic stuff that I'm not sure what to do with (for example, a USB DAC). I've got two spare Apple keyboards and a spare Airport Express. An iPad camera connection kit even though I no longer own the iPad in question (I did throw out the iPad box the other day).

I'll jump onto Mazuma Mobile and get rid of my old LG phone (apparently they'll pay a bit of money for it even if it doesn't work).

I've had most luck with random electronic bits on Gumtree, but I was giving them away for free!

Managed to sell a couple of games today and the buyer actually came when they said they would, so that was a nice novelty! Listed some other stuff but no takers. At least it's mostly stuff the Salvos could sell, but they must be overwhelmed with slow-moving books, CDs and DVDs now everything is digital.

The only physical areas I have left to do now is the bedding/linen cupboards/shelves. There's so many old pillows, they seem to breed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mrsstache on January 29, 2017, 05:05:52 AM
Any suggestions on what to do with what seems like a million pens, pencils, markers, etc. that have all been used to some extent? Couldn't figure out how recyclable they were and would prefer not to just trash them if they are reusable somehow. Have a small (ish) number set aside. The rest is just taking up space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on January 29, 2017, 05:09:19 AM
I'll jump onto Mazuma Mobile and get rid of my old LG phone (apparently they'll pay a bit of money for it even if it doesn't work).

Do you wipe your phone before sending it in, or trust them not to do anything dodgy? I have a heap of old phones that no longer work at all, which means I have no idea how to wipe them before sending them off :-/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on January 29, 2017, 05:34:58 AM
Any suggestions on what to do with what seems like a million pens, pencils, markers, etc. that have all been used to some extent? Couldn't figure out how recyclable they were and would prefer not to just trash them if they are reusable somehow. Have a small (ish) number set aside. The rest is just taking up space.
How about your local school?  Teachers can hand them out to pupils who need them if they don't need them themselves.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mrsstache on January 29, 2017, 05:52:57 AM
Any suggestions on what to do with what seems like a million pens, pencils, markers, etc. that have all been used to some extent? Couldn't figure out how recyclable they were and would prefer not to just trash them if they are reusable somehow. Have a small (ish) number set aside. The rest is just taking up space.
How about your local school?  Teachers can hand them out to pupils who need them if they don't need them themselves.
Great idea! Will look into it. Thank you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on January 29, 2017, 09:53:37 AM
Today, I tackle the banker's box that is full to bursting with paperwork re our condo purchase and our multiple failed attempts at refinancing. We no longer own the condo in question, sold it 3 years ago. Thinking that the actual purchase paperwork needs to be kept, but I know that thing is full of many xerox copies of bank statements and pay stubs and such from our refi attempts. That can probably all go as it's just stuff we printed out to prove our financial status.

Ugh. I don't want to do this. Hold me....

ETA: I'm sure there's a very good reason why I found a copy of the Chicago Tribune from Sept. 12, 2001 in with our condo paperwork.

Anyone else finding random things you thought you'd lost or didn't realize you had, as you declutter? Next to the banker's box of paperwork, which lived in our "junk closet", I found another good-sized box. Still taped shut, never opened.

So.... I have a really hard time finding shoes that fit me and don't hurt; when I finally do, I buy multiples as they are always discontinued, I hate shoe shopping,and I am very hard on shoes. Sandals especially, I typically go through 1 pair per summer due to not having a car and walking everywhere. (I'm vegan for moral reasons, and realize I do sacrifice durability because I don't want to wear leather.)

Last summer I killed another pair of sandals, and realized I only had 1 pair left. I was certain I'd bought more, but they weren't in the closet. Of course they are now discontinued. I did manage to find one backup pair on ebay.

Yep. The unopened box contained two additional pairs. I apparently had shoved the unopened box onto the top shelf in the junk closet two summers ago and promptly forgot it was there. Facepunch. Well, at least I am all set for the next few summers....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 29, 2017, 04:03:04 PM
I cleared out some of my pantry. It was only a little, but it made a HUGE difference. I also moved things so that things on the verge of expiring are at the front so I'll use them first.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 29, 2017, 05:49:04 PM
Any suggestions on what to do with what seems like a million pens, pencils, markers, etc. that have all been used to some extent? Couldn't figure out how recyclable they were and would prefer not to just trash them if they are reusable somehow. Have a small (ish) number set aside. The rest is just taking up space.

Not sure if there is a similar charity there but here in Australia we have Second-Life Stationery which puts together backpacks of school supplies for under-privileged kids. They accept used products, and just clean them up, sharpen pencils, etc, before giving them to kids.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 29, 2017, 06:08:35 PM
As a teacher, I must second (and third!) the suggestions to donate to schools. So many students don't have what they need to be successful despite the desire to be. I have a stockpile of everything from pencils to backpacks that students can take, no questions asked. Though I do buy a lot of those myself, my students also benefit greatly from the kindness of strangers who donate to our school/my classroom. It makes a HUGE positive impact on their lives.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on January 30, 2017, 04:07:51 AM
Not sure if this is decluttering... but we had a chest of drawers that my husband rescued from a skip in the garage for, oh, 6 years. I needed some drawers, so he brought them in, I cleaned them up, and they are perfect! So I decluttered them from my garage... but put them in my house.

That said I then filled them with all my haberdashery, which previously had been in many decorate storage boxes. So now I have about 10 empty storage boxes! Plus more space in the garage and much easier to access sewing supplies. Taking the lid of a box and sliding it out and back in etc is much harder work than opening a drawer.
Title: Outdoor gearhead cleaning house
Post by: driftwood on January 31, 2017, 01:37:26 AM
I've been holding on to a large variety of outdoor gear and accessories for the past 6ish years.  For awhile I tinkered with my ideal backpacking setup, so I always like having options... backpacks, stuff sacks, spice/food containers, dishes, flatware, shelters/tents, clothing combinations, rain gear, repair kit, tons of cordage.  This stuff has survived many of my previous purges.  Finally realized that I'm happy with my current setup and could ditch all the extras.  I took pics and created a FB group for my friends where I posted the pics and am giving all the extra stuff away. Whatever they don't take will be donated or thrown away.  I've already gotten rid of about a third of it.

I've had a struggle with balancing minimalism with preparedness/self-reliance.  I've hit the point finally where most of my just-in-case things don't get used for years at a time so I'm ready to let them go.  I think any preparedness focus from now on will be a focus on myself as my greatest asset (skills learning and practice).  I'm also attracted to the idea of being able to walk into a common chain store and buy a complete setup inexpensively because I have the experience and skills to use any basic setup to get done what I need to get done.

Still love gear though, but pretty good at not buying any anymore. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 31, 2017, 03:04:08 AM
I was feeling under the weather today, so I had a quiet day but I did go through a couple of drawers.

Tossed a couple of dozen little bits and pieces.

Also inadvertently decluttered a Mason jar drinking glass after the base broke off.

It was one a pair, a Christmas gift from a friend in 2015, but easy come, easy go.
Title: Re: Outdoor gearhead cleaning house
Post by: theadvicist on January 31, 2017, 04:34:12 AM
I think any preparedness focus from now on will be a focus on myself as my greatest asset (skills learning and practice). 

This is so true. Great thing to keep in mind when decluttering, thanks.
Title: Re: Outdoor gearhead cleaning house
Post by: misshathaway on January 31, 2017, 07:47:42 AM
I've had a struggle with balancing minimalism with preparedness/self-reliance.  I've hit the point finally where most of my just-in-case things don't get used for years at a time so I'm ready to let them go. 

+1 My rationale for getting rid of something in this category is that by the time I need it again, if I ever do, the technology behind it will inevitably be better so I'd be better off buying it again. So far I haven't had to test that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on February 01, 2017, 08:04:43 AM
2 steps forward, one step back.  I brought a large box of stuff (straw hat, frames, board games, clothes) to the thrift shop yesterday.

But they had their 5 cent sale, so I got a Ralph Lauren sweater, another fleece shirt, and a super comfy lounge around the house outfit for a total of 15 cents, plus spare ski goggles for biking and a springform pan that fits in the instant pot for $4 more dollars. Pffft. Thrift shops are a problem. :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on February 01, 2017, 09:30:25 AM
Oops! Ours is also kept under the spare bed, must be the universal storage space for tripods.
The space under spare beds is a great place to lose stuff. I couldn't even tell you what is under mine - no doubt valuable things that I just couldn't throw out.

I just did an audit: lots of dust, tripod, easel (never used), 2 beach chairs, a broken sander (forbidden to throw out), shoes that never get worn (ditto) and a broken hi-fi. I was just dragging the hi-fi out to get rid when DH told me I'm an addict. It's true, but...it's broken...?

Sounds like the only thing that should be retained are the beach chairs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on February 01, 2017, 07:41:01 PM
Made a trip to the thrift shop today. Two bags and one big box of stuff out of the house! One of the bags was very nice pants that my husband has shrunk out of. They were good quality trousers, in like new shape, but he has lost a lot of weight and the pants needed to go.

I know there is more to do, but it is getting harder to get rid of things, as the husband is one of those, "But I might need it someday" people.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 02, 2017, 07:02:30 AM
Some more small victories:

Refilled our detergents and water softener and recycled the larger containers.

Used up a body wash and replaced with another one (I still have so many to go).

Used up a moisturizer and replaced with one I had left some time back at work (found it when clearing out my work space) - I found it at the right time because it would've gone bad in a few months otherwise.

Gave away some boxes of chocolate and milk to my housecleaner who loved them.

Put together a box of stuff that I know my cousin will like. She is visiting soon and can take whatever she likes. Will donate the rest.

Started finding recipes for unused stuff in the pantry. I made a curry from a long forgotten millet and it's a hit with the toddler. Will finish off packet soon :) goal is to clear out the pantry and the freezer by end of August. We still have a long way to go since I end up falling back on trusted and quick recipes but I hope even doing one new recipe a week should help.

Found a few books I can let go after pregnancy. I know of a place I can donate to that would love these books. I'm giddy even thinking of it since it'll help a lot more people there than if I sell them or give to one person.

Finally convinced husband to sell all the phones and devices we have and we finally seeing some traction on it.

Some (possible) fails:
Brought three books I intend to read. Hopefully I'll read them and donate to my library.

Still can't convince husband to give up his old textbooks that he hasn't used for the past 10 years. I guess I'll have to do some ground work and then show him their true value so he can just say "OK let it go" rather than him working on selling/donating them.

Found a few books that I'd like to keep forever but don't want to read right now that I'm wondering if I should ship back home. We'll move there in a few years and I want them in my forever home, just not my current one. I'm worried if I'm holding on to them as clutter or because they are really precious. Does anyone have stuff they want in their forever homes, just not the current one? Did you let them go or did you save them since it's part of your vision for future you?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on February 02, 2017, 07:35:54 AM
Still can't convince husband to give up his old textbooks that he hasn't used for the past 10 years. I guess I'll have to do some ground work and then show him their true value so he can just say "OK let it go" rather than him working on selling/donating them.
I would just let that one go. It sounds like you made the suggestion already, and that's as far as I'd go with it. In terms of the overall relationship, respecting his boundaries and being clear that you aren't the boss of him is probably more important than the space his books take up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheStrenuousLife on February 02, 2017, 07:45:24 AM
Posting to follow.  I need to get in on this.  I have lived in a small 2-bedroom apartment since 2014 with my girlfriend and it is amazing how much stuff has accumulated in that time.  A significant portion of it is from well-meaning relatives who refuse to listen to us on holidays when we say "No, we really don't want anything, thank you!". 

The hardest part for me is just finding the time to sit down and actually go through all the stuff, create ads to sell it, throw out/donate what cannot be sold, etc, etc. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BlueHouse on February 02, 2017, 12:53:09 PM
This thread is so motivating.  I thought I'd share something I witnessed recently.  A friend of mine was collecting kitchen things from neighbors and friends for a blind lady who moved into independent living.  The blind lady provided a very sparse list of items she wanted/needed, and of course all the friends/neighbors provided much more than what was requested.  So my friend and I brought all the items to the blind lady and my friend went through each and every item, describing it, letting the lady feel it to see if she could use it, etc. 
The disability really showed what is needed vs. what's clutter.  Having more things on a counter or in a drawer is a major drawback to a blind person who has to feel around for absolutely everything.  She truly didn't want any of the fancy gadgets because they just made her life more difficult! 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 03, 2017, 05:19:54 AM

The hardest part for me is just finding the time to sit down and actually go through all the stuff, create ads to sell it, throw out/donate what cannot be sold, etc, etc.

Ugh, sitting down and going through it all is boring and arduous, but it feels so good when you're done!

My tip for going forward is immediately assess whether something that has been given to you adds value to your day to day life. If not, donate straight away. I know this sounds callous. But I think of it thus: the gift-givers intention was to make you feel good. If having the stuff in your house will make you feel bad, but giving it to charity will make you feel good, the intention has been honoured.

I mean, they could have honoured your request and not bought you anything in the first place ;)

I find letting this stuff go before it hangs around, or before I assign a spot to it, or before I try to use something 'just to see if I'll use it', is much easier, because the items are brand new in their packaging. The charity will sell it for more. I don't have to chase around finding parts or sets when I do decide to get rid of it.

And best of all, no-one has ever asked where anything they bought me is. Ever. I don't get rid of all gifts - not at all. But honestly, no-one notices.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Amber-MT on February 03, 2017, 08:43:07 AM
This thread has been such an inspiration I actually registered on MMM after lurking for at least a year!

After what I thought was a through round of decluttering and culling of my stuff, I'm finding that there's still plenty to let loose.
Major milestone today: I gave away two skirt suits from my early adulthood to our English/Drama teacher. If any of the seniors want them for their upcoming mock interviews great, if not, the drama department wants them. A win either way!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: EngineerYogi on February 03, 2017, 04:08:32 PM
I sold an XBOX360 we had tucked in a closet for the last 2.5 years as well as a Keurig that has been in the garage for over a year. Each went for $25.

I did a major reorganization of my two spare bedroom closets and consolidated most of the contents down to one closet including setting up a mini home office in the newly populated closet.

I cleaned out a cabinet and several drawers in the kitchen and got rid of some things I've been holding onto for no reason. I posted them to a facebook sale page for free and a new college student was the first to bite. She is starting out from scratch so she took my extra tupperware, miscellaneous mugs and glasses, a hand mixer, and a dish set.

My neighborhood has a bulk trash pick up once a month. Wednesday I drug some broken furniture and oversized boxes to the curb that have been living in our garage since we moved into our home in 2014. They were all carted away yesterday morning.

I still need to tackle more of the garage and my linen and bathroom closets and my pantry. It feels good to let things go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 03, 2017, 04:57:18 PM
I gifted a thoroughly bedraggled poinsettia through Buy Nothing Project. It was HUGE, and taking up space on our table. I couldn't give it the care it needed (didn't want it near a window because all of those the Old Dog can reach, and they're toxic). Anyway, it's not out of my space and I'm no longer feeling guilt that I am killing it slowly! I'll stick to my happy spider plant that I understand =D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on February 03, 2017, 06:20:26 PM
I ordered a box through ThredUp, and I have a stack of items to send away.  I could probably make more if I listed them myself, but I haven't done that in the past 2 years. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 05, 2017, 09:39:28 AM
I passed my ultimate minimalist hurtle to date: I sold my wedding dress. It was a huge box. You couldn't see the pretty parts of it how it was packed anyway (and I never would have unpacked it, I know myself, lol). I got married 1.5yrs ago. Trends won't hold forever, and I don't want to decide down the road I had sold it and basically have to give it away. I like the idea of it being part of another wedding, too. So, $800 in the bank and a big hole in the top part of our closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 05, 2017, 10:09:33 AM
I passed my ultimate minimalist hurtle to date: I sold my wedding dress. It was a huge box. You couldn't see the pretty parts of it how it was packed anyway (and I never would have unpacked it, I know myself, lol). I got married 1.5yrs ago. Trends won't hold forever, and I don't want to decide down the road I had sold it and basically have to give it away. I like the idea of it being part of another wedding, too. So, $800 in the bank and a big hole in the top part of our closet.

Great job! And $800 is a really good amount to get for a wedding dress, regardless of original price.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on February 05, 2017, 10:53:38 AM
This is not so much clearing out as avoiding having to declutter in the future:

I avoided buying two books I really wanted. Turns out I can borrow one from a friend. The other I'll suggest as a library purchase; if I still really want it in a month, I'll get it with the understanding that it will be passed along when I'm done with it.

I dealt with mail that needs to be filed or shredded immediately instead of letting it pile up. I ended up finding a check in something I thought wasn't important (again! Another $255 payment for decluttering!). I do have a stack of tax-related mail that I can't do anything with until I get my final paperwork from Fidelity, but that stack will be dealt with and filed away next weekend when I do my taxes.

I'm starting my preparations for this year's garden, so lots of gardening things I've been hoarding (egg cartons for sprouting seeds, for example) are finally getting used. I haven't yet figured out where to put the grow light my mom gave me when she was decluttering. If I can't find a good place in two weeks, I'll donate it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on February 05, 2017, 01:13:43 PM
You guys are so inspiring! I have dropped off about 3 more Rubbermaid bins worth of donations since late fall to Goodwill. Yesterdays bin included "sentimental" items so a huge improvement for me even if it was only a few items of nostalgia! I have a few more sentimental items I am really close to donating. I'm out of boxes to use for donations...i need to find more, than I can say goodbye.  I have a trashbag full of clothes to donate and a bag of Food ( need to find a local food bank/pantry) sitting in my *donation station* I set up.

 I found using the wasted area under my mantle by the door made me really likely to donate or recycle so my fireplace looks nice. I went through all the papers in my house last week and had a laundry basket full of papers to shred and two large reusable bags of paper I took downstairs to recycle. We've been staying on top of incoming mail too.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 05, 2017, 01:42:11 PM
Oh! I totally forgot one. When the lady came to buy my wedding dress, I offered her 6 shirts I was going to goodwill. I said, 'well, I figured we'd be the same size and have similar tastes!' She loved them, took them all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on February 05, 2017, 01:42:38 PM
Everyone is so amazing!

I'm starting to create a pile for ThreadUp (mostly J Crew items that I never wear).  My husband saw the pile and added about 5 pairs of pants to it!  Woohoo! 

Oh! I totally forgot one. When the lady came to buy my wedding dress, I offered her 6 shirts I was going to goodwill. I said, 'well, I figured we'd be the same size and have similar tastes!' She loved them, took them all.
That is so thoughtful!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheStrenuousLife on February 05, 2017, 03:01:29 PM
Took all of my empty alcohol containers back to the Beer Store for a $6.20 refund.  It is surprising how many of those can accumulate over a few months!  Definitely cleared out some storage space. 

However, I've realized that the cost/benefit of holding onto empties is not worth it, so from now on, I will just place them in the recycle bin.  It took me an hour to organize them all and carry them down to the local Beer Store, thus making the $6.20 refund I received less than minimum wage. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 05, 2017, 05:09:06 PM
Took all of my empty alcohol containers back to the Beer Store for a $6.20 refund.  It is surprising how many of those can accumulate over a few months!  Definitely cleared out some storage space. 

However, I've realized that the cost/benefit of holding onto empties is not worth it, so from now on, I will just place them in the recycle bin.  It took me an hour to organize them all and carry them down to the local Beer Store, thus making the $6.20 refund I received less than minimum wage.

I've been doing this for a while- our bottle deposit is only $0.05/bottle, and it's one of my least favorite chores. Where I used to live, I would put them in a bag beside the bin so that our neighborhood homeless lady that collected cans and bottles could just 'grab and go'. But where I live now there are no homeless people that check the bins! Not sure what to do now, it seems a shame that *no one* is getting that money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gaja on February 05, 2017, 05:23:00 PM
DH has been claiming for a long time he can make money renovating old electronics and selling them online. He just never got around to the selling part, until this month. Knowing his sales skill, someone got a good deal. But he still got away with about twice as much as he paid for the stuff, including parts. The big question now is whether this counts as getting rid of stuff, or if he'll just buy new stuff to continue the "business". Until then, I'm counting it as a win.

The kids have grown about 10 cm each, and have done a decent job sorting out their clothes as they grow out of them. I'm working on my closet, placing everything I've used most recently in the front. I've already sorted out a lot of stuff that I don't use, but in June I've done this for a year, and there will be no excuse to keep the stuff lingering in the back.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on February 05, 2017, 05:24:33 PM
An entire granny-cartful of crap (plus 1 additional bag) went to the thrift store today!

Including a couple of things that my mother had given me to sell, that I've been trying to sell for literally years, with no takers. I feel really terrible about this; if she finds out, she'll be really angry. Note: this stuff is literally crap; it is not valuable in any way. (hoarder tendencies mean she's typically only willing to get rid of crap if someone will pay her for it, and she won't sell stuff herself for fear of getting murdered by a stranger coming to her home plus she doesn't have Internet  - I can't remember if I posted about this on this thread or in my journal? Anyway.) But, FFS, we're moving and I don't want to haul all her crap through yet another move.

And yes, I'm taking the coward's way out and not telling her what I did, because it will result in verbal abuse and tears and screaming and I don't have to take that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on February 05, 2017, 05:50:14 PM
I did some real decluttering too:

- Cleaned out enough of my closet that I could fit my sewing machine and board games in there, making more room in the garage. I also have room for my sewing table to come in once I drop off a newly filled box of donations.

- I got some yarn to see if I could crochet, but my arthritis flared up like crazy. That means I can give said yarn, crochet, and knitting stuff to relatives and friends who can use them. I've hung onto that stuff for a loooong time wondering if I could ever use it again.

-Shredded an old diary. Reading the next one and should shred tonight. I kind of like rereading them, but I also am tempted to just shred them all at once. (I have dozens -- I've been an avid diarist since I could write and a near-hoarder just as long).

-I'm seriously loving the Konmari folding style still. It saves a ton of room (part of how I managed to fit the sewing machine in the closet).

Challenge coming up: Stuffed animals. I still have my first teddy bear and some other stuffed animals that are heavy nostalgia triggers for me. Thinking about it....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheStrenuousLife on February 05, 2017, 07:38:29 PM

I've been doing this for a while- our bottle deposit is only $0.05/bottle, and it's one of my least favorite chores. Where I used to live, I would put them in a bag beside the bin so that our neighborhood homeless lady that collected cans and bottles could just 'grab and go'. But where I live now there are no homeless people that check the bins! Not sure what to do now, it seems a shame that *no one* is getting that money.

Yeah....in my neighbourhood there are definitely homeless people that go through the recycle bins.  Usually the empties are gone within an hour, so someone is getting the money back from the government haha. 

Using MMM's method of valuing my time though, it just simply is not worth the time to bring the empties back. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 06, 2017, 05:21:11 AM
Re: the bottles with deposits (we don't have these here, AFAIK) aren't the bottles being reused instead of recycled if they're properly returned though? As in, cleaned and refilled and sold again, instead of broken up and made into 'new' glass? If so I think I'd still do it for the environmental benefits. Not trying to chastise anyone, we all have our own causes, so I totally get if it's still not worth it to you. Just thought it was worth a mention (if I am indeed correct that they get reused).

I got rid of some fabrics scraps at the weekend. I made a skirt and the remaining bits were not large nor particuarly useful (a thick tweed which frayed easily, so not a contender for facings or pocket bags etc).

I also tidied up a load of tools and supplies being used in our renovations and was able to weed out lots of empty screw boxes. The ugly pile is now smaller and neater.

I am still loving how much easier it is to clean with so much less stuff!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on February 06, 2017, 05:38:03 AM
Re: the bottles with deposits (we don't have these here, AFAIK) aren't the bottles being reused instead of recycled if they're properly returned though? As in, cleaned and refilled and sold again, instead of broken up and made into 'new' glass? If so I think I'd still do it for the environmental benefits. Not trying to chastise anyone, we all have our own causes, so I totally get if it's still not worth it to you. Just thought it was worth a mention (if I am indeed correct that they get reused).

I got rid of some fabrics scraps at the weekend. I made a skirt and the remaining bits were not large nor particuarly useful (a thick tweed which frayed easily, so not a contender for facings or pocket bags etc).

I also tidied up a load of tools and supplies being used in our renovations and was able to weed out lots of empty screw boxes. The ugly pile is now smaller and neater.

I am still loving how much easier it is to clean with so much less stuff!

50 years ago a fair number of glass bottles were being re-used in the USA. Think those heavy classic Coke bottles. Typically now they are not.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 06, 2017, 07:04:34 AM

50 years ago a fair number of glass bottles were being re-used in the USA. Think those heavy classic Coke bottles. Typically now they are not.

Ah, thanks for the clarification. I still have a milkman, because I like the idea of the bottles being reused over and over, plus I can smell plastic on milk from the supermarket. DH claims I'm making this up, but seriously, I always sniff the milk before using and the overwhelming smell (unless it's off) from shop-bought is plastic to me. Plus I hate leaving the house so milk, bread and eggs on the doorstep makes me very happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 06, 2017, 07:36:29 AM
Took all of my empty alcohol containers back to the Beer Store for a $6.20 refund.  It is surprising how many of those can accumulate over a few months!  Definitely cleared out some storage space. 

However, I've realized that the cost/benefit of holding onto empties is not worth it, so from now on, I will just place them in the recycle bin.  It took me an hour to organize them all and carry them down to the local Beer Store, thus making the $6.20 refund I received less than minimum wage.

I've been doing this for a while- our bottle deposit is only $0.05/bottle, and it's one of my least favorite chores. Where I used to live, I would put them in a bag beside the bin so that our neighborhood homeless lady that collected cans and bottles could just 'grab and go'. But where I live now there are no homeless people that check the bins! Not sure what to do now, it seems a shame that *no one* is getting that money.

Any kids in the neighborhood? Ours often request cans/bottles to help fundraise or for pocket money. 

I have an entire bin full of them that I need to return. My BIL drank a number of cases of beer while here for thanksgiving.  We usually take a whole year to fill that bin up and he did it in 5 days...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on February 06, 2017, 08:19:18 AM
I really struggle with the can/bottle returns.... what a PITA.  The worst part is that if the store doesn't sell that product they won't give you the deposit back.  I usually have about a 75% success rate.  Occasionally the local high school will do a can/bottle drive and they will pick them up at the curb.  I am happy to give them away if I know someone will get the deposit.

The big question is, why does the deposit system even exist anymore?  Almost all municipalities have recycling now.  Why are drink containers so special that they need to have a deposit?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jakejake on February 06, 2017, 08:41:38 AM
The reason for the deposits is that people are disgusting pigs that throw their trash at the side of the road; they don't recycle. If there is a deposit, they're less likely to do that - but at least if they do, other people are more likely to clean it up.

We have a ten cent deposit on soda and beer here, and last year just while biking to work/the store, I personally picked up over a thousand cans and bottles that people just threw out of their car windows.

For every bottle with a deposit that I find, there are still probably 30-40 water bottles thrown on the ground. Those accumulate because we don't have a deposit on them. When you look at the trash, you can really see the impact of the deposits.

If your bottles are piling up and you don't want to be bothered to return them, post them up for free on craigslist; someone will probably be happy to get them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on February 06, 2017, 08:56:48 AM
Deposit bottles here (in Kentucky, US) still get reused.  They are only for one certain kind of soda that is produced fairly locally. 

Upthread someone talked about milk smelling like plastic.  I often decant milk into mason jars, I swear it last longer and stays fresher in the glass.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on February 06, 2017, 01:40:39 PM
Finally joining this thread...

Last week, we finally went through all the footwear in the open closet by the front door.  Many pairs of shoes/boots had worn out completely.  A few other pairs either were never worn or actually had been left with us in our prior apartment by previous roommates so those got donated.  Boy, I'm glad we carted those in a move...

Freecycle had a guy posting that he takes completely worn out sneakers to be ground up and recycled, so all the worn footwear went to him.  It was nice that those shoes aren't ending up completely in the trash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 06, 2017, 02:13:51 PM
I did some real decluttering too:

- Cleaned out enough of my closet that I could fit my sewing machine and board games in there, making more room in the garage. I also have room for my sewing table to come in once I drop off a newly filled box of donations.

- I got some yarn to see if I could crochet, but my arthritis flared up like crazy. That means I can give said yarn, crochet, and knitting stuff to relatives and friends who can use them. I've hung onto that stuff for a loooong time wondering if I could ever use it again.

-Shredded an old diary. Reading the next one and should shred tonight. I kind of like rereading them, but I also am tempted to just shred them all at once. (I have dozens -- I've been an avid diarist since I could write and a near-hoarder just as long).

-I'm seriously loving the Konmari folding style still. It saves a ton of room (part of how I managed to fit the sewing machine in the closet).

Challenge coming up: Stuffed animals. I still have my first teddy bear and some other stuffed animals that are heavy nostalgia triggers for me. Thinking about it....

I'll  send Missy to you. She loves stuffies.  Give her a few hours and all your stuffed toys will be history.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on February 06, 2017, 05:36:48 PM
Ha!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheStrenuousLife on February 07, 2017, 09:59:38 AM
Great discussion on the issue of bottle deposits.  To clarify, in Ontario, you can bring any sort of alcoholic container, including the bladders of boxed wine, back to the Beer Store, regardless of whether you bought it from the brewer, the LCBO, a grocery store, or the Beer Store....which pretty much exhausts the places you can legally buy alcohol in Ontario. You can even return the packaging, caps, plastic rings, etc.  It is pretty environmentally friendly system and ensures that everything is properly recycled. 

The Beer Store is quite proud of their program, and although I have issues with the monopoly aspect of the Beer Store, the return program does seem objectively to have been a huge success.  More details here: http://www.thebeerstore.ca/about-us/environmental-leadership

I would feel more uneasy if I felt my bottles and cans were just going to the trash or even the municipal recycle program unsorted.  However, by leaving them in the recycle bins outside my apartment, the homeless/bottle collectors in my neighborhood just take them to the same Beer Store that I use.  And I'm not kidding...within an hour tops, they are gone. 

 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: rachellynn99 on February 07, 2017, 01:24:51 PM
15 old journals from my office went into the recycling today. I have hundreds of them and am getting rid of them slowly. They are all online now anyways.... no need for hard copies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on February 07, 2017, 06:32:39 PM
In decluttering the garage, I made a bit of a mess. Most of that is tamed now.

Still waiting for the weather to cooperate so I can get rid of the shelves and file cabinet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on February 08, 2017, 08:37:02 AM
I'm just curious whether your local thrift store, Goodwill, whatever turns down perfectly good donations because they are full on that item? Didn't happen to me, but to a friend, at the thrift store where we are donating most of our crap.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on February 08, 2017, 10:17:19 AM
I'm just curious whether your local thrift store, Goodwill, whatever turns down perfectly good donations because they are full on that item? Didn't happen to me, but to a friend, at the thrift store where we are donating most of our crap.

There are a LOT of big blue drop-off boxes (https://www.google.com/search?q=blue+charity+clothes+box&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjV2aT9_YDSAhUmsVQKHVrzDPsQ_AUICigD&biw=1440&bih=782#imgrc=_) for clothes and shoes in this area, so I stick things there and have never worried about them being rejected.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: YogiKitti on February 08, 2017, 03:31:49 PM
I'm moving soon! So we have sold furniture, which I am happy to do because we ended up buying stuff that is uncomfortable to sit on for more than 30 minutes. It is annoying because we couldn't tell when we bought the furniture. Hopefully next time we will do better.

We also have been going through everything and decluttered technology, clothes, and other random things. Still lots to do.

I also gave away our plants :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 08, 2017, 04:28:21 PM
A scarf of mine and three of my husband's ties into the donation bag.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 09, 2017, 03:46:57 AM
Put a pair of pants that were itchy in the donation box. Glad for extra room in that drawer, it was getting cramped.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 09, 2017, 04:17:01 AM
I have been on a purging spree lately. I had a ton of stuff just sitting in my closet and basement. I have managed to sell quite a few items.

Last night, I tossed a bunch of old CD ROM's and the spindles I was using to store them. They were mostly 8+ year old Linux distributions.

I also found a bag of old cell phones. I think my wife has every cell phone she has ever bought. I convinced her to let me recycle the old flip phones. We have a few old smart phones laying around too. We just need to wipe the data off of them first. I don't mind keeping the last phone around as a spare if my current phone gets trashed. We certainly don't need 7 year old smart phones laying around.

I'm going to be much choosier about my purchases going forward so I don't have to keep dealing with moving/selling/trashing old crap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on February 09, 2017, 09:42:36 AM
Packed up a bunch of my stuff in the ThreadUp bag.  If I get even a few dollars out of the transaction, I'll be happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BlueHouse on February 09, 2017, 09:51:40 AM
DH has been claiming for a long time he can make money renovating old electronics and selling them online. He just never got around to the selling part, until this month. Knowing his sales skill, someone got a good deal. But he still got away with about twice as much as he paid for the stuff, including parts. The big question now is whether this counts as getting rid of stuff, or if he'll just buy new stuff to continue the "business". Until then, I'm counting it as a win.

Why don't you encourage him to set up a simple webpage describing his services?  He may have fixed things that others on this site would like to buy "refurbished" and we most certainly have some items that we'd like to get rid of but don't want to throw in a landfill.  Good business opportunity!  Plus, he can pick and choose.  an easy "nope, not for me" would mean "deal with your own clutter, it's of no use to me".  ha!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on February 09, 2017, 09:57:12 AM
Pinned down a date with BIL and SIL to come pick up our old baby stuff.  Hurray!!!  I think it's going to clear about a room full of stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 09, 2017, 09:26:12 PM
Put a pair of pants that were itchy in the donation box.

Life's too short to wear uncomfortable clothes.

I have a couple of items that I can't wear without demanding, "Feel this! How soft is this fabric?!"



Edited for punctuation.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on February 10, 2017, 06:33:50 AM
Put a pair of pants that were itchy in the donation box.

Life's too short to wear uncomfortable clothes.

I have a couple of items that I can't wear without demanding, "Feel this! How soft is this fabric?!

I had to get rid of my crushed velvet shirt for that exact reason.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on February 10, 2017, 09:32:31 AM
I have been on a purging spree lately. I had a ton of stuff just sitting in my closet and basement. I have managed to sell quite a few items.

Last night, I tossed a bunch of old CD ROM's and the spindles I was using to store them. They were mostly 8+ year old Linux distributions.

I also found a bag of old cell phones. I think my wife has every cell phone she has ever bought. I convinced her to let me recycle the old flip phones. We have a few old smart phones laying around too. We just need to wipe the data off of them first. I don't mind keeping the last phone around as a spare if my current phone gets trashed. We certainly don't need 7 year old smart phones laying around.

I'm going to be much choosier about my purchases going forward so I don't have to keep dealing with moving/selling/trashing old crap.

Ha, that would drive me nuts having all those old phones laying around!  I usually have my old phone sold within hours of getting the new one.  I don't follow the "I might need this someday" line of thinking.  A.) The old phone was already replaced because it wasn't meeting my needs anymore.  Why would I ever want to go back to using it?  B.) If the new phone does go down, I can probably have a replacement in my hands in 48 hrs or less.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 10, 2017, 02:34:56 PM
I have been on a purging spree lately. I had a ton of stuff just sitting in my closet and basement. I have managed to sell quite a few items.

Last night, I tossed a bunch of old CD ROM's and the spindles I was using to store them. They were mostly 8+ year old Linux distributions.

I also found a bag of old cell phones. I think my wife has every cell phone she has ever bought. I convinced her to let me recycle the old flip phones. We have a few old smart phones laying around too. We just need to wipe the data off of them first. I don't mind keeping the last phone around as a spare if my current phone gets trashed. We certainly don't need 7 year old smart phones laying around.

I'm going to be much choosier about my purchases going forward so I don't have to keep dealing with moving/selling/trashing old crap.

Ha, that would drive me nuts having all those old phones laying around!  I usually have my old phone sold within hours of getting the new one.  I don't follow the "I might need this someday" line of thinking.  A.) The old phone was already replaced because it wasn't meeting my needs anymore.  Why would I ever want to go back to using it?  B.) If the new phone does go down, I can probably have a replacement in my hands in 48 hrs or less.

The old phones weren't too bad as far as clutter goes. They were all in an old Verizon bag, but they were taking up space that I needed for something else. I think Target does phone recycling, so we will drop them of there the next time we go shopping.

I always just keep my last most recent phone around since the only phone I have is a cell phone. If I had a land line phone, I wouldn't worry about keeping a spare around.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on February 10, 2017, 03:27:07 PM
I have been on a purging spree lately. I had a ton of stuff just sitting in my closet and basement. I have managed to sell quite a few items.

Last night, I tossed a bunch of old CD ROM's and the spindles I was using to store them. They were mostly 8+ year old Linux distributions.

I also found a bag of old cell phones. I think my wife has every cell phone she has ever bought. I convinced her to let me recycle the old flip phones. We have a few old smart phones laying around too. We just need to wipe the data off of them first. I don't mind keeping the last phone around as a spare if my current phone gets trashed. We certainly don't need 7 year old smart phones laying around.

I'm going to be much choosier about my purchases going forward so I don't have to keep dealing with moving/selling/trashing old crap.

Ha, that would drive me nuts having all those old phones laying around!  I usually have my old phone sold within hours of getting the new one.  I don't follow the "I might need this someday" line of thinking.  A.) The old phone was already replaced because it wasn't meeting my needs anymore.  Why would I ever want to go back to using it?  B.) If the new phone does go down, I can probably have a replacement in my hands in 48 hrs or less.

The old phones weren't too bad as far as clutter goes. They were all in an old Verizon bag, but they were taking up space that I needed for something else. I think Target does phone recycling, so we will drop them of there the next time we go shopping.

I always just keep my last most recent phone around since the only phone I have is a cell phone. If I had a land line phone, I wouldn't worry about keeping a spare around.
We do this too... We keep one old phone each since we only have smartphones and have run into weird issues all of a sudden. So till we take it to the shop to figure it out and fix it (for free usually), we need another phone. Having two around has saved us $$$ and tension in having to buy a new old phone. And yeah, we've had the unique bad luck where both our main phones died within hours of each other. So two phones it is.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 12, 2017, 04:59:41 AM
Brought a load of stuff to Goodwill yesterday.  And sold a filing cabinet on CL.  Will prep a batch of items for consignment to bring in this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: eezema on February 12, 2017, 05:09:06 AM
Hubs and I have been on a hardcore purge cycle the last week... Took 3 boxes of books to the library for donation last weekend, and donated a box of random things from our front closet to charity.

Yesterday we got 5 bags of worn out or ill-fitting clothes/shoes out of our lives, which is just crazy to me... It didn't even seem like we had that much to begin with and yet here we are! I also boxed up literally every piece of jewelry that I don't wear, is looking rough, or is just plain cheap. Later this week I'll be paring down unnecessary kitchen stuffs and fabric in my sewing bin that I either will never use or is too small to do anything useful with.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 12, 2017, 06:04:06 AM
Hubs and I have been on a hardcore purge cycle the last week... Took 3 boxes of books to the library for donation last weekend, and donated a box of random things from our front closet to charity.

Yesterday we got 5 bags of worn out or ill-fitting clothes/shoes out of our lives, which is just crazy to me... It didn't even seem like we had that much to begin with and yet here we are! I also boxed up literally every piece of jewelry that I don't wear, is looking rough, or is just plain cheap. Later this week I'll be paring down unnecessary kitchen stuffs and fabric in my sewing bin that I either will never use or is too small to do anything useful with.

Nice! It's crazy how much junk you can accumulate over the years. My wife and I cleaned out our hallway linen closet yesterday and found a ton of crap we didn't even realize we had. I found an old Olympus SLR film camera. We had a bunch of queen size sheets when we don't even have a queen size bed in the house anymore. There was a beer growler in there too for some reason. Now that we have it cleaned out and reorganized, we still have 2 empty shelves we can use for stuff like toilet paper and facial tissue we use in the bathroom.

I also worked on getting my old road bike back in working order so I can sell it. I have a nicer newer bike that I usually ride. I always kept the old one around thinking I would use it as a beater bike for bad weather, but I never ride in bad weather anyway. I also have a wheelset I am going to sell. I'm trying to see if I can get the old camera working too. The battery cover on the bottom does not want to budge. I could probably sell it as is, but if I can prove that it works, I might be able to get a few more bucks out of it.

I did bring a few things in to the house that were the result of purging, organizing, and cleaning but I tried to make sure they were useful and had a reason to be in my house. I bought another laundry basket. I used to just throw my grubby yardwork clothes on the floor in the basement, but that was becoming annoying to work around, so getting the basket made it easier to move them all at once. I also bought a longer ethernet cable for our office. After purging stuff from our office, I rearranged our desks to better utilize the space. The only downside to that was I needed a longer cable to stretch from the router to my wife's machine. I also bought a new shirt at an outdoor store that was closing. I got a $55 dollar Columbia button down for $16. I'm trying to reduce the number of t-shirts I wear and I donated a bunch of old shirts I haven't worn in years. I'll get years of use out of the new shirt.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshershey on February 12, 2017, 05:42:29 PM
(First post on this topic, /waves madly)

I've been clearing out stuff for a little over a year now, in preparation for buying a house (went under contract on a condo on Friday! Yay!!!!) As of today, I've donated 620 pounds of stuff to Goodwill/Value Village/Buy Nothing, and trashed 91 pounds of junk. My realtor called me this afternoon and told me about a family that lost everything in a fire yesterday, so 80 pounds of stuff (sheets, towels, dishes, clothes, kitchen stuff, misc) is going to them. My goal is to try to eliminate 1000 pounds of stuff from my apartment before I move. 209 pounds left, and about 6 weeks to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 13, 2017, 03:02:57 AM
Welcome misshershey! And congrats on the house and clearing out so much stuff. Out of interest, are you weighing it as you get rid of it, or just estimating?

This weekend I threw out / donated two 'buffs' (as in the infinity scarf type thing one wears skiing). I had bought a new merino wool one at Aldi, to replace a faux fur one my mom bought me which was itchy, and one I tried to make myself that was never quite right in sizing. As I went to put the new one away I realised there was no room and was so thrilled when I realised I could make room by getting rid of two bulky things which I didn't like but until now had a need for. Gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshershey on February 13, 2017, 09:59:38 PM
theadvicist--I'm totally weighing my stuff before it leaves the house. I'm too anal-retentive to do otherwise. :P I currently live in a 3rd floor apartment, and I realized that I a) had too much stuff and b) didn't want to haul all of that unnecessary stuff down all those stairs at once. There will still be *a lot* to move, but at least it's less than before!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 13, 2017, 10:11:40 PM
theadvicist--I'm totally weighing my stuff before it leaves the house.

This is awesome!

Wish I had done this when I started decluttering a few years ago.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 14, 2017, 02:39:55 AM
theadvicist--I'm totally weighing my stuff before it leaves the house.

Wow, that is dedication! When I got rid of 2015 things in 2015 I did have a chart and I marked off each item. It was so satisfying and motivating, and I'm sure you feel the same!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 14, 2017, 03:36:11 AM
I have 2.5 weeks to finish my Marie Kondo discarding and tidying - I have given myself a deadline because we have people visiting! I stalled when work got busy but I really want to keep on with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on February 14, 2017, 10:56:03 AM
theadvicist--I'm totally weighing my stuff before it leaves the house.

This is awesome!

Wish I had done this when I started decluttering a few years ago.

Me too.  That would have been interesting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on February 14, 2017, 01:49:47 PM
Yesterday I noticed I have duplicates - open duplicates - of several herbs and spices. I consolidated and made room in the spice drawer. Such a tiny thing, but it felt like progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 14, 2017, 03:39:04 PM
When I got rid of 2015 things in 2015 I did have a chart and I marked off each item. It was so satisfying and motivating, and I'm sure you feel the same!

Stealing this idea.

I've been using a whiteboard to track the number of items I get rid of each week, but tallying what I dispose of throughout the year definitely appeals to me.

I just made up my own chart. Now to get decluttering!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on February 14, 2017, 07:08:40 PM
I gave away four travel books to students and threw away some travel memorabilia (museum maps and such).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 15, 2017, 12:42:46 AM
Just had a thought...

In homage to The Minimalist Mom's "1 in, 2 out" series (http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2014/07/1-in-2-out-june), I've decided to print two copies of my chart: one for items brought into the home (excluding consumables like food, toiletries and cleaning supplies), and one for items I declutter.

It's not like I'm out shopping every month, but there can be a bit of an influx of work-related bits and pieces, so I'm curious to see if there is a net reduction.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Squirrel away on February 15, 2017, 01:34:28 AM
I got rid of a floor lamp, it tilts to one side and it collects dust, so it can go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on February 15, 2017, 08:11:32 AM
Just putting this here as my goal:

Get rid of as much stuff as possible to be capable of moving cross-country in a Prius while maybe pulling a small trailer.  This would include myself and my wife so double the de-cluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 15, 2017, 10:27:46 AM
Sold some yarn on CL for $10 - I had it listed for a long time with no takers and was ready to finally just donate it, but a buyer materialized yesterday :-)  She was very grateful for it and I was happy to know that the yarn was going to someone who will actually use it.  Win win!


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on February 15, 2017, 11:46:01 AM
Took a box of bits and pieces to the charity shop this lunchtime, and found a hedgehog rescue that will take some unwanted dog food.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on February 15, 2017, 11:48:48 AM
Took a box of bits and pieces to the charity shop this lunchtime, and found a hedgehog rescue that will take some unwanted dog food.

I am delighted there is such a place as a hedgehog rescue!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on February 15, 2017, 12:32:30 PM
i'm making a promise to the internet to actually pack up and take out the junk left behind by past roommate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 16, 2017, 02:03:05 AM
So this is probably the tiniest thing I could declutter in my whole house, but yesterday I decluttered some needles! Sewing is a hobby of mine, but when I was going through my needles (looking for one type I didn't have, of course) I noticed I had two cards of tapestry needles. I haven't done a tapestry since... 1998? So I filled the remaining slots in the cards with tapestry needles from my needle case so they each held a full 6, in the correct sizes. And then I put them in the charity shop bag. I hope someone will appreciate them.

This freed up enough room in my needle case that I could empty a little plastic dish full of needles into it, which was very satisfying, as the plastic case was cracked and, being round, difficult to store. I also consolidated some open packs of machine needles into single cards.

So even though the -needles- were tiny, I ended up removing about 4 cards and one plastic case from my needle box, which is now much more orderly, and it was very easy to establish that I didn't have what I needed after all! Of course, now I've ordered enough new ones to fill up the space (so I would qualify for free shipping) but at least these ones are relevant to my current hobby and will be used up quickly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on February 16, 2017, 11:12:26 AM
theadvicist--I'm totally weighing my stuff before it leaves the house.

This is awesome!

Wish I had done this when I started decluttering a few years ago.

Me too.  That would have been interesting.

Today I gave away a grocery bag stuffed full of pink packing peanuts.  This was a lot of bulk, but the weight was only an ounce or two... *sigh*
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 16, 2017, 02:14:46 PM
theadvicist--I'm totally weighing my stuff before it leaves the house.

This is awesome!

Wish I had done this when I started decluttering a few years ago.

Me too.  That would have been interesting.

Today I gave away a grocery bag stuffed full of pink packing peanuts.  This was a lot of bulk, but the weight was only an ounce or two... *sigh*

You could have counted the individual packing peanuts then posted "today I gave away 729 things". ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 16, 2017, 03:30:28 PM
I'm decluttering my front yard. I have an old beat up light post that is super annoying to mow around. The paint is peeling off the post so it looks shabby. the lid on top that lets you access the bulb is missing its fasteners and strong winds or bumping in to it with the lawn mower knock it off the post. The previous owners wired it to a sensor on the house that would turn the light on whenever it got dark. I never liked that I couldn't just turn it on and off as needed. Finally, whoever ran the conduit from the electrical box on the exterior of the house to the light post did a lousy job. There was an inch gap between the bottom of the box and the top of the conduit where you could see the wiring.

Yesterday, I disconnected the lamp form the house's power and replaced the sensor eye with a GFCI outlet and a weatherproof cover. I pulled out as much copper from the conduit as I could, but it eventually snapped. Most of the copper was a wet rusty mess. I'm probably lucky we never shorted the breaker. I also dug several inches down and cut off the section of conduit that ran to the box on the house. The side of the house looks much cleaner and the exterior outlet is more useful than the lamp sensor. I'm hoping that tomorrow I can dig up the light post and be done with it.  I'll just have to replant the grass in the spring and mowing the front lawn will be smooth sailing :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 16, 2017, 05:04:16 PM
I have thrown out a grass skirt that my dad brought me from a pacific island, a disintegrated Pilates stretchy strap thing and a suit carry cover (that the strap disintegrated onto!)

Discovered that hubby has been stuffing random things into the spare room wardrobe! So those things are going in their 'place' and the shelves tidied up. I think I can free up a drawer by folding and organising things better, which means I'll be able to put away an annoying carrier bag of hobby bits and pieces. The bag is annoying because it has not been touched since Oct 2015 but it's not mine to chuck.

Lastly, I've consolidated long length clothing into one section, which means I can put shelves in the other and organise blankets, spare pillows etc so that they are actually accessible. The end goal will be that the linen cupboard that's by the front door could become a much more useful coat and shoe cupboard. DH is not keen on this so for now I'll just do step one, which is find some chipboard pieces and supports at the DIY store and rearrange things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on February 16, 2017, 05:22:26 PM
I've been on a huge decluttering kick. I've even moved on to the attic, which I was glad to see didn't have as much stuff in it as I thought. I've added a ton to my ebay selling pile, thrown away a fair amount, and even found a few useful items! Best part of decluttering is realizing you already have what you need. The shoulder strap on my duffel bag broke a while back and I've been meaning to get a new one forever (strap, that is). Well, I found a spare! Problem solved, money saved! I also found a brand-new rug pad which I will use with a rug I got for free from a FB garage sale group. Why we had a spare rug pad, I'll never know, but I'm glad to not have to buy one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 16, 2017, 05:28:02 PM
I've been on a huge decluttering kick. I've even moved on to the attic, which I was glad to see didn't have as much stuff in it as I thought. I've added a ton to my ebay selling pile, thrown away a fair amount, and even found a few useful items! Best part of decluttering is realizing you already have what you need. The shoulder strap on my duffel bag broke a while back and I've been meaning to get a new one forever (strap, that is). Well, I found a spare! Problem solved, money saved! I also found a brand-new rug pad which I will use with a rug I got for free from a FB garage sale group. Why we had a spare rug pad, I'll never know, but I'm glad to not have to buy one.

I love it when you find stuff that is useful. I can't remember if I mentioned this in a previous posts, but we found some shower curtain rings. That was fortuitous because the ones we had up were getting pretty rusty. We just replaced our shower curtain rings from 2016 from ones we probably bought in 2005 :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 16, 2017, 06:59:35 PM
This is a big one.

My husband just let me delete 35,790 emails.

In his previous job he was on a mailing list that sent out dozens of updates a day. They were sent to his work email and, because they were time sensitive, also his Gmail.

That was more than four years ago.

I just asked if I could delete everything from that mailing list, and he said yes.

His Gmail is now down to a much more manageable 15,183.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 16, 2017, 08:29:25 PM
This is a big one.

My husband just let me delete 35,790 emails.

In his previous job he was on a mailing list that sent out dozens of updates a day. They were sent to his work email and, because they were time sensitive, also his Gmail.

That was more than four years ago.

I just asked if I could delete everything from that mailing list, and he said yes.

His Gmail is now down to a much more manageable 15,183.

\O/ yay!

I just went to bunnings and got some melamine cut into bits for more wardrobe shelving. It's a bit tatty on the cuts but fine for inside the wardrobe. I've got 2.5 hrs to create my "Suprise! I changed everything!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 17, 2017, 04:23:43 AM
I'll just have to replant the grass in the spring and mowing the front lawn will be smooth sailing :)

If it's not a large area I've always found that the grass just grows in from the sides around it in a short amount of time. Might save you work and money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 17, 2017, 05:15:40 AM
I'll just have to replant the grass in the spring and mowing the front lawn will be smooth sailing :)

If it's not a large area I've always found that the grass just grows in from the sides around it in a short amount of time. Might save you work and money.

I have a bag of grass seed left over from last year, so replanting the grass won't cost me any extra money. I am going to try to be careful with my initial digging to see if I can salvage the turf. When spring comes, I want to make sure the dirt doesn't get washed away the heavy rains we normally get.

The lamp post is most likely set in concrete. Whenever I have dug out footers for fences, I usually end up having to dig at least a 1 foot radius around what I am trying to remove so I can expose the footer. I'm hoping they didn't do anything ridiculous when they poured the footer. I'll find out in about an hour when I go outside to start working on it :)

I'm also working on getting rid of an old digital camera that has been sitting in my closet unused for about 5 years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on February 17, 2017, 08:02:22 PM
This is a big one.

My husband just let me delete 35,790 emails.



The real question is, how long did it take?! I'm thinking Gmail would implode. Must've felt amazing though - I am a compulsive email deleter and that sounds so satisfying.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 18, 2017, 08:48:07 AM
I finally got my lamp post demolition project done yesterday :) The conduit that ran underground was pretty well rotted away. Now I need to get rid of the copper wire and gas line that I pulled out of the post and the ground. The gas line was disconnected.

This morning, I pitched an old task lamp that has been sitting in our basement. It's probably 50 years old, the hinges wouldn't stay tight, and more importantly, it has never been used since we moved in to our house 9 years ago. I also got rid of the license plates, owners manual, and car keys from my 2004 LeSabre. That car got totaled when I was hit by a drunk driver. I guess I was just keeping that stuff around as a morbid memento.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 19, 2017, 10:26:14 AM
Paperwork questions (I'm in Canada if it matters). 
Old insurance policies for car/house - how far back to keep? 
Maintenance records for car, so far I have kept everything.  Mustachian problem, car was bought in 2010, if I traded in every few years this would not be such a bulging file  ;-) but I have almost 7 years worth of paperwork for it.  Keep or ditch oldest records?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on February 19, 2017, 12:43:58 PM
I was decluttering one of my husband's many "organizing" (junk-holding) boxes on his computer table and found an unused $50 gift card! Plus a quarter, though that's a lot less exciting. Also found an old cell phone of his that I can sell on ebay for $20ish.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on February 19, 2017, 12:51:33 PM
Paperwork questions (I'm in Canada if it matters). 
Old insurance policies for car/house - how far back to keep? 
Maintenance records for car, so far I have kept everything.  Mustachian problem, car was bought in 2010, if I traded in every few years this would not be such a bulging file  ;-) but I have almost 7 years worth of paperwork for it.  Keep or ditch oldest records?

I personally would keep everything on the car, just to show the future owner that you did regular maintenance. As a buyer, I would trust a seller much more if he/she could produce proof instead of just telling me the car was serviced regularly.

Here's an infographic (http://blogs.hrblock.com/2015/01/03/filing-cabinet-clean-up-get-organized-in-the-new-year-infographic/?otppartnerid=9193&campaignid=sm_mcm_9193_1058) from H&R Block on which documents to keep and for how long.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 19, 2017, 02:05:52 PM
Paperwork questions (I'm in Canada if it matters). 
Old insurance policies for car/house - how far back to keep? 
Maintenance records for car, so far I have kept everything.  Mustachian problem, car was bought in 2010, if I traded in every few years this would not be such a bulging file  ;-) but I have almost 7 years worth of paperwork for it.  Keep or ditch oldest records?

I personally would keep everything on the car, just to show the future owner that you did regular maintenance. As a buyer, I would trust a seller much more if he/she could produce proof instead of just telling me the car was serviced regularly.

Here's an infographic (http://blogs.hrblock.com/2015/01/03/filing-cabinet-clean-up-get-organized-in-the-new-year-infographic/?otppartnerid=9193&campaignid=sm_mcm_9193_1058) from H&R Block on which documents to keep and for how long.

Thanks - car stuff forever, insurance much less, got it.

Interesting all the things that should be in a safe deposit box.  I would need a larger box for all that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 19, 2017, 02:44:37 PM
Threw out a few bags of company swag from project launches. Glad I looked through it first. Found a really nice umbrella and a $25 Amazon gift card I didn't know about!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on February 20, 2017, 03:39:23 AM
Yeah, I keep all car stuff in one clip file, and present it to the purchaser when someone is considering buying the car. Last time I sold a car to a person* a policeman bought it. He loved the file, he was like, this is so reassuring, you are the best person I've ever bought a car from. Made me feel good, and the paperwork always stayed contained in that one slim file! 

This weekend I got rid of a pair of boots that were seriously unfashionable, that I never wear.

I also donated a jumper (british usage) that had a wide neck and annoyingly slipped off my shoulders constantly.

* Obviously I only sold it to a person because we were going down to 1 car. The last car I actually 'sold' was to a scrapper because we well and truly ran it into the ground. Like, we had to take it to the yard on a car transporter because not only did we drive it until it was unsaleable, but we then stripped it for parts to sell on ebay, and along with wing-mirrors, door handles, spoilers and THE SEATS, we also sold the wheels. My only regret in life is that in it's last few weeks, when we weren't sure how much longer it would last, I didn't keep the fuel tank low enough. So when it finally died, it had half a tank of petrol, and we couldn't siphon it off. MPP I guess.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 20, 2017, 11:40:25 AM
Brought a bunch of stuff to consignment but I think this may be my last batch going there.  I did well with this consignment store in the past but I noticed that it has changed recently - it's become rather shabby and worn out and things are not selling as they used to.  Fortunately, I don't have anything anymore that I would prefer to consign over just donating.  So from now on, I'll just donate.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on February 20, 2017, 12:54:45 PM
Great motivation from all of you lately! Also in person motivation: A close friend is moving soon and mentioned they only need 10 boxes for their possessions so they don't need to pack until the last week. This led to a ton of questions from me, as I have seen their current place and it is a similar size to where I live (about 1000 square feet). Do they have lots of empty kitchen cabinets? - yes! Does that count all their clothes and her jewellery making business supplies? - no, they will use their few suitcases and tape their dresser drawers for clothes, and the jewellery supplies are already in bins ready for moving. Even though I now know that 10 boxes does not count all of their stuff - I am still so jealous! I came home and immediately found 20 items that I can donate. Even though I just did a big donation run a few days ago.  I have a few areas I know I can pare down still and that have been on my radar for awhile - this may be the push that gets them gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 20, 2017, 03:19:56 PM
Great motivation from all of you lately! Also in person motivation: A close friend is moving soon and mentioned they only need 10 boxes for their possessions so they don't need to pack until the last week. This led to a ton of questions from me, as I have seen their current place and it is a similar size to where I live (about 1000 square feet). Do they have lots of empty kitchen cabinets? - yes! Does that count all their clothes and her jewellery making business supplies? - no, they will use their few suitcases and tape their dresser drawers for clothes, and the jewellery supplies are already in bins ready for moving. Even though I now know that 10 boxes does not count all of their stuff - I am still so jealous! I came home and immediately found 20 items that I can donate. Even though I just did a big donation run a few days ago.  I have a few areas I know I can pare down still and that have been on my radar for awhile - this may be the push that gets them gone!

This is very motivating.

It's about six months since I moved and I tossed a lot at the time but I know there is more to be had.

I need to palm a blender and food processor off on someone.

Also, I've been thinking about my collection of salad bowls/serving platters/large dishes, and when I last used them.

- large red bowl
- cut glass bowl - used for desserts
- large white bowl - used for salads
- weird steep-sided white bowl have not used in 6 months
- bamboo bowl - used for salads
- white serving dish thingie
- large white serving plate
- white casserole dish that could double as a serving bowl if needed have not used in 12 months
- white casserole dish with glass lid (see above) have not used in 12 months

Ok, that has helped me decide. Weird white bowl and one casserole dish can go. And one of my springform pans - I don't need two.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 20, 2017, 06:43:52 PM
Put two pairs of pointe shoes on facebook buy group. 1 sold almost instantly for $20. They've been in my closet since 2006.

If the others don't sell I'm either going to use them in a baby room craft or put them on the buy nothing group. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on February 20, 2017, 09:20:02 PM
Sold another item on CL today for $60.  Need to make new listings for the skis, poles, etc because they're not selling.  But I'm kind of sick of dealing with CL flakes alread so I'm not motivated :-)

Spent a few hours today archiving emails at work. Still have lots to do but I've made progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 21, 2017, 03:18:52 AM
A relative asked for help designing and printing party invitations.

I designed them myself, paid a couple of bucks to print them (she will reimburse me) and used up a stash of envelopes I had at home.

Loving the chart to mark off getting these little things out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on February 21, 2017, 10:53:24 AM
I gathered all of the donation receipts from 2016 for tax purposes this weekend.  It was extremely motivational to see how much we had donated.  I've started a new pile of stuff!  Woohoo!

ThreadUp received my bag of clothes, but no estimates on how much I will get from them.  I'm not hoping for much, but I would be happy with $20. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 21, 2017, 04:52:46 PM
I finally sold my drill sharpener today! Tomorrow, I should be rid of an old PS2 computer keyboard. On Friday, I should be able to get rid of some picture frames we received for as wedding gifts and never used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 22, 2017, 03:53:03 PM
I put an old gross pillow in the bin yesterday. It was so bulky that it's a huge space saving. We now have four for the spare room in a range of comfort levels and they can just live on the bed I reckon. I think with a bit more rearranging I can get all the outdoor furniture cushions stored on the shelf of the spare room wardrobe. It's the furthest point from the back door but it's the really the only spot to keep a 1.5m long bench cushion..
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on February 24, 2017, 09:30:43 AM
My mother, as usual, decluttered to me by giving us a giant quilted blanket that she sewed. It is nice, but it clashes with our furniture so it has been taking up half a closet by itself.  However, I managed to offload it by taking it to the ski rental that we use every year... the place is always too cold for me.  Asked the owners if they would like to keep it, and they happily accepted! So it's a win-win... we clear out half a closet, they get a nice quilt that matches their decor, and I'll sleep warm next time we go there!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 24, 2017, 04:53:32 PM
Tossed eight make-up brushes (never used) and an eyelash curler (used once, five years ago, hated it).

I used to think I needed this stuff, that it was expected, but I'm finding my own tolerance level. I have a low tolerance for stuff, and a high tolerance for living life with uncurled eyelashes.

Also, eyeshadow brushes are redundant since I never wear and no longer own eyeshadow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 24, 2017, 05:55:58 PM
Tossed eight make-up brushes (never used) and an eyelash curler (used once, five years ago, hated it).

I used to think I needed this stuff, that it was expected, but I'm finding my own tolerance level. I have a low tolerance for stuff, and a high tolerance for living life with uncurled eyelashes.

Also, eyeshadow brushes are redundant since I never wear and no longer own eyeshadow.

Oh god. I own a few brushes, bought not that long ago in a moment where I thought I could become a proper lady that knows how to do makeup. It didn't happen but I'm hanging onto the brushes for just a wee while longer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 24, 2017, 06:03:22 PM
I finally sold some unopened gifts we've had laying around. I sold some ugly figurines my wife received as a Christmas gift many years ago and a Lenox photo frame and album that doesn't match our decor. They were never taken out of the box or displayed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on February 24, 2017, 06:29:13 PM
A student was eyeing my stash of thank-you cards and journals that I keep on hand in my classroom, so I told her to take one. She ended up taking a very nice journal -- win for both of us! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 25, 2017, 03:17:16 AM
I should finally be able to get rid of some copper tubing, copper wire, and pop cans this morning. I don't go to recycling centers often and it looks like the 2 I went to several years ago are no longer in business. I hope this new place doesn't have a messy parking lot full screws and metal chips. I'd hate to sacrifice a car tire for $10 dollars in scrap metal.

Has anyone else noticed that they find more stuff to get rid of after visiting a room, closet, bookcase, or drawer a second or third time? Stuff I was struggling to part with the first time I decluttered were pretty easy to get rid of on subsequent visits.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshershey on February 25, 2017, 05:16:58 PM
Quote
Has anyone else noticed that they find more stuff to get rid of after visiting a room, closet, bookcase, or drawer a second or third time? Stuff I was struggling to part with the first time I decluttered were pretty easy to get rid of on subsequent visits.

Ye gods, yes! I can't tell you how much stuff I've tossed on my second and third passes through a clutter spot. Also, got rid of my particle board bookcase today on Buy Nothing! Between that and my posterboard display (which hasn't gone away yet, but will either go away via Buy Nothing or Goodwill), I'm at 1158 lbs donated or tossed! That posterboard display, with all of the shelves, is 300 lbs on its own!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 25, 2017, 05:31:13 PM
Quote
Has anyone else noticed that they find more stuff to get rid of after visiting a room, closet, bookcase, or drawer a second or third time? Stuff I was struggling to part with the first time I decluttered were pretty easy to get rid of on subsequent visits.

Ye gods, yes! I can't tell you how much stuff I've tossed on my second and third passes through a clutter spot. Also, got rid of my particle board bookcase today on Buy Nothing! Between that and my posterboard display (which hasn't gone away yet, but will either go away via Buy Nothing or Goodwill), I'm at 1158 lbs donated or tossed! That posterboard display, with all of the shelves, is 300 lbs on its own!

Nice! So it's not just me :) Great work on the decluttering also! I'd weigh my stuff, but we don't have a scale in the house at the moment. It broke several years ago and we never got around to replacing it.

I posted this on the odd chore thread too, but we finally got rid of my wife's old mountain bike today. I also took my scrap metal to the scrap yard today and made a cool $12 :D My wife also finally mailed a Christmas gift for a friend today. She needed a bigger box, but we haven't been able to find time to get one. We finally found the time to day and got that stuff out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 25, 2017, 05:49:26 PM
Packed up 4 bags for Goodwill :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on February 27, 2017, 05:41:40 AM
We visited my sister in her new house, which is the recipient of some stuff she had left with us last year, plus a video game accessory that we haven't used for years. Soon they will take our old dining room table and chairs, which will be another step towards a coherent exercise room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 27, 2017, 02:46:08 PM
I finally got rid of some old bicycle tires and a bowling bag that was laying around in my basement. I also found a pretty big framed photo my wife got as a gift. The box is like 2'x3'. We were going to hang it but after looking at the photo subject, I'm not sure I want to bother hanging it. It's a decently composed photo, but I just don't think I want a photo of a bunch of cows grazing around a tree on our walls. I'm going to see if I can convince my wife to let me sell it.

I think we have been living with our clutter for so long, we have become blind to it. I have a couple of cabinets in our dining room I want to clear out that my wife thinks are fine. I'm pretty sure there is crap that can be sold, donated, or pitched, hiding there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 27, 2017, 03:01:24 PM
I also found a pretty big framed photo my wife got as a gift. The box is like 2'x3'. We were going to hang it but after looking at the photo subject, I'm not sure I want to bother hanging it. It's a decently composed photo, but I just don't think I want a photo of a bunch of cows grazing around a tree on our walls. I'm going to see if I can convince my wife to let me sell it.

If it's a nice frame another option would be to replace the image with something you actually like.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 27, 2017, 04:57:28 PM
It's bulk rubbish collection in our suburb this week, so we've got rid of an old computer (hard drive removed), rotting trellis, a heap of offcuts the last owners left from the floorboards, and a huge plastic sign thingy. Feels good to clear out the crap!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 28, 2017, 03:11:02 AM
I also found a pretty big framed photo my wife got as a gift. The box is like 2'x3'. We were going to hang it but after looking at the photo subject, I'm not sure I want to bother hanging it. It's a decently composed photo, but I just don't think I want a photo of a bunch of cows grazing around a tree on our walls. I'm going to see if I can convince my wife to let me sell it.

If it's a nice frame another option would be to replace the image with something you actually like.

That is certainly an option. It would have to be a really big print though. We keep talking a big game about hanging pictures and we never do. Our house has no photos hanging. You'd probably think we were Amish by the austerity of our decor :D

I should be rid of my 'Buick Parking Only' novelty sign today. A friend of mine gave that to me as a gag gift when I was still rolling in a LeSabre. It is another item that has been collecting dust in my basement for years. I have a coworker that wants to buy it. He can have it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on February 28, 2017, 07:40:29 AM
I also found a pretty big framed photo my wife got as a gift. The box is like 2'x3'. We were going to hang it but after looking at the photo subject, I'm not sure I want to bother hanging it. It's a decently composed photo, but I just don't think I want a photo of a bunch of cows grazing around a tree on our walls. I'm going to see if I can convince my wife to let me sell it.

If it's a nice frame another option would be to replace the image with something you actually like.

That is certainly an option. It would have to be a really big print though.  *snip*

Well, there's always the big frame, small art (https://www.google.com/search?q=big+frame+small+painting&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjd8bjagbPSAhVr44MKHSQsDR4Q_AUICSgC&biw=1440&bih=782#tbm=isch&q=big+frame+small+art&*&imgrc=_) option.  People will think you are a really avant-garde, minimalist decorator!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 28, 2017, 04:09:59 PM
We keep talking a big game about hanging pictures and we never do. Our house has no photos hanging. You'd probably think we were Amish by the austerity of our decor :D

We have one photo on display (not of us, not of people), a framed print sitting on a sideboard.

Nothing on the walls. It's only been six months since we moved, don't want to rush into it...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on February 28, 2017, 04:50:32 PM
We keep talking a big game about hanging pictures and we never do. Our house has no photos hanging. You'd probably think we were Amish by the austerity of our decor :D

We have one photo on display (not of us, not of people), a framed print sitting on a sideboard.

Nothing on the walls. It's only been six months since we moved, don't want to rush into it...

We've been in our house for a little over 9 years. We still haven't managed to make hanging photos happen. My wife has a couple of framed photos on a shelf, and that's about it.

I also finally got rid of my novelty 'Buick Parking Only' sign today :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 02, 2017, 05:00:01 AM
Got rid of two ratty old tshirts which were holey and stretched out. There were also some of my only remaining 'about the house' t shirts. Oh well, I have plenty of fabric and plenty of time. I was lacking the motivation to make any so I decided to get rid of the worn out stuff first, and create the motivation that way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on March 02, 2017, 10:27:53 AM
i listed two bookshelves i don't want anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 02, 2017, 12:07:23 PM
Results of work from 2016: did my parents taxes. They were able to deduct $5k of noncash contributions on their itemized deductions. This is all thrift shop values, remember, so that's a TON of stuff.

Still a ton of stuff that they don't use. Unfortunately, much of it mom won't part with.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 02, 2017, 06:24:01 PM
I ended up with about eight magazine racks from my old job.

I used them for a while then changed things around and don't use them.

So I'm going to bring them to work, where they will be put to use.

Now to actually bring them with me on the train...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on March 02, 2017, 08:20:14 PM
As part of installing pantry lights today (One Odd Chore thread), cleared out 4 fixture boxes and 1 bulb box. Also got the go-ahead to get rid of the seltzer machine + 3-4 bottles. Down to one spare Costco box of kitchen trash bags, because I put the rest of the open box into the bottom of the trash can before inserting a new bag.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on March 03, 2017, 04:46:25 PM
We keep talking a big game about hanging pictures and we never do. Our house has no photos hanging. You'd probably think we were Amish by the austerity of our decor :D

We have one photo on display (not of us, not of people), a framed print sitting on a sideboard.

Nothing on the walls. It's only been six months since we moved, don't want to rush into it...

We've been in our house for a little over 9 years. We still haven't managed to make hanging photos happen. My wife has a couple of framed photos on a shelf, and that's about it.

You know, I'm really glad to hear that there are other people like this!  The only reason we have some framed photos is because they were given to us that way. In fact, if I look around, I see that 99.9% of the decorative items in my house were not purchased by me, but were gifts. No wonder why nothing matches!

Anyway, I just gave away a big bag of toddler clothing and toys. I'm especially proud of having given away some wooden puzzles to the children's department of the library. Now, since I also got rid of the big blanket, you can almost open the guest room closet without things falling out on you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on March 03, 2017, 06:41:33 PM
I've been away in a furnished apartment with just a few of my personal items for the psat two months. Going home tomorrow and I'm interested to see how I feel about the existing level of stuff after two months of fairly minimalist living.  I'm thinking I'll find some things to declutter.

Right now, I'm in a more expensive mode of decluttering, because I've always been a bargain hunter, and have ended up with such a hodge-podge of possessions as a result.  Before leaving, I put some random, uncomfortable shoes in my donate box, and have ordered some new shoes in fairly basic styles.  I'm getting rid of my horses' random saddle pads and replacing them with several of the same white pad. I want to get rid of my socks and buy many of the same color and style.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshathaway on March 04, 2017, 07:12:29 AM
After 18 months of purging I finally had one regret yesterday. My cellar and garage were a stockpile of tools from 2 generations. At a yardsale last summer I apparently sold ALL of the hand drills b/c I had 2 battery powered modern ones - a small light one, and a heavy-duty one. Well, I needed a drill for a quick job and both batteries were out of juice and needed charging. Not a tragedy but I do wish I had kept one hand drill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Metric Mouse on March 06, 2017, 02:46:00 AM
Tossed a few big small bags of clothes from between the three of us. Trying to update my wardrobe, but it's hard when nothing wears out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 06, 2017, 04:48:32 AM
I finally spent some change I had sitting on my bookshelf for the last 3 years. It was stuff the Coinstar machine wouldn't take like some super old pennies, an old dime, and a $.50 piece. I checked to see if they were worth anything more than their face value. Since they were in such poor shape, they were not. They are finally back in circulation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 06, 2017, 09:06:17 AM
Got rid of two baby books people gave me (like the kind your record milestones, not the kind you read to baby- I'm trying to aquire those) and 2 barbies from the 90s.

The people who got them were thrilled to recieve them :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TOgirl on March 06, 2017, 10:18:18 AM
I've been following along with this thread, and making some progress at home over the last few months. Recently I came across the "40 bags in 40 days" idea, and printed out the printable chart that accompanies it....wow!! turns out I'm a checklist junkie...and having to itemize 40 areas of the house to go through was difficult, but it makes you break down areas into more specific spots (eg...not just "kitchen" but "kitchen cabinets, kitchen drawers, etc" and really made me focus on clearing out each small area properly. I've only been doing it a few days and I've found 4 bags of items for donation, and 2 huge trash bags.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on March 06, 2017, 12:54:53 PM

Yesterday I found a box in the closed were I saved all the greeting cards since I got married 13 yrs ago. I stopped this practice after my second child was born, thankfully. So, lots of paper to the recycling bin... and... I found 35$ cash and two checks for 10$ each (once check from 2007 another from 2010). I was joking with husband that I was going to cash it and he said: "Don't do that! Remember what happened to Jerrys grandma". http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0697756/ (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0697756/)

I found a few nice pictures and a birth certificate (ugh) moved those to my personal "keep" plastic bin in the basement.

I also found a nice cuisinart ice cream machine that I plan to ebay by next week, should net me 40-50$.

Progressing slowly and steady.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on March 06, 2017, 02:55:48 PM
Sold DS's drum set on Craigslist for $150. That clears out most of the space for a demolition project in the home gym. Just a few minor items and the dining room table slated for my sister's house. Moved some snow tires, even though they are currently listed for sale.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 07, 2017, 09:25:35 AM
I have a nice pile building by the front door for the charity pick up - 1/2 from the basement, 1/2 from the kids' rooms.  I'm determined to work through this stuff we don't need or want any more!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 07, 2017, 09:34:04 AM

 and two checks for 10$ each (once check from 2007 another from 2010). I was joking with husband that I was going to cash it and he said: "Don't do that! Remember what happened to Jerrys grandma". http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0697756/ (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0697756/)




You could call the person the check was from and see if they mind you cashing it.

I found an 12 year old check from my Uncle and called him to tell him I was going to tear it up, and he said "Oh- I think of you every time I balance my check register- see if the bank takes it."  They did; he finally got to mark it out of his check register, and I got $50 unexpectedly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on March 07, 2017, 10:07:49 AM

 and two checks for 10$ each (once check from 2007 another from 2010). I was joking with husband that I was going to cash it and he said: "Don't do that! Remember what happened to Jerrys grandma". http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0697756/ (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0697756/)




Oh darn it. I did tear them up right away! Should have called, they are close relatives/friends. It will make up for a nice conversation piece next time I see them.



You could call the person the check was from and see if they mind you cashing it.

I found an 12 year old check from my Uncle and called him to tell him I was going to tear it up, and he said "Oh- I think of you every time I balance my check register- see if the bank takes it."  They did; he finally got to mark it out of his check register, and I got $50 unexpectedly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Walsh1122 on March 07, 2017, 10:31:39 AM
Not sure if this has been posted before, but it may be of help to those looking to get rid of possessions they no longer use/need.

http://www.theminimalists.com/game/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 08, 2017, 02:52:04 PM
I ended up with about eight magazine racks from my old job.

I used them for a while then changed things around and don't use them.

So I'm going to bring them to work, where they will be put to use.

Now to actually bring them with me on the train...

Ok, so far I've brought in four. That's progress.

I've also decluttered a couple of other items to work.

A colleague mentioned having to buy a cheap disposable item of which I have half a dozen, so I brought her in one.

And I brought in a pretty Kikki K notepad to keep in my desk. I'm forever writing notes to people to include with parcels so this way I'm using up some of the nice stuff instead of just plain paper. (People have gifted me a lifetime supply of beautiful stationery over the years, so I need to use it up any way I can.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 08, 2017, 04:53:21 PM
I got rid of these today - to a neighbor who just had a litttle girl after 3 boys. Win for me as my little girl is in middle school.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshershey on March 08, 2017, 10:06:46 PM
I'm *still* clearing out junk as I pack (closing could be next week!)--where does it all come from??? I have come to the conclusion that I have *WAAAAAYYYYY* too much stuff, and I know I have less than the average American does!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 09, 2017, 03:53:41 AM
I'm *still* clearing out junk as I pack (closing could be next week!)--where does it all come from??? I have come to the conclusion that I have *WAAAAAYYYYY* too much stuff, and I know I have less than the average American does!

It's like once your eyes have been opened you can suddenly see how much 'stuff' is just 'junk'. Unfortunately I have found a side effect of this thread / decluttering is that I have become quite judgemental of other's spaces. I just look at people's countertops and have this overwhelming feeling of wanting to throw it all out.

Not my nicest characteristic. And also a great example of 'No zealot like a convert!'
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 09, 2017, 02:24:09 PM
Last of the magazine racks to work today, plus I'm posting half a dozen make-up bags etc to a charity that collects products for women escaping domestic violence.

Donated four old pairs of glasses to charity through my optometrist. And sent a bottle of glasses cleaning solution to work with my husband.

This week's tally:
2 in
25 out
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 09, 2017, 03:29:58 PM
Last of the magazine racks to work today, plus I'm posting half a dozen make-up bags etc to a charity that collects products for women escaping domestic violence.

Donated four old pairs of glasses to charity through my optometrist. And sent a bottle of glasses cleaning solution to work with my husband.

This week's tally:
2 in
25 out

Nice!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 09, 2017, 06:08:08 PM
Divested myself of a carpet cleaner today.  Delivered several items to church consignment sale.  Basement now looks like to much stuff, but not hoarders level.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on March 10, 2017, 08:52:58 PM
Moved more items out of the gym expansion area. Getting close, but still need the dining table out of there before I can demo.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BeautifulDay on March 10, 2017, 10:29:08 PM
Looking forward to starting the packing process this weekend as we prepare to move at the beginning of April.  As we pack it will be good to get rid of anything we don't currently use and  things we won't need in the new house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 11, 2017, 01:40:33 AM
Got some books, games, clothes and yarn out the house after a long time. Feels so freeing. That makes me want to tackle some more mess that's in the closet over the weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: misshershey on March 12, 2017, 08:29:41 PM
Sewing room is now PACKED! I cleared out at least 3 boxes of Xmas stuff (mostly stuffed penguins, let's be honest), an old stereo that I had forgotten about, a foot spa, patterns, quilt books, & more. I've now eliminated 1346 lbs of clutter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on March 12, 2017, 08:41:46 PM
A broke friend was hosting a 'gold buy', and I didn't think I had anything to bring but finally found a very old and very small (child size?) 10K bracelet, and a silver necklace. Both are now gone and I'm $11 richer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 12, 2017, 09:05:18 PM
Yesterday I threw out a folder, and added the contents to another folder. (Next step is going through all the paperwork again.)

I'm visiting my parents this weekend so I'll take a few things I've been collecting (at their request), two pillows for my room there since I'm just not using them here, fabric for my mum, and a few other bits and pieces.

Working on getting my husband to take a big canvas print to work.

I've gotten rid of a lot so there are now gaps, an empty shelf here, an empty drawer there. Now I'm trying to store like with like. I had linen stored in the linen cupboard and the spare room, gym gear stashed in the linen cupboard and my wardrobe.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on March 13, 2017, 09:34:45 AM

This weekend was much better than the last one. I took all my 7yr old girl clothes out of drawers and checked every one for size and conditions. A big bag for donation and some to recycle. I also moved a couple things around and everything looks much better. She helped all the way and even folded her shirts back.

I cleaned a small closet, and found lots to dispose of. The closed is nice now. Still have another big one to go, maybe next weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on March 13, 2017, 02:05:08 PM
Ughhh. Fighting a tide of stuff coming in. ILs are moving forward with moving, which means more of DH's random stuff from childhood coming into the house.

Luckily, I talked them into adding the FOUR FOOT TALL Obama painting to the garage sale instead of having us take it. They bought it for DH... which is weird, since DH really isn't that politically active. I mean, sure Obama's great and all, but uh... a 4' tall painting?

Now I need to figure out what to do with old yearbooks, caps and gowns, a saxaphone, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 13, 2017, 02:40:58 PM
I had food poisoning last week so I fell behind a few days. My old childhood Legos are finally starting to sell, so I got a few bucks back out of those and got them out of my house.

We also finally received our new shelving units. I unloaded our beat up old book case and put the stuff I wanted in the new shelving unit. I found a few more books I was willing to part with and added them to the donate pile. I put the old book case up for sale too.

I also finally got a bite an old DVD player I have been trying to sell for the last month. That should be gone tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on March 13, 2017, 03:23:08 PM
I've been so busy with my work licensing but, am officially done now. I started gathering more donations for goodwill in my fireplace area, have a giant bag of clothes ready to go and a ton of food.

 My fiance got a new job so he tried on all his clothes in February and donated a lot if them. I redid our closets and culled my wardrobe that was scattered between two closets and a plastic bin under the spare bed.

Unfortunately there is only one church that accepts food semi nearby.
What do you do if there are no food banks nearby?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on March 13, 2017, 03:24:56 PM
I've been so busy with my work licensing but, am officially done now. I started gathering more donations for goodwill in my fireplace area, have a giant bag of clothes ready to go and a ton of food.

 My fiance got a new job so he tried on all his clothes in February and donated a lot if them. I redid our closets and culled my wardrobe that was scattered between two closets and a plastic bin under the spare bed.

Unfortunately there is only one church that accepts food semi nearby.
What do you do if there are no food banks nearby?

With no food banks, you probably don't have Buy Nothing Project either, but if you do, that's an option. I've gifted food to neighbors before.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on March 13, 2017, 03:36:26 PM
What do you do if there are no food banks nearby?

Block party potluck?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on March 13, 2017, 03:44:52 PM
BJ- I actually joined my local BNG and its pretty much inactive. Mrs. frugalwoods posts make me want to live in a more sharing community. I might try the local Facebook  yardsale since it's basically 2 large reusable bags worth of food and unopened 10# bag of rice. I haven't had much luck on the yard sale page but- free food is nice, right?

Jordan I moved and only know a few neighbors. Block party is not really a thing in my neck of the woods. :) that is a very wonderful thought though.

Thanks for the ideas!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on March 13, 2017, 03:51:11 PM
BJ- I actually joined my local BNG and its pretty much inactive. Mrs. frugalwoods posts make me want to live in a more sharing community. I might try the local Facebook  yardsale since it's basically 2 large reusable bags worth of food and unopened 10# bag of rice. I haven't had much luck on the yard sale page but- free food is nice, right?

Jordan I moved and only know a few neighbors. Block party is not really a thing in my neck of the woods. :) that is a very wonderful thought though.

Thanks for the ideas!

I can't think of a better way of meeting them. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 13, 2017, 04:48:16 PM
I just cleaned up under our kitchen sink. There were a couple of decade old cleaning products: A rusty can of oven cleaner, a bottle of carpet cleaner from when we were renting, and a bottle of Lysol spray that had evaporated to the point the liquid had turned to a gel :P

I also found a bag of potting soil under there. That's in the garage now with the rest of my bags of dirt :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 14, 2017, 03:22:04 PM
I finally sold an old DVD player today. I think I will be able to sell an old bicycle tomorrow. If the frame isn't too big for him, that will be on less thing taking up space in the basement :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on March 14, 2017, 03:46:30 PM
Sold my bed frame last night! For $200, and I only paid $100. Sweet deal. :) Glad to have that out of my house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LittleTree on March 14, 2017, 08:54:36 PM
I'll join in.
Took 5 big bags of stuff to Salvation Army this weekend and have 2 big boxes full of old business postcards by the front door for recycling day. I also did a post for some lumber that I don't want to store on our local Buy Nothing Group. It feels so good to see more of my basement floor. I really hope to clear out more stuff this year. Stuff just keeps accumulating even though we've purchased very little in the past 2 years. I'd really like to clear out some old metal filing cabinets and get rid of them too! Just need the energy and the motivation!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 14, 2017, 10:12:33 PM
Tossed a bunch of old letters, some travel memorabilia from years ago, and a broken ramekin.

And I returned two of the four new bras I bought. I don't even know why I bought four new ones. I only have two boobs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on March 15, 2017, 02:44:55 PM
I packed up a bunch of clothes in bags in my trunk, and I will drop them off soon.

I'm giving away a bag of random knickknacks on my Buy Nothing Group.   

I have not kept up with clearing out the clutter.  I need to go through my clothes again, but I also need to go through all of our miscellaneous stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 15, 2017, 04:57:11 PM
Got rid of 4 glass toiletries bottles. Tiny, but gone from the house!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on March 16, 2017, 07:51:11 AM
Charity pickup is today!  $621 worth of donations submitted.  I feel so good about sending things to a better home where they will be needed.  I didn't include any shoes in my items as they are going to a work shoe drive for immigrant children who are moving to Chicago.  I now feel better about my snow boots donations - knowing they are actually going to an immigrant child that needs them in this area.  Somehow I feel better about that than Goodwill (I'm not sure why that is though).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 17, 2017, 06:42:31 AM
I donated some canned and jarred food to the local food bank. It's good stuff that I would have eaten eventually, probably, but it's in a better place now.

I gave away a journal to a student and have been writing thank you cards liberally (I have so many!).

I attacked the ever-growing pile of mail. I swear that is the biggest hurdle for me as far as keeping my living room uncluttered goes.

I'm doing another closet purge this weekend. I thought I'd gotten rid of everything I could, but I think I've actually got a bag or two worth of clothes I don't love wearing.

I'm giving up on reading my old journals before shredding them. They're too depressing, and that doesn't make up for the cool parts where I see the name of someone I'd forgotten or am reminded of a fun memory with a relative who has since passed. Plus, there are simply SO MANY. I'm done. They served their purpose when I wrote them: I improved my writing skills and sorted out my thoughts. For journals going forward, I think I'll make a five-year expiration date.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 17, 2017, 11:47:01 AM
Sold a Bumbo chair and tray that was given to me as a hand me down for $20. We decided we won't be using one, so it is out of the house, and that $20 goes into the college fund.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 18, 2017, 03:44:03 PM
I finally convinced my wife to let me clear out a cabinet in our dining room so we can store our bird seed in it. We were just leaving the bird seed on the living room floor, but we were getting sunflower seeds and peanuts all over the place. It also meant we had to move the bird seed containers whenever we needed to vacuum in there. Now that they are in the cabinet, we shouldn't have to move them when we clean. Also, she will be scooping them out in the dining room which has gray tiles. The rogue peanuts and sunflower seeds will be easier to find and pick up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on March 18, 2017, 04:15:08 PM
I'm still decluttering. I'm working on my kitchen and my study at the same time. I've been avoiding the study for so long. I still have boxes stored in there untouched from when I moved in 7 years ago. I'm excavating paper.  Yesterday I found and shredded some stuff that went back to 1985. Doh! I've made a goal to go paperless.....should manage that in another 7 years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 18, 2017, 05:23:24 PM
Rearranged toys and books to empty a shelf so plush toys can go in there and make the corner they are in much more usable for my kid. I'm thinking to move a coffee table there so she can spread her toys on it when needed. The books are now in a easy to access basket so my kid doesn't have to get the whole shelf out to find her favorites. Also moved a book to donate pile and put away clothing from a trip. Now to attack clothing from laundry once it's done.

I also finished three books this week and returned them to the library. I have three more to go along with a bunch of magazines.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on March 20, 2017, 02:21:12 PM
We had a really productive weekend in the getting rid of stuff/clutter category. I am looking for something that I can't find in the house, and it always spurs me on to downsize the stuff when that happens. I went through multiple drawers/cupboards and, although I still didn't find what I was looking for, I got rid of a TON of old stuff that didn't need to be taking up space, lots of miscellaneous bits of junk I used to save because that's what my mom did and I didn't know any better: old cards, brochures from places I visited, movie ticket stubs, stupid crap like that. Then I cleaned out a box in the garage (more of the same but stuff my mom saved and then gave me as "your stuff"...still have 4 or 5 of those boxes left that I dread) and 1.5 file folder boxes full of old college work.

We also took a stab at the playroom, and managed to remove 64 children's books and some miscellaneous toys to donate. We gave our neighbor all the duplos (kids are onto "real" legos now), nice ski pants, a raincoat, and hiking boots that my youngest has outgrown. My oldest has two bags of clothes to donate that aren't worth saving for his younger brother. I pulled out a pair of pants that I don't like and never wear and 3 shirts.

I'm disappointed to be back at work today instead of de-cluttering some more, but my recycling can is full anyway and doesn't get picked up until Thursday. Ideally I want to touch everything and know everything we have (and where it is). It is a daunting goal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 20, 2017, 02:52:04 PM
I'm disappointed to be back at work today instead of de-cluttering some more, but my recycling can is full anyway and doesn't get picked up until Thursday. Ideally I want to touch everything and know everything we have (and where it is). It is a daunting goal.

I know that feel when you fill up your recycling bin. I've done that twice since I started decluttering in earnest this year. It's filled up mostly from breaking down packaging for old appliances and things we no longer have.

Keep up the good work. It'll give you something to look forward to over the weekend :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 20, 2017, 03:54:01 PM
We had a really productive weekend in the getting rid of stuff/clutter category. I am looking for something that I can't find in the house, and it always spurs me on to downsize the stuff when that happens. I went through multiple drawers/cupboards and, although I still didn't find what I was looking for, I got rid of a TON of old stuff that didn't need to be taking up space, lots of miscellaneous bits of junk I used to save because that's what my mom did and I didn't know any better: old cards, brochures from places I visited, movie ticket stubs, stupid crap like that. Then I cleaned out a box in the garage (more of the same but stuff my mom saved and then gave me as "your stuff"...still have 4 or 5 of those boxes left that I dread) and 1.5 file folder boxes full of old college work.

We also took a stab at the playroom, and managed to remove 64 children's books and some miscellaneous toys to donate. We gave our neighbor all the duplos (kids are onto "real" legos now), nice ski pants, a raincoat, and hiking boots that my youngest has outgrown. My oldest has two bags of clothes to donate that aren't worth saving for his younger brother. I pulled out a pair of pants that I don't like and never wear and 3 shirts.

I'm disappointed to be back at work today instead of de-cluttering some more, but my recycling can is full anyway and doesn't get picked up until Thursday. Ideally I want to touch everything and know everything we have (and where it is). It is a daunting goal.

That is an enormous effort. Well done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 20, 2017, 03:56:08 PM
A bout of decluttering inspiration struck while I was getting ready for work this morning (as it does most days. I like my job but get bored with the morning routine).

I grabbed a stack of loyalty cards from a drawer, checked they were all in my Stocard app, then tossed them plus the little card wallet they'd been stored in. Fourteen things gone in five minutes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 21, 2017, 07:07:12 AM
I think I'll attack the junk drawers this weekend. Most, if not all, of the stuff we actually use (I already got rid of stuff from them), but I'm thinking of organizing them logically with little dividers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on March 21, 2017, 07:39:08 AM
Last week I finally took the two dozen mason jars I had collected to a friend who cans.  She was delighted.

I took a bag of clothing to goodwill as well and read another book just to get it off my shelf.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 22, 2017, 09:07:03 AM
I'm buying a house!!!!!! (first house, really excited, I'm annoying to be around right now.) Which means I'll be moving soon.

Have been accumulating a pile of stuff to get rid of for a while, so will be adding to it as I start packing and eventually take it all to goodwill. Move sometime in May, so I have time, and nowhere near as much crap as my roommate who's in the same boat.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on March 22, 2017, 09:26:44 AM
I'm buying a house!!!!!! (first house, really excited, I'm annoying to be around right now.) Which means I'll be moving soon.
Congratulations!!!

All of my big clear outs have centered around a move.  I purged as I packed and unpacked.  :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 23, 2017, 08:02:39 PM
I would have shredded seven more journals, but the shredder overheated at four and a half. I'll have to finish those in the morning.

After that, all I have left journal-wise is a few pages I ripped out that I'll scan and journals from the past five years. I'm going to institute a one-filled, one-shredded policy from here on out.

It feels really good to be almost rid of them -- they've been quite a weight.

I've also moved some new-condition stuffed animals (prizes from carnival games) to the donate pile, freeing up most of another closet shelf.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 23, 2017, 08:20:31 PM
Threw out the volumising attachment for my hairdryer this morning.

I didn't own a hairdryer till I was 26. Four years later I've never used this attachment, and only use the hairdryer when it's an emergency.

I think I'll be ok without it.

My goal is to get all toiletries down to one bathroom drawer (we only have one) and one small tub of spares. Getting there slowly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 24, 2017, 06:10:34 AM
I would have shredded seven more journals, but the shredder overheated at four and a half. I'll have to finish those in the morning.

After that, all I have left journal-wise is a few pages I ripped out that I'll scan and journals from the past five years. I'm going to institute a one-filled, one-shredded policy from here on out.

It feels really good to be almost rid of them -- they've been quite a weight.

I've also moved some new-condition stuffed animals (prizes from carnival games) to the donate pile, freeing up most of another closet shelf.

I've been contemplating throwing out old journals. I mean, I never read them. When I have glanced at them they caused nothing but embarrassment. But I don't know. For some reason I feel I should keep them. Like I'm letting go of my former self or youth or something? I dunno.

I do know that whenever I consider my own mortality, I cringe at the thought of someone reading them. Maybe that is reason enough to get rid, I mean, I'm definitely going to die.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 24, 2017, 06:19:41 AM
I had the same feelings. I read some, liked seeing the names of old friends and family members that are no longer living, hated reading about my deep depression and unhealthy relationships, got slightly sucked in to said depression, and stopped reading. The journals served their purpose when I wrote them. Keeping them has been a burden (sometimes literal when moving as they took up boxes of space), and as each one goes, I feel better.

Except for some furniture I need to unload, my decluttering is now at the hardest stage: mementos and emotionally charged things. It's slow-going, but I'm making constant progress. More importantly, I've managed to not add to that group of objects. I don't need to remember everything. Forgetting some good memories is well worth it if it also means forgetting/letting go of the bad.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on March 24, 2017, 07:14:59 AM
Got rid of a few more baby hand me downs I don't plan on using at all.  I love the buy nothing group!

Funny story though: My mother came over and opened our (well organized, but totally full) container cabinent in the kitchen.  She sighed and said "I've been helping your sister clean out- we need to get rid of half of these! You have way too much!" 

Except, last week, the cabinet was completely empty because every single one of them was full with food in the fridge!  We cook every single meal from scratch, plan to have leftovers so that we can bring lunches to work and have a few dinners each week we don't have to prepare, and save ingredients in containers when we don't need them all for a recipe.  Just because SHE doesn't need fridge containers doesn't mean we don't!

However, I did ask her to sneak out some of the coffee mugs while DH wasn't looking!  No one needs 20 coffee mugs!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on March 24, 2017, 05:17:31 PM
I got rid of a huge ugly dresser that we didn't want to move! We were just going to "donate" it to the alley, but I decided to email everyone else in my building to see whether anyone wanted it. Turns out our across-the-hall neighbor likes to refinish furniture! We pushed that heavy sucker out of my apartment and into hers, and she paid me in beer from the microbrewery she works at. Score!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on March 24, 2017, 05:37:56 PM
I have old cringe-worthy journals too. I did get rid of one last weekend. I like the consideration that the writing of it served its purpose and I can let them go now.

Getting ready to leave the work week behind me and see how much more stuff I can clear out this weekend! We have company the entire weekend so it probably won't be as productive as last weekend, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on March 25, 2017, 12:33:28 AM
Won a fridge in a chook raffle a few weeks ago. Handed it off to a cousin who needed it today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 25, 2017, 01:44:02 AM
I sold a bunch of stuff this week. I finally got rid of some bicycle wheels that were sitting in the basement. I sold a tea set that we were given as a wedding gift and never used. I also sold a bunch of old Legos from my childhood. The Legos are trickling out of my inventory, but they are still starting to disappear.

At this point in my decluttering process, I think I've picked all of the low hanging fruit. I would like to clean out my garage too, I'm just waiting for the weather to improve. I also need to figure out how to throw away a garbage can. The previous home owners left like 10 garbage can marked yard waste. I'll see if any of my neighbors are interested. I use the side discharge on my mower and just break down and compost any twigs or branches that fall of the trees in my yard.

We're expecting some additional shelving to be delivered on Monday. The shelves are called BrickBox and they essentially let you build a bookcase or shelves for storage as small or as large as you need it to be. When we get that, we can get rid of some more of our less functional "early poverty" furniture. My wife has a leopard gecko that lives in a tank that straddles two crappy end tables her parents gave her when she moved out. Other than holding up the tank, they aren't good for much else. The new shelves will look better and give us space to store things we actually do want to keep.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 25, 2017, 03:37:04 AM
I have old cringe-worthy journals too. I did get rid of one last weekend. I like the consideration that the writing of it served its purpose and I can let them go now.

I needed this. I have about a dozen journals in my bedroom at my parents' place that I've been reluctant to part with. Lord knows I never read them, couldn't bear it, but still felt reluctant to part with them. But now it's time for them to go.

Got rid of two old side tables with baskets this evening. Took a mallet to them until they fit in the bin. The two lamps that were on them will go to my parents. The blender and food processor is going tomorrow, I'm passing it on to another Mustachian (hi, marty998).

A couple of weeks ago (?) I printed up a numbered grid to keep a tally of decluttered items. I'm at 154, with yet more on the to-declutter list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 25, 2017, 03:38:55 AM
Won a fridge in a chook raffle a few weeks ago. Handed it off to a cousin who needed it today.

Hey, you're here!

I've decluttered a lot but even I haven't decluttered a fridge!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on March 25, 2017, 03:41:35 AM
Now I need to declutter a blender :/

What are you doing to me? :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 25, 2017, 03:50:35 AM
Now I need to declutter a blender :/

What are you doing to me? :D

You wanted smoothies, dammit!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on March 25, 2017, 03:56:21 AM
I do... but you haven't told me how big this appliance is!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on March 25, 2017, 06:13:00 AM
BIL is on his way to pick up the dining room table and 6 chairs. I will also send one of my 4 pairs of binoculars and a birding book to my sister. The dining table is the last major obstacle to the demolition/light renovation project in the home gym.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 25, 2017, 08:53:54 AM
I finished shredding the journals. I feel wonderful. :)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tris Prior on March 25, 2017, 03:14:18 PM
Ha, I recently shredded a cringeworthy journal too!

I think the rest of my (high-school-era) journals are probably still in my mother's house somewhere. Yikes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 26, 2017, 07:10:36 PM
Article from the Australian Financial Review:

http://www.afr.com/lifestyle/home-design/interior-design/love-decluttering-and-minimalism-youre-probably-rich-and-showing-off-20170326-gv73n0

Quote
while we're talking about Marie Kondo, if you follow her motto, throwing out anything that doesn't "spark joy", it means you have the privilege of disposing of excess stuff, safe in the knowledge that there's plenty more where that came from.

As Reductress, the parody women's website, pointed out last month, the advantages of decluttering your life include, "no longer [being] bogged down with all that stuff you don't need … that you can immediately order again on Amazon. Thankfully, you make enough money that owning things feels like a burden!"

Interesting theory but this misses the mark for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dreaming on March 26, 2017, 08:23:28 PM
I got rid of some kid art supplies and an American girl type doll and clothes.   A friend does loaves and fishes at a church and said they also do craft projects.  Figured they could use the sticky foam pieces.  They also put donated items on a table for people to take.  Some little girl should like the doll.

When I was taking the stuff out of my storage closet, I saw an ice bucket we got as a wedding present... 12 yrs ago.  Never used, time to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on March 27, 2017, 10:02:36 AM
Article from the Australian Financial Review:

http://www.afr.com/lifestyle/home-design/interior-design/love-decluttering-and-minimalism-youre-probably-rich-and-showing-off-20170326-gv73n0

Quote
while we're talking about Marie Kondo, if you follow her motto, throwing out anything that doesn't "spark joy", it means you have the privilege of disposing of excess stuff, safe in the knowledge that there's plenty more where that came from.

As Reductress, the parody women's website, pointed out last month, the advantages of decluttering your life include, "no longer [being] bogged down with all that stuff you don't need … that you can immediately order again on Amazon. Thankfully, you make enough money that owning things feels like a burden!"

Interesting theory but this misses the mark for me.

It's interesting, but it misses the mark for me too. I can think of numerous times where we went out and spent money on something we didn't need to buy because we had so much stuff and didn't realize that we had what we thought we needed to go buy, lost amidst all the other stuff (fancy lightbulbs for the ceiling fan light in the living room...still irritated by that one!). For me, my objective in decluttering is to get rid of all the distraction and chaos. I don't have a problem with keeping something I may use "someday" as long as I know what it is and where it is.

As for me, I had a great weekend on this front! I cleaned out the cabinet under the kitchen sink (we need to buy new sponges but I wanted to be sure we didn't have any spares lurking in there still like last time). I emptied three boxes that have been in the garage since we moved in 4+ years ago. A fourth box is being donated in its entirely. I bagged up a giant bag of clothes we don't wear. I recycled an entire box of college notebooks...if I haven't looked at them in 17 years then I really don't need them anymore! And, the thing that really spurred me on two weeks ago, I finally found the passport holder I was looking for, in time for our upcoming trip in two weeks. I even pound a ten pound note in it, so that will go towards food during our 7 hour layover at Heathrow. Oh! I also found a stack of college textbooks, and we looked online to see if they were worth anything. Most of them weren't, but we had two copies of the same book (husband and I both got the same degree from the same school, two years apart, years before meeting each other), and it is worth $65, so $130 between the two of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DragonSlayer on March 27, 2017, 11:05:55 AM
For those dealing with journals, here's something to think about. I've just gone through this and what it came down to for me was, "Would I want anyone to read this after I'm dead?" I'm at the age now where, while I don't think I'm going to die tomorrow, stuff happens and I like to be prepared. Looking back at my journals, I knew that if I died and someone read them (and they most assuredly would as they purged my things) I would be mortified.

There were things in there that, while helpful to me for processing emotions, etc., would be hurtful for some of my loved ones to read. They wouldn't understand. And there are things in there I wouldn't want others to know about my personal struggles, etc. I didn't disclose a variety of things for a reason (mostly to keep people form worrying about me) and I don't want others to read it later and go, "I wish she'd told us," or, "She didn't trust/love us enough to tell us these things."

It was easy, looking at it that way, to destroy them all.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on March 27, 2017, 12:21:51 PM
For those dealing with journals, here's something to think about. I've just gone through this and what it came down to for me was, "Would I want anyone to read this after I'm dead?" I'm at the age now where, while I don't think I'm going to die tomorrow, stuff happens and I like to be prepared. Looking back at my journals, I knew that if I died and someone read them (and they most assuredly would as they purged my things) I would be mortified.

There were things in there that, while helpful to me for processing emotions, etc., would be hurtful for some of my loved ones to read. They wouldn't understand. And there are things in there I wouldn't want others to know about my personal struggles, etc. I didn't disclose a variety of things for a reason (mostly to keep people form worrying about me) and I don't want others to read it later and go, "I wish she'd told us," or, "She didn't trust/love us enough to tell us these things."

It was easy, looking at it that way, to destroy them all.

Yes, this is exactly what I needed to realize in order to part with mine!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 27, 2017, 02:32:39 PM
Bagged up the to-go pile in the basement, and grabbed a couple other things I wanted to get rid of. Everything's in the trunk, just need to drop off at Goodwill!

Friends, I love you dearly, but please don't buy me books. My family has learned (except for sister's BF, he's new to this) - I probably already have it. Unless I SPECIFICALLY ask for a book, just get a gift card.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on March 28, 2017, 08:41:40 AM
So I'm stepping up the "let people pay for my trash" as I tell my wife and also get rid of things that cause me grief.  The grief causing things first:

2005 Polaris trail touring snowmobile:  I haven't ridden this in 2 years.  This year, I pulled it out of my shed and couldn't get it started.  Spent a solid 20 hours working on the stupid thing and got it to where it started and I could ride it a bit around the house.  But am I going to ride this up north on the nice groomed trails like the first 2 years I owned it?  Nope.  Onto craigslist before the snow went away.  Sold it to a guy for $2k who had sold his snowmobile for reasons he didn't understand....and he wanted to go again.  Good riddance. 

Wire Core welder.  This is a harbor freight $99 special.  I welded up a pipe that had a leak in the exhaust of our Subaru that my son keeps at school.  Like the snowmobile, I have to screw around with it for an hour to get it to work.  Onto craigslist for $20.  Gone.

The wife has wanted new washer/dryer forever.  We found what we wanted at Sears, on sale.  Came home, used an online coupon, some of my shop your way points and a sears master card to collect free shipping and a bunch of limited time points (used them to buy some on sale craftsman wrenches).  Old washer and dryer on craigslist.  $20 for the washer, $10 for the dryer.  Again.....let people pay to take my trash away.

I kid to my wife that next, I'm going to cut my own hair and advertise "bag of hair, $20". 

The garage is way nicer without a long 2 up snowmobile in it and the spot I used in the shed for it now has some hangers for 3 bikes.  Will build some kind of racks for another 3 bikes under these.

Almost forgot.....I found a dime in a parking lot the other day.  I'm convinced that with my attitude (pick up pennies), I've piled money on top of other money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 28, 2017, 12:22:55 PM
We decided not to get a new dresser till we move to a new place and look at storage options there. The price was right at $40 and it was one of the models I wanted. But we have a dresser that works for now and I can always upgrade later if needed. This counts at not adding clutter right? :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on March 28, 2017, 02:36:01 PM
So I'm stepping up the "let people pay for my trash" as I tell my wife and also get rid of things that cause me grief.  The grief causing things first:

2005 Polaris trail touring snowmobile:  I haven't ridden this in 2 years.  This year, I pulled it out of my shed and couldn't get it started.  Spent a solid 20 hours working on the stupid thing and got it to where it started and I could ride it a bit around the house.  But am I going to ride this up north on the nice groomed trails like the first 2 years I owned it?  Nope.  Onto craigslist before the snow went away.  Sold it to a guy for $2k who had sold his snowmobile for reasons he didn't understand....and he wanted to go again.  Good riddance. 

Wire Core welder.  This is a harbor freight $99 special.  I welded up a pipe that had a leak in the exhaust of our Subaru that my son keeps at school.  Like the snowmobile, I have to screw around with it for an hour to get it to work.  Onto craigslist for $20.  Gone.

The wife has wanted new washer/dryer forever.  We found what we wanted at Sears, on sale.  Came home, used an online coupon, some of my shop your way points and a sears master card to collect free shipping and a bunch of limited time points (used them to buy some on sale craftsman wrenches).  Old washer and dryer on craigslist.  $20 for the washer, $10 for the dryer.  Again.....let people pay to take my trash away.

I kid to my wife that next, I'm going to cut my own hair and advertise "bag of hair, $20". 

The garage is way nicer without a long 2 up snowmobile in it and the spot I used in the shed for it now has some hangers for 3 bikes.  Will build some kind of racks for another 3 bikes under these.

Almost forgot.....I found a dime in a parking lot the other day.  I'm convinced that with my attitude (pick up pennies), I've piled money on top of other money.

That's a great way to think about getting rid of stuff :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 28, 2017, 05:17:10 PM
Scrapped/parted out an old lawnmower.  It was a originally CL find.  Had some fun fixing it up and using it a few times but it got in the way one too many times.  Already enjoying the free space and made some $$ on the parts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 28, 2017, 05:19:28 PM
One thing I DID NOT declutter: a Gary Johnson presidential campaign lawn sign.  It has been sitting next to the trash bin since November but I decided to keep it. Hoping I can use it again in 3.5 years plus it cost something like $12.  It barely takes up any room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on March 29, 2017, 02:11:30 AM
Our local council's having an electronics recycling day, so we're going to remove hard drives from a laptop and desktop and hand them in. I am quite excited! They haven't worked for some time. Hopefully we'll be ready to scrap the hard drives by the next recycling day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on March 29, 2017, 06:17:35 AM
I have taken the decision to become a rational minimalist, which means getting rid of all the stuff we don't actively use. But it does not mean stripping down the house to the bare minimum.

Currently we have put 2 racing bikes, 2 racing wheels and a new pair of hiking trousers on the internet for sale. The wheels are already agreed sold. Someone wanted to buy the trousers, but wanted me to finance all the sending cost which was not cheap. I reclined and will wait a bit longer for a better deal.

I have gone through my drawer with underwear and removed everything that I don't wear. One nice and practically unworn bodice can be sold. I have lots of nice underwear that are a cup size too small, because my body weight has fluctuated with 8 kilograms through the years. If I ever get 1 clothes size lower body weight, they will fit again. And who knows if that might happen again if I get more active. So I've put the nicest ones in a bag and put that bag in the back of a cupboard, out of the way. -> Some of you might find this a stupid tactic, but I've burnt myself before my throwing away all clothes that didn't fit anymore and then lose 8 kilos a year later. I've thrown away all of the old underwear that I don't want to wear anymore for whatever reason. Same with sports socks. Lots of them are never used. All in the same garbage bag. I kept my favorites

I've also gone through my sweaters and taken out all the ones that I haven't worn for the past 2 or more years. They will be given away for recycling.

I have also emptied a old Amaretto tin with 150 grams of Durum flour, made pasta of the flour and threw away the tin that stood permanently on the kitchen top. And I've thrown away a high and narrow glass vase that is too high to fit into any closet and has been standing on the kitchen top for 1,5 year. Sometimes I need a high and narrow vase for when I get a single nice rose, but such a vase I already have (a better and nicer one), so this other vase could go.

I found a place for the container with dishwasher detergent. It has been standing in a window frame in the kitchen for 1,5 years (since we moved in). Now I just put it in a cupboard, together with the casseroles.

I'm gonna take small steps at the time. I have told my DH about the minimalism plan. He got a bit scared that I might want to get rid of all the hobby stuff we have. But my plan is to just reduce the piles of stuff that we don't use. And it does fit in with the plan that we want to strip down our belongings to a minimum after FIRE, to be flexible to move.

Next steps to take:
- Photographing and selling a nice bodice.
- Photographing and selling my wedding dress, which is in fact an evening gown (It was a Mustachian choice, as this dress cost less than half of what a normal wedding dress costs).
- Going through the rest of my clothes and throwing out unused clothes.
- Sorting out the camping gear and throwing away what we don't use.
- Throwing away old shoes, even though they are still wearable, but that we in practice haven't used for years.
- Clearing up some cupboards upstairs and see if I can fit our camping gear in there. Now it is spread in too many places and too easy to forget something.
- Maybe organize a garage sale to sell/give away things that can be reused. Like a moose that might fit in a children's room and a small grill.
- Testing a bunch of old small headphones. Currently we have 20 or so hanging on a cupboard knob. I should either test which ones work and are good to keep or just throw away the lot.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 29, 2017, 06:19:40 AM
I found three more journals to shred! Sheesh -- I thought I was done! Now I'm pretty sure I'm down to the one I'm actually writing in.

I also organized the useful junk drawer a bit. Small things of like type are in little baggies. In the process, I found five old batteries that I missed last time; they're in the e-waste bin now. They must be old batteries... hardly anything runs on batteries anymore, and what little does, we have rechargeables for.

I may attack my paperwork this weekend. My filing system is a bit overwhelming (though it does all fit into just one small drawer now; that's a plus).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on March 29, 2017, 07:45:53 AM
- Maybe organize a garage sale to sell/give away things that can be reused. Like a moose that might fit in a children's room and a small grill.

That made me lol!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dorothyc on March 29, 2017, 01:45:14 PM

I've gotten rid of a lot so there are now gaps, an empty shelf here, an empty drawer there. Now I'm trying to store like with like. I had linen stored in the linen cupboard and the spare room, gym gear stashed in the linen cupboard and my wardrobe.

Hmmm, if only there was a solution to that ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on March 30, 2017, 01:20:24 AM
I also checked all my sports clothes. I found out that I regularly use most of the sports clothes, but ditched a few things. Some of the clothes thrown away hurt mentally, because some required some effort to buy them. But I didn't wear them for years and couldn't find a good argument to keep them. I also ditched some perfectly good running shirts that are so small that I always choose other shirts to wear. I am still in doubt about 2 long Johns that still fit perfectly, but that I in practice never wear. Maybe because they are not made of wool and I now have 3 woolen ones that I use often.

I tried on all my trousers (normal and hiking ones). Positive thing is that with my current weight I fit into more trousers than I thought and put some back on the "regular" pile. I did however get rid of all trousers that were fitting so tight that there was no hope to fit into them any time soon. Plus a few that I don't like to wear anymore. And all the ugly shorts that I had.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on March 30, 2017, 02:31:15 AM
I'm coming up to 'clothing changeover' time of year. I know Marie Kondo says not to do this, but honestly, where I live there are certain clothes that are only worn in one half of the year or the other.

I have one drawer in my dresser dedicated to neatly folded out of season clothes. I've had to reach in a few times for summery stuff, and that stuff is then 'out' and goes on hangers. But since I haven't yet put any winter stuff away, I have run out of hangers!

I guess I should try to weed out a few things I don't really like. I wash things after their 'final' wear before they go in the drawer. I guess I need to do the final wash and then decide whether I want to see this again next winter, or if I should give it to charity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on March 30, 2017, 07:08:51 AM
I'm coming up to 'clothing changeover' time of year. I know Marie Kondo says not to do this, but honestly, where I live there are certain clothes that are only worn in one half of the year or the other.

I'm with you on this, shorts are for summer and long johns are for winter, why have them handy when they won't be worn?  We can go from -40oC (super cold winter night) to mid-30's and super humid (mid-summer) so one set of clothes doesn't work year-round.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on March 30, 2017, 09:51:53 AM
I'm coming up to 'clothing changeover' time of year. I know Marie Kondo says not to do this, but honestly, where I live there are certain clothes that are only worn in one half of the year or the other.

I'm with you on this, shorts are for summer and long johns are for winter, why have them handy when they won't be worn?  We can go from -40oC (super cold winter night) to mid-30's and super humid (mid-summer) so one set of clothes doesn't work year-round.

I suspect that Marie Kondo doesn't live somewhere that has both cold winters and hot summers. Because if you do, you know that there are 2 very different wardrobes and there's nothing you can do about it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on March 30, 2017, 03:42:05 PM
There might be some pieces that are exclusively for winter or summer but I find that I layer a lot during winter and use most of the same clothes without layers during summer. So I don't have to switch a lot of things about (except winter coats, boots etc).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on March 31, 2017, 01:39:22 AM
I got rid of an old handbag this morning before work. I will go through the rest of that closet later.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on March 31, 2017, 04:28:34 AM
Husband has lost just shy of 11kg so I'm donating a couple of his larger t-shirts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on March 31, 2017, 06:34:26 AM
A student asked if I had an extra fountain pen she could have, so there's one more gone.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lamil on March 31, 2017, 08:39:05 AM
I also checked all my sports clothes. I found out that I regularly use most of the sports clothes, but ditched a few things. Some of the clothes thrown away hurt mentally, because some required some effort to buy them. But I didn't wear them for years and couldn't find a good argument to keep them. I also ditched some perfectly good running shirts that are so small that I always choose other shirts to wear. I am still in doubt about 2 long Johns that still fit perfectly, but that I in practice never wear. Maybe because they are not made of wool and I now have 3 woolen ones that I use often.

I tried on all my trousers (normal and hiking ones). Positive thing is that with my current weight I fit into more trousers than I thought and put some back on the "regular" pile. I did however get rid of all trousers that were fitting so tight that there was no hope to fit into them any time soon. Plus a few that I don't like to wear anymore. And all the ugly shorts that I had.

I dealt with the long john thing with my snowboard socks.  You wont wear them. Promise. The others are better. Ditch em. (I kept them in a drawer for a year with some other 'maybe's and didn't want to touch them; it wasn't needed).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on March 31, 2017, 10:03:09 AM
I have a VVA pickup scheduled for Monday, so I hope to spend a fair bit of time this weekend putting together a couple more bags. I am also going to try and offload some specific items on the local "buy nothing" group this weekend. I have a lot of positive momentum going right now and want to keep it up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on March 31, 2017, 11:12:21 AM
Dropped off a couple more wooden puzzles to the children's room at the library. Their old ones are all manky and missing pieces... ours are clean and new looking.

BIL and wife picked up some of our old baby stuff... filled their trunk and back seat. The question is, why do we still have so much stuff? I also posted some baby equipment they don't want on Craigslist but no bites yet. Husband thinks that people aren't looking at strollers yet because the weather has been so poor.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on March 31, 2017, 06:58:38 PM
Took aforementioned mower and a grill to the scrap yard, got $15. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on April 01, 2017, 08:14:11 AM
I finally cleared off a music stand that has been sitting untouched in our front bedroom/storage room. I pitched some concert programs and musical instrument brochures from the late 90's and early 2000's that were sitting on it. It was fun looking at them and seeing all of the tubas I used to lust after. Yes, I used to play the tuba. Like seriously played the tuba. As in, I actually have a bachelor's degree in tuba performance. This is why 17 year olds shouldn't be allowed to make life changing decisions :D

I've also been contemplating selling some musical instruments I have laying around. I have a few guitars I could sell pretty easily. I could also sell my tuba. I have been hesitant to do that. Quality tubas aren't cheap and they aren't easy to acquire. Usually, you can't just go to your local music store and drive home with one. I haven't played it in about 6 years and I really don't see myself playing it seriously again. Rationally, I know I just need to sell it, but emotionally, I'm having a hard time letting go. It was a prized possession in my younger days and my parents sacrificed to make sure I got it when I was in music school. Since it was so expensive, I want to make sure my parents are ok with me selling it too. I guess I'll just have to have that conversation the next time I see them. 

I also cleared out some clutter in the garage. I took some spent motor oil to the auto parts store to be recycled. I had a combination oil catch pan/reservoir that I pitched also. The cap that was supposed to keep the oil in cracked at some point, so it would spill oil unless it was absolutely level. The auto parts store was nice enough to dispose of that and the 5qt jug of spent oil I brought to them. I didn't want to have to take a leaky oil container back home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 01, 2017, 08:35:01 AM
Tuba is awesome. :) Why did you stop playing?

Because mail never ends, today I'm going through yet more mail from the week. I'm going to be calling the groups I give monthly donations to and telling them to take me off their mailing lists. I already have auto-deducted payments and e-mails for major news; I don't need paper reminders as well.

I'm in a lot of physical pain today, so that's probably all I'll be accomplishing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 01, 2017, 09:15:52 AM
Removed even more clothes today: t-shirts, jackets, vest, gloves and 5 pairs of shoes. I was in doubt about throwing away a few things and will move them to our mountain cabin. The rest will be donated.

In the shed I hang up a hook, so that my husbands fisking clothes can dry there instead of being draped over the garbage bin and making the bin unusble.

Also paid a low priority bill and installed something in the car. Both things were laying on the dining table for a good week -> way too long.

Chopped some dry stubs into fire wood. Now the pile of stubs is a bit neater and we have enough wood to warm up the house for the next 2 months. Hopefully by then it will be summer-like.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on April 01, 2017, 09:24:26 AM
Tuba is awesome. :) Why did you stop playing?

Because mail never ends, today I'm going through yet more mail from the week. I'm going to be calling the groups I give monthly donations to and telling them to take me off their mailing lists. I already have auto-deducted payments and e-mails for major news; I don't need paper reminders as well.

I'm in a lot of physical pain today, so that's probably all I'll be accomplishing.

I still think the tuba is a great instrument too :) I stopped playing seriously back in 2005. I went to a few orchestra auditions after graduating, but I was completely out of my league. There were guys at the auditions for second rate "keep your day job" orchestras whose warm ups were more complicated than solos I prepared. I realized pretty quickly that no amount of practice would get me to the level of a top professional, so I just kind of moved on with my life. I just haven't managed to let go of the hardware that went along with being a tuba player.

I'm not a fan of mail either. I have eliminated any paper bills I possibly can. It's like they're saying "Here, you throw this away." :D

I hope your pain subsides soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on April 01, 2017, 10:48:04 PM
Put a pair of my shoes in the donation bag, tossed a worn-out pair of my husband's Converse (with permission), tossed an empty box (having previously decluttered the contents), giving a pair of cricket gloves to a local team (thanks Marty), and rearranged my linen cupboard to better access what we use most*.



* Tripods, luggage, helmets, soccer gear, etc. Not linen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on April 03, 2017, 08:30:49 AM

Small progress this weekend: cleaned two drawers in the kitchen. Lot's of old hard candy gone in the trash along some items that we never use.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on April 03, 2017, 02:05:30 PM
Over the weekend, I caught up on my filing, which included shredding a bunch of existing files and making some 2017 files. I made some room in the filing cabinet, but the drawer does not close because it's kind of broken. I looked around, and I have 12 drawers of files in my office. OK, time to go all paperless, and get rid of some of these cabinets.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dreaming on April 03, 2017, 03:10:36 PM
To the donation pile - a sewing machine, a container to hold thread, an electric knife and some clothes I have not worn for awhile.  I grabbed my toaster oven and am I'm going to bring to work to use.  I broke down and recycled a bunch of boxes that I was saving for no good reason.  Threw out some really old drinking glasses that were cloudy/etched.  I had bought some replacements years ago and now finally decided to use them.  I just love clearing out space in the storage closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 04, 2017, 06:11:07 AM
My roommates are interested in having a garage sale. I've got two boxes of donations, but maybe I'll sell them instead. Hmmm.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on April 04, 2017, 07:35:03 AM
I went to a presentation on conserving old fabrics and clothing.  DD has a fancy competition dress she has outgrown and will eventually have on display in a shadow box, and now I know how to care for it.  And that means the quilt batting I was never going to use has found a new purpose!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on April 04, 2017, 11:36:24 AM
VVA came yesterday and picked up 9 bags/boxes of stuff (which is all itemized in It's Deductible for our taxes). I also offloaded an old water play table on the buy nothing group.

We leave Friday for vacation but I'll be back at the decluttering with a vengeance when we're home!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on April 05, 2017, 08:26:58 PM
Donated a huge box of food to a food pantry (my dad came to dinner the other weekend and volunteers at the pantry on Tuesdays so he dropped it off for me). YAY! So much space.
I dropped off 3 boxes at goodwill on Saturday.
I only have one humongous bag of clothes to donate, I forgot to take it with me to Goodwill so I might go back Sat. It's maybe a 10 minute drive.

I am paring down which helps as the wedding gifts started arriving 2 weeks ago. I got an instantpot, flannel sheets, an end table, a ninjas blender and oven mitts. So I got rid of a holey sheet, ruined oven mitts and donated my magic bullet and blender. My fiance wants to keep the crock pot and rice cooker for now til we figure out the instant pot. :) it's super exciting to get useful things I was going to need to buy soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 06, 2017, 05:03:27 AM
I tidied up my craft area, getting rid of a few things I was never going to use. Everything looks so much better. Now I need to keep my craft stash down to the things I can neatly store there, with no overflow.

As the seasons change I am continuing to wash clothes I no longer like to go to charity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on April 06, 2017, 09:06:36 AM
Yesterday I took a carload of stuff to the thrift shop (yay for state tax deduction!) including lots of clothes, several pairs of shoes, a suitcase and small box of random home goods.

Now I'm working on decluttering outdoors.  I moved all of our split firewood up under the porch, which it its last stop before the fireplace.  Then the unsplit stuff was moved up closer to the shed.  Moved all scrap wood out from behind the chicken coop, so I now have a nice empty area to put in a new chicken run.  The old dog house will be modified a little bit and put down there.  I almost gave the dog house away last summer, so there's one instance where I'm glad my decluttering efforts failed.  It will be a mother-in-law suite for my old hens when my brand new chicks are ready to take over the main coop.

The scrap wood is going to go towards building the new chicken run, and also building a few new horse jumps.  The jumps will then go out to the stable and be out of my way.

It's looking rainy today, so the annual shop cleaning and decluttering just might be on the agenda if it's too wet for gardening.

Sunday we will be dismantling the crappy old tin shed at the end of the driveway since it's pretty much just a hotel for wasps.  Hoping we can just detach it from the floor, walk it up to the street and entice someone to haul it away with a Craigslist curb alert.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: boy_bye on April 06, 2017, 09:22:43 AM
I did a big Konmari on my clothes last weekend and got rid of 4 grocery bags' worth, along with a laptop bag and a toiletry bag I'm not using any more. And all my clothes look very cheerful folded and rolled in my dresser, and I have a lot more breathing room in my closet. Good stuff!

I need to go through my shoes as well, which is tricky because I always feel like if only I got the right inserts, I'd be able to wear this pair, or I should give it another summer to see if I wear those sandals again ...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on April 10, 2017, 07:58:16 PM
For those who are donating clothes and itemizing, I'm curious how you value your clothes. I'm never should what would be reasonable -what I paid for it? What I'd get selling it on ebay? Somewhere in between?

I have been changing out some of our furniture (new dining room chairs, end tables, etc.) and selling what we no longer want. Since pretty much all of my "new" purchases come from Craigslist, it's fun to figure out how much the changes are costing us. So far, it's been pretty close to breaking even, if not actually earning money. It also spurred me to stop dragging my heels and list a few smaller things on CL/FB garage sale groups. So glad to have some of those items out of my house! It's amazing how getting rid of just a few things can make you feel lighter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 10, 2017, 10:10:52 PM
Finished another bottle of soap and lotion. Opened a new soap and another bottle of lotion. I can't wait to get to the end of this!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 11, 2017, 12:17:52 AM
Forgot to add, I also got rid of a bunch of gift cards and got cash for it. One major mental Todo done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 11, 2017, 01:01:25 AM
For those who are donating clothes and itemizing, I'm curious how you value your clothes. I'm never should what would be reasonable -what I paid for it? What I'd get selling it on ebay? Somewhere in between?

I am currently trying to sell a brand new trousers for jalf the new price. No hits, except for someone who wanted to pay 25% less.

For used clothes you'll need to get a lot lower. I have donated my clothes for free to some organization that has containers in town. I have kept one body stocking that has never been worn. I'll try to get something for it. Maybe for 25% of the original price.

I think my wedding dress could perhaps get 30 to 50% of the price.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 11, 2017, 06:12:52 AM
I gave away two small bookshelves to a student, and now everyone else is envious, so I'm going to slowly bring all the other shelves that I can fit in my car (5) for students to take. That'll leave me just three tall bookshelves to find homes for.

I also overheard a biology teacher talking about a fish thing in his classroom... maybe he'll want my aquarium?

And some teacher somewhere that hasn't converted all his/her files to digital MUST want my filing cabinet, right?

Anyway... progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on April 11, 2017, 08:05:35 AM
For those who are donating clothes and itemizing, I'm curious how you value your clothes. I'm never should what would be reasonable -what I paid for it? What I'd get selling it on ebay? Somewhere in between?

I use ItsDeductible https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/itsdeductible/ (https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/itsdeductible/). That way I don't have to worry about justifying my valuation to anyone ;) It's definitely NOT the purchase price though. Goodwill also publishes a guide: https://www.goodwill.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Donation_Valuation_Guide.pdf (https://www.goodwill.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Donation_Valuation_Guide.pdf)
Key points, to deduct their value, they have to be in "good condition or better". For large items that are NOT in good condition, bank rate says: "If you claim a deduction of $500 or more for a used item that's not in good condition, the IRS says you'd better get an appraisal.
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/valuation-guide-for-donated-goods.aspx#ixzz4dwwHVT9w (http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/valuation-guide-for-donated-goods.aspx#ixzz4dwwHVT9w)"

Hope this helps. Personally, I also opt to snap photos of all my donations and dump them into evernote. Makes it easier to fill out those goodwill donation cards, and if I'm ever audited I'm set. Plus it's a pretty quick step for some peace of mind =)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on April 11, 2017, 10:02:42 AM
For those who are donating clothes and itemizing, I'm curious how you value your clothes. I'm never should what would be reasonable -what I paid for it? What I'd get selling it on ebay? Somewhere in between?

I use ItsDeductible https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/itsdeductible/ (https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/itsdeductible/). That way I don't have to worry about justifying my valuation to anyone ;) It's definitely NOT the purchase price though. Goodwill also publishes a guide: https://www.goodwill.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Donation_Valuation_Guide.pdf (https://www.goodwill.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Donation_Valuation_Guide.pdf)
Key points, to deduct their value, they have to be in "good condition or better". For large items that are NOT in good condition, bank rate says: "If you claim a deduction of $500 or more for a used item that's not in good condition, the IRS says you'd better get an appraisal.
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/valuation-guide-for-donated-goods.aspx#ixzz4dwwHVT9w (http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/valuation-guide-for-donated-goods.aspx#ixzz4dwwHVT9w)"

Hope this helps. Personally, I also opt to snap photos of all my donations and dump them into evernote. Makes it easier to fill out those goodwill donation cards, and if I'm ever audited I'm set. Plus it's a pretty quick step for some peace of mind =)

Thanks for the links! That's a great idea to just take a quick picture before donating. I usually sell my old clothes on ebay, and can offload 75-80% this way, but there are some that just don't sell. This year even with our mortgage interest, we came in *just* under the standard deduction - I know if I'd itemized our donations it would've taken us across that line. I was kicking myself for sure, so I don't want to let it happen again!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 11, 2017, 12:09:16 PM
When we left our mountain cabin I asked my DH if he really wanted to keep 2  pairs of his old CC ski shoes there that he never uses. But unfortunately he is not ready for removing them. He also doen't want to throw away the old tent we had there. Now it is on it's way home again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: facepalm on April 11, 2017, 12:21:51 PM
Got rid of a bunch of books this past week, and have another two boxes to go.

Next on the block: Putting the iPhone on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on April 11, 2017, 06:13:01 PM
In the past week husband and I have broken a glass, a bowl and a side plate.

That's one way to declutter...

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on April 11, 2017, 06:45:12 PM
Over the weekend, I decluttered a pile of old camera stuff, cables, phone cords, and the like. Also just gave away the second of the four pairs of binoculars I previously removed from my office. My desk is getting there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 11, 2017, 07:17:03 PM
Two more bookshelves claimed!

If I can manage it, I'll bring another shelf tomorrow, but that one is bulkier and heavier, and I'm not sure if I can get it in my car without my husband's help. If not, I can bring it Thursday.

It's pretty fun giving things to students. The girl who got yesterday's shelves has never had a bookshelf before! She's so excited! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 12, 2017, 01:59:39 PM
I reorganized some of the camping gear, so that all sleeping materials, down slippers, towels and all cooking equipment are inside the house on 1 place instead of spread halfway in the barn. I threw away some nice to keep things that we haven't used for the last 10 years or so. Let's hope I don't need it exactly next year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 13, 2017, 04:04:26 AM
I set aside a work suit for donation as the skirt is too tight. It always has been, but I struggled on with it for years. The other day I was so uncomfortable that as soon as I took it off I knew I would donate it.

Then this morning I put on a dress for work... and realised I usually wore that jacket with it. I feel like a charity will get more money for the suit, so I don't want to just keep the jacket to wear with this one dress. I did find another jacket that will 'do'. I guess I just have to accept that for an easier life I must deal with some sub-optimal outfits. I'm sure I'll survive!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lemanfan on April 13, 2017, 04:35:07 AM
I took most of this week off to decompress a little and aparantly it worked.  Just today I got the energy to bring some unused stuff down to the local Red Cross goodwill store.  Less stuff here, more $$$ for the Red Cross.  :)

Some more stuff will go out tomorrow, but probably stuff that will be thrown away since it's a public holiday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 13, 2017, 07:10:48 AM
Three more bookshelves gone! The last one I can fit in the car is in the trunk and will be claimed today (there's actually a bit of a contest for it). The large ones are potentially claimed and may be gone within the next week or so.

I still need to find a home for a set of drawers.

We have three printers in the garage. THREE! I think I may just donate those.

The file cabinet and fish tank still need homes.

Really, though, there's so much more space in the garage already! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on April 13, 2017, 07:39:33 AM
If your tank and cabinet are in good condition, you could try craigslisting them?  For some reason, whenever I post a file cabinet (metro areas) they sell in days.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on April 13, 2017, 07:43:30 AM
I'm shooting to do this tomorrow (took the day off):

- Vacuum, wipe down and take interior pictures of my car to list it for sale. Moving to a single-car household.
- List multiple household items/appliances on craigslist.
- Hopefully get a list of items compiled for garage sale we're aiming to have later this month or next
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 13, 2017, 08:28:40 AM
I refuse to start packing yet, but decluttering is always ok. Put my winter boots away and wondered what was in the other boxes. Start looking through and I ended up throwing out 7 pairs of shoes. Then I threw out the tennis shoes that were falling apart after I bought new ones.

Pulled out a couple of tops that were poor decisions to donate.

Also selected some Wedgewood that I don't want and put in a box. Need to take pictures and post on Ebay. There's also a needlepoint doll house rug that I did and have been meaning to sell. I have the mailing tube, just need to post on ebay.

I have a plastic pallet to raise things off the floor, cluttering up the garage. I've kept it because I knew I was going to buy a house and move, but the house I'm attempting to buy has a crawl space. Once that house passes inspection I'll get rid of the pallet. (The first house I tried to buy fell through due to structural issues.)

And FINALLY remembered to throw out the broken lamp. Not repairable, and it's been sitting for months and just kept forgetting.

I'm sure there will be more. My roommate closed on her condo yesterday, and she's going to start taking stuff over. She's got a problem with stuff (all the signs point to a future hoarding situation), so I'd rather give her some time to clear out the crap before I start packing boxes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starjay on April 13, 2017, 10:34:01 AM
Love the idea of this thread.

I took a box of clothes to the local consignment shop, and hope to earn a little extra that way. I could sell each item on ebay myself, but I've found in the past that I don't earn much on clothing there (shoes/boots, though, have been lucrative).

I have a few more boxes sitting by the back door to bring to the thrift store - but have been putting that off because I keep finding small things to add to the boxes and get them out of the house.

Next up: over the next month, put many of the craft supplies (mostly fabric and yarn I bought and never used) up for free for Facebook friends or Buy Nothing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LindseyC on April 13, 2017, 10:56:02 AM
This weekend I am doing a massive declutter / organization of craft, art, decor and project materials. I seem to have accumulated an awful lot of stuff and while I have plenty of room to store it all - I don't know if I want to. Luckily there is a local free art space that would love some donations.

I'm writing this here to hold myself accountable!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on April 13, 2017, 02:49:54 PM
Ahh my husband is the best. He took a licensing test this week, and had borrowed a TON of reference materials from a co-worker (like, a duffel bag full). The day after the test, without prompting, he took all the materials back to Coworker! And then made a comment about how he's happy there's more space in the closet. Good man <3
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 13, 2017, 06:29:58 PM
If your tank and cabinet are in good condition, you could try craigslisting them?  For some reason, whenever I post a file cabinet (metro areas) they sell in days.

My husband wants me to avoid listing things on CL if possible because it creeps him out, so I've been trying to find homes for these things in a way that he's happy with, though he knows and accepts I'll go the CL route eventually if needed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Well Respected Man on April 16, 2017, 08:09:52 AM
FINALLY made it to the hazardous waste dropoff day. They rejected a few paint item which I can dry out and put in the trash, and I missed a couple of items, but it's nice to get rid of every CFL I've ever used, broken thermometers, paint, etc. It has been a long time coming -- one of the items I missed is the bathtub paint from our first house's previous owner. We moved into that house in 1999.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on April 16, 2017, 08:10:40 AM
FINALLY made it to the hazardous waste dropoff day. They rejected a few paint item which I can dry out and put in the trash, and I missed a couple of items, but it's nice to get rid of every CFL I've ever used, broken thermometers, paint, etc. It has been a long time coming -- one of the items I missed is the bathtub paint from our first house's previous owner. We moved into that house in 1999.

Wow! That's got to feel GREAT. Nearly 20 years of accumulation, done!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 16, 2017, 02:00:37 PM
People are bringing stuff into our house. We give away a tent for free and in return we get an asian dress to put around a wine bottle. What is the point of such a thing? Thrown into the bin. Same with the newspaper in 4 parts that FIL brought in.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on April 16, 2017, 05:06:52 PM
I can imagine your expression at the wine cover! I'd be a mixture of confused and resigned!

I found a new FB giveaway group and successfully gave away books and DVDs that had been sat waiting to get out of the house for months. I may also have a taker for a broken stereo but they might flake.

Also I pulled out a bag and box to find the stereo and found one was covered in mould. It had three pairs of shoes that are mouldy. So I talked to DH about it - how if he wants to hold onto so much stuff in our humid environment then he'll have to clean it. It's not healthy having mould growing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dreaming on April 17, 2017, 10:05:36 AM
Finally got through all of our storage closet.  Got rid of a pyrex 9x11 dish and covered cake pan to my sister.  Donating a tea light candle holder and a couple of kid plates.  Threw out some old food (this closet also stores extra food items).  We have wire shelves and 1 wall only has 1 shelf that is up high and it stores paper products.  Found some carabiners and used the shelf to hang up assorted bags that were cluttered and crammed into a space.  Also was able to put like items together so now the storage space is better organized.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on April 17, 2017, 05:20:17 PM
BiL staying tonight. I am giving him a toiletry bag full of miniatures (he always forgets to pack toiletries).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on April 17, 2017, 07:04:30 PM
-DS#1 sold a musical instrument for me, we split the proceeds
-I listed a unused gift on Kijiji and got a meeting set up..that will net some cash tomorrow
-I donated some new and some used hardware
-I try to sell/trade some organisational stuff, and drives me crazy that everybody "likes" it but I didn't get rid of it yet
-got rid of around 1 bag of various other stuff--
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BeautifulDay on April 18, 2017, 06:02:11 PM
Just moved houses.  Friends who helped with the move commented that it was the easiest move they ever helped with.  That's what happens after a year of decluttering.  With pretty much everything in my house I ask, "is this ________ worth the effort of moving?"  For sooooooo many things the answer is no.

Also, Moved into a house without a yard.  So got rid of a shed full of lawn stuff and now on my days off I can get out and enjoy the city instead of working on the water sucking lawn.  Feels like freedom.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on April 18, 2017, 08:21:52 PM
Last weekend we did a Craigslist curb alert and got rid of our tasty old tin shed in 38 minutes!

I also finally put together the horse jumps I've been meaning to build, and took most of them out to the barn.  The others are assembled, but need to be shored up with more screws.  However they can stand on their own and are out of the shop.  Lots of scrap wood used, including a cedar mailbox post we bought super cheap and never installed because it was going to infringe on the sidewalk too much.  Next project is turning the dog house + more scrap wood and unused wire rolls into a second chicken coop/run.

Donated a large basket for a division fundraiser at work last week. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 18, 2017, 10:16:09 PM
I think I finally found the energy to go through the laundry stuff and sort out what we don't use, what we can use up (and never bother buying again because something else works fine), and make some proper "cleaning kits" so I can find what I need to clean up the house without searching for it. Mmm yes, I love a neatly organised cupboard!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on April 19, 2017, 12:02:01 AM
Donated a bag full of stuff that I've been collecting in the past month. Need to get myself back to clearing out stuff before baby comes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on April 19, 2017, 06:26:09 AM
Little craigslist win.....I had a snowmobile helmet from when we bought snowmobiles in 2004.  It was for my son who was 4 at the time.  Sold to someone who sent a check including shipping cost.  Easy enough to box up and send away. 

Oh.....and the slightly (haha) bigger item.  The 2005 snowmobile that we still had from back then.  Initially we would go up to New Hampshire several times a year, stay at a nice hotel right on the snowmobile trails and go ride all around.  Over the years, that dwindled and we rode around our property. Last 2 years, it's made its way from the shed to the garage for the winter, then back to the shed, so up for sale it goes on craigslist.  We got a big last snowstorm so the buyer was able to ride it around a bit to check it out.  Pile of $100 bills and my shed spot now has bicycle hooks for my and my kids' bikes. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 19, 2017, 07:38:37 AM
I think I'll need to declutter one shelf in a cupboard at the time. When working full time  it is not easy to find the time and the rest to declutter, including the negotiations with my DH who likes to hang on to this. There is still a lot to declutter in almost every room in our house.
Last time I did it like this: Decluttered some camping gear:
- 1 pile of keeping
- 1 pile of throwing away
- 1 pile of in want-to-throw away, but needs DH's input. He only objected against 1 item, the rest could be ditched. This works better then stimulating him to declutter himself.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cabaka on April 19, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
Just moved houses.  Friends who helped with the move commented that it was the easiest move they ever helped with.  That's what happens after a year of decluttering.  With pretty much everything in my house I ask, "is this ________ worth the effort of moving?"  For sooooooo many things the answer is no.

Also, Moved into a house without a yard.  So got rid of a shed full of lawn stuff and now on my days off I can get out and enjoy the city instead of working on the water sucking lawn.  Feels like freedom.

This, in my opinion; is the best way to de-clutter.

You do not have to literally move, but regularly go thru your house; probably once a month and act like you are putting it up for sale and need to clear it out for anything you do not wish to move; you will keep it down to the necessary.

Personally, I keep mine so if I decide to take a job somewhere else(I'm usually on the lookout for a better one); I can put it on the market that week and able to move in two weeks. I went thru it once where I had to pay to fix it up and basically junk a lot of things I never used anyways; I have been cured. My closets are almost empty now as most everything I use fits in the dresser.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on April 19, 2017, 01:58:49 PM
-I've been enjoying the new "no sidebar" community page on facebook. It's a closed group, so your friends can't see what you post there (unless they are in the group I suppose).

-DH asked what we were planning tonight when he finishes work, and said he wants to 'do something productive, but not something outside'. I suggested cleaning up the office and decluttering it, and he seemed receptive. He also could use a pass on his clothing- a lot is wearing out. Maybe I'll do that again. I pull stuff out and set aside what I think he might want to let go, because of wear or size or what have you. Then he decides and lets me know why- if it's just wear, I know to start looking to replace the item for him. He doesn't have much clothing, so this doesn't take too long =)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on April 19, 2017, 03:54:32 PM
I use FB sale groups to give away stuff and the same names keep popping up. One in particular often wants my stuff but is then very flakey about picking up. I had it confirmed from a third person in the group that she's an actual hoarder. Makes sense. The annoying thing is, I don't think there's a way in FB sale groups to block a person from replying.

I am pretty much down to decluttering digital stuff now, although that includes CDs, an old laptop that are storing digital files.

I have to say, my efforts have made a difference. Our house is still a total mess day to day but given 30mins warning of visitors we could completely tidy up and do a good enough clean now everything has a place. If I can just steer DH towards letting go of a few things (he has more shoes than me and there's never quite enough space in the cupboard) it would be good so I don't find things with mould. He has got rid of quite a bit so I think my energies may be best focussed on stopping more stuff coming into the house! Also, we're going to do a massive clean out of the spare room to deal with mildew so once he sees it all and has wasted a weekend he might be inspired.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 19, 2017, 04:07:02 PM
Another Goodwill trip. Donated:

3 printers in excellent condition
1 fish tank
1 fish tank stand
1 box of books
1 box of clothes
1 tennis racquet
1 box of assorted jewelry and knicknacks
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fish Sweet on April 19, 2017, 05:32:44 PM
Slowly going through and selling off items from a fancy high end fashion style I no longer wear as often.  Taking a loss on some of those items, of course, but occasionally making a profit too

So far I've sold... 3 purses, a vest, 2 blouses, and "made" $350 (not counting all I paid for these things, of course.)  Still, better cash in my pocket than all these lovely items sitting around unused.

Some unexpected emergency renovations have forced me to go through my stuff once again, and now I'm starting to make a stack of books and games I'd like to get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on April 19, 2017, 11:31:25 PM
I use FB sale groups to give away stuff and the same names keep popping up. One in particular often wants my stuff but is then very flakey about picking up. I had it confirmed from a third person in the group that she's an actual hoarder. Makes sense. The annoying thing is, I don't think there's a way in FB sale groups to block a person from replying.

I am pretty much down to decluttering digital stuff now, although that includes CDs, an old laptop that are storing digital files.

I have to say, my efforts have made a difference. Our house is still a total mess day to day but given 30mins warning of visitors we could completely tidy up and do a good enough clean now everything has a place. If I can just steer DH towards letting go of a few things (he has more shoes than me and there's never quite enough space in the cupboard) it would be good so I don't find things with mould. He has got rid of quite a bit so I think my energies may be best focussed on stopping more stuff coming into the house! Also, we're going to do a massive clean out of the spare room to deal with mildew so once he sees it all and has wasted a weekend he might be inspired.

Sorry to hear you are still battling the mould problem, freshwater.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on April 20, 2017, 12:26:08 AM
Sorry to hear you are still battling the mould problem, freshwater.

I think I need to vac and dust more often and then set a reminder to run the dehumidifier. Stuff in our damp old garage (where there's no dust) doesn't seem to get mouldy. I hate dusting but not as much as cleaning mould off things.

I put my wedding and funeral type clothes in space vacuum bags and it's great being able to get them out without having to do a mould check!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on April 20, 2017, 01:45:12 AM
I think I finally found the energy to go through the laundry stuff and sort out what we don't use, what we can use up (and never bother buying again because something else works fine), and make some proper "cleaning kits" so I can find what I need to clean up the house without searching for it. Mmm yes, I love a neatly organised cupboard!
Laundry cupboard is now neat. I don't have "cleaning kits" yet, but I think that will be worked out once I have done a deep clean of the house and can notice what I'm using.

I freed up enough space to start taking stuff out of the study and putting it in the laundry!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on April 20, 2017, 07:36:04 AM
Sold and shipped a couple (small) car parts this week.

Car is also posted, but no bites.  Might be priced too high.

Now, I only have about 500 more items to sort through and sell.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 20, 2017, 03:59:57 PM
Approx 4 wastebaskets full of shredded documents
One shelf of books and DVDs
Clock
Goblet
Approx 2 wastebaskets of documents that didn't need to be shredded
1 box of books and trinkets to give to students
Condensed boxes of assorted notecards into one box

Up for debate: Sheet music? I don't really sing much anymore, though I do occasionally like to pull sometging out and sing it. I've got about a half-shelf worth of bound sheet music and another half of loose sheet music. Some of it would be very hard to replace. Hmmm...


It amazes me how I keep finding stuff to get rid of despite hardly buying anything in the past three years since decluttering became a goal. Right now I have three tall bookshelves full. I think it's possible to get down to one in the next several years. There's no rush, though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 21, 2017, 12:02:11 AM

Up for debate: Sheet music? I don't really sing much anymore, though I do occasionally like to pull sometging out and sing it. I've got about a half-shelf worth of bound sheet music and another half of loose sheet music. Some of it would be very hard to replace. Hmmm...

What about scanning it and keeping it on your computer (and on a backup server)? Then throw away the original.
Altermatively you could put the loose sheets in an ordner. Loose sheets are no good anyway.


It amazes me how I keep finding stuff to get rid of despite hardly buying anything in the past three years since decluttering became a goal. Right now I have three tall bookshelves full. I think it's possible to get down to one in the next several years. There's no rush, though.

Content of book shelves are hard to get rid of. We did a good job when we moved last year and threw away the contents of 3 cupboards. Now we have 3 left. But they are getting fuller all the time. People keep giving us books, despite me being a Kindle reader. My DH sometimes buys books on sale. We both bought more hobby books for new hobbies. And how to keep tracks of the novels that aren't read yet? They stay in piles in from of the cupboard, one pile per person, plus a pile that none of us has read. It hopeless. The only good thing about it, is that the book shelves are not in the living room, but in some bedroom that we use as storage room/guest room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on April 22, 2017, 02:32:00 PM
Sold and shipped a couple (small) car parts this week.

Car is also posted, but no bites.  Might be priced too high.

Now, I only have about 500 more items to sort through and sell.

HI
may I ask how do you sell car parts, my DH has some new parts from the prior car he bought them before he gave up fixing that car.
Thanks
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on April 23, 2017, 03:19:29 AM
Tomorrow someone is picking up our broken stereo that I mentioned a while ago (it was living under our spare bed. Pretty happy about that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on April 23, 2017, 06:42:39 AM
Took two sweaters to goodwill. A huge accomplishment, as these were hand knit, by me. Very tough to part with.

Also got rid of all my jewelry from college formals. I don't wear fake diamonds and pearls anymore. People from buy nothing will be coming to get them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 23, 2017, 07:05:10 AM
Tonight someone will come to take a look at my racing bike that is for sale.

Yesterday I received some usefull tips about a hobby if mine that will allow me to reduce some material that isn't needed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on April 24, 2017, 08:16:25 AM

HI
may I ask how do you sell car parts, my DH has some new parts from the prior car he bought them before he gave up fixing that car.
Thanks

Not the OP but we have sold car parts very successfully on ebay. We drove a car into the ground and were offered £80 for it for scrap. We sold everything - wheels, wing mirrors, door handles, spoilers, bumpers, seats on ebay. It was a lot of work but we made about £500! And then we still sold it to the scrap yard for £50 (although we did have to borrow a trailer to get it there, since, you know, no wheels... or steering wheel for that matter!).

I got rid of all my ski socks. I have never liked the brand, and since we are not going skiing next year I decided to stop storing things I don't like, and to buy myself new ones when next we go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 24, 2017, 09:47:10 AM
Finally got my act together and posted stuff on Ebay and craigslist. One item has sold, gotta take it to the post office at lunch to send it off. The rest is packaged, ready to go, just pending a sale.

Also started packing up for the move. Mostly disposed of a bunch of dust. Then, I wanted to watch a movie but decided to sort paper at the same time. File box is much lighter now, and I shredded/recycled about 5 inches of paper. Recycle bin is completely full.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on April 24, 2017, 10:43:23 AM
Finally got my act together and posted stuff on Ebay and craigslist. One item has sold, gotta take it to the post office at lunch to send it off. The rest is packaged, ready to go, just pending a sale.

Also started packing up for the move. Mostly disposed of a bunch of dust. Then, I wanted to watch a movie but decided to sort paper at the same time. File box is much lighter now, and I shredded/recycled about 5 inches of paper. Recycle bin is completely full.

If you plan on selling more stuff on eBay, get a scale so you can ship stuff from home.  The rates are cheaper and it saves you a trip to the PO.  Makes the hurdle of selling on eBay that much lower.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on April 24, 2017, 11:19:02 AM
Tonight someone will come to take a look at my racing bike that is for sale.


One bicycle sold. One left for sale...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on April 24, 2017, 12:35:25 PM
Sold and shipped a couple (small) car parts this week.

Car is also posted, but no bites.  Might be priced too high.

Now, I only have about 500 more items to sort through and sell.

HI
may I ask how do you sell car parts, my DH has some new parts from the prior car he bought them before he gave up fixing that car.
Thanks

I do a couple things in the following priority:
- Craigslist
- Car forums (many of the ones I use aren't as active anymore but can still get some interest)
- eBay

For Craigstlist you have to require cash-only and meet up in some kind of public place (I usually go for some kind of store parking lot on a busy street).

Forums and eBay will require a paypal account (they take a 3% fee).  You'll also have to keep in mind the cost of shipping.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on April 24, 2017, 03:48:49 PM
Went through our clothes, put two pairs of jeans, a shirt and a coat in a bag for charity.

Decluttered my spice rack. A few years ago someone gave me a starter pack of spices. Some had never been used and likely won't be, so out they went.

Now all my spice jars fit in my Anzac biscuit tin.

(A timely reference. Lest we forget.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on April 24, 2017, 05:07:41 PM
I loaded a box of books to sell to the used bookstore, but I was so tired after work, I came straight home. Hopefully I'll get rid of it before the end of the week!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on April 25, 2017, 07:24:24 AM
Finally got my act together and posted stuff on Ebay and craigslist. One item has sold, gotta take it to the post office at lunch to send it off. The rest is packaged, ready to go, just pending a sale.

Also started packing up for the move. Mostly disposed of a bunch of dust. Then, I wanted to watch a movie but decided to sort paper at the same time. File box is much lighter now, and I shredded/recycled about 5 inches of paper. Recycle bin is completely full.

If you plan on selling more stuff on eBay, get a scale so you can ship stuff from home.  The rates are cheaper and it saves you a trip to the PO.  Makes the hurdle of selling on eBay that much lower.

I've considered it, but am an infrequent ebay seller. There's a post office a block from my office so it isn't too bad. If I keep doing this though, I might change my mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on April 30, 2017, 07:08:12 PM
With the baby at home, taking on only tiny projects right now...
I reorganized the kitchen junk drawer, threw out just a few things.

Today I did my underwear drawer. I threw out a ton of underwear and 4 bras. I literally had a row of underwear for "emergencies". Underwear that doesn't fit me and I dislike, but was still in like new condition. Ugh. It's underwear I hate and haven't worn in 4 years or so...  It is now in the trash...

The bras were just in poor condition. And all at least 10 years old. I've only worn sports bras for the past 3 years anyway. I kept 1 regular bra that I wear when necessary.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 01, 2017, 12:08:51 AM
Finished up two more bottles of soap. I swear, they breed in the cupboard. I had thought I had cleaned them out of the guest bathroom and when I cleaned the medicine cabinet last night, I found four bottles of soap along with other random things hiding in the back. Pretty sure I should've kept them there in the past but I just can't understand why. Anyways glad they are getting used up now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: tomita on May 01, 2017, 07:00:21 PM
Thanks for your reply : sw1tch  & theadvicist
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 02, 2017, 05:13:00 AM
Got rid of some old textbooks. Brought some history books permanently to work as that's where I refer to them most often.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 02, 2017, 09:37:30 AM
Gave away an old pack and play we won't be using anymore. One more thing out the door (soon, pending PU now)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 02, 2017, 10:22:18 AM
Yesterday someone knocked over and broke my daily use ceramic to-go tea cup. My first thought was "well that's one less thing to make a decision about."

In 17 weeks (or so) we move abroad for a year.  For most of the time between now and then I will be living part time here and working full time 3.5 hours away.

Already fairly minimalist. Not much I don't use regularly, so not much I can pack early, but working my way through all my possessions again. Quite a few things, like baking pans, that I will use all summer but give to goodwill.  No sense storing them. Do want to keep my cast iron skillet though.

As for that beloved tea cup, thankfully it's spring now, I can be happy only having hot tea at home. Will carry cold tea with me in an old glass kombucha bottle which can be recycled on the way to the airport.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on May 02, 2017, 11:17:54 AM
After lowering the price of my car, I finally have some interest.  I hope I can round out the week and have it sold!

Other than that, my aim is to list one item per day on Craigslist until most everything is listed and hopefully gone.  I hope we can really get our items sold between now and next month. We're also going to have a garage sale in a couple weeks to try to get those items gone.

It's getting pretty exciting around here!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 02, 2017, 12:02:20 PM
I removed a frozen head and bones from a cod from the freezer that FIL had put there without our knowledge. Probably because he usually keeps this to make fish stock. We have tried this a number of times before and found out it is a LOT of work for something withoyt much taste. So this time we didn't want to bother. Now we have space again the the full freezer drawer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 02, 2017, 06:56:50 PM
Gave away a bunch of maternity wear and toddler clothes. Now need to fold the remaining ones neatly
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on May 02, 2017, 07:39:11 PM

For Craigstlist you have to require cash-only and meet up in some kind of public place (I usually go for some kind of store parking lot on a busy street).

Forums and eBay will require a paypal account (they take a 3% fee).  You'll also have to keep in mind the cost of shipping.

We did that with Craigslist early on, but I stopped the meetup elsewhere thing for the most part. What is coming to my front porch going to risk? Let you see that my cars aren't worth much and you're picking up $15-$20 in baby gear?  Going somewhere just wastes my time.

Actually, the last few have been "Okay, (baby gear) is on the porch in a cardboard box, just leave the $15 in the box" - no issues.

If a buyer wants to meet somewhere public, we'll walk to the local park.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 03, 2017, 12:06:16 AM

For Craigstlist you have to require cash-only and meet up in some kind of public place (I usually go for some kind of store parking lot on a busy street).

Forums and eBay will require a paypal account (they take a 3% fee).  You'll also have to keep in mind the cost of shipping.

We did that with Craigslist early on, but I stopped the meetup elsewhere thing for the most part. What is coming to my front porch going to risk? Let you see that my cars aren't worth much and you're picking up $15-$20 in baby gear?  Going somewhere just wastes my time.

Actually, the last few have been "Okay, (baby gear) is on the porch in a cardboard box, just leave the $15 in the box" - no issues.

If a buyer wants to meet somewhere public, we'll walk to the local park.

We buy and sell stuff on something like Graigslist, Norwegian variant. We just let people come to our house and we can collect at their house. But in the advertisement I only write the nearest town. They get the actual address when they are the ones that are going to buy. This works fine.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on May 03, 2017, 05:34:11 AM

For Craigstlist you have to require cash-only and meet up in some kind of public place (I usually go for some kind of store parking lot on a busy street).

Forums and eBay will require a paypal account (they take a 3% fee).  You'll also have to keep in mind the cost of shipping.

We did that with Craigslist early on, but I stopped the meetup elsewhere thing for the most part. What is coming to my front porch going to risk? Let you see that my cars aren't worth much and you're picking up $15-$20 in baby gear?  Going somewhere just wastes my time.

Actually, the last few have been "Okay, (baby gear) is on the porch in a cardboard box, just leave the $15 in the box" - no issues.

If a buyer wants to meet somewhere public, we'll walk to the local park.

We buy and sell stuff on something like Graigslist, Norwegian variant. We just let people come to our house and we can collect at their house. But in the advertisement I only write the nearest town. They get the actual address when they are the ones that are going to buy. This works fine.

Yes, Craigslist has a map option when you post the listing. I just put in the nearest major intersection, maybe half a kilometer from the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on May 03, 2017, 06:58:37 AM

For Craigstlist you have to require cash-only and meet up in some kind of public place (I usually go for some kind of store parking lot on a busy street).

Forums and eBay will require a paypal account (they take a 3% fee).  You'll also have to keep in mind the cost of shipping.

We did that with Craigslist early on, but I stopped the meetup elsewhere thing for the most part. What is coming to my front porch going to risk? Let you see that my cars aren't worth much and you're picking up $15-$20 in baby gear?  Going somewhere just wastes my time.

Actually, the last few have been "Okay, (baby gear) is on the porch in a cardboard box, just leave the $15 in the box" - no issues.

If a buyer wants to meet somewhere public, we'll walk to the local park.

I guess I'm only about a block from a Walmart Neighborhood market so never really thought about that.  There are some things, such as furniture, that people need to come by the house for anyway.  As we get rid of even more things, I guess it makes more sense to not really worry about theft as we don't/won't have much worth stealing anyhow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 03, 2017, 07:37:21 AM

For Craigstlist you have to require cash-only and meet up in some kind of public place (I usually go for some kind of store parking lot on a busy street).

Forums and eBay will require a paypal account (they take a 3% fee).  You'll also have to keep in mind the cost of shipping.

We did that with Craigslist early on, but I stopped the meetup elsewhere thing for the most part. What is coming to my front porch going to risk? Let you see that my cars aren't worth much and you're picking up $15-$20 in baby gear?  Going somewhere just wastes my time.

Actually, the last few have been "Okay, (baby gear) is on the porch in a cardboard box, just leave the $15 in the box" - no issues.

If a buyer wants to meet somewhere public, we'll walk to the local park.

I guess I'm only about a block from a Walmart Neighborhood market so never really thought about that.  There are some things, such as furniture, that people need to come by the house for anyway.  As we get rid of even more things, I guess it makes more sense to not really worry about theft as we don't/won't have much worth stealing anyhow.

As a woman living alone, I'm a bit concerned about strangers coming to my house.  We had at least one recent Craigslist transaction in our state that went terribly wrong.   I prefer meeting my buyers in a well lit and busy public space.  I use the parking lot of a local Target store which very close to my house.  Having said that, I tend to go with my gut and if I'm comfortable with someone based on the communications about the item in question, I will let them come to the house (e.g. a phone call about an item from a pleasant young woman who sounded polite, introduced herself and asked if she could have a look at it).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 03, 2017, 07:39:47 AM
Bringing another batch of clothes to consignment today.  I'm also trying to put together stuff for donation but so far I only have a couple of items.  Need to go through closets and cabinets again...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on May 03, 2017, 10:11:33 AM
Giving a few things away on our Buy Nothing Group on FB.  I also donated a lot of clothes last weekend.  I'm hoping to purge another bunch this weekend.  Woohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on May 03, 2017, 10:37:14 AM
I got rid of a handful of things through the Buy Nothing Group last weekend, all stuff the kids don't play with anymore. I also went through my daughter's shoes (I think we pulled out 4 outgrown pairs, and bought one new pair yesterday to replace them), and filled the recycling with more papers from when I went to college and a bunch of kid art papers. I have been putting all of their paper stuff in a cupboard and then go through it periodically when the kids aren't around, because otherwise my daughter wants to save everything. I hand pick the "best" kid art and then get rid of the rest.

I have made a lot of progress lately but I still have so far to go that it's easy to get disheartened. Well, I'll keep plodding along on the downsizing. I really want to go through all of the cupboards, drawers, boxes, etc and only keep what we REALLY need/want, but damn, it's hard in a house of five when no one else is interested in getting rid of stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 03, 2017, 11:39:26 AM
I have thown away more food, something I hardly ever do. Three portions of froozen leftovers. Two of them two years over the original storage date. One portion without any date at all, but probably old as well, who would know...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 03, 2017, 11:46:11 AM
So, for the parents out there, an idea. Looking back, I think my mom did this with us.

Go through stuff, make a list, box it up, and put it in the closet. Kid may or may not be aware of this, use judgement. Then, 6 months later or whatever seems appropriate, if it hasn't been missed you can just get rid of it.

My mom would drop of boxes of stuff at Salvation Army when I was a kid, and in retrospect I suspect they were outgrown toys and clothes that we might have had a fit over.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on May 03, 2017, 01:29:40 PM
I must have posted early on in this thread as it is in my followed list.  I'm ready now to do a major purge.  This is the summer of the purge.

I live in an older Class A motor home.  I also have a 10' x 20' storage unit.  I am in the same town as my storage unit now for the summer, and I need to make a huge dent in the amount of stuff I have.  I am now settled finally in a living situation that I feel I'll occupy for a long time, the Class A.  I'm ok having a storage unit somewhere as well, but not that large of one, so stuffed that I don't even know where the things I would actually use might be located.

Paper is a major issue, many bankers boxes of files that I think I filled when I moved about 10 years ago.  I'm working my way back to them, as I'm going through and shredding the smaller boxes and bags of papers I accumulated since then.  I've been making progress on this, as well as keeping up with the incoming papers, for the past month.  This morning I shredded or tossed several folders of stuff.

I also have a bunch of stuff to use up.  Large sizes of cleaning products, multiples of things like soap and shampoo.  I've been using these up for the past year, since I moved into the first motor home (I moved from a smaller Class C that was 30 yo to a larger Class A that is 20 yo).  It is a work in progress.

I've been reading this thread almost every day.  It has help when I'm uninspired.  I know that along with issues of health and debt, my greatest regret in my life so far is how I've lugged just so much stuff around with me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on May 03, 2017, 03:06:03 PM
Backpack (for backpacking) that sat in the basement for the last 13 years was donated to the universe last weekend. Unfortunately, the Universe did not want the old skis that I tried to donate also.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on May 03, 2017, 04:48:58 PM
Apart from identity documents and similar things, you could scan your papers and shred the originals. It's time consuming tho and I haven't done it myself. The approach I've taken is to register to get all bills etc electronically, then dispose of any I need to keep for tax after 7 yrs. In 7 yrs I'll have v little paper.

I like "The Summer of the Purge".
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on May 03, 2017, 04:56:55 PM
jooniflorisploo: I haven't tried the payment approach with the kids yet, but I'll consider it if it comes to that. Two of the kids are perfectly willing to let go of things they don't use anymore, and the third is making progress. She definitely doesn't have the "remembers everything" trait that yours does (and I do too), so I often do what Sibley recommended: boxing things up and removing them first to the garage and then for good, and not once has anyone missed anything.

The biggest hurdle is that no one else is willing to help with any of it. So, I have a family of five and a big house full of all the crap trappings of "standard suburbia", and I'm trying to tackle it alone, with a full-time job. It is SLOW going. My husband is also one of those "save in case we need it someday" types, although he's coming around with FIRE becoming a goal, and downsizing is a big part of our plan. Fortunately I have you all for motivation and support!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: albireo13 on May 03, 2017, 04:59:33 PM
Our local Goodwill gives receipts that are signed but, otherwise blank.
Motivation for tax deductions!   : )

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on May 04, 2017, 11:23:11 AM
I went through 3 folders of papers from a job I left in 2009.  The initial paperwork and such was a large part of it.  I'm maybe 1/3 through the container of papers labeled with that companies name.  I did that in an organizing effort a few years ago.  I worked as a contractor to the US military, so I felt that I needed to keep the documents for...  awhile.  Not any more.  I shredded most of it so far, threw away the insurance company brochures.

Most of what needed to be scanned has been scanned.  These papers left are not things that I need to scan.  They just need to be gone.  However, most of it needs to be shredded as it has information that shouldn't get out of my control.  So I think.  I have a heavy duty paper shredder.  I've been doing this for awhile now.

I also attempted to guilt trip my best friend into declaring it 'our' summer of purge.  She laughed.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on May 04, 2017, 11:27:34 AM
Daughter's boyfriend is getting a cat and asked if I had any spare "cat things".  I sure do!  He is picking up a litter box, a pet bed, a scratcher and a couple of small toys from me today :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 04, 2017, 06:01:34 PM
Gave away a backpack to a student. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 04, 2017, 07:33:13 PM
Scanned and went through paper collected over a month. Most of it is shredded now and the rest filed away. Used up some food before it expired. Sadly had to throw some fruit since it went bad before I could get to it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on May 04, 2017, 08:26:02 PM
*snip*
Most of what needed to be scanned has been scanned.  These papers left are not things that I need to scan.  They just need to be gone.  However, most of it needs to be shredded as it has information that shouldn't get out of my control.  So I think.  I have a heavy duty paper shredder.  I've been doing this for awhile now.
*snip*

In my area, there is a senior identity theft prevention effort that has been going for a while where the local towns encourage seniors to bring old documents to be shredded for free.  If you have anything similar locally, you might be able to get a huge quantity shredded at once for free or cheaply.  Alternatively, maybe burn them?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on May 04, 2017, 08:56:00 PM
Check your bank as well. Mine offers free shredding once a week at one of their branches.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 05, 2017, 03:52:25 AM
I have a turkey pan in my kitchen cupboard, while I have never cooked a whole turkey. I had plans to clear it out. Now my colleague said she wouldn't mind getting it. I just asked if she also wanted to receive my almost unused plush moose (big children's play thing) and she wants that as well for her youngest child. That will clear out nicely and I don't have to throw away thing that others can use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on May 05, 2017, 10:48:27 AM
Regarding the bulk shredders, see my comment about 'control'.  I have a nice shredder, and I have it where it is easy to get to now.  It is the going through the papers, not the shredding that takes time for me.  I have shredded the papers and receipts from my move the WA back in early 2009 before coffee this morning.  Gee, the money I spent on that move, most of it reimbursed.  Gots to get rid of stuff.  I'm tired of driving moving trucks across the country.  I moved my stuff multiple times (in 24' moving trucks) and Mom's a couple of times.  Summer of the Purge!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on May 05, 2017, 10:57:24 AM
Car is SOLD.  Of course I still need to collect payment but buyer is coming to pick it up (and pay) tomorrow.

Now onto listing an item a day.  I've been lazy and anxious while trying to sell the car and fielding inquiries about it.  I will go into rapid-fire mode over the weekend now that the car will be gone.  Also, the nice weather is definitely helping with motivation.

Next up:
- Gas lawn mower
- Manual push mower
- More car parts...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 06, 2017, 08:01:14 AM
I returned a borrowed book yesterday and will return another today. I've got a few more to go through, but one of them is Anna Kerenina, so that may take a while. :p
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on May 08, 2017, 10:18:25 AM
Wow, what a productive weekend!

My mom was down Saturday (we have a complicated relationship, so this is always stressful), and she took a bunch of stuff she wants to sell on ebay that I was just going to donate, so that was a good start.

Then, yesterday, it rained ALL day. My youngest, who is usually the one that doesn't want to get rid of anything, decided she was done playing with the "little people" toys, and we boxed them ALL up and gave them to our neighbor with a younger daughter. Then she really got on a roll and we went through all of her clothes, a bunch of stuffed animals, etc. She goes to kindergarten in the fall and has been very motivated lately to be a "big girl" so I finally had her buy in, without any prodding even. It was shocking. I didn't expect her to be the one pushing to go through and clear stuff out, but I took it and ran with it! We also cleared out a small rocking chair and trampoline that she previously didn't want to let go of, so that was big.

I went through a random box of my old "stuff" too, and now have a huge pile of stuff for VVA to pick up Friday!

We still have TOO.MUCH.STUFF...but a little less than we did before!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 08, 2017, 02:33:04 PM
I agreed to transport some art for a friend.  Never again!  It has taken weeks for the stranger on the other end of the deal to bother to pick it up. I had to move it just to get into my clothing shelf and my sewing shelf. So happy to have it gone!

Melted some crystallized honey today so I can use it up and finished up several small sewing projects over the weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 09, 2017, 01:34:18 AM
Yesterday I noticed that one of the grocery stores in my town has a gotten a bookshelf for book-exchange. This is a place where I can dump my excess books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on May 09, 2017, 11:02:24 AM
Three bags of stuff to donation, and three pieces of furniture promised to a friend.  It is a start.  I'm taking some personal items of a friend's up to her on a trip I'm taking in my class a motor home.  She was a snowbird and can no longer come down and live on her own.  It was the start of clearing out her mobile home down here.  She is not happy.  She is 91 and I have to remember to walk softly as she really isn't ready to let go of that part of her life.  Going through her extremely neat closets and drawers looking for papers and personal items (with her son's permission) made me realize again that I need to get my stuff sorted and pared way down. I'm 62 now, but at some point someone else will have to go through and get rid of what is left.  I want to make that an easy task.  Now, if my Mom would just stop giving me stuff as she gets her own apartment in order...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on May 09, 2017, 02:59:50 PM
Dropped off a box of cups and saucers we never use, plus some odd plates, etc. at Goodwill.  Also a tennis racket I was given - I don't play tennis!  I have another bag almost full of clothing and books, and that will go at the end of the week.   We are thinking of selling the house in the next year, and there is so much to get rid of!  I am not paying to move this stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 09, 2017, 06:37:07 PM
Cleared out more baby clothes. Also added a pair of shoes from husband to the donation pile. It just keeps comin'
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on May 09, 2017, 09:01:47 PM
Went through my closet again. Every few months I do a pass and pull out a few things I know I haven't worn in years and I would not buy again because it doesn't suit me.  Long, cautious process, but so far I don't regret anything that I've donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on May 10, 2017, 02:47:14 AM
Does anyone have any tips for encouraging a reluctant husband to clear some clutter? I have done so much but the house is still full of a lot of his stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on May 10, 2017, 03:02:17 AM
Does anyone have any tips for encouraging a reluctant husband to clear some clutter? I have done so much but the house is still full of a lot of his stuff.

Hmmm, not really, but I have had small wins but making sure like is stored with like. So when he sees just how many e.g rubber bands we have, he doesn't feel the need to save more when they come into the house. Also, the one in, one out rule - you bought a new shirt so we need to throw out a ragged one. When things are stored in logical places and neatly it doesn't bug me as much.

Something I need to work on is this idea that he must wear different kit each time he exercises and can't be seen in the same thing on consecutive meetups and therefore needs XX sets. No idea why.. I have two of each thing - wash one, wear one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on May 10, 2017, 03:06:59 AM
Finally posted a lovely, but not at all practical, wedding present on Buy Nothing. One less thing in the cupboard!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 10, 2017, 06:49:59 AM
Does anyone have any tips for encouraging a reluctant husband to clear some clutter? I have done so much but the house is still full of a lot of his stuff.

Is giving the good example doesn't work, then give him his one room to stuff as full as he likes and then keep his stuff out of the other rooms.  Than at lest it is not all over the place and you don't need to look at it. Presuming that you have this extra room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on May 10, 2017, 12:07:16 PM
Does anyone have any tips for encouraging a reluctant husband to clear some clutter? I have done so much but the house is still full of a lot of his stuff.

I struggle with this one too. My husband is the king of "but I might need it someday". I try to focus on the things I CAN control (my stuff, communal stuff, working with the kids on their stuff). I also try to keep focus on the WHY behind it. For us, we have a too-big house, and we will downsize to a much smaller house in a lower cost of living area that we prefer (somewhere with mountains and trees) in retirement. Also, we both like to travel, and having too much stuff weighs us down, and reduces the desirability of being able to someday rent out our eventual home on airbnb. Reminding him that we are downsizing the stuff NOW so it will make things easier eventually helps some.

I also second the idea of making it as easy for him as possible. My husband will never go through things himself, so I tend to present him with objects and focus the discussion (ie, do we REALLY need 4 of x when we only use the one good one, you haven't worn this item in 10 years, do we really need it?). Finally, I itemize everything in It's Deductible, so he can see the tax impact at tax time, and that helps too.

It is a slow battle though, and I have had only limited success. I'll take slow progress over non though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on May 10, 2017, 08:36:41 PM
Thank you got all the answers.


I struggle with this one too. My husband is the king of "but I might need it someday".

That is my husband too.


The only advice I have is to make the process as easy as possible for him because you're the one who truly wants the stuff out.  For my husband, I had him make a pile of the stuff and then I itemized and donated everything.  I was so happy to have the stuff out of the house!

Yes he doesn't see the mess like I do.

Rowellen, I was able to help five adult family members to release stuff by offering them cash outright, or to buy a replacement if they were to EVER regret the release. No one has ever taken me up on the latter, and everyone ultimately became minimalists, doing it themselves.

Good idea. Might be worth a try. All our money is joint so it might not be quite so effective lol.



I think a large part of it is that he is busy, tired and simply doesn't care as much as I do. Also the thought of starting may be a bit overwhelming.

I did have some success recently with recipe books. We have a few that we always use so I knew what we should get rid of. He actually did agree to donate some that had belonged to his parents as he recognized they were unhealthy and out of date so that's a win.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on May 10, 2017, 10:46:57 PM
Listed five things on Buy Nothing today. Most of what I post on there is actually unwanted presents which is a bit sad... I'd be very happy not to receive presents in the first place, but if you must give me novelty soap, I reserve the right to pass it on to someone who actually wants it.

Big task on my agenda for today and tomorrow is cleaning out all our paper clutter in the study. We've let it become a bit of a tip.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 11, 2017, 04:49:57 AM
With reluctant husbands, I just focussed on my own stuff. I had tried to have him get rid of old t-shirts etc for YEARS. When I decided to declutter, I took Marie Kondo's advice and just did my own stuff.

Even though I'd been telling myself he was a huge part of the problem, actually, when I really really pared down my stuff, it made a huge difference. It was also amazing how much simpler our lives became, how much easier it was to clean and so on. DH couldn't help but see this, and, most importantly, see the huge improvement it brought.

Slowly (without my prompting, which would have made him get defensive, I think) he just started offering stuff up as I was decluttering. I made sure to have the 'donate' box clearly marked, and he just started putting stuff in it. The more we did, and the more our lives improved, the more he wanted to get rid of stuff.

So, lead by example. It's hard to keep your mouth shut, but, for me at least, it really worked.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on May 11, 2017, 07:17:53 AM
Car is SOLD.  Of course I still need to collect payment but buyer is coming to pick it up (and pay) tomorrow.

Now onto listing an item a day.  I've been lazy and anxious while trying to sell the car and fielding inquiries about it.  I will go into rapid-fire mode over the weekend now that the car will be gone.  Also, the nice weather is definitely helping with motivation.

Next up:
- Gas lawn mower
- Manual push mower
- More car parts...

Sold the mower - now I'm certain I listed it too low as I got about 8-10 queries the first day and the first person paid asking price.  I only got one low-ball offer which is amazing for craigslist.
Sold a mechanic's creeper - also got loads of interest.

Now onto more things:
- Set of brake calipers and rotors for an Acura TSX/ Honda Accord
- OEM parts from my sold car
- Fertilizer spreader
- Couch Set
- Bed Set
- TV Stand
- Console & coffee table
- still need to prep for garage sale
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on May 11, 2017, 11:39:50 AM
Three pieces of furniture gone to friend who was actually able to fit them into his car on his way through town.  We both noted that a lot of the clutter in the storage unit is actually empty containers and totes.  I'm hanging onto them for now to pack stuff from the larger totes into as I pare down.  It is a process.  I am making progress, though.

Told my Mom NOT to buy me ANYTHING.  She enjoys thrift store shopping, and since she doesn't need much herself now she buys for me. ARRRRGGGGG!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 11, 2017, 06:38:06 PM
Former students are coming by this weekend to take all the excess furniture from my garage. Yay!

Once that's done, it's really just going to be a matter of maintaining a balance of what comes in with what goes out. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 12, 2017, 11:44:54 AM
This is my last weekend available to pack before moving, and the weather is finally warming up. I plan to swap clothes  out and cull as I go, start packing the kitchen, take down all the pictures and get them ready to move, and whatever else I can do. The more I do this weekend, the less I have to do later.

I've got a few things set aside for goodwill, but I'm sure I'll be adding to it.

I'll be acquiring some things as well for the new house. My parents have a full workbench worth of tools and stuff, and 90% of it doesn't get used anymore. Just clutters up their house. I've convinced them (mostly my dad, mom is cool) to give me everything since I'll need stuff. I can declutter what I don't need. But a decent amount of it I actually do need, so saving me money.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 12, 2017, 05:28:35 PM
The big bookshelf is out of my room and in the patio for tomorrow's pickup. My room looks so spacious now!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 13, 2017, 12:15:48 AM
Sold the second baby fence...for $15 more than I paid.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on May 13, 2017, 04:01:55 PM
Giant lego collection


Okay, I guess I'm going against the spirit of the thread - but I could really use Lego that anyone would be tossing. I spent hours today building Lego with my 3 (almost 4) year old at an open build event - I do have my old ones he's been playing with a lot, but it's really not that many.

ObDeclutter:

Tossed 3 shirts I don't need into the Goodwill box
Repackaged one mis-ordered car part for Amazon return
Cleared out the pile of empty Amazon boxes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 13, 2017, 07:36:15 PM
I got rid of my king mattress today in under an hour from posting it on for sale site. I got $60 which was way better than the $20 I thought I'd have to spend to drop it at the dump and to bribe my neighbor to let me borrow his truck.

I also went through my maternity clothes and but half of them in the Goodwill box which will go to Goodwill on Monday. I can't sell them because most of them were given to me free.

Went through newborn clothes and picked a few things to get rid of (they are so cute...it's hard to let go..what if I have another?) But those haven't sold yet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on May 13, 2017, 07:59:19 PM
Finally some big progress today! Dealt with a TON of stuff that was just... ugh! We decluttered the main areas of our life years ago, but it is so easy for small things to be left unaddressed- things like my chaotic drawer of nails/picture hang hooks and wire/command hooks/greeting cards/stamps/check books. WTH, right? So we split them, moved all the 'home DIY' type stuff to a more sensible room, and now the cards and envelopes have their very own office drawer =) Other stuff:
-Add and label some new hanging files, so I could deal with some misc. papers that had accumulated
-Sort through our 'go station' by the door. Scan business cards that had accumulated, get rid of old keys that don't apply anymore, etc.
-Cord boxes/old tech. This was a big one, and still ongoing, but way better than it was.

Happy to be making progress! Crazy how a house with mainly empty drawers and cupboards in most rooms can STILL have a ton of random stuff that needs tended. It all took like 5 hours!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on May 14, 2017, 05:33:35 AM
I'm at my most difficult level now.
Well, every layer is the most difficult, if we use the approach of culling the low-hanging fruit first.

But today I did some internal processing to see if I could open to letting more go, then felt truly able indeed.
Released some papers I've carried around for a number of years.
Some of it surprised me, as it seemed like it could have easily gone ages ago.


Congratulations!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 14, 2017, 05:50:49 AM
Giant lego collection


Okay, I guess I'm going against the spirit of the thread - but I could really use Lego that anyone would be tossing. I spent hours today building Lego with my 3 (almost 4) year old at an open build event - I do have my old ones he's been playing with a lot, but it's really not that many.
Yeah -- Legos never lose their value, as far as I can tell. Once kids are big enough not to eat them, they all go for the Legos amongst my kid-entertainment options. I've got three bins of them leftover from my childhood, and I haven't even considered getting rid of them.

Yesterday's removal wasn't perfect: the couch and file cabinet went, but no one had a vehicle big enough for the bookshelves, so they're still here. I'm just about at the point where I'm going to put them on the curb.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 14, 2017, 04:06:33 PM
Got rid of 8 scarves , 2 winter hats, a bottle of downy wrinkle releaser I've had for years and never used, a dog water bowl, and a stack of priority mail envelopes... All are out on the porch for buy nothing group pick ups.

Also threw out 9 cheap gloves that were without mates. I wear mismatched, but I have tons so it isn't necessary to keep them!

The mud room is nearly cleaned now. It's taken all day to do a 2 hour job because of the 7 week old who keeps attaching herself to me :). I sadly had NO nesting instinct while pregnant, and NOW really want a clean house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on May 14, 2017, 05:36:13 PM
A whole heap of stuff left my house yesterday thanks to Buy Nothing.

I'm also slowly working my way through our paper clutter - I'm hand shredding, so it takes forever but is quite pleasant to do while watching TV.

The study, which is/was our problem room, is starting to look much better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 15, 2017, 01:55:37 AM
It's not going fast with selling our stuff on finn.no, which is the Norwegian equivalent of GL. We still have 1 racing bike for sale and my time trial cycling helmet.

In the meantime my DH is trying to take up an old hobby of his, wind surfing, which he did about 25 years ago. He brought home from his father's house: his old board, an old sail, an old floating vest, mast foot, boom. He found out that the old sail didn't work and bought a newer second hand one (10 years old). He is also buying a lot of other stuff second hand or new to replace the old things that are rotten away, like the mast foot and a new mast. So our garage is filling up with additional stuff. And he hasn't even tried it out yet. I think it will end up with the board being to light for his current body weight (he weights 25 kgs more now than last time he surfed) and he might sink. Maybe we can sell the stuff again then.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: starjay on May 15, 2017, 09:10:20 AM
I finally got my boyfriend on board with getting rid of stuff! He started his own "donate" box in his office to start purging. This is a big step for him, so I'm excited!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on May 15, 2017, 10:15:38 AM
Packed up a ton of stuff this weekend for the move. Dropped off a couple bags to Goodwill, and I've got a few things on ebay/craigslist. The item on craigslist will be dumped at the curb when I move if it hasn't sold, will cart the ebay stuff to the new house if it hasn't sold. May drop the price a bunch to encourage it - I just want it gone.

I'm running out of boxes though, will stop by the liquor store and ask if they have any.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on May 15, 2017, 10:50:30 AM
Cleaned out my filing cabinet and condensed the important things into my two small accordion filing folder thingies. The rest is getting shredded today! Filing cabinet and all the spare notebooks and things are on their way to my brother's house this weekend!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 15, 2017, 11:15:40 AM
I don't know if I posted that I got rid of almost all my maternity clothes.

Also threw away two bags of trash from bedroom drawers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on May 15, 2017, 02:27:11 PM
Small progress- took 10 items to a clothing swap and came home with 6. This will actually free up a few other things to go out the door too, as I picked up replacement items for things that are just 'almost right' in my closet up to now. I also got a box out of my parents home to take to the reuse centre and have 3 boxes of my own to take there. I have a shared laundry/storage room with our upstairs neighbours and their piles of storage keep growing and mine keep shrinking.  All of the boxes I have in there for the past few months have actually been empty bins that I just keep putting more donate items in them every week getting as I get ready for another load out the door. Once they are full I will take them away and start the process over. I love this feeling!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SarkastikNinja on May 15, 2017, 06:16:31 PM
I'm at my most difficult level now.
Well, every layer is the most difficult, if we use the approach of culling the low-hanging fruit first.

But today I did some internal processing to see if I could open to letting more go, then felt truly able indeed.
Released some papers I've carried around for a number of years.
Some of it surprised me, as it seemed like it could have easily gone ages ago.

I've noticed this as well. The more you declutter, something happens in your brain that weakens the attachment to your remaining possessions. I've had the same experience where things I never could have dreamed of parting with, a few months later I don't care about them at all and donating is no problem.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nick663 on May 15, 2017, 06:30:03 PM
Sold a part that I bought for a project that didn't work out.  Luckily I'm pretty good at buying stuff cheap (bought for $240 w/ shipping, sold for $350 plus shipping) so even when my projects fail I end up ahead. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on May 15, 2017, 06:45:40 PM
Sent FIL home with a fuel filter. We had bought it for our old car, and didn't use it since we traded it in with the VW recall. FIL has kept his, so off it went! Small item, but still a victory.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JLee on May 15, 2017, 11:37:28 PM
I sold a car last week. Now I don't have to street park anything. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Stachey on May 17, 2017, 02:23:21 PM
I sold a car last week. Now I don't have to street park anything. :D

Exactly!  I got rid of my old car a couple years ago.  Now I don't have to scrape ice or shovel snow off of it or monitor the air pressure or check the oil (lots of constant maintenance and low level worries with old cars).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 17, 2017, 04:31:17 PM
Gave a bunch of toiletries and nice smelling stuff away on buy nothing group.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 17, 2017, 04:43:47 PM
My students were thrilled with today's giveaways: lots of books for guitar, music theory, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Remote_Landlord on May 18, 2017, 06:09:58 AM

Today I dropped my first ever Ebay parcel into my local post office (a blender I received as a present when I already had one....).

Just now I listed my first item on Freecycle.

Small stuff, but feels so satisfying....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on May 21, 2017, 07:02:22 AM
Used up laundry detergent - now down to the last one. We usually have only one but ended up buying three different ones to try out for cloth diapers. The sad part was husband brought the big containers instead of small sizes and it has taken 2+ years to work through the two extra ones. Now down to the last one and I hope we don't have to change detergents anymore.

Also gave a face cream to mom - one more out of my cupboard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 21, 2017, 07:35:47 AM
Used up laundry detergent - now down to the last one. We usually have only one but ended up buying three different ones to try out for cloth diapers. The sad part was husband brought the big containers instead of small sizes and it has taken 2+ years to work through the two extra ones. Now down to the last one and I hope we don't have to change detergents anymore.

Also gave a face cream to mom - one more out of my cupboard.

I am almost done using up a bottle of fluid washing detergent that followed when we bought the washing machine. Left is half a pack of detergent for white laundry, that I only use for white. When this is finished I can go back to using our usual cheap detergent and have only 1 box in the cupboard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on May 21, 2017, 09:46:20 AM
There is a "Free" weekend in my town in June. I have put a box in my kitchen and each day I am putting one thing in. Some days it is more, but I have committed to at least one each day.

So far there is:

I have also promised to gather up some bedding, household items and a small coffee table for some new Syrian refugee families in my town. So, I must do that today. That kind of giving gives me the good feels. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 21, 2017, 10:48:28 AM
10 more books designated for sale/donation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on May 21, 2017, 01:19:12 PM
Slowly but successfully downsizing as I just moved to smaller quarters.

*Condensed photo albums. Tossed unused ones.

*Reduced Holiday boxes -1 (would like to donate it all out and go homemade each year. But child has an attachment to stuff.)

*Tossed holiday wrapping paper (will do creative brown paper or linen wrapping or continue to reuse gift bags)

*Donated 2 other boxes of various things.

*Thrown out a bunch of stuff/trash.

Still going. If it doesn't fit in the house its out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 22, 2017, 06:37:54 AM
Cleared a huge pile of junk out of the garage.  More to do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on May 22, 2017, 07:11:23 AM
I have just started packing things up in my house. I'm not moving, but I'm having all of my floors refinished so everything except the kitchen and bathroom will get moved out for a few days (well, not EVERYTHING, but most). I started with a coat closet that isn't often used and got rid of a coat and some Christmas items.

Its just me living in the house and I really don't have much "stuff" but there is always a little bit to toss. For better or worse, this is the third time in two years that I have been prompted to go through large portions of my possessions. The first was a bed bug situation (courtesy of my then roommate), second was a broken water line and related flood to 1/3 of the house, now the floors (which is the last of the flood related repair). The bed bug situation caused the biggest purge as almost everything had to be either decontaminated or tossed. In the past, my roommate had trouble letting go of things, but her fear of bugs trumped almost any attachment. As much of a headache as it was, I secretly loved the bug purge.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on May 22, 2017, 07:48:01 AM
I've been doing some thinking and it might be a good idea for me to properly log everything that my wife and I have gotten rid of recently.  I'll just keep quoting this list and cross off & move the stuff that I've sold.  Hopefully it'll inspire others to get rid of all the excess junk in their lives.

Listed:
- Trumpet vases
- Couch & love seat
- Console table
- Manzanita branches
- Set of spare tires/wheels for 07-15 Civic
- Small weed whacker
- Jug of radiator fluid
- 17' Ladder

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Coffee table
- Multiple plate sets
- TSX/Accord calipers, rotors, brake pads
- Random OEM 07-11 Civic parts
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 22, 2017, 01:37:30 PM
Is it worth listing on ebayif you aren't a power seller?
I have some LSU baby clothes that came in a hand me down box. Not really a popular school around here, but I figure NCAA stuff is probably worth more than shipping.

Any tips?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on May 22, 2017, 06:23:30 PM
I am paring down which helps as the wedding gifts started arriving 2 weeks ago. I got an instantpot, flannel sheets, an end table, a ninjas blender and oven mitts. So I got rid of a holey sheet, ruined oven mitts and donated my magic bullet and blender. My fiance wants to keep the crock pot and rice cooker for now til we figure out the instant pot. :) it's super exciting to get useful things I was going to need to buy soon.

First week of May: I got back from Aruba May 1 and by the 3rd I had 4 massive boxes to take to Goodwill. We got rid of the rice cooker, the slow cooker (huge crock pot), the food processor, 2 non stick pans, a dragon shaped musical fountain, tchotckes, organization bins, a vase, a bulky Eiffel Tower shaped lamp, and all of our old cutting boards, old steak knives, measuring cups and spoons {we got quality versions for the wedding}. All gifts were opened and packaging was recycled/trashed immediately.

Last Week: We have a scanner and shredder now and last week I went through the equivalent of 3 file boxes and paired it down to 1 that needs to be scanned then shredded. The other 2 got recycled or shredded/recycled. I have approximately 3 more boxes to go through in my quest to become a paper minimalist.

Yesterday: I was able to clean out and trash 80% of my stackable sterilite drawers yesterday and rehome the remainder I kept. Now all of my soaping supplies are organized in the repurposed drawers. I cleaned out two milk crates, and recycled about 2 crates worth of magazines, work and school papers. I went through a couple rubbermaids I had left in the hobby room closet from moving last year- 1 is full of donation books, the other is now the Goodwill box.

My house is amazing! I love emptying containers and letting go. Reading Marie Kondo last March and then buying my first house has really  changed me. I love being able to only keep what I need and want.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on May 23, 2017, 02:19:19 AM
Still decluttering. Another carload to the Salvos today. Found a local shop that will sell good quality used clothes on consignment - pretty unusual around here, so I'm gathering a cluster to take down.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on May 23, 2017, 06:53:54 AM
I love this thread.  Thanks to the OP and all the contributors.

We have way too much unused stuff in our house, and at times the clutter gets oppressive.  Particularly toys that the kids never play with, but also plenty of random junk that my wife and I rarely or never use.  I tend to keep stuff "just in case" it may be useful one day.

Inspired by this thread, yesterday my wife and I agreed to each put at least one item per day in a donation box, and one item in a throw-away box.  We plan to keep doing that until the problem areas (mainly basement, kid's playroom, and attic) are where we want them.

In the past we've periodically gone on a decluttering binge when it reached a breaking point, but we always seem to end up in the same situation again after a year or two.  What have others done to avoid the cycle of accumulate/declutter?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on May 23, 2017, 08:07:29 AM
I love this thread.  Thanks to the OP and all the contributors.
  What have others done to avoid the cycle of accumulate/declutter?

Just being so so careful about what comes into the house.

Every time I pick something up in a shop (that isn't consumable), I think, 'Do I want this enough to declutter it in 6 months / 1 year / 5 years?'. Online orders sit in the basket for a minimum of 24 hours. I don't accept freebies - race t-shirts, water bottles, mugs etc.

When I do decide to replace something, I really replace it. As in, I don't keep the other thing 'Just in case', I get rid of it.

Every gift is scrutinised (after the giver is appropriately thanked). If I wouldn't pay money for it, I donate it. No-one has ever noticed and, with a family of random gift givers, this has made THE BIGGEST difference.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 23, 2017, 08:12:32 AM
Somewhere next week I'll borrow the hanger from my work. Then we can ship off a load of old twigs in the garden that are not big enough to burn in the oven. And some of the bigger articles that are lying around. Maybe some of the boxes with videotapes/cassette tapes, if I can convince my DH of that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on May 23, 2017, 03:53:57 PM
I finally finished parting out and putting up for sale a few Lego sets from my childhood I was keeping for posterity. They were just sitting in a box in the basement collecting dust. I wish I had done that several years ago. It turns out some of the parts I had were pretty uncommon and I have already sold about $200 worth of parts.

The next ask is taking some furniture I haven't been able to sell out to the curb in 2 weeks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 23, 2017, 11:13:04 PM
I read Unfuck Your Habitat (from the library) and felt pretty good about my progress decluttering. It had some nice sections about growing up with a hoarder and having negative associations with cleaning based on childhood experiences, and it was nice to read a decluttering book that understood people with chronic pain can't do marathon cleaning sessions. There wasn't anything mindblowingly new; it was just nice to read it and feel recognized. I don't see myself in a lot of the decluttering/cleaning books and blogs out there.

Today I decluttered nearly all flat surfaces, throwing some things away and putting away others. The only clutter on the end table right now is bills I'll be paying on Friday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on May 24, 2017, 12:39:50 AM
Joining the fray!  I gave a jar of lady's shave cream to my aunt about a week ago...does that count for my first item? :)

Today I listed a piece of jewelry on a Facebook group.  Hoping to clear out some of the more special things this way.


I love this thread.  Thanks to the OP and all the contributors.

+1


In the past we've periodically gone on a decluttering binge when it reached a breaking point, but we always seem to end up in the same situation again after a year or two.  What have others done to avoid the cycle of accumulate/declutter?

Well, I have not found a way to completely avoid the cycle.  Some things I have because I love, then after a time I no longer want them anymore, so away they go.  My best strategy is to keep a "donate" box at all times, so that we can corral those things and clear them out periodically and easily.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 24, 2017, 05:28:00 AM
In the past we've periodically gone on a decluttering binge when it reached a breaking point, but we always seem to end up in the same situation again after a year or two.  What have others done to avoid the cycle of accumulate/declutter?

I think getting a mustachian mindset will help. Just get used to not buying to much nonsense, because you want to save money and prioritize your pension. But otherwise, regular decluttering is probably the key.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 27, 2017, 03:28:23 PM
Gave away a bed frame and a set of sheets that I don't like.
A place I used to volunteer as an English tutor is now working to resettle immigrants- they are working with a family of 15!  I wish I had MORE beds to give.  But I'm glad to have this out of the storage room
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: OzStash on May 28, 2017, 04:15:45 AM
Another timely thread for me to join, as I pack up an accumulation of ten years stuff from my present house to move to a new place.

Threw out a bunch of stuff, and have a big box to take to the op shop next week.

I'm thinking I'm at least a borderline hoarder 😳
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on May 28, 2017, 02:16:56 PM
I decided to get rid of an oak curio cabinet. I donated all the hummels and antique glassware to a dog rescue that sells the stuff to help the rescue and now have the cabinet up for sale. I have been doing this for years and also ask myself before I buy if I will ge giving it away in a few years. I like a few decorations so my home does not feel sterile but not a ton. It also makes it a lot easier to clean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on May 28, 2017, 02:39:13 PM
Just confirmed plans to meet someone to give a piece of costume jewelry on Tuesday. 

Also listed an old computer for free; hope to get some bites soon.

Alas, nothing has actually left the house, but hopefully soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on May 28, 2017, 04:56:26 PM
I bought a totally frivolous ring today. Normally at the festival I was at, I would have also bought some kind of clothing, some kind of useless trinkets, and probably a weapon of some sort.

I went in wanting a ring, and that's all I got. It's not decluttering, but it was actively *not* adding clutter, so I'm happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on May 28, 2017, 05:00:14 PM
Quote
In the past we've periodically gone on a decluttering binge when it reached a breaking point, but we always seem to end up in the same situation again after a year or two.  What have others done to avoid the cycle of accumulate/declutter?

It is tough to avoid the cycle, unless you establish a few house rules: One item in - one item out. Keep a box or bag handy to go to donation. Huge one for me -  limit the number of bookcases, no hoarding of magazines - exception, max of 12 garden mags:) for me and 12 Nat Geo for him:)
Going through closets and drawers has become routine and even the kitchen drawers get a regular dump, wipe, re-line and organize. Same with the pantry, one big deep shelf at a time - check dates, rotate or toss or donate.
Gifts are either re-gifted, donated or used - no more stashes or storage of things I really don't care for.

My biggest problem - never ending paper clutter. I have made great strides in the past year and we both got rid of and shredded a ton of papers. Still the paper tiger has me by the tail - can't seem to make it through the last six boxes.

...and yup, I'm back on a de-cluttering binge, thinking of throwing up a 30 to 60 day challenge for 2017 - to keep me motivated and tackle some long overdue projects.

Last project was the inventory and re-organization of extra food storage, water and hurricane emergency supplies. So happy I'm done with that - thrashed some, donated some, now I need to replenish a few things, next time they are on sale to take advantage of bulk savings.
 
So far in 2017 - cleaned my side of the closet, bedroom shelves and cabinets and most of his - his five! T-shirt drawers are next on the list.
Finished inventory and de-cluttering, re-organizing of food storage - yay:) Trash-donation - done!
Cleaned out both fridge/freezers. Trash - done!
Cleared out one big bookcase and one huge shelf in the shed cum studio - donated, yay!
Cleaned up and re-organized carport and front porch.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on May 28, 2017, 07:00:39 PM
...and yup, I'm back on a de-cluttering binge, thinking of throwing up a 30 to 60 day challenge for 2017 - to keep me motivated and tackle some long overdue projects.

If you do, will you please post a link here?  I found last year's 90-day challenge thread super-helpful for my own paper tiger.  Still fighting the good fight...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alewpanda on May 29, 2017, 12:12:57 AM
Joining the party.  Hoping to list our house and seriously downsize/move cross country in the spring, so downsizing everything we can!

In the last couple weeks I've sold the following on facebook sites:

2 3 foot christmas trees
board game
glass pitcher
extra bike lock
decor items
jacket

On ebay:

3 books
several homemade decor pieces

Rummage sale:

baskets, baskets, baskets!
extra pots and planting supplies
board games
books
clothing
unused exercise equipment
chalkboard



Now sellling:

20 books listed on ebay
canning supplies on local buy and sell site
bike rack
more handmade supplies and crafting supplies
frame
chair
dvds



And there is more to come!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on May 29, 2017, 02:52:47 AM
We have an elephant in the corner in the form of a couple of shelves of stock that was left over when my husband closed his (never profitable) online retail business a few years ago. A few pieces have trickled out to friends, but otherwise it's just been sitting there as if it had suddenly become completely worthless when the shop closed. From time to time I've muttered "eBay" at him, but last week for the first time I said, "If you bring me a selection of your old shop stock now, I'll list it on eBay."

Since we're aiming to cut our losses and to get these perfectly good things out of storage so that they can be used for what they were intended, I've priced it to go, and it's going. I've checked out whether there are any tax or legal implications since the stock was originally purchased wholesale. I won't be able to sell it all straight away because my tolerance for wrapping parcels is limited, but three or four flurries of listing over the next year should be sufficient. I'll put aside what we make from the sales after paying associated costs, allow a "jam today" percentage for spending on something specific that we're going to need when we're both working little enough to go off bike touring, and invest the rest so that it doesn't just melt into the household.

I thought about listing some clothes that I never wear, but I looked at how much even very good frocks and jackets and women's sports kit in my size sell for in eBay auctions (nothing, mostly) and decided it would be less effort, and less cheap of me, to offer them free to friends and to donate any that remain to a charity shop. Having made that decision, it's given me the impetus to get on with filling a bag. Wardrobe space beckons! Must. Not. Fill. It.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 29, 2017, 07:27:01 AM
Why not use the ebay service where they list it all for you? They take a big cut- but at least it will all be gone.

I've taken my first stab of listing on ebay, but I'm pretty concerned it will cost me more to ship than what I'm making :( Ebay's shipping calculator doesn't seem to take into account the cost of shipping supplies.  I will need to buy envelopes. If I use boxes it will cost way more than what was calculated.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on May 29, 2017, 12:52:03 PM
Thrift store coat from 15 years ago is finally out. I still "like" it but never ever wear it. Stuff like this weighs me down.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on May 29, 2017, 04:32:45 PM
Why not use the ebay service where they list it all for you? They take a big cut- but at least it will all be gone.

We considered it, but the stuff is relatively straightforward to photograph and list and we've already got all the packing materials so it's worth the small inconvenience of doing the work ourselves to save a dealer taking a cut. Besides (shhh, don't tell anyone) I quite enjoy selling on eBay for short bursts of time. When I get bored, I'll stop putting up new listings and take a break for a few months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on May 29, 2017, 04:42:53 PM
@alewpanda - I am impressed that you know how/where you got rid of each of those things!

I've taken my first stab of listing on ebay, but I'm pretty concerned it will cost me more to ship than what I'm making :( Ebay's shipping calculator doesn't seem to take into account the cost of shipping supplies.  I will need to buy envelopes. If I use boxes it will cost way more than what was calculated.

Correct, eBay only calculates the postage costs, not supplies.  Can you scavenge/recycle shipping supplies from friends, neighbors, the workplace or Cragslist? 

When I was selling hardback textbooks, I would wrap in bubble wrap, then those brown paper bags one gets at at the grocery store.  Other paper shopping bags can also work.  Paperback books would get sandwiched between layers of cardboard, then bubble wrap, then the paper.

Same protection as a padded envelope, but the wrapping paper was free.  Bubble wrap usually came from an prior incoming package.  The only cost then was tape.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on May 29, 2017, 09:49:20 PM
Over the past week or so we filled a very large box with little-used toys to donate.  Of course once the kids discovered this, suddenly they claimed we're cruelly getting rid of their favorite things.  Too bad, suckers -- you should have played with it when you had the chance!  :D

I also gave away two old window A/C units to a neighbor today, and I'm waiting for someone else to pick up a third.  This was hard for me because it's the kind of high-value ($$) thing I can easily convince myself I'll make use of one day...despite the fact I haven't used them in years.  But I'm already enjoying the empty space in the basement and attic where these were idly sitting, collecting dust and cobwebs.

Finally, I dug up a pile of ~30 old college textbooks and started trying to assess the value.  As expected, most were worthless.  But around 10 had values ranging from $10-$40.  So I need to figure out whether it's worth it to try selling some or all on half.com, etc.  My local library won't take them until the next book sale in ~6 months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on May 30, 2017, 02:39:34 AM
Finally, I dug up a pile of ~30 old college textbooks and started trying to assess the value.  As expected, most were worthless.  But around 10 had values ranging from $10-$40.  So I need to figure out whether it's worth it to try selling some or all on half.com, etc.  My local library won't take them until the next book sale in ~6 months.

I recycled a bunch of old text books from college earlier in the year. I don't know what I was thinking when I was in college. With the exception of a few books, I should have sold those suckers back to the bookstore the second the semester was over. Everything I had was about 14 years old and worthless.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on May 30, 2017, 05:35:31 AM
Regarding textbooks.

Bookfinder will give you quotes from multiple buyers. I usually use Amazon or chegg. Maybe less money than selling on my own but much less hassle as well.

https://www.bookfinder.com/buyback/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on May 30, 2017, 05:44:18 AM
I'll credit my son who is home from college and doesn't start his summer job until Wednesday.  He started researching Lego selling, then searching through all the storage bins we have.  My wife never wants to throw out anything, saying that she'll bring things to the local consignment shop (who won't accept anything that isn't near near new, complete and in the original box).  Anyways, I started helping him and we're getting a bit of bulk out (very little) by separating out legos, mega blocks, duplo and brio stuff.  He's been putting up lego figures with accessories (the right head, the right hat, the right blaster, the right light sabre) and making some good money.  We have literally hundreds of pounds of legos from back in the 90's to near new.  His plan is to sell the high value, light weight stuff and then work down to selling just pounds of red blocks, blue blocks, white blocks etc.  While going through, I am finding the baby toys and broken things that really need to get thrown out (our youngest is 16) and sneak small quantities into our recycling bin or into the trash.  It's going to be a long process but hopefully we can start going in the direction of reducing all the crap in the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on May 30, 2017, 07:20:01 AM
I recycled a bunch of old text books from college earlier in the year. I don't know what I was thinking when I was in college. With the exception of a few books, I should have sold those suckers back to the bookstore the second the semester was over. Everything I had was about 14 years old and worthless.

I am in the same position. As a student I didn't ever have a thought about selling my books, or buying anything second hand. Although at high school, we had a book foundation where everybody rented well-used school books. This was organized by the school. But at higher education this was not an option.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on May 30, 2017, 08:59:08 AM
I recycled a bunch of old text books from college earlier in the year. I don't know what I was thinking when I was in college. With the exception of a few books, I should have sold those suckers back to the bookstore the second the semester was over. Everything I had was about 14 years old and worthless.

Exactly!  I fall into the trap of "I might need this someday".  Even if I'm right 10% of the time (which I'm probably not), it's still not worth it to have the remaining 90% junk filling up my house meanwhile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on May 30, 2017, 11:21:03 PM
Just confirmed plans to meet someone to give a piece of costume jewelry on Tuesday. 

Also listed an old computer for free; hope to get some bites soon.

Alas, nothing has actually left the house, but hopefully soon.

Yay, the jewelry is gone!  Went to a very nice lady.

Also, the shred bin is so full that I can't shred the last 2 pages without emptying.  Not gonna do it tonight, it's too late.  But that's another bin out the door tomorrow!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on May 31, 2017, 10:56:37 AM
We had a really productive long weekend! First, we got rid of a trailer that my husband had since 2007 and used maybe three times? My boss's husband has wanted one for awhile, so they finally came and picked it up Friday after work. In addition, I went through and emptied three boxes of old stuff from the garage. My husband finally took two engineering text books to be shipped to Bookfinder ($60 each). I also did a lot of shredding and nearly filled the recycling can again. There's still a lot left, but it was good progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on May 31, 2017, 11:00:53 AM
Box of maternity clothes to goodwill yesterday.  Need to get the rest soon, but I wasn't able to sort them all before the baby woke up.

Also Tuesday at noon Goodwill is hopping. Every parking space was taken!  No one else was dropping off though, so that was quick.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 01, 2017, 01:37:40 AM
I reserved the hanger at work for somewhere next week. They we'll get rid of a pile of ugly branches that have been laying in our garden under a sheet, put there by the previous owner. We have been too kind to him to leave his shit alone, but we wanted to get as much free wood as we could and there we some substantial trunks under that sheet in the beginning.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trifle on June 01, 2017, 04:56:37 AM
I have three big boxes of photographs that I need to scan/digitize.  I just can't seem to make a start on those.  Debating whether to train the kids in how to do it this summer (and pay them extra allowance) or else wait until the winter and do it myself.  We have a small farm, so I work outside when the weather is good.  Easier to find time for a task like this in the dark of winter . . .  How's that for procrastination, lol?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on June 01, 2017, 07:17:54 AM
Listed:
- Trumpet vases
- Couch & love seat
- Console table
- Manzanita branches
- Set of spare tires/wheels for 07-15 Civic
- Small weed whacker
- Jug of radiator fluid

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Coffee table
- Multiple plate sets
- TSX/Accord calipers, rotors, brake pads
- Random OEM 07-11 Civic parts
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Captain FIRE on June 01, 2017, 08:46:41 AM
Finishing up the grand kitchen declutter, I finally found the box of steak knives lost years ago!  Had fallen behind the recipe books (which are now neatly reorganized and many loose ones I'd never make thrown away).  Found out my husband recently suggested to my folks this as a present idea (if not channeled, we get a lot of nice, but not useful items), so we took that off the list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on June 02, 2017, 07:57:43 AM
Listed:
- Trumpet vases
- Couch & love seat
- Manzanita branches
- Set of spare tires/wheels for 07-15 Civic
- Small weed whacker
- Jug of radiator fluid
- Coffee table

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Multiple plate sets
- TSX/Accord calipers, rotors, brake pads
- Random OEM 07-11 Civic parts
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- 2007 Honda Civic Si
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console table
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 03, 2017, 04:48:16 PM
We had a huge, brand new Charbroil grill out on the patio...9 years ago.  For the past 5 years or so it's merely been a slowly rusting eyesore and home to hornets and mice.

Today I took it apart and brought it to the town dump, along with an outgrown scooter and bike, plus another bicycle that I ran over and mangled with the car a couple years ago (no kid was on it at the time!).  Although it didn't help declutter the house, the patio and shed are looking much better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on June 04, 2017, 01:09:45 AM
Decided to get rid of a stereo that my husband won at work .... 23 years ago! The CD player and cassette player haven't worked for at least 15 years and the volume knob is messed up so you have to turn it reallllly slowly to change the volume when listening to the radio. Finally parting with it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 04, 2017, 09:23:34 PM
Decided to get rid of a stereo that my husband won at work .... 23 years ago! The CD player and cassette player haven't worked for at least 15 years and the volume knob is messed up so you have to turn it reallllly slowly to change the volume when listening to the radio. Finally parting with it!

Wow, this is bizarre: I also won a stereo (at school) 23 years ago this month.  The CD player has been broken for a long time, but AFAIK the cassette player still works.  Anyway, it's been sitting on my floor near a pile of other things to get rid of, and I've been debating whether to junk it.  What a crazy coincidence!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 04, 2017, 10:24:36 PM
Also listed an old computer for free; hope to get some bites soon.

Yay, the jewelry is gone!  Went to a very nice lady.

Also, the shred bin [will be emptied] tomorrow!

The computer didn't go, so I dragged it to my car (redacted) so it's ready to go to the recycler.  Also have 3 old cell phones and 2 old hard drives to go, so won't actually make the trip until all those are ready.  Hmm, I should bring the cell phonesto the car...they were factory reset already.  Need to make those hard drives a priority so I can actually get the items out of my possession, not just out of the house.

Listed a printer & the table it has been sitting on.

Also copied a bunch of old CD's to the hard drive.  They will all go to the recycler this week, but I need to find shipping supplies.

Also need to talk to Mr. O about the stability ball.  It's been shoved in the corner for years; I think it's gotta go.  Last time we talked he was opposed, but now that it's sat there for (how much more) longer, maybe he has changed his mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rimu05 on June 05, 2017, 01:58:56 PM
Salvation army usually takes and will pick up furniture that you are not using. I had them pick up my stuff in storage from when I moved out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: GoConfidently on June 05, 2017, 02:24:49 PM
Nearly a year ago, I decided to get rid of 1000 items. I hit  that goal and decided to up it to 1500 by the one year mark. Now I'm at 1545 and I don't know how I'm going to do it, but new goal is 2000 by June 27! i love how clean and neat everything feels in my house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on June 05, 2017, 02:47:43 PM
...and yup, I'm back on a de-cluttering binge, thinking of throwing up a 30 to 60 day challenge for 2017 - to keep me motivated and tackle some long overdue projects.

If you do, will you please post a link here?  I found last year's 90-day challenge thread super-helpful for my own paper tiger.  Still fighting the good fight...

@oneday - the challenge is on and up:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Salim on June 05, 2017, 02:53:31 PM
Nearly a year ago, I decided to get rid of 1000 items. I hit  that goal and decided to up it to 1500 by the one year mark. Now I'm at 1545 and I don't know how I'm going to do it, but new goal is 2000 by June 27! i love how clean and neat everything feels in my house.

I am so impressed! I've already gotten rid of a huge amount of stuff, but the house is still quite cluttered. This needs rethinking.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on June 05, 2017, 06:36:20 PM
Nearly a year ago, I decided to get rid of 1000 items. I hit  that goal and decided to up it to 1500 by the one year mark. Now I'm at 1545 and I don't know how I'm going to do it, but new goal is 2000 by June 27! i love how clean and neat everything feels in my house.

Very nice, well done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on June 06, 2017, 12:51:47 AM
Decided to get rid of a stereo that my husband won at work .... 23 years ago! The CD player and cassette player haven't worked for at least 15 years and the volume knob is messed up so you have to turn it reallllly slowly to change the volume when listening to the radio. Finally parting with it!

Wow, this is bizarre: I also won a stereo (at school) 23 years ago this month.  The CD player has been broken for a long time, but AFAIK the cassette player still works.  Anyway, it's been sitting on my floor near a pile of other things to get rid of, and I've been debating whether to junk it.  What a crazy coincidence!

Wow! That is crazy! I feel happy that I let it go, although I had a moment of doubt just because of the somewhat sentimental nature of winning it. We just don't need it and its huge and ugly. Glad its gone. Go for it! Release it! hahahaha!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jim555 on June 06, 2017, 04:46:51 AM
I had some cassette tapes I played into my computer and made sound files out of.  So the player and tapes are now gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 06, 2017, 09:56:14 AM
I just loaded a borrowed hanger full of old branches that have been left under a sheet in our garden by the previous owner. Will be disposed of tomorrow morning before work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 06, 2017, 01:56:43 PM
Rosy, thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 06, 2017, 10:12:32 PM
The printer was snapped up, but the table is languishing.  Need to ask Mr. O where the shipping supplies are so those CD's can go bye-bye.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Penny Lane on June 07, 2017, 07:14:19 AM
We rented 2 tables at the local flea market last weekend ( $14) and brought all kinds of stuff to sell-- ice skates, brass fittings, books, candlesticks, dishes, some antiques, framed art we don't hang etc-- and netted $350 in a couple of enjoyable hours.  Gave away our skis/boots/poles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on June 07, 2017, 11:14:55 AM
We rented 2 tables at the local flea market last weekend ( $14) and brought all kinds of stuff to sell-- ice skates, brass fittings, books, candlesticks, dishes, some antiques, framed art we don't hang etc-- and netted $350 in a couple of enjoyable hours.  Gave away our skis/boots/poles.

!!! We might need to do something similar!!! My wife likes flea markets anyway, so it wouldn't hurt to have a go at it to get rid of some of our stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MandyM on June 07, 2017, 02:57:44 PM
I have just started packing things up in my house. I'm not moving, but I'm having all of my floors refinished so everything except the kitchen and bathroom will get moved out for a few days (well, not EVERYTHING, but most). I started with a coat closet that isn't often used and got rid of a coat and some Christmas items.

Its just me living in the house and I really don't have much "stuff" but there is always a little bit to toss. For better or worse, this is the third time in two years that I have been prompted to go through large portions of my possessions. The first was a bed bug situation (courtesy of my then roommate), second was a broken water line and related flood to 1/3 of the house, now the floors (which is the last of the flood related repair). The bed bug situation caused the biggest purge as almost everything had to be either decontaminated or tossed. In the past, my roommate had trouble letting go of things, but her fear of bugs trumped almost any attachment. As much of a headache as it was, I secretly loved the bug purge.

Due to my contractor getting behind schedule, I have now lived over week with the vast majority of my things stored in the garage. I.love.it. My closet is empty other than the items I wear weekly and my living room has a reclining lawn chair and my tv. It helps that my kitchen is completely intact, but it has prompted me to purge a few items from there as well. After my floors are done, I only plan to bring things back into the house as I need them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 09, 2017, 02:07:36 AM
Feeling the need to organize my posts here!  Worried I might miss something.

Gone (see, I did make progress):
shaving cream
costume jewelery
old printer
1 shred bin full

Almost gone:
electronics (waiting for the hard drives to be cleared)
CD's (need shipping materials)
side table (listed, but no interest yet)

Priority to move out next:
stability ball
yarn
paper monster
skis
bike
too-fancy knitting purse/handbag

Whew, that feels better.  My organizing efforts are organized again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on June 09, 2017, 05:17:14 AM
Our local buy nothing group is having an in person event on Friday that I think will end up being a giant disaster (the moderator has posted about it to the public, people who haven't been in our group, aren't in the boundaries, and aren't bringing things to give- tables of free stuff? Gonna be a grab fest.)

But I'm trying to put together a box of stuff to take though.

This is town wide garage sale weekend. I'm going to try to avoid going. I really don't need anything. Baby clothes, but it's too hard to guess her size ahead of time.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on June 09, 2017, 09:49:17 AM
Cleaned the garage last weekend. It felt a little overwhelming but DH and I decided ahead of time we would focus on the "low hanging fruit". Got a full van's worth of stuff outta there. I also labeled a few boxes.

went through DD's closet- I big bag of clothing to Goodwill and 2 bags of the nicer things to our local parish who has a free-store where folks in need can shop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on June 09, 2017, 12:32:27 PM
DH and I recently moved into our new home.  I'd been donating items for months prior, but we still have so much, it seems!  As I've been unpacking, I've scrutinized every item.  So far in the donate pile:

1 suit-Outdated, but in good shape, so I'm hoping a woman with an office job can utilize it.
3 shirts
1 blazer
3 t-shirts
5 pairs of shoes (One never worn pair.  I've moved 6-8 times since purchasing them.  What a waste!)

Last night I reduced 1 1/2 shoe boxes of junk drawer items into one small drawer

In the misc toss/giveaway box is a travel mug, tray from a toaster oven we gave away last year, and a few other things.

Goals this week is to add 11 more donation clothing items, and to finish the kitchen.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on June 09, 2017, 01:09:22 PM
This morning I finished sorting through another box of papers, this one mostly monthly statements for a Jeep I no longer own and paid off 5 years before I got rid of it, old 401(k) statements for a couple of 401(k) accounts I no longer have, and a few things I kept, like certificate of health insurance letters and doctor results for things done pre-2010.  Mostly shredded the papers, kept maybe 1/3 to be gone through again once I have the biggest amount of crap gone.  Now to tidy up what I kept, and then go get another box of papers out of storage.

Also have at least one long sleeve tshirt to donate, and a handful of refrigerator magnets to add in.  My current RV fridge doesn't hold magnets.  Small steps.

I'm taking a few food items to some friends that are move than I can eat in a timely manner that were bought when I still 'stocked up' from Costco.

This is slow, but it is getting done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 09, 2017, 01:24:35 PM
I should also have a look at old papers. I think I still have salary printouts from my first jobs prior to 1998. Also all sorts of insurance papers of insurances we ever have had in the time everything was sent to us in paper.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on June 09, 2017, 03:30:28 PM
I should also have a look at old papers. I think I still have salary printouts from my first jobs prior to 1998. Also all sorts of insurance papers of insurances we ever have had in the time everything was sent to us in paper.

I've mostly been ruthless about getting rid of paper (sometimes too ruthless), but just a few days ago I came upon a box of old statements that had moved house with us six years ago because at that time they were still recent enough for me to need to keep them in case the taxman took a close interest in my freelance income. I could probably shred them now.

My husband's old online shop stock is still trickling out of the house and I've chipped off the tip of my craft supplies mountain. My eBay attention span is starting to reach its end and we've got a vacation coming up in just under two weeks, so I'll terminate any remaining listings then and come back to it later in the year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CloserToFree on June 09, 2017, 10:35:20 PM
Did a massive cull of all the hand me down baby clothes we've been storing for potential kid #2.  Realized we only need a small fraction of what we have.  Took about eight boxes of boy and girl clothes to a local women's shelter that accepts donations.  Feel great knowing that someone who needs this stuff will get to use it, rather than having it take up space and our house and collect dust.  Freed up 4 underbed storage boxes in the process!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on June 10, 2017, 07:14:19 AM
I'm cleaning out my classroom this week. I did such a good job decluttering last year that there hasn't been much to dispose of. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on June 10, 2017, 04:36:33 PM
I recycled a bunch of old text books from college earlier in the year. I don't know what I was thinking when I was in college. With the exception of a few books, I should have sold those suckers back to the bookstore the second the semester was over. Everything I had was about 14 years old and worthless.

Exactly!  I fall into the trap of "I might need this someday".  Even if I'm right 10% of the time (which I'm probably not), it's still not worth it to have the remaining 90% junk filling up my house meanwhile.

"I might need this someday" is my middle name. Inherited it from my Dad who grew up in the Depression.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 11, 2017, 11:53:48 AM
Over the past week or so we filled a very large box with little-used toys to donate.

Took us a while, but the big box of toys went to the Goodwill today.  Also a couple dozen items of baby clothes, a changing table cushion, and a giant plastic painting easel the kids used just a couple times in several years.  It feels awesome to have that stuff out of the house!

Quote
Finally, I dug up a pile of ~30 old college textbooks and started trying to assess the value.  As expected, most were worthless.  But around 10 had values ranging from $10-$40.  So I need to figure out whether it's worth it to try selling some or all on half.com, etc.  My local library won't take them until the next book sale in ~6 months.

Bah, no progress on this one yet.  :(

I've also started sorting through a large box of old computer stuff.  Cases, mice, dozens of cords and cables, routers, modems, a laptop with a broken screen...oh my.  If I could put it all in a giant box and give it to a someone who could scavenge the useful parts and responsibly recycle the rest, I'd do it in a heartbeat.  Does anyone have any ideas about this?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on June 11, 2017, 02:02:56 PM
Over the past week or so we filled a very large box with little-used toys to donate.

Took us a while, but the big box of toys went to the Goodwill today.  Also a couple dozen items of baby clothes, a changing table cushion, and a giant plastic painting easel the kids used just a couple times in several years.  It feels awesome to have that stuff out of the house!

Quote
Finally, I dug up a pile of ~30 old college textbooks and started trying to assess the value.  As expected, most were worthless.  But around 10 had values ranging from $10-$40.  So I need to figure out whether it's worth it to try selling some or all on half.com, etc.  My local library won't take them until the next book sale in ~6 months.

Bah, no progress on this one yet.  :(

I've also started sorting through a large box of old computer stuff.  Cases, mice, dozens of cords and cables, routers, modems, a laptop with a broken screen...oh my.  If I could put it all in a giant box and give it to a someone who could scavenge the useful parts and responsibly recycle the rest, I'd do it in a heartbeat.  Does anyone have any ideas about this?

Do you belong to any Facebook Buy/Sell groups? I would post it on there. I gave away an old laptop that way.

I sold an old box of record albums today for $50. Actually had a lot of people respond that they wanted it. I guess vinyl is making a comeback.

Also sorted some papers for shredding and a bunch of old file folders for recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on June 11, 2017, 03:30:43 PM
Smalfor today.  I am going through old foodstuffs and seeing if any of it is still good.  I had a container of dehydrated sausage flavored tofu (or whatever the version it was, not meat) that I tried this morning.  It tasted old, or maybe I just don't like it.  It has been open for over a year on the shelf, so it is now in the trash.  Also, tossed some eggs that floated in a glass of water.  I already had new eggs given to me, and someone told me to not get food poisoning over $.80 worth of eggs.

Next us, chili to use up a can or two of beans.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SingleMomDebt on June 11, 2017, 03:33:43 PM
I have lots of success with FB buy/sell groups for buying, selling and giving away. Second that notion. :)

Backstory: downsized from 900 to 600 sq ft.

- emptied a dresser. Found more suitable place for contents. Dresser gone. Woohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: dreaming on June 11, 2017, 04:00:24 PM
Got rid of kids school papers from this last school year.  Only kept the fun stuff which is anything written about them, any written projects, art projects and awards.  A lot went into the recycle bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 12, 2017, 02:31:04 AM
I got my DH to throw away a broken bicycle tire that was hanging for 2 weeks over a dining table chair. ;-)
Otherwise it is going slowly, also the second hand sales.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on June 12, 2017, 09:52:37 AM
We were camping this past weekend, so when we got home and had everything cleaned up, we went through ALL the camping boxes and consolidated/got rid of a LOT that we haven't used in years. I'm happy we got anything accomplished at all; DH really, really didn't want to deal with it, but I insisted. I'm sick of scrambling to go on a trip, realizing we missed things, and then shoving it all back in boxes when we get home, to "deal with later". I even re-purposed a wooden spoon, tongs, and two oven mitts (all things we were sorely lacking on this trip...) from the kitchen to the camping box. He would have run out to buy new things for camping, but we have four sets of tongs in the kitchen and even more wooden spoons...no need to buy anything, plus it de-clutters the kitchen.

Oh, and he finally moved the 3D printer to the garage and got rid of all the packaging. It's been sitting in our office for months, to my great annoyance. Baby steps...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 12, 2017, 02:03:53 PM
I moved a few weeks ago, and that went fairly well. My former roommate moved last week, and as expected didn't manage to quite clear out the old place. We filled up the recycling and trash bins and also had to drag out a couch and exercise machine that she'd accumulated (both trash picked and not used).

However, no longer my problem.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 12, 2017, 11:35:58 PM
Almost gone:
side table (listed, but no interest yet) - I've got a bite! I hope it pans out.

Also found a shirt to put in the donate box and a worn-out sweater in the trash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on June 12, 2017, 11:51:20 PM
Shredded old paperwork from an old job-liberating. Also a big file of statements. So excited to have started clearing out the paper clutter hoard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 14, 2017, 12:58:25 AM
Still making arrangements with the interested party for the side table, but looks like it will be gone tomorrow. If not, I have a second party now interested.

Photographed the yarn; will try to list it tomorrow at lunch. This could be a challenge on the tablet.

Trying to put away a bulk purchase under the kitchen sink, I spilled water out of a long-unused watering can. Can went in the donate box and many of the other "potions" went in a bag for the has mat place. An annoying accident, but it pushed me to clear out that cabinet. Yay?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 2microsNH on June 14, 2017, 05:20:53 AM
I just donated about 100 books to our local library.... good ones, too. I'd read most of them at least once, and the others I never read because they didn't interest me. My partner was alarmed that I donated so many books! He said, "Books are such good things to have." I disagreed... "Books are such good things to have read." He realizes his attachment to keeping things is irrational, so his reaction was amusing to both of us. Tomorrow I attack all the miscellaneous bike stuff.

It feels great to purge and simplify!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 14, 2017, 01:31:41 PM
Do you belong to any Facebook Buy/Sell groups? I would post it on there. I gave away an old laptop that way.

I do belong to a couple local FB buy/sell groups.  I've managed to get rid of a couple things that way, but the no-show rate is almost as bad as Craigslist.

"You'd never believe it, on the way to your house my car broke down.  I don't think I'll have a car for a while, so..."
"My uncle/grandparent/cousin just died, and now's not a good time."
"My son sprained his pancreas and I'll be in the hospital with him for a while."
"After talking it over with my spouse/child/landlord, it turns out I'm not going to be able to use that."
"Would you take 1/2 the agreed-upon amount?  No?  Sorry, it's out of my budget."
"I know I said I'd be there on Friday, and again on Saturday, but I was busy.  How about Tuesday?"
"I'll be there in 1/2 hour!" (never shows up, never responds to further PM's)

The good news is I just found out that Best Buy, Staples, and an electronics recycling company not far away will all take my old computer stuff for free - cables and all.  I'm pretty excited about that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on June 14, 2017, 01:53:51 PM
With about 10 months until FIRE and a planned move to Europe, I really need to refocus my efforts to get rid of stuff.  The problem is I am waiting for my daughter to graduate, get a job and move out so that she can pick out what she wants of my stuff.  She will be done with school at the end of this week, so the first step is almost complete :-)  Hopefully she will have a job and her own place in the next few months...

In the meantime, I would like to put together another pile of stuff for donation and/or consignment.  So far I have a pair of shoes and an old backpack set aside.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on June 14, 2017, 04:33:34 PM
I gave away to a rescue group a bunch of hummels and antique glassware. They will sell it for the rescue.  I sold the curio cabinet they were in. There is a new place called Offerup that you can sell things locally. Just like CL it takes time to weed out the people really not interested, ones that don't show up etc but I sold the cabinet in a week so not too bad. Also if something does not sell I lower the price until it does.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 15, 2017, 12:28:50 AM
Table gone!

Yarn listed!

Progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on June 15, 2017, 04:57:29 AM
Back in this thread after a long hiatus! I started this thread a few years ago in anticipation of quitting my job to travel and to move interstate. Now I'm here again for the same reason! Apparently there are things that I didn't get rid of the first time around that I'm ready to let go of now. Donated 5 items of clothing today to the local charity shop. Feels great! Going to see what else there is that I can donate or throw away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on June 15, 2017, 05:50:45 AM
I deleted 7000 emails today *preen* :)

I also sorted out my email properly so that when I delete a message on one device it also deletes it on all my other devices. It's only been about two years on the to do list.

Still have about 1000 to delete and then there's hubby's account.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on June 15, 2017, 05:51:45 AM
Back in this thread after a long hiatus! I started this thread a few years ago in anticipation of quitting my job to travel and to move interstate. Now I'm here again for the same reason! Apparently there are things that I didn't get rid of the first time around that I'm ready to let go of now. Donated 5 items of clothing today to the local charity shop. Feels great! Going to see what else there is that I can donate or throw away.

Welcome back! This thread is your legacy, it will outlive us all ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ariapluscat on June 15, 2017, 08:51:41 AM
i've sold over $200 worth of old books and $40 for my old barstools. i'm going to keep working on downsizing before my move!

i have plants i want to sell, but i'm not sure how to best list them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 17, 2017, 12:34:11 AM
For as much interest as the yarn generated, it has been surprisingly difficult to meet up with anyone. Seems like I have a solid commitment for tomorrow, though.

Dropped off the electronics today. Turns out that place also takes CD's, so those are gone too. A two-fer! I still have not got the old hard drives cleaned off, so will be making another trip out there at some point.

Tomorrow will be a big day. Haz mat from under the sink, a library book and some hair (haircut!). Let's see if I can also get the skis and maybe, just maybe, the purse listed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 17, 2017, 12:39:56 AM
Back in this thread after a long hiatus! I started this thread a few years ago in anticipation of quitting my job to travel and to move interstate. Now I'm here again for the same reason! Apparently there are things that I didn't get rid of the first time around that I'm ready to let go of now. Donated 5 items of clothing today to the local charity shop. Feels great! Going to see what else there is that I can donate or throw away.

Seems like it never ends. My aim is to become a minimalist ever so slowly, so I get used to the declining amount of stuff along the way. Hoping that will shut up the little voice in my head that tells me its OK to bring home "just this one thing."

PS - did I forgot to say thanks for this thread? Limeandpepper, thanks for this thread! I am really enjoying it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 2microsNH on June 17, 2017, 05:58:10 AM
Yesterday I got rid of the GLASS HEAD I've been carrying around with me since a friend gave it to me as an 18th birthday present. Man, was that head heavy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 17, 2017, 06:30:58 PM
2microsNH, that glass head is a pretty weird item.  I wonder if it's the strangest item anyone on this thread has gotten rid of?

Update time!

Gone:
shaving cream
costume jewelery
old printer
1 shred bin full
electronics
CD's
side table
1 shirt & sweater
haz mat from under the kitchen sink
yarn

Almost gone:
hard drives

Priority to move out next:
stability ball
paper monster
skis
bike
too-fancy knitting purse/handbag
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: geekette on June 17, 2017, 08:34:35 PM
I wonder if it's the strangest item anyone on this thread has gotten rid of?
Not the strangest thing to get rid of myself, but I volunteer at a thrift store and found a lovely little wooden box that had been donated.  It rattled - there were baby teeth inside.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 18, 2017, 12:52:43 AM
Put two of my husband's t-shirts in the charity bag.

I need to sell two pairs of his jeans on eBay.

And I'm going to put together a go-bag for him to keep at work - a change of clothes, toiletries, a towel, phone charger, etc. He travels a lot, and while it's not usually at short notice, he will sometimes head straight to work after an international flight.

While we will still technically own those things, it does get them out of my house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 18, 2017, 07:14:52 AM
Yesterday, my DH missed something that I had just given away some weeks ago. All of the sudden he had found a new use for it. Luckily he found a work around, after some thinking, which worked just as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 18, 2017, 05:53:25 PM
Started reading 'The life-changing magic of tidying up' and went on a 2-day (and counting) declutter binge, mostly in the basement.

Recycled two broken dehumidifiers, and discarded several large bags of junk -- mostly styrofoam, plastic bags, bubble wrap, and expired food from the pantry.

Sold a baby gate, kid's table and chairs, and train table on a local FB group.

Donated 4 more boxes to The Goodwill.  Mostly toys, decorations, clothes, and cordless phones.

I won't pretend I can see the light at the end of the tunnel yet, but it still feels amazing to get that much stuff out of our house and lives all in one fell swoop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on June 18, 2017, 09:44:44 PM
Great work everyone! The comment about decluttering a box of baby teeth made me smile and remember the armadillo purse (actual hollowed out armadillo) that I personally found being decluttered at someone's garage sale.

My progress at home: 2 big boxes to reuse centre, and cleaned out the closet to be seasonal and finally got rid of another dozen items in there.  At work: we emptied out a very full storage room so it will be ready to be used as an office soon, will be shredding 6 boxes, put a bunch of broken items in the garbage, and have 13 boxes to archive off-site.  Feels so good, I just want to keep getting rid of more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 19, 2017, 05:20:54 AM
Recycled two broken dehumidifiers, and discarded several large bags of junk -- mostly styrofoam, plastic bags, bubble wrap, and expired food from the pantry.

Sold a baby gate, kid's table and chairs, and train table on a local FB group.

Donated 4 more boxes to The Goodwill.  Mostly toys, decorations, clothes, and cordless phones.

Oops, forgot to mention that my pile of to-be-recycled electronics has grown to include 3 computers, 2 printers, plus 3 more boxes of miscellaneous old wires, cables, adapters, ancient cell phones, etc.  Even a standalone caller ID box that probably belongs in a museum.  :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on June 19, 2017, 09:04:08 AM
Listed:
- Trumpet vases
- Couch & love seat
- Manzanita branches
- Coffee table
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord brake calipers, rotors, brake pads

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Multiple plate sets
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 19, 2017, 09:48:10 AM
I took down the hideous, ugly, useless, and otherwise I-DO-NOT-WANT-THIS-THING-IN-MY-HOUSE shelving thing that was in the bathroom. Also realized that I couldn't use the microwave in the current house, so it's going away.

Best of all: a family came yesterday and took the swingset from the backyard. They can use it, and I can mow much easier!

And if I can remember, the American flag that was left in the house. I don't fly the flag, because then everyone will get mad at how I'm "disrespecting" it or something. Easier just to not have one.

Waiting for the hazardous waste day in July so I can get rid of the estimated 35-40 cans of paint in the garage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on June 19, 2017, 09:52:30 AM
I had a really productive weekend on the decluttering front! I will give it next weekend too and then schedule another VVA pick-up. I cleared out the following:

-giant bag of clothes from my closet
-partial declutter of bathroom stuff: old makeup, toiletries, etc
-giant bag of old kids clothes, Halloween costumes, bedding from the laundry room. AND re-organized the laundry room, which was super chaotic before.
-cleared off my desk (mostly trash, recycling, shred)
-another pair of shoes my daughter has outgrown
-old sleeping bag that my son has outgrown
-raincoat my son has outgrown
-some toys that my daughter decided are too young for her

I still feel like de-cluttering my house is a never-ending, herculean task. But, I have big plans to do a major home downsize somewhere between 6-13 years. I never, ever again want to be throwing stuff in boxes without actually considering whether I use/need/want to keep all that stuff. I know if I want that to be the case, it needs to be started now and be an ongoing effort.

Oh! I also got my husband to agree that we can get rid of his grandfather's UGLY glasses. They are sitting on a very high shelf in the kitchen, totally out of the way, but I'm jumping on it and those will go soon. Next weekend we'll go through everything on the very high shelves...we never use those things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on June 19, 2017, 10:26:41 AM
Welcome back! This thread is your legacy, it will outlive us all ;)

Haha, it would be amazing if this thread just went on forever!

Seems like it never ends. My aim is to become a minimalist ever so slowly, so I get used to the declining amount of stuff along the way. Hoping that will shut up the little voice in my head that tells me its OK to bring home "just this one thing."

PS - did I forgot to say thanks for this thread? Limeandpepper, thanks for this thread! I am really enjoying it!

And I am thankful that you (and so many people) are enjoying this thread, reading about everyone's progress really helps encourage me as well! :)

I think doing it gradually is working for me, too. I actually haven't bought much since my 2014 travels + moving house. I knew it wasn't going to be the last time I moved house, so that was a great reminder not to buy unnecessary stuff. Also my boyfriend and I are looking to buy our first home, and we can only afford a small one bedroom apartment, so more incentive again to keep things simple!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on June 19, 2017, 01:33:06 PM
Waiting for the hazardous waste day in July so I can get rid of the estimated 35-40 cans of paint in the garage.

Careful of this. If you want to keep ANY of the paint colors in the house, keep those cans! It is infinitely more accurate and easier to match to paint (even if the can is really low) than to try and get a chunk off the walls. Ask me how I know not to throw out those cans... *kicks past self*
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on June 19, 2017, 02:13:21 PM
I'm in limbo between big transitions.  I am separating things into categories. 1. Keep forever.  2. Practical, worth storing a year.  3. Practical, not worth storing a year.  4. Use for summer then release.  5. What I need to live for a year.

When the limbo works itself out I know what to do with everything. Until then, I will keep using things and not adding.

Last night I saved a handful of relevant pages and tossed two old notebooks and a small pile of papers.  Getting ready to work my way through school papers from the past two years. 

Tossed a broken keyboard. 

Gathered a pile of books and clothes to take to a friend next week. 

Joining an craft cooperative with a storefront, I've got two boxes of items ready to go there. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 19, 2017, 06:06:44 PM
re: Paint cans. What about identifying the matches now, and just keeping the single page paper record of those?
And paint colour changes with exposure to light, so any paint in the can that is still good is probably not going to match the wall colour anyway.  I do save codes for colours I like so I can use them if I am repainting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on June 19, 2017, 06:18:52 PM
re: Paint cans. What about identifying the matches now, and just keeping the single page paper record of those?
And paint colour changes with exposure to light, so any paint in the can that is still good is probably not going to match the wall colour anyway.  I do save codes for colours I like so I can use them if I am repainting.

Heh, and alkyds (oil paint) actually changes color when they don't get enough light. They yellow in the dark.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on June 19, 2017, 06:22:05 PM
re: Paint cans. What about identifying the matches now, and just keeping the single page paper record of those?
And paint colour changes with exposure to light, so any paint in the can that is still good is probably not going to match the wall colour anyway.  I do save codes for colours I like so I can use them if I am repainting.

Heh, and alkyds (oil paint) actually changes color when they don't get enough light. They yellow in the dark.


Make a sample board/ piece of drywall. A couple coats of primer first then a couple inch swatch of each color. You can label it with the codes too. If you do this at the same time as you paint it might age at a similar rate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 20, 2017, 02:38:55 AM
Pregnancy, whilst wonderful, is really ruining my efforts to have a clutter-free house! I've been given lots of maternity clothes, for which I am so grateful. But they are in a huge range of sizes (which is great, I don't know where I'll end up) and I feel like I need to keep them all to see which will be useful.

On top of that, my regular clothes are slowly becoming unwearable, but obviously I'm not just going to throw them out. So I need to pack all those up. So far I've come up with the idea of using two suitcases we have (since we are not going away again until after I am due).

The largest suitcase will hold winter clothes (as they are bulky) that I might be able to wear this winter, post-partum. The smaller suitcase will hold clothes that might fit again next summer. Hopefully that means I won't be as overwhelmed when I unpack them with two new babies to care for.

I just need to get my act together and start packing those things up. That will free hangers for the maternity clothes. But 1) it seems to be tempting fate. I know that's ridiculous, but it's how I feel 2) it makes this pregnancy seem very real! 3) I am soooo tired I just can't be bothered. But stepping over piles of clothes each day is stressing me out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 20, 2017, 08:53:37 AM
Waiting for the hazardous waste day in July so I can get rid of the estimated 35-40 cans of paint in the garage.

Careful of this. If you want to keep ANY of the paint colors in the house, keep those cans! It is infinitely more accurate and easier to match to paint (even if the can is really low) than to try and get a chunk off the walls. Ask me how I know not to throw out those cans... *kicks past self*

Even if I wanted the colors (which I don't), they're in the uninsulated garage. Alternate freezing and cooking, plus most it wasn't good paint to begin with. I will be keeping the cans from what I use of course.

As it is, everything needs to be repainted - walls, trim, ceilings, closets, in every room. This is not a short term project!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 20, 2017, 08:55:29 AM
Pregnancy, whilst wonderful, is really ruining my efforts to have a clutter-free house! I've been given lots of maternity clothes, for which I am so grateful. But they are in a huge range of sizes (which is great, I don't know where I'll end up) and I feel like I need to keep them all to see which will be useful.

On top of that, my regular clothes are slowly becoming unwearable, but obviously I'm not just going to throw them out. So I need to pack all those up. So far I've come up with the idea of using two suitcases we have (since we are not going away again until after I am due).

The largest suitcase will hold winter clothes (as they are bulky) that I might be able to wear this winter, post-partum. The smaller suitcase will hold clothes that might fit again next summer. Hopefully that means I won't be as overwhelmed when I unpack them with two new babies to care for.

I just need to get my act together and start packing those things up. That will free hangers for the maternity clothes. But 1) it seems to be tempting fate. I know that's ridiculous, but it's how I feel 2) it makes this pregnancy seem very real! 3) I am soooo tired I just can't be bothered. But stepping over piles of clothes each day is stressing me out.

Ask a friend to help? Then you get good company too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 20, 2017, 08:58:54 AM
Ask a friend to help? Then you get good company too.

That's such a good idea Sibley, thank you! I've had so many people say, "Please call me if there's anything I can do to help!", and I'm like, ugh, I just lie about on the sofa and feel sick, there's not much you can do - but this is something! I have a couple of good friends who would pack things into suitcases at my direction whilst I lay on the bed and think nothing of it. Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on June 20, 2017, 10:32:24 AM
Waiting for the hazardous waste day in July so I can get rid of the estimated 35-40 cans of paint in the garage.

Careful of this. If you want to keep ANY of the paint colors in the house, keep those cans! It is infinitely more accurate and easier to match to paint (even if the can is really low) than to try and get a chunk off the walls. Ask me how I know not to throw out those cans... *kicks past self*

Even if I wanted the colors (which I don't), they're in the uninsulated garage. Alternate freezing and cooking, plus most it wasn't good paint to begin with. I will be keeping the cans from what I use of course.

As it is, everything needs to be repainted - walls, trim, ceilings, closets, in every room. This is not a short term project!

Oh man. In that case, chuck away!

Are you planning (or doing) a journal of the updates? I would love to follow along. I eventually need to repaint, since EVERYTHING in this house was done matte and so is scuffed up, but it's such a huge project and it's been pretty far down the list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on June 20, 2017, 03:08:15 PM
Even latex paint stored in basement changes colour in a relatively short time.  Walls painted a couple of years ago are a completely different shade than the wardrobe painted last summer.  Bugs my hub every time we sit in the living room together.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on June 20, 2017, 08:24:14 PM
Broken dehumidifier placed at curb during large trash week.  Picked up by a scrapper in less than 15 min.  It's out of my house, won't go in a landfill and the scrapper made a few bucks. Win-win-win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 21, 2017, 06:35:34 AM
Broken dehumidifier placed at curb during large trash week.  Picked up by a scrapper in less than 15 min.  It's out of my house, won't go in a landfill and the scrapper made a few bucks. Win-win-win!

We had large trash week a few weeks ago.  Only a bit of my hill of stuff got picked, but a lot of my neighbor's mountain got picked!

We are low density rural, but things put out on the edge of the road disappear fast.  For larger stuff it is the perfect disposal. I don't have to drive it to a donation site, I just have to get it to the end of the driveway. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 21, 2017, 07:20:36 AM
Waiting for the hazardous waste day in July so I can get rid of the estimated 35-40 cans of paint in the garage.

Careful of this. If you want to keep ANY of the paint colors in the house, keep those cans! It is infinitely more accurate and easier to match to paint (even if the can is really low) than to try and get a chunk off the walls. Ask me how I know not to throw out those cans... *kicks past self*

Even if I wanted the colors (which I don't), they're in the uninsulated garage. Alternate freezing and cooking, plus most it wasn't good paint to begin with. I will be keeping the cans from what I use of course.

As it is, everything needs to be repainted - walls, trim, ceilings, closets, in every room. This is not a short term project!

Oh man. In that case, chuck away!

Are you planning (or doing) a journal of the updates? I would love to follow along. I eventually need to repaint, since EVERYTHING in this house was done matte and so is scuffed up, but it's such a huge project and it's been pretty far down the list.

I have not planned to do a journal here. I've been doing some stuff on Facebook, but with work and general life, am tackling things in manageable pieces. Right now, been focused on just the high priority stuff. Working from home today while the gutter guys replace my completely nonfunctional gutters, and hopefully they can look at the roof where I've got some fresh water damage and apply appropriate sealing (I'm guessing its flashing). Otherwise, will have to find someone to take care of that, because I can't get on the roof.

But I'm sure there will be occasional "what the heck do I do with x" posts.

Re repainting everything - one room at a time. Ceilings, walls, then trim.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on June 21, 2017, 08:59:02 AM
Waiting for the hazardous waste day in July so I can get rid of the estimated 35-40 cans of paint in the garage.

Careful of this. If you want to keep ANY of the paint colors in the house, keep those cans! It is infinitely more accurate and easier to match to paint (even if the can is really low) than to try and get a chunk off the walls. Ask me how I know not to throw out those cans... *kicks past self*

Even if I wanted the colors (which I don't), they're in the uninsulated garage. Alternate freezing and cooking, plus most it wasn't good paint to begin with. I will be keeping the cans from what I use of course.

As it is, everything needs to be repainted - walls, trim, ceilings, closets, in every room. This is not a short term project!

Oh man. In that case, chuck away!

Are you planning (or doing) a journal of the updates? I would love to follow along. I eventually need to repaint, since EVERYTHING in this house was done matte and so is scuffed up, but it's such a huge project and it's been pretty far down the list.

I have not planned to do a journal here. I've been doing some stuff on Facebook, but with work and general life, am tackling things in manageable pieces. Right now, been focused on just the high priority stuff. Working from home today while the gutter guys replace my completely nonfunctional gutters, and hopefully they can look at the roof where I've got some fresh water damage and apply appropriate sealing (I'm guessing its flashing). Otherwise, will have to find someone to take care of that, because I can't get on the roof.

But I'm sure there will be occasional "what the heck do I do with x" posts.

Re repainting everything - one room at a time. Ceilings, walls, then trim.

Ah well, I'll live vicariously through someone else's renovations, haha. I just like when mustachians do renos, because I can see how they balance cost/time/effort/etc.

The problem with the painting plan... we have a big open floor plan design, with tall ceilings, that's all one color through living room/dining nook/kitchen, then another all through entry/hallways. Each of those respective colors would take a good... 5-10 cans of paint. LOTS of space. =o So tackling those will be a huge project.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on June 21, 2017, 12:33:40 PM
The problem with the painting plan... we have a big open floor plan design, with tall ceilings, that's all one color through living room/dining nook/kitchen, then another all through entry/hallways. Each of those respective colors would take a good... 5-10 cans of paint. LOTS of space. =o So tackling those will be a huge project.

If you are going to do it all in a short time period, you can buy big cans* of paint - like about 4-5 gallons?  That is what I bought when I painted the whole basement.  If one will do everything you also don't have to worry about little colour differences from can to can.

*really a big plastic container with a lid
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on June 21, 2017, 01:48:38 PM
The problem with the painting plan... we have a big open floor plan design, with tall ceilings, that's all one color through living room/dining nook/kitchen, then another all through entry/hallways. Each of those respective colors would take a good... 5-10 cans of paint. LOTS of space. =o So tackling those will be a huge project.

If you are going to do it all in a short time period, you can buy big cans* of paint - like about 4-5 gallons?  That is what I bought when I painted the whole basement.  If one will do everything you also don't have to worry about little colour differences from can to can.

*really a big plastic container with a lid

That's good to know, although I more meant it as a size estimate... I can mentally picture how much space I can cover with a can of paint, but translate that into something like square feet? Shrugs, I'm at a loss then, haha.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SuperSaver on June 21, 2017, 07:47:01 PM
Just donated my old kitchen trashcan, my old stick vac, giant stock pot, and a Rubbermaid tote full of stuff to Goodwill. I have been listening to my free audiobook of Marie Kondo's book and reading Francine Jay's The Joy of Less book. I really want to move towards minimalism.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on June 21, 2017, 09:48:08 PM
New here but this thread got me moving!!!

I currently have 31 items listed on ebay and several (~30) more to put on. Have given away several items that I have just been holding onto for years. Since I moved back from out-of-state I let it all pile up in the attic. In about another month or so I will have sold or given away well over 100 items that we never use.

Some of the larger items that are still good for use I brought to work for us to use as a community and to save money...
THREE! Yes three Weber grills. We now grill out in the shop for lunch sometimes.
Gas pressure washer.
Several dozen large bins from all the items I've cleaned out.
Extra tools from small items to large.

Great work, and welcome! That's an impressive start!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trifle on June 22, 2017, 05:33:59 AM
Finally sold a bike I've had listed for over two months.  Yay!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 22, 2017, 08:29:16 PM
Finally, I dug up a pile of ~30 old college textbooks and started trying to assess the value.  As expected, most were worthless.  But around 10 had values ranging from $10-$40.  So I need to figure out whether it's worth it to try selling some or all on half.com, etc.  My local library won't take them until the next book sale in ~6 months.

I got around to posting a couple dozen of these old textbooks both on the local FB sell group and CraigsList.  The ones that are > $10 (according to bookscouter.com) I'm going to list on half.com.  If nobody bites, I'll cut my asking price in half after a week or two.  If there are still any left after that, then I don't think I'll feel bad about just recycling them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 23, 2017, 10:57:56 AM
Finally we have found a buyer for our second racer bike that is for sale. He is coming any moment and paid in advance.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 23, 2017, 08:28:25 PM
We continued the basement purge.  Brought a minivan full of stuff to The Goodwill tonight -- our biggest load yet.  Toys, books, more toys, clothing, pictures, decorations, kitchen appliances, and yet more toys.

Also recycled an old, ginormous window A/C unit and several large bags of financial/sensitive documents (now shredded) that we've been hauling around for 15 years, and threw away a broken fan and heater.

I feel like we're becoming addicted to removing all the cruft from our house.  Is that a thing?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 23, 2017, 09:08:05 PM
Wow, it took almost a week to find someone to take a free pair of snow skis & poles!  I though they would go faster.  But glad to have them gone.  Next up: hard drives.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Blissful Biker on June 23, 2017, 10:55:54 PM
This thread is inspiring.  I did a big purge 3 years ago but as I look around there is still more stuff that can go.  Time to get after it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on June 24, 2017, 12:03:31 AM
Recycled two broken dehumidifiers, and discarded several large bags of junk -- mostly styrofoam, plastic bags, bubble wrap, and expired food from the pantry.

Sold a baby gate, kid's table and chairs, and train table on a local FB group.

Donated 4 more boxes to The Goodwill.  Mostly toys, decorations, clothes, and cordless phones.

Oops, forgot to mention that my pile of to-be-recycled electronics has grown to include 3 computers, 2 printers, plus 3 more boxes of miscellaneous old wires, cables, adapters, ancient cell phones, etc.  Even a standalone caller ID box that probably belongs in a museum.  :D

DH just took 6 pc's and a printer to be recycled last week.   At $2k each, that is a lot of money we have spent over the years....   He even kept a couple that aren't used currently, it wasn't everything.

I sold 2 bikes on craigs list, and then helped DH buy a new bike that fits, that should be good for use for 10-15 years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on June 24, 2017, 04:20:54 AM
My DH is obviously inspired by my thoughts of getting rid of stuff. He has promised a 16 year old boy that we know his old salmon fishing rod, that he will pick up tomorrow. We know the boy loves the outdoors and fishing and spends all summers beside a good salmon river. It will get a better use now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on June 24, 2017, 04:36:03 AM
Had a break from decluttering while learning how to parent a newborn. Today I got back on the horse by listing six items on Buy Nothing. Feels good!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on June 24, 2017, 07:47:24 AM
Managed to get hack through some of the garage yesterday before it got stupidly hot (high was 100+, with high humidity)

One big garbage bag (lawn bag size) in the trash, half the recycling bin filled up, stuff out at the curb: Scrap wood, bent kid's bike frame (stripped for parts for a project), wicker basket and an ancient wooden smoking stand that I am certain has lead paint on it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 24, 2017, 04:53:28 PM
Gone:
<stuff>
skis
new: fleece fabric scrap - made 3 kitty pads (simply cut into shape) and a liner for my bike basket

Almost gone:
hard drives - got one hooked up; I think I did a good job of getting the files of this one, now just need to look at the newer one which will probably need a lot of files moved over before it can go

Priority to move out next:
stability ball
paper monster
bike
too-fancy knitting purse/handbag
added: tennis racket
added: bike shoes
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 25, 2017, 03:46:24 AM
Parents are in the process of building a new house, so I've started decluttering my room there.

I cleared it out fairly well after leaving home, but over the last few years I've taken home clothes, books, toiletries, etc. This is a good opportunity to review what I keep there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on June 25, 2017, 09:50:58 AM
I'm selling about a shelf's worth of books today.

On vacation, I bought a necklace and an anklet that I really like. I think I'm still good on the decluttering balance. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JAYSLOL on June 25, 2017, 01:21:12 PM
Ok, I've got a confession to make, and some work to do to correct the situation, lol.  I posted a year or so back that I had sorted through all my fishing gear and found (to my surprise and horror) that I was the owner of 17 fishing rods.  To de-clutter I sold most of them at auction and a garage sale along with a couple of extra tackle boxes, but in the process found out that fishing gear can sell for a fair bit of money even when well used.  So for the last year or so, every time I find cheap fishing gear at garage sales, I've bought it with the intention to drop off at auction... except I haven't actually sorted through them and done that yet... and now I've added up how many fishing rods I've got... and it's 28 :/
De-clutter fail. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lemanfan on June 25, 2017, 01:26:44 PM
De-clutter fail.

But not yet fail on side hustle. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JAYSLOL on June 25, 2017, 01:32:15 PM
De-clutter fail.

But not yet fail on side hustle. :)


Hopefully not!!  Otherwise it's a double fail!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 25, 2017, 11:04:26 PM
After several weekends of throwing away/donating things from the basement, we finally reached a milestone of sorts.  1/4 of our basement -- the part that used to be a play area for the kids -- is once again a play area for the kids.  A neat, tidy, organized play area with about 1/5 as many toys as before.  We even merged the upstairs playroom (formerly our dining room) into the basement play area.

Actually, come to think of it, the dining room is now neat and tidy too since it's nearly empty.  Not sure if we'll turn it back into a formal dining room or not, but the novelty of having an empty room is kinda cool.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on June 25, 2017, 11:20:31 PM
My dad is visiting and I gave him a plant ID book for the NW coast.  He is also taking my mom's mountain bike from the '80's.  I tried selling it a while back, but it turns out I'd put more into getting it tuned up than what anyone was willing to pay.  Glad to keep it in the family instead.

I also recently turned some scrap wood into horse jumps and brought them out to the stable, so less clutter in the shop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on June 26, 2017, 12:53:20 AM
Deposited a poorly built Jenga knockoff into our giveaway box. The pieces aren't standardized in size and so the tower is crooked/leaning before you even start. Lesson learned ... buy authentic Jenga.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on June 26, 2017, 02:30:03 AM
Two years ago, one of our girls went off to college. She's a clutter monster. We set about her bedroom when she was gone. She was delighted with the result when she came home for vacations.

One year ago, she dropped out of college and took a year out to earn some money and think about her future.

This month, she went off again. Different city, different course, much more mature girl.

Guess what we're going to be doing when we can face the task?

One year! How does anyone collect so much tchotchke in one year?

Otherwise, we're doing very well. With RE on the horizon and a big ticket plaything on our shopping list, we're being focused about not bringing new stuff into the household and offloading what we don't need.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on June 26, 2017, 09:35:24 PM
Almost gone:
hard drives - got one hooked up; I think I did a good job of getting the files of this one, now just need to look at the newer one which will probably need a lot of files moved over before it can go - one down, one to go (still)
too-fancy knitting purse/handbag - will sell to knitting friend when I see her on 7/3
tennis racket - listed
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Steelers1982 on June 27, 2017, 10:15:01 AM
Recently cleaned out the basement... 2 large recycle bags, and 2 large garbage bags full of throw away, plus a stack of collapsed cardboard.

Was able to sell the following(first two items aren't a result of the basement clean out, but happened last week):
- Fitbit Blaze - $150
- Samsung Galaxy S5 - $75(below market as I took the easy way out and sold to a re-seller)
- Old fan w/ remote - $20

Few other things up for sale from the basement clean out.  Need to put together my old desk so I can take pics of it and sell it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 27, 2017, 12:28:30 PM
When I moved in, the previous owners left behind one of the shelving units that stands above the toilet. I didn't like it, didn't want it, and finally found the proper screwdriver to take it apart and throw it out on Saturday. Sunday, I went in the bathroom and realized that the smell of urine was mostly gone. Great. That's why the bottom of the legs were yellow.

Anyone know how to clean under pedestal sinks without moving them? I suspect that's why the other bathroom smells of urine.

Boys and men, please sit down to pee. I don't care if it isn't cool, I don't want these problems.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MountainGal on June 27, 2017, 01:11:33 PM
The purging while settling in to our new home continues.

In the donate box:
12 clothing articles
a comforter
rarely used bath mat from our previous home
4 coffee mugs
a few knickknacks, including a Scentsy warmer and several fragrances (it was a gift, I would have never purchased such a thing)
tray from the toaster oven donated last year
a never used word search puzzle book from when I was down after surgery
6 pairs of shoes, including 2 pairs in their original box, and one pair never worn

Into the trash:
5 articles of clothing from the 80's.  Yes, folks, I wore spandex.  :P
3 chipped bowls and small plates.  My mom bought us a BBB gift card as a housewarming present, so I bought a new 16 piece serving set for 4.

Specific donations:
Glass flower vases to a flower shop owning friend

I'm taking 4 days off for the upcoming US holiday, so purging will continue.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trifle on June 27, 2017, 01:20:57 PM
When I moved in, the previous owners left behind one of the shelving units that stands above the toilet. I didn't like it, didn't want it, and finally found the proper screwdriver to take it apart and throw it out on Saturday. Sunday, I went in the bathroom and realized that the smell of urine was mostly gone. Great. That's why the bottom of the legs were yellow.

Anyone know how to clean under pedestal sinks without moving them? I suspect that's why the other bathroom smells of urine.

Boys and men, please sit down to pee. I don't care if it isn't cool, I don't want these problems.

+1.  A huge, huge thank you to my MIL, who back in the old days required all male family members (including DH) to sit and aim it down.  We have taught our DS as follows:    Public toilets -- ok to stand up.  At home -- you sit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cressida on June 27, 2017, 07:24:10 PM
When I moved in, the previous owners left behind one of the shelving units that stands above the toilet. I didn't like it, didn't want it, and finally found the proper screwdriver to take it apart and throw it out on Saturday. Sunday, I went in the bathroom and realized that the smell of urine was mostly gone. Great. That's why the bottom of the legs were yellow.

Anyone know how to clean under pedestal sinks without moving them? I suspect that's why the other bathroom smells of urine.

Boys and men, please sit down to pee. I don't care if it isn't cool, I don't want these problems.

+1.  A huge, huge thank you to my MIL, who back in the old days required all male family members (including DH) to sit and aim it down.  We have taught our DS as follows:    Public toilets -- ok to stand up.  At home -- you sit.

I've lived with a man for the last 19 years and the only times I've ever found urine outside the toilet were when we had contractors working. Apparently I am super lucky? I never even thought about it. (My dad moved out when I was a kid, and I only have sisters, so I didn't experience it then either.) Or is it usually younger boys who are the problem?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 28, 2017, 11:14:54 AM
I had some success using a spray bottle to send some soaking cleanser underneath. I couldn't reach a scrubbing tool under there, but the soak seemed to reduce or eliminate the smell.

A plumber said we can go one of two ways on the matter:

1. Put sealant around the base. But then the pee will likely discolour the sealant over time, compelling some people to want to replace it.

2. Put no sealant around, and clean more thoroughly. He felt this was the optimal way to go.

My kid sits to pee, but the pee comes out through the front of the seat, lol.

I will try flushing it out with a spray bottle. Maybe the stuff I use for cat urine will help.

Regardless, I'm still working on cleaning up the floor in that bathroom. There was half an ice cream sandwich shoved into the back of the sink at some point. It's a lot better, but there's some nooks and crannies still.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 2microsNH on June 28, 2017, 02:44:55 PM
Just recycled all my medical paperwork from a long-term illness I had three years ago. Lyme -- and Lyme paper trail -- be gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 28, 2017, 03:17:32 PM
Sorted through previous tax returns last night and piled up about five years' worth to toss. I just need to figure out where I can shred them (I used to do my shredding at work but changed jobs last year).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 29, 2017, 06:23:28 AM
Just recycled all my medical paperwork from a long-term illness I had three years ago. Lyme -- and Lyme paper trail -- be gone!

That's great news on both counts!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on June 29, 2017, 07:50:42 AM
I had some success using a spray bottle to send some soaking cleanser underneath. I couldn't reach a scrubbing tool under there, but the soak seemed to reduce or eliminate the smell.

I will try flushing it out with a spray bottle. Maybe the stuff I use for cat urine will help.

If anyone has specific recommendations on what to spray under there that will help with the smell, please let me know.  My concern is that some urine might have soaked into the wood underflooring.  I think the only thing to do in this case is replace the affected wood (what a pain!), or use some kind of enzymatic solution to break down the urine.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 29, 2017, 08:05:31 AM
Speaking of difficult cleaning situations, I dumped a whole travel mug of milk-based hot chocolate onto the (non-removable) floor carpet of my car. I mopped it up immediately, and we have shampooed it. No dice, the smell of the spoiling milk is awful. My SIL always jokes about an old beater in which the spilt a pint of milk - in the end it was enough to condemn the vehicle and she had it scrapped!

This is not an option with my (company) vehicle. Any ideas? Could a super valet service help?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on June 29, 2017, 08:07:12 AM
I have Nature's Miracle that I use when the cats have an accident (or are mad at me). This is on tile, so the biggest issue is that the sink is in the way.

Now, anything under the toilets could get to subfloor. Hoping not, but I'm not moving the toilets right now anyway!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on June 29, 2017, 09:09:02 AM
Speaking of difficult cleaning situations, I dumped a whole travel mug of milk-based hot chocolate onto the (non-removable) floor carpet of my car. I mopped it up immediately, and we have shampooed it. No dice, the smell of the spoiling milk is awful. My SIL always jokes about an old beater in which the spilt a pint of milk - in the end it was enough to condemn the vehicle and she had it scrapped!

This is not an option with my (company) vehicle. Any ideas? Could a super valet service help?

I remember my mom putting kitty litter on the flooring when we spilled some milk once... but I don't remember if it helped! Haha. We kept that car a few more years though, so *something* worked.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trifle on June 29, 2017, 09:20:49 AM
Speaking of difficult cleaning situations, I dumped a whole travel mug of milk-based hot chocolate onto the (non-removable) floor carpet of my car. I mopped it up immediately, and we have shampooed it. No dice, the smell of the spoiling milk is awful. My SIL always jokes about an old beater in which the spilt a pint of milk - in the end it was enough to condemn the vehicle and she had it scrapped!

This is not an option with my (company) vehicle. Any ideas? Could a super valet service help?

I remember my mom putting kitty litter on the flooring when we spilled some milk once... but I don't remember if it helped! Haha. We kept that car a few more years though, so *something* worked.

When our son was little he dumped an entire cup of milk in the backseat of the car.  The smell was awful.  We cleaned it up the best we could (we found actual 'cheese' forming down in the seat -- crème fraiche haha)  and then we parked the car in the hot summer sun for weeks with all the windows up.  Baked the crap out of it.  Seems to have worked -- no detectable odor after that.  I guess the heat baked the 'cheese' remnants dry.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Warlord1986 on June 29, 2017, 09:30:38 AM
The last time I visited the parental units I found a bunch of small toys in the back of my closet. Today I gave them to a co-worker for the granddaughter she's raising. The kid's parents said buh-bye, and she's a sweet little girl. Tomorrow is her birthday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gggggg on June 29, 2017, 01:18:18 PM
I've been minimalizing for over a year now. I've recently gotten to the point where there's hardly anything left, that I don't actually use. It's amazing how much stuff folks/you have, and how little you actually use/need. There's been several times over this past year that I thought that there would be no way to get rid of any more, only to scrounge yet another carload of items to go to goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 29, 2017, 09:35:23 PM
The last time I visited the parental units I found a bunch of small toys in the back of my closet. Today I gave them to a co-worker for the granddaughter she's raising. The kid's parents said buh-bye, and she's a sweet little girl. Tomorrow is her birthday.

Your co-worker sounds awesome for stepping up. And you're a good person for helping give the little girl a special birthday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on June 30, 2017, 05:14:21 AM

I remember my mom putting kitty litter on the flooring when we spilled some milk once... but I don't remember if it helped! Haha. We kept that car a few more years though, so *something* worked.

When our son was little he dumped an entire cup of milk in the backseat of the car.  The smell was awful.  We cleaned it up the best we could (we found actual 'cheese' forming down in the seat -- crème fraiche haha)  and then we parked the car in the hot summer sun for weeks with all the windows up.  Baked the crap out of it.  Seems to have worked -- no detectable odor after that.  I guess the heat baked the 'cheese' remnants dry.

Thanks both! Husband and I were musing that it can't smell -forever- so 'baking' it out sounds like a good idea. He had another go last night with bicarb of soda, and the smell wasn't as bad today. The internet suggested vinegar, but we only had the brown fish n chips stuff, so I'll try to pick some white stuff up today.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: meghan88 on June 30, 2017, 01:14:44 PM
We are in the last stages of liquidating our CD collection.  We had over 200 CDs.  There are about 50 left and, to date, we only recouped $129 for what we sold.  Crap.  Should've done it YEARS ago when they were still worth something.  I remember paying anywhere from $10-$20 per CD, plus tax of course, back in my more spendy days.

We also have a nice solid wood CD shelf that we built from scratch that we'll now have to sell.

In the meantime, we sold the following on kijiji:

- antique tea wagon:  $200 (paid $75 + elbow grease to restore, 20 years ago)
- old sofa bed:  $30
- broken Samsung flat screen TV:  $20
- two antique 3-drawer dressers:  $160 (paid $100 for the two)
- two gift cards worth $75:  sold for $60
- two beater bikes:  $60 and $45 respectively; paid $30 and $20 respectively
- three Nike golf wedges:  $20
- leaf blower:  $17
- bike light set:  $20
- pots and pans:  $17

We have other antiques to sell, but I am holding off because they are just not commanding the same price that they were about 20 years ago.  I figure (hope) the market for them will pick up in a few years.  In the meantime they don't take up much space.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on June 30, 2017, 06:49:41 PM
Decluttering again this weekend.

So far I've piled up seven books and five DVDs to donate/give away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on June 30, 2017, 09:00:30 PM
I have nothing for urine and spoiled milk in carpet smells, but...
If you ever have a musty or smoky book, stick a folded sheet of newspaper in every few pages, then place the book in a cardboard box filled with crumpled newspaper.  Seal it up for a few days.  Repeat if needed.  I have used this trick once, and it only took one shot to work.

I finally bought the little ADF scanner I wanted (used, of course) and got it working with Linux, so today I scanned and dumped all the gas and electric statements I have accumulated in my adult life.  It was a four-inch thick folder.  The project continues in the coming weeks with other paper statements!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on June 30, 2017, 09:47:41 PM
I have nothing for urine and spoiled milk in carpet smells, but...
If you ever have a musty or smoky book, stick a folded sheet of newspaper in every few pages, then place the book in a cardboard box filled with crumpled newspaper.  Seal it up for a few days.  Repeat if needed.  I have used this trick once, and it only took one shot to work.

I finally bought the little ADF scanner I wanted (used, of course) and got it working with Linux, so today I scanned and dumped all the gas and electric statements I have accumulated in my adult life.  It was a four-inch thick folder.  The project continues in the coming weeks with other paper statements!
Do you need all the gas and electric statements? What would they be useful for?
Tax purposes?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on July 01, 2017, 09:22:11 AM
I suppose another problem is the loads of guilt and grief I have about "disappointing" people (mostly my mother) if/when I throw/sell it all.

She can't be disappointed in you if she has passed away.

I've had to negotiate this issue with my mother, who had a load of heirlooms to which she was sentimentally attached but which she didn't want in her own house. Her solution was to offer them to me as if she was giving me something precious.

For years, I said no, no, no increasingly vehemently. If I had accepted these things and then got rid of them there would have been hell to pay in emotional blackmail, so I made it clear that my mother couldn't appease her ancestors by passing their now-useless artefacts on to the next generation. All credit to her, she bit the bullet and let a charity take away the treasures, throwing out the things they rejected as unsaleable because, objectively viewed, they were rubbish. If I'd accepted them I'd have been expected to cherish them and keep them for my own children.

In my own world of stuff, today I seized an opportunity to give away a piece of sports kit that I like but hadn't worn for many years to someone who will look better in it than I do. I still have too much sports kit, but the basket will be less overstuffed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 01, 2017, 10:11:32 AM

My kid sits to pee, but the pee comes out through the front of the seat, lol.

Teach him that his left hand is for aiming.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 01, 2017, 11:03:53 AM

Quote
Teach him that his left hand is for aiming.

Oh! Okay :)    Thx, TomTX.
Though I think he may have sorted something like that out for himself, as it doesn't seem to be an issue anymore. There was just a bumpy year or two in there, I think when he was getting used to his body. So I probably should have put it in past tense.

We've had discussion on other threads because grown men haven't figured out that they can use their hand to put their penis in the proper position while peeing.

Said men (not present here, just discussed here) were complaining about having their penis touch the toilet (seat/bowl) when they sat to pee. Because they hadn't figured out using their hand to aim.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 01, 2017, 03:17:39 PM
Husband agreed to relinquish his broken Xbox 360.

It had sat in his parents' house for five years. Then they moved and he grabbed it with an idea of getting it fixed.

But he barely has time to play the Xbox One, so said I can toss the old one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 01, 2017, 03:55:58 PM
Sorted through a spindle of DVDs, piled up 17 to get rid of.

Making good progress this weekend!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 01, 2017, 06:12:07 PM
Just listed two pairs of jeans on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on July 01, 2017, 06:27:30 PM
*snip*
I finally bought the little ADF scanner I wanted (used, of course) and got it working with Linux, so today I scanned and dumped all the gas and electric statements I have accumulated in my adult life.  It was a four-inch thick folder.  The project continues in the coming weeks with other paper statements!
Do you need all the gas and electric statements? What would they be useful for?
Tax purposes?

Nope.  I don't have a home office or rental property, so they are useless for tax purposes.  I am just a nerd and worry that I may be curious about my electricity usage back in 200X, and what if I don't have my old statements?  The spreadsheet only goes back to 201X when the I last switched dwellings.  So, need them?  No.  Save them because they are (computer-wise) small and easy to keep organized and may be interesting someday?  Sure.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Poundwise on July 01, 2017, 07:02:18 PM
Went through kids' outgrown clothes and filled two big tubs to send to collection that my church is doing for Syrian refugees. Also am sending my father's walker and cane, which have been sitting in the garage since he passed away. He was so proud and hopeful when he was able to walk with just a cane, but sadly he died only a month later. I hope they can help someone... it's pitiful that crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs are in such demand.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 01, 2017, 08:39:58 PM
*snip*
I finally bought the little ADF scanner I wanted (used, of course) and got it working with Linux, so today I scanned and dumped all the gas and electric statements I have accumulated in my adult life.  It was a four-inch thick folder.  The project continues in the coming weeks with other paper statements!
Do you need all the gas and electric statements? What would they be useful for?
Tax purposes?

Nope.  I don't have a home office or rental property, so they are useless for tax purposes.  I am just a nerd and worry that I may be curious about my electricity usage back in 200X, and what if I don't have my old statements?  The spreadsheet only goes back to 201X when the I last switched dwellings.  So, need them?  No.  Save them because they are (computer-wise) small and easy to keep organized and may be interesting someday?  Sure.

Wouldn't it be faster to just enter them in the spreadsheet rather than scan them, label the files, etc?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on July 01, 2017, 10:38:25 PM
*snip*
I finally bought the little ADF scanner I wanted (used, of course) and got it working with Linux, so today I scanned and dumped all the gas and electric statements I have accumulated in my adult life.  It was a four-inch thick folder.  The project continues in the coming weeks with other paper statements!
Do you need all the gas and electric statements? What would they be useful for?
Tax purposes?

Nope.  I don't have a home office or rental property, so they are useless for tax purposes.  I am just a nerd and worry that I may be curious about my electricity usage back in 200X, and what if I don't have my old statements?  The spreadsheet only goes back to 201X when the I last switched dwellings.  So, need them?  No.  Save them because they are (computer-wise) small and easy to keep organized and may be interesting someday?  Sure.

Wouldn't it be faster to just enter them in the spreadsheet rather than scan them, label the files, etc?

Nope.  For the older ones, I just scanned a year at a time.  Stick all the 2011 bills in the scanner feed, hit Go, and do something else as they scan.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 02, 2017, 06:05:34 AM
Gave away 4 wine glasses that I've been trying to get rid of for a while.  Prepped a bag of donations for Goodwill.  I just need to put them in the car and drop them off.

I'm debating whether I should donate or consign a bunch of clothes.  I have a consignment store I use regularly but I noticed that the store has gone down the hill recently.  Things take forever to sell and the money I get for it is not much - I stopped by Friday when I was running an errand in the area and got a check for $50.  At what point do you say that it's just not worth the effort and donate instead?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on July 02, 2017, 09:13:29 AM
Made another trip to The Goodwill with a large box of toys, another box with 50+ articles of clothing, and two old printers.

We're still enjoying the fruits of a kitchen we recently decluttered with counters bereft of any junk.  Just a small decorative 'inbox' tray where we set mail and miscellaneous items that accumulate throughout the day.  When the tray gets full we sort through it all and put everything in its proper place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 02, 2017, 05:26:34 PM
Had a strong finish to my weekend of decluttering.

I did all the ironing, then ran out of hangers so that motivated me to go through my wardrobe again. I grabbed two pairs of pants that I'll never wear again and added them to the charity box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MBot on July 02, 2017, 05:47:43 PM
When I moved in, the previous owners left behind one of the shelving units that stands above the toilet. I didn't like it, didn't want it, and finally found the proper screwdriver to take it apart and throw it out on Saturday. Sunday, I went in the bathroom and realized that the smell of urine was mostly gone. Great. That's why the bottom of the legs were yellow.

Anyone know how to clean under pedestal sinks without moving them? I suspect that's why the other bathroom smells of urine.

Boys and men, please sit down to pee. I don't care if it isn't cool, I don't want these problems.

Bleach is one of the only things to neutralize the ammonia in pee. I don't know if it will fix yours, but I would try mixing up a fresh spray bottle of diluted bleach solution and spray it up, around, under and anywhere you can thoroughly soak the pedestal sink. Hopefully lots will soak into the porous back of the porcelain and neutralize as much as possible. Good luck.

I was advised never to put marble tile in a bathroom for obvious reasons, as porous stone + ammonia soaking in is one of the worst combinations.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MBot on July 02, 2017, 05:49:15 PM
This year has been pretty good for continuing to clear out clutter. Haven't posted in this thread for a long time though.

I found a used copy of Marie Kondo's book and gave it to my mom however... which has me very excited. The emotional side of decluttering has always been hard, and I think it will actually be helpful. I didn't think she would be receptive when we saw the book together but she was interested.. so we will see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on July 02, 2017, 09:17:19 PM
I made a drop off at the Salvation Army today.  Not a lot of stuff, but it feels nice to get it out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 03, 2017, 04:30:19 AM
I'm debating whether I should donate or consign a bunch of clothes.  I have a consignment store I use regularly but I noticed that the store has gone down the hill recently.  Things take forever to sell and the money I get for it is not much - I stopped by Friday when I was running an errand in the area and got a check for $50.  At what point do you say that it's just not worth the effort and donate instead?

For me it's when the thought of dragging it to the consignment store puts me off doing anything with it. Then it goes to charity, as it's easier.

If there was anything worth much in there, I would have more motivation. So when I'm dragging my heels I know it's not a good haul, and the mental and physical space it takes up as I trip over it and debate when to take it is worth more than they money I would get for the items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 03, 2017, 09:45:46 AM
I'm debating whether I should donate or consign a bunch of clothes.  I have a consignment store I use regularly but I noticed that the store has gone down the hill recently.  Things take forever to sell and the money I get for it is not much - I stopped by Friday when I was running an errand in the area and got a check for $50.  At what point do you say that it's just not worth the effort and donate instead?

For me it's when the thought of dragging it to the consignment store puts me off doing anything with it. Then it goes to charity, as it's easier.

If there was anything worth much in there, I would have more motivation. So when I'm dragging my heels I know it's not a good haul, and the mental and physical space it takes up as I trip over it and debate when to take it is worth more than they money I would get for the items.
I have a small batch of items prepped already so I will bring them in later this week.  And I have a few nice sweaters that I can bring in the fall.  After that, I'm done.  Anything else will just go to charity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: FireHiker on July 03, 2017, 09:59:56 AM
I had another fairly productive weekend. I gave away some calligraphy supplies to someone on the buy nothing group, cleaned out more clothes (the never-ending battle in our house), organized/de-cluttered some shelves. I also enlisted my husband's help and we removed a bunch of stuff from the top shelves in the kitchen, using the argument of "if it's been sitting up here for 4.5 years, we don't need it".

I have VVA scheduled to pick up on 7/10, and I think I have 8-9 boxes/bags so far, with one more weekend to add to the pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: VeggieTable on July 03, 2017, 11:03:35 AM
Recently I've gotten rid of a few board games we never played thru Freecycle. Someone's coming to pick up a gag-gift craft kit we got at a White Elephant years ago. I'll be glad to have that out of the house.

Someone else is supposed to come buy an end table I've been trying to sell for months. I've had so many no-shows for this table - I think it might be cursed. Anyway, I don't have my hopes up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on July 03, 2017, 11:25:31 AM

Listed:
- Couch & love seat
- Manzanita branches
- Coffee table
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord brake calipers, rotors, brake pads
- shoe racks (3)

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Dining Table
- Multiple plate sets
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...


SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on July 03, 2017, 11:47:00 AM
So much paper is leaving the house. Plus we have agreed that we will not keep utility bills after they have been set to be paid.

We found the document that says we have paid off the mortgage.  We have not yet found the paper that says we bought the house, or the one that says we are married.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 03, 2017, 04:55:08 PM
When I moved in, the previous owners left behind one of the shelving units that stands above the toilet. I didn't like it, didn't want it, and finally found the proper screwdriver to take it apart and throw it out on Saturday. Sunday, I went in the bathroom and realized that the smell of urine was mostly gone. Great. That's why the bottom of the legs were yellow.

Anyone know how to clean under pedestal sinks without moving them? I suspect that's why the other bathroom smells of urine.

Boys and men, please sit down to pee. I don't care if it isn't cool, I don't want these problems.

Bleach is one of the only things to neutralize the ammonia in pee. I don't know if it will fix yours, but I would try mixing up a fresh spray bottle of diluted bleach solution and spray it up, around, under and anywhere you can thoroughly soak the pedestal sink. Hopefully lots will soak into the porous back of the porcelain and neutralize as much as possible. Good luck.

I was advised never to put marble tile in a bathroom for obvious reasons, as porous stone + ammonia soaking in is one of the worst combinations.

Mixing bleach and ammonia generates a rather nasty compound: Chloramine. If you do use this technique, PLEASE ventilate thoroughly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 03, 2017, 04:56:34 PM
Finally got my old dresser out to the curb (It's been empty for months, wife has been coming up with excuses) - it was from my first furniture as a kid, 40 years ago. And it wasn't really high quality either. Wife did give up a broken office chair as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sydneystache on July 04, 2017, 05:04:30 AM
I let go of three emotionally invested items today. It was hard to let go but it is going to go to a better place - I hope!

When Cadel Evans became the first Australian to win the Tour de France, I had spent that entire month of July watching him and urging him and screaming hoarsely to win and conquer the mountains as hours passed midnight here. When Cadel beat Contador, it was a sweet moment.

Anyhoo, the morning of his win, I went to the nearest BMC dealer here and bought the Team BMC Hincapie cycling jersey and cycling cap. I bought the same jersey he was wearing on the podium in Paris.

Years later, the jersey has remained unused, hung in my wardrobe not seeing sunlight; same with the cycling cap and same with the other cycling jersey. Tonight, my childhood friend had written a letter to my mother and she showed me photos of him and his son - the latter an avid cyclist who has won a couple of races and who liked BMC but wearing the knock-offs.

The BMC jersey is going to a better place.

I still have a BMC Jacket, not to mention my BMC bike. But those $200 cycling clothing items which I have rarely used will find better use elsewhere and hopefully appreciated by a better athlete.

It's time to let go of my piece of Cadel and a piece of that magical moment in July. Vale jersey - I will miss what you stood for but I never saw you. I'm going to be Buddhist and zen about this all....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 04, 2017, 08:13:35 PM
too-fancy knitting purse/handbag - will sell to knitting friend when I see her on 7/3
tennis racket - listed

Yay! Friend came through on her promise to buy the purse! Sydneystache, it might be as good a match between this purse and this friend as your cycling gear and your good friends son. She and I bought the same bag at the same convention a few years ago. While she fell in love with hers, I kind of never adjusted to mine. Now she has a nearly-new version of her beloved bag from a vendor who is now out of business, and I have $X!

Racket-taker #1 backed out at the last minute yesterday. Taking a day off decluttering and will reach out to the next interested party tomorrow.

Mr. O is out of town starting Thursday, so I will list the stability ball then. He won't agree to get rid of this huge thing in our tiny apartment that has sat in the corner, unused, blocking the fire escape for *years*. So I'm doing it behind his back.

Edit: autocorrect
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 05, 2017, 12:20:55 AM
I let go of three emotionally invested items today. It was hard to let go but it is going to go to a better place - I hope!

When Cadel Evans became the first Australian to win the Tour de France, I had spent that entire month of July watching him and urging him and screaming hoarsely to win and conquer the mountains as hours passed midnight here. When Cadel beat Contador, it was a sweet moment.

Anyhoo, the morning of his win, I went to the nearest BMC dealer here and bought the Team BMC Hincapie cycling jersey and cycling cap. I bought the same jersey he was wearing on the podium in Paris.

Years later, the jersey has remained unused, hung in my wardrobe not seeing sunlight; same with the cycling cap and same with the other cycling jersey. Tonight, my childhood friend had written a letter to my mother and she showed me photos of him and his son - the latter an avid cyclist who has won a couple of races and who liked BMC but wearing the knock-offs.

The BMC jersey is going to a better place.

I still have a BMC Jacket, not to mention my BMC bike. But those $200 cycling clothing items which I have rarely used will find better use elsewhere and hopefully appreciated by a better athlete.

It's time to let go of my piece of Cadel and a piece of that magical moment in July. Vale jersey - I will miss what you stood for but I never saw you. I'm going to be Buddhist and zen about this all....

Beautifully written. I really felt this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sydneystache on July 05, 2017, 12:48:00 AM
Thanks! Cadel lifted the nation that night *sniff, sniff*

DH says to keep it as a collector's item but I know I will NEVER use it again. It's Tour de France time too. I have been staring at Cadel's BMC SLR01 bike which he rode to win the maillot jaune just to soothe the pain but I don't do road bikes anyway. Hate the high seat post and the aggressive riding position which makes people look like hunchbacks of Notre Dame.

I'm going Primal Wear window shopping now...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nancy on July 05, 2017, 04:47:13 AM
I'm moving this weekend, so I've been trying to declutter first. I picked up Kondo's Spark Joy to motivate me. I've donated books, shoes, clothes, and kitchenware. I still have way too much stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on July 05, 2017, 12:24:58 PM
*snip*
Mr. O is out of town starting Thursday, so I will list the stability ball then. He won't agree to get rid of this huge thing in our tiny apartment that has sat in the corner, unused, blocking the fire escape for *years*. So I'm doing it behind his back.

This doesn't seem like a bad move to you?  Wouldn't it be better to deflate it and stick it under his dresser or in his closet space?  To deflate it, you might need either something blunt and poky (https://youtu.be/6pzGCsjwuz8?t=39s) or a spoon to remove a plastic stopper (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqSTPY_9CpA).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 05, 2017, 11:43:45 PM
@With This Herring: normally I'd agree with you. In this case, 1) there is no such free space and 2) ostensibly the ball is "mine", as I bought it and used it in place of an office chair for a time.

I'm taking a "better to ask forgiveness than permission" approach on this one item. Thanks for the deflation links!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 06, 2017, 09:09:32 AM
When I moved in, the previous owners left behind one of the shelving units that stands above the toilet. I didn't like it, didn't want it, and finally found the proper screwdriver to take it apart and throw it out on Saturday. Sunday, I went in the bathroom and realized that the smell of urine was mostly gone. Great. That's why the bottom of the legs were yellow.

Anyone know how to clean under pedestal sinks without moving them? I suspect that's why the other bathroom smells of urine.

Boys and men, please sit down to pee. I don't care if it isn't cool, I don't want these problems.

Bleach is one of the only things to neutralize the ammonia in pee. I don't know if it will fix yours, but I would try mixing up a fresh spray bottle of diluted bleach solution and spray it up, around, under and anywhere you can thoroughly soak the pedestal sink. Hopefully lots will soak into the porous back of the porcelain and neutralize as much as possible. Good luck.

I was advised never to put marble tile in a bathroom for obvious reasons, as porous stone + ammonia soaking in is one of the worst combinations.

Mixing bleach and ammonia generates a rather nasty compound: Chloramine. If you do use this technique, PLEASE ventilate thoroughly.

For those interested, spraying Nature's Miracle seems to have done the trick. Still working on cleaning up the mess in general (forgot to go back to it), but the urine smell is gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jim555 on July 06, 2017, 09:43:19 AM
For those who need to digitize their books:
https://www.diybookscanner.org/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on July 06, 2017, 04:46:17 PM
@With This Herring: normally I'd agree with you. In this case, 1) there is no such free space and 2) ostensibly the ball is "mine", as I bought it and used it in place of an office chair for a time.

I'm taking a "better to ask forgiveness than permission" approach on this one item. Thanks for the deflation links!

Oh!  I didn't know it is yours!  That makes a big difference.  :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 07, 2017, 12:19:31 AM
The ball is dusted & posted!  Also a bike that Mr. O had been selling. With him out of town, I'm taking that over.  I still have the tennis racket listed, am supposed to meet someone tomorrow for that, but I don't like to count my chickens before they hatch.

Whew.  This seems like a lot to juggle.  But if the tennis racket goes like promised, then I only have 2 things to manage, and it'll be a weekend.  I think I can do it.

On another note, while I waited for the picture of the ball to go from my phone to the computer via Dropbox, I cleaned out 400 pix from Dropbox that got duplicated in there somehow.  Why did it take so long for that one picture to go through Dropbox?  Because I had both the wifi and data turned off!  *Slaps forehead*
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 07, 2017, 05:32:06 AM
I've made good progress packing away normal clothes and filling my wardrobe with (hand me down, thankfully!) maternity clothes. The problem now is volume. One friend gave me about 20 pairs of jeans (she had been given loads by other people and so on), but they are all different sizes, so I do want to hold onto them all throughout my pregnancy as I don't know where I'll end up. I have the space, I guess, I just prefer empty shelves.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 07, 2017, 11:18:20 PM
Yay, the tennis racket is gone! 

I found some more yarn; gonna reach out to the lady who took the first batch & see if she wants it.  She seemed so pleased with her yarn...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 08, 2017, 05:46:45 PM
Woo! After one flakeout, sold the old oxyacetylene torch and regulators today for $95.  It was acquired originally with some other stuff I actually wanted and used, for a total of $100.  Probably should see if I can sell the buffer and turn this into a profit - I'm really not using it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 08, 2017, 10:01:54 PM
Yay, the stability ball is gone!  As a bonus, I scrubbed the two big black marks it had made on the walls, so the evidence that it lurked in the corner of our bedroom for years is also gone!

Put a stuffed toy and a greeting card in the donation box.  Found 2 tiny notepads; put them on the table to take to work where I will use them.

I had a little twinge of guilt yesterday because the USB cord I got from Amazon arrived.  Like, how dare I bring something INTO the house! When I've been working so hard to move things out!  But I was able to counter that by thinking about how I ruined my other USB cord a few days before that by dropping my phone while it was on the charger, so I'm not in violation of the one-in-one-out rule.  Whew! Close call.  I don't want to get obsessive or anxious about decluttering.

The lady who took the first batch of yarn is lined up to take the second batch.   The bike is listed & I have 2 interested parties.

I was worried having 3 things listed, but am so quickly back down to 1 thing.  I just may list another item tomorrow, but I think I'll wait until after the yarn is gone. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on July 08, 2017, 10:20:23 PM
Brought a big box of assorted stuff to Goodwill...
Whooop!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bird In Hand on July 09, 2017, 08:17:07 AM
I've started working with on thinning out my book collection.  I was getting pretty bogged down and discouraged because it was hard getting rid of certain books I haven't read yet.  I decided to compromise by reading through my backlog and discarding each one when I'm done -- possibly keeping some that I think I'll reread, but probably not.  This will kill two birds with one stone: I'll finally get through that backlog, and declutter my book collection at the same time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on July 09, 2017, 10:00:22 AM
Not directly related but experience while decluttering:

Super frustrated with one of the new apps that lists items for selling. I and posted a few phones and tablets and got 30+ hits within a few minutes - sadly almost all of them were scammers. I think I should just stick to Craigslist. I really wish Craigslist had an app interface to make the listing part easy. That is my roadblock :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 09, 2017, 06:51:21 PM
Two pairs of jeans sold for $40 so I will post those today.

And I've put some empty shoeboxes out for recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 09, 2017, 07:02:51 PM
Yay, the bike is gone!  Of all the things I have gotten rid of, that one took up the most physical space...sooooo glad to reclaim that space!

The lady taking the yarn flaked, but we are trying to meet later this week.  I hope so!

Listed a camera for sale, hope that goes quickly like the bike did.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 09, 2017, 07:31:35 PM
19 nail polishes given away on buy nothing. I cleared out my collection last year to just 2 containers, but now decided to only have one. At least 5 of them were purchased in 2002. (Which is better than the blush from 1994 I threw away last year. It's the only blush I've ever owned. I still used it on rare occasion.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on July 09, 2017, 08:37:00 PM
Finally gave away some homeschool textbooks that were below the grade of my youngest child.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 10, 2017, 02:31:52 AM
I've finally done the switch to my maternity wardrobe, and took the opportunity to throw away anything with holes in it or excessive wear. I also donated a few things that I don't like.

I did keep all my old ratty pajamas, because I figure they will be useful post partum, even as throw away ones if necessary. I've been putting off buying new nightwear for about 3 years, thinking I might get pregnant. I thought I'd buy myself all new stuff as a treat once the babies are here, but thinking it through I decided that wasn't stress I needed with newborns, so I'll use the ratty ones at first, and can use the 'new pajamas' reward as a reason to get out of the house in those early weeks.

Even just packing stuff away has made my house so much calmer. I'm loving the 'capsule' element of a pregnancy wardrobe. Most of it is hand-me-downs and not necessarily what I would have chosen. But the scarcity of choice is actually rather nice. I wonder if I'll get bored over the next few months? Will be interesting to see.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on July 10, 2017, 12:14:11 PM
Had a somewhat productive weekend where we got rid of some bigger furniture (finally!).  I want to get rid of everything so we can be somewhat nomadic in the next few months.

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Coffee table
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord brake calipers, rotors, brake pads
- shoe racks (3)

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Dining Table
- Multiple plate sets
- Kitchen appliances
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...


SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on July 10, 2017, 09:27:17 PM
I think I caught my parents at a weak moment - they admitted that there is no need for me to keep the giant Keurig coffee machine they gave us. I got rid of it so fast after that! We only keep coffee for company, and it has been unreliable lately anyways since we use it so little. So I also gave away the pods, the carosal for the pods, and the giant box from the storage room it came in. At the same time I took another big box to the donate centre and sold a huge box of hobby supplies. I put together more hobby items to sell, but the buyer was very selective. I almost put the left over items away again, but then realized I know some teens who need something to do this summer - so I instead I filled up the box again with even more stuff that I will give away to them.  It feels fantastic to be making this progress.  Thanks everyone for the continued reminders and stories on this thread.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 1967mama on July 10, 2017, 11:36:44 PM
Watched a video about clutter --- does that count?! hhahahahah!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 11, 2017, 08:55:12 AM
The batch of clothes for consignment is finally in my car - I will bring it in at lunchtime.  What the store doesn't take will go straight to the donation pile which now includes an unused suitcase, a backpack and a bunch of clothes not suitable for consignment. 

I'm eagerly waiting for my daughter to get a job and move out so that she can take some stuff with her.  I have some kitchen items, towels, bed linens, etc. that she can use. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on July 11, 2017, 10:12:28 AM
I had such productive day yesterday.  I organized and decluttered.  I donated another bag of clothes and gave away a wall mirror to a relative.  The mirror was stored in my walk in closet so it wasn't really bothering me but I wasn't using it either so I finally decided to part with it.  It actually felt good to get some things out of the house. I even threw out some boxes from my fans and other things but some of my new small appliances boxes I kept for now.  I will be throwing them out eventually too.  I even organized my walk in closet and what a joy it is now to go in there. I still have too much stuff but for now, it will have to do. It is hard when you don't have a lot of room.  I would of continued for a few hours more because I was making some good progress but then my back did me in. 

I did a major declutter a couple of years back and felt so much lighter, I am ready to go through things again.

Can I ask what you folks do with collectibles if you had any?   I have lenox dolls, department 56 houses and other things. They are virtually worthless now but I cant bring myself to get rid of them just yet. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 11, 2017, 12:08:22 PM
I had such productive day yesterday.  I organized and decluttered.  I donated another bag of clothes and gave away a wall mirror to a relative.  The mirror was stored in my walk in closet so it wasn't really bothering me but I wasn't using it either so I finally decided to part with it.  It actually felt good to get some things out of the house. I even threw out some boxes from my fans and other things but some of my new small appliances boxes I kept for now.  I will be throwing them out eventually too.  I even organized my walk in closet and what a joy it is now to go in there. I still have too much stuff but for now, it will have to do. It is hard when you don't have a lot of room.  I would of continued for a few hours more because I was making some good progress but then my back did me in. 

I did a major declutter a couple of years back and felt so much lighter, I am ready to go through things again.

Can I ask what you folks do with collectibles if you had any?   I have lenox dolls, department 56 houses and other things. They are virtually worthless now but I cant bring myself to get rid of them just yet.

I don't have collectibles, but I have hobby tools & supplies.  I have offered them for free first to other hobbyists I know.  After that, I post them to either Craigslist or Facebook (a group similar to Buy Nothing) for free. 

If you can do "porch pick up", that is easiest.  I live in a gated community and so try to meet folks at the nearest coffee shop at a mutually convenient time for the hand off.  It's quite a bit more hassle, but I want to know that folks are going to appreciate what they are getting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 11, 2017, 07:16:31 PM
I had such productive day yesterday.  I organized and decluttered.  I donated another bag of clothes and gave away a wall mirror to a relative.  The mirror was stored in my walk in closet so it wasn't really bothering me but I wasn't using it either so I finally decided to part with it.  It actually felt good to get some things out of the house. I even threw out some boxes from my fans and other things but some of my new small appliances boxes I kept for now.  I will be throwing them out eventually too.  I even organized my walk in closet and what a joy it is now to go in there. I still have too much stuff but for now, it will have to do. It is hard when you don't have a lot of room.  I would of continued for a few hours more because I was making some good progress but then my back did me in. 

I did a major declutter a couple of years back and felt so much lighter, I am ready to go through things again.

Can I ask what you folks do with collectibles if you had any?   I have lenox dolls, department 56 houses and other things. They are virtually worthless now but I cant bring myself to get rid of them just yet.

I don't have collectibles, but I have hobby tools & supplies.  I have offered them for free first to other hobbyists I know.  After that, I post them to either Craigslist or Facebook (a group similar to Buy Nothing) for free. 

If you can do "porch pick up", that is easiest.  I live in a gated community and so try to meet folks at the nearest coffee shop at a mutually convenient time for the hand off.  It's quite a bit more hassle, but I want to know that folks are going to appreciate what they are getting.

We've done "porch pickup" at least a dozen times ($20 or under each) - no issues other than usual flakes not showing up using Craigslist.

Porch Pickup: "It's on the porch, here's the address, leave the $15 under the mat. Thanks!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 12, 2017, 07:39:21 AM
The batch of clothes for consignment is finally in my car - I will bring it in at lunchtime.  What the store doesn't take will go straight to the donation pile which now includes an unused suitcase, a backpack and a bunch of clothes not suitable for consignment. 

I'm eagerly waiting for my daughter to get a job and move out so that she can take some stuff with her.  I have some kitchen items, towels, bed linens, etc. that she can use. 

The consignment store took all but 4 items, so I'm planning to pack these and other stuff I have for donation and bring them in this weekend.

Daughter is doing a second round of interviews today so fingers crossed for the job and the move!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 12, 2017, 02:36:34 PM
Yay!  Made it to the bank today & deposited $48.00 in coins.  Now my PJ drawer won't clank when I open it & scare the cat :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on July 12, 2017, 03:18:24 PM
I gave my collectible-Hummels etc to a husky rescue that will sell them on ebay. They are not worth much and it is a lot of work. I sold the really nice cabinet they were in.  I also gave them antique glassware that was worth about 20/piece. I just wanted to make sure I wasn't giving away something worth a fortune:))  It took me years to be able to do this. I had a nice collection of porcelain dolls which I gave away one by one when someone was asking for silent auction items. They were always thrilled to have them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 13, 2017, 10:43:14 PM
Yay!  The lady & I *finally* connected & I gave her the rest of the yarn!  I am running out of things to get rid of...will have to change focus to combing through my belongings to find more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on July 14, 2017, 06:25:37 AM
I've been posting on and off on this thread for ages. I'm still at it. Another 2 large garbage bags of clothes and car load of times off to donation....My house is finally looking a bit emptier , but still more to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on July 14, 2017, 09:38:18 AM
Another update...

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord brake calipers, rotors, brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Papasan (pending sale tomorrow!)

To be listed:
- Queen bed set
- Dining Table set w/ 6 chairs
- Multiple plate sets
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...


SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on July 14, 2017, 10:02:10 AM

We live in a old farm house (1950's) that has been in my husband family for a while. His grand uncle lived there, his great grandma and even his parents lived there for a few years. By the time we got married, my husband had removed most of the old furniture/stuff and the house was very nice, but he showed me the attic mess: all things from those generations past that his folks (even not living there anymore) did not want him to get rid of "you might need it". That was the last time we went up to the attic.

Well... Husband is replacing some windows for more efficient ones in the back and had to remove the attic window... when I got home from work, there was a huge pile of stuff in the back of the house, and more and more stuff flying out. Stuffed deer head, about 5-6 chairs, 2 mattresses (one with a sticker: manufactured date 1929). Bed frames, old farm clothes (mostly jeans) lots of odd pieces of clothes - possibly to make quilts(?) old tables, desks, blankets and tarps... boxes and boxes of crap. Old cans of coffee with nails inside (not even good nails).

We burned all the wood furniture/stuff. It was a big fire! He will be taking all the metal stuff to our local recycling services this weekend.

I just wanted to share with the group; I'm proud to see husband finally cleaning everything... and now that the attic is mostly cleaned, he will be adding/replacing the insulation too! Win-win!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 14, 2017, 10:45:38 AM
The batch of clothes for consignment is finally in my car - I will bring it in at lunchtime.  What the store doesn't take will go straight to the donation pile which now includes an unused suitcase, a backpack and a bunch of clothes not suitable for consignment. 

I'm eagerly waiting for my daughter to get a job and move out so that she can take some stuff with her.  I have some kitchen items, towels, bed linens, etc. that she can use. 

The consignment store took all but 4 items, so I'm planning to pack these and other stuff I have for donation and bring them in this weekend.

Daughter is doing a second round of interviews today so fingers crossed for the job and the move!

Daughter got the job and will be moving in the next couple of weeks - as soon as she finds a place to live in the new city!  Which means I can finally either give stuff to her (whatever she wants and needs only - I'm not planning to burden her with my c**p!) or get rid of it.  Yay!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BrandNewPapa on July 14, 2017, 11:27:23 AM
My messy closet has been nagging at me for about 2 years.

I finally forced myself to take 1 hour last weekend and clean it up.

1 Large garbage bag of clothes, 2 pairs of shoes, 1 suit, 1 suitcase to Goodwill.

Lots of recycling, shredding, and trash. (Why was I keep documents from two employers ago in my closet?!)

Feeling much better.

Next step is the basement....that will probably be a whole day affair.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on July 15, 2017, 12:37:44 AM
I let go of three emotionally invested items today. It was hard to let go but it is going to go to a better place - I hope!

When Cadel Evans became the first Australian to win the Tour de France, I had spent that entire month of July watching him and urging him and screaming hoarsely to win and conquer the mountains as hours passed midnight here. When Cadel beat Contador, it was a sweet moment.

Anyhoo, the morning of his win, I went to the nearest BMC dealer here and bought the Team BMC Hincapie cycling jersey and cycling cap. I bought the same jersey he was wearing on the podium in Paris.

Years later, the jersey has remained unused, hung in my wardrobe not seeing sunlight; same with the cycling cap and same with the other cycling jersey. Tonight, my childhood friend had written a letter to my mother and she showed me photos of him and his son - the latter an avid cyclist who has won a couple of races and who liked BMC but wearing the knock-offs.

The BMC jersey is going to a better place.

I still have a BMC Jacket, not to mention my BMC bike. But those $200 cycling clothing items which I have rarely used will find better use elsewhere and hopefully appreciated by a better athlete.

It's time to let go of my piece of Cadel and a piece of that magical moment in July. Vale jersey - I will miss what you stood for but I never saw you. I'm going to be Buddhist and zen about this all....

2011 was an amazing race. Cadel won Stage 4 to Mur-de-Bretagne (out sprinting Contador up the hill). I remember a few things from this Tour - the summit finish at Plateau du Beille, crowd favourites Thor Hushovd and Thomas Voeckler holding yellow for a week each...

Stayed up for Stage 18, 19 and 20 - Andy Schleck gaining a minute on Cadel on the Col du Galibier, Pierre Rolland winning on Alp d'Huez (a stage in which they went the reverse route back over the Galibier, just for good measure). And then the final time trial in Grenoble.

In the second last straight before the line I don't think I'll ever forget Phil Liggett screaming out "and Cadel Evans is absolutely SLAUGHTERING them!!!"

What a race. This year is shaping up to be a good one too. Glad that it is not simply a Sky procession all the way to Paris. Fabio Aru is a cunning bastard :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on July 15, 2017, 12:41:14 AM
Woohoo... today mustachepungoeshere and her husband helped me carry down an old dining table that's been gathering dust for 2 years in my apartment. Finally getting rid of it in the council cleanup!

Beautiful table, but couldn't sell it, and then couldn't get rid of it for free either.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 15, 2017, 04:56:09 AM
Woohoo... today mustachepungoeshere and her husband helped me carry down an old dining table that's been gathering dust for 2 years in my apartment. Finally getting rid of it in the council cleanup!

Beautiful table, but couldn't sell it, and then couldn't get rid of it for free either.

Happy to help, and almost as happy as you are that it's gone!

Love that you can enjoy the space now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on July 15, 2017, 07:51:03 PM
Dropped a fair amount off at goodwill, including an old ikea chair we've had around for a few years since picking it up for free from our old apartment's recycling room. It wasn't super comfortable, though, and the space in the office is now being taken up by a second desk (also free, haha).

A ton of stuff set aside to return to my parents, too. They keep dropping their crap off without asking, ugh. Some of it is useful, I'll admit, but most is metric tons of crap they should just take to Goodwill. Parents: please do not do this to your children. Especially with the message "if you don't want it, give it back to us". Just let me get rid of it if you insist on dropping it off! </rant>

Anyway, finally went through a lot of decor that was trapped in a closet since we first moved in. Brother took his mattress finally, so we can access the closet now. Come to think of it, my biggest clutter problem is definitely family members!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 16, 2017, 12:24:03 PM
Dropped a fair amount off at goodwill, including an old ikea chair we've had around for a few years since picking it up for free from our old apartment's recycling room. It wasn't super comfortable, though, and the space in the office is now being taken up by a second desk (also free, haha).

A ton of stuff set aside to return to my parents, too. They keep dropping their crap off without asking, ugh. Some of it is useful, I'll admit, but most is metric tons of crap they should just take to Goodwill. Parents: please do not do this to your children. Especially with the message "if you don't want it, give it back to us". Just let me get rid of it if you insist on dropping it off! </rant>

Anyway, finally went through a lot of decor that was trapped in a closet since we first moved in. Brother took his mattress finally, so we can access the closet now. Come to think of it, my biggest clutter problem is definitely family members!

What would happen if you just gave it to goodwill?

And stop being nice to family.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on July 16, 2017, 01:23:16 PM
My MIL was a hoarder so when she asked me if I wanted anything I would say yes and then take it right to Goodwill. She never figured it out.  If I am getting rid of stuff that I think my kids might want I ask them first before I give it away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on July 17, 2017, 07:49:44 AM
Another productive weekend...  The only big furniture left is the bed set and the TV stand/table.

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord brake calipers, rotors, brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Queen bed set
- TV stand/table

To be listed:
- LCD TV
- Box fan
- Table fan
- Multiple plate sets
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on July 17, 2017, 08:58:11 AM
Dropped a fair amount off at goodwill, including an old ikea chair we've had around for a few years since picking it up for free from our old apartment's recycling room. It wasn't super comfortable, though, and the space in the office is now being taken up by a second desk (also free, haha).

A ton of stuff set aside to return to my parents, too. They keep dropping their crap off without asking, ugh. Some of it is useful, I'll admit, but most is metric tons of crap they should just take to Goodwill. Parents: please do not do this to your children. Especially with the message "if you don't want it, give it back to us". Just let me get rid of it if you insist on dropping it off! </rant>

Anyway, finally went through a lot of decor that was trapped in a closet since we first moved in. Brother took his mattress finally, so we can access the closet now. Come to think of it, my biggest clutter problem is definitely family members!

What would happen if you just gave it to goodwill?

And stop being nice to family.

I'm so torn though. Family cast offs are how we outfitted our house and everything. Like seriously, we've bought... 1 piece of furniture? And got a couple off Buy Nothing. But it's usually good stuff, in great shape, way nicer than I would ever be comfortable buying. There's just SO much of it.

Anyway, it makes me feel guilty, because there is some that I do take and use and this stuff was so important to setting up a comfortable life without spending a ton of money when we were younger. =\

(Some of it that I think she won't miss does get disappeared to Goodwill though).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 17, 2017, 01:11:10 PM
Dropped a fair amount off at goodwill, including an old ikea chair we've had around for a few years since picking it up for free from our old apartment's recycling room. It wasn't super comfortable, though, and the space in the office is now being taken up by a second desk (also free, haha).

A ton of stuff set aside to return to my parents, too. They keep dropping their crap off without asking, ugh. Some of it is useful, I'll admit, but most is metric tons of crap they should just take to Goodwill. Parents: please do not do this to your children. Especially with the message "if you don't want it, give it back to us". Just let me get rid of it if you insist on dropping it off! </rant>

Anyway, finally went through a lot of decor that was trapped in a closet since we first moved in. Brother took his mattress finally, so we can access the closet now. Come to think of it, my biggest clutter problem is definitely family members!

What would happen if you just gave it to goodwill?

And stop being nice to family.

I'm so torn though. Family cast offs are how we outfitted our house and everything. Like seriously, we've bought... 1 piece of furniture? And got a couple off Buy Nothing. But it's usually good stuff, in great shape, way nicer than I would ever be comfortable buying. There's just SO much of it.

Anyway, it makes me feel guilty, because there is some that I do take and use and this stuff was so important to setting up a comfortable life without spending a ton of money when we were younger. =\

(Some of it that I think she won't miss does get disappeared to Goodwill though).

Bracken Joy, I feel you on the bold.  In our first apartment, Mr. O and I had bought the same: only 1 piece of furniture which was the TV stand, and actually he had that from before we met.  So as a couple, we didn't buy anything.  I was so proud of that!

But once the house is set up, unless you come across a nicer coffee table or loveseat or whatever, there's no reason to accept those things any more. 

Can you tell your family something like: Now that we are all set up, the things you drop off here, they are not coming back to you.  If this is a gift, it has to be unconditional.  If you want it back, you better just keep it in the first place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on July 17, 2017, 01:40:24 PM
When we were young we accepted everyone's cast-offs too. But as we got more $ and acquired our own tastes we no longer did that. I think gently explaining that would be a good first step.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on July 17, 2017, 03:03:03 PM
When we were young we accepted everyone's cast-offs too. But as we got more $ and acquired our own tastes we no longer did that. I think gently explaining that would be a good first step.

Sigh. So it sounds like my solution probably shouldn't be to just gripe about it on the internet and do nothing until everyone dies of old age? *sigh*. You people and holding me accountable.

(Thank you for that. Seriously)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on July 18, 2017, 05:13:45 AM
We are trying to finish/repurpose the remaining areas of the basement and are getting bogged down with all the furniture and stuff that we just keep packing away in basement for no particular reason.  I started going through it and got overwhelmed - at the soccer bin.  Four pairs of cleats that fit no one.  Six pairs of shin pads.  Now they are in the garage, along with a lot of other stuff.  Hubs and son were looking at the gear and saying things like: those are in great shape, only wore that half a season.  If I had done this in April, all the gear could have been donated to the club for their boot swap fundraiser.

My plan is to get the junk out of the basement to the garage.  September will roll around soon enough and parking in the garage becomes a priority for others - then garage gets cleared out.  Just trying to go through one bin at a time with stuff I should be dealing with and leaving other peoples stuff alone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 19, 2017, 08:49:37 AM
When we were young we accepted everyone's cast-offs too. But as we got more $ and acquired our own tastes we no longer did that. I think gently explaining that would be a good first step.

Sigh. So it sounds like my solution probably shouldn't be to just gripe about it on the internet and do nothing until everyone dies of old age? *sigh*. You people and holding me accountable.

(Thank you for that. Seriously)

You wouldn't believe the arguments and yelling that have happened because my sister and I have told our mother, gently and nicely, that we won't be taking all the crap from her house.

So now, we get emails periodically that are "either of you want x?" and we usually respond with no thanks. However, she's nibbling around the edges and not addressing the elephants in the room. All because its FAMILYYYYYYYYYYYY stuff.

There may be a support thread eventually when they're forced to sell the house and move. Which will be fairly soon (5 years max) due to dad's dementia getting worse.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on July 20, 2017, 04:30:39 PM
I'm cleaning out my youngest son's room that has been overtaken with toys so much that he can't really play with them.

A little progress. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 21, 2017, 01:35:28 AM
I went through our bathroom cupboard and drawers. Everything in there, we use! There were only a couple of small things to throw out. We might be able to move the hand towels or something back into that room!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on July 21, 2017, 06:36:59 AM
Does this count?  I made my teenagers tidy up the linen closet.  Nothing got thrown out but you can see everything and they might be less tempted to root around like piglets when they are looking for a beach towel.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 21, 2017, 07:38:34 AM
Does this count?  I made my teenagers tidy up the linen closet.  Nothing got thrown out but you can see everything and they might be less tempted to root around like piglets when they are looking for a beach towel.

It counts. and, if you make them tidy the linen closet regularly, they're less likely to make a mess because they know they'll just have to clean it up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on July 21, 2017, 08:03:57 AM
Back on track! The recent move has made me realize how much stuff I still have and how much of it is pure sunk cost. My hope is to lighten the load before our next move in ten months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on July 21, 2017, 11:52:37 AM
I'm going to spend this weekend decluttering!

It's amazing how much stuff you gather when you are two minimalistic, frugal adults who have never had any kind of hoarding tendencies. I think boyfriend's clothes might be the next thing. I don't have a lot of clothes (just enough to wear for a weak and a few special occasion outfits) but my boyfriend wears band shirts and those are hard to get rid of. I have heard of a lot of minimalistic men who can't get rid of their band shirts. I'm not asking him to get rid of his favourite shirts from his favourite bands, but as he's in a band he's traded t-shirts with other bands, received shirts from festivals they played at or he worked at, he even has shirts from bands he hates that he got for free from a store he used to work in. They used to give the shirts that no one bought (Coldplay) as freebies to the employees.  I think he has at least 80 and he wears about 15 of them. Some don't even fit anymore and some are 15 years old.

One problem of ours is that we don't have a car. When we have something to recycle, it sits in the hallway for a long time before we take it out to where it needs to go. We do everything by bike, including holidays, so there's no reason why we can't take the bag of glass bottles or the bag of old textile, but for some reason it doesn't happen. I have just dug five boxes of waste paper from our basement. It's just easier to dump it there than actually remember when collection day is (it's this Monday).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 21, 2017, 08:40:47 PM
  I think he has at least 80 and he wears about 15 of them. Some don't even fit anymore and some are 15 years old.

Kudos on the decluttering push. Personally, I don't use age - the shorts I wore today are roughly 25 years old....

Decluttering roughly half of them last year is why I am actually wearing them instead of being stuffed in an overflow drawer that I don't need. Heck, I no longer even have that dresser - the whole thing went. Eventually.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on July 22, 2017, 02:47:23 AM
  I think he has at least 80 and he wears about 15 of them. Some don't even fit anymore and some are 15 years old.

Kudos on the decluttering push. Personally, I don't use age - the shorts I wore today are roughly 25 years old....

Decluttering roughly half of them last year is why I am actually wearing them instead of being stuffed in an overflow drawer that I don't need. Heck, I no longer even have that dresser - the whole thing went. Eventually.

That's exactly why I'm decluttering. We have a cupboard in our bedroom that we bought when we lived somewhere else. This house came with a built-in cupboard in our bedroom, so we don't need that extra cupboard anymore. I'm emptying the bedroom out now so I can paint it and I'm not willing to put that thing back.

We generally wear lots of old clothes too. Not 25 years old, as he's only 30 ;-) but he has a nice pair of Levi's jeans that I think he's worn for almost 15 years. I'm taking my winter coat to the dry cleaner's later today and it's also at least 10 years old. But if you keep buying new shirts, you need to throw out old shirts. I came across an old Hot Rod Helloween costume, so that's one thing we don't have to buy this year...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on July 22, 2017, 08:22:19 AM
  I think he has at least 80 and he wears about 15 of them. Some don't even fit anymore and some are 15 years old.

Kudos on the decluttering push. Personally, I don't use age - the shorts I wore today are roughly 25 years old....

Decluttering roughly half of them last year is why I am actually wearing them instead of being stuffed in an overflow drawer that I don't need. Heck, I no longer even have that dresser - the whole thing went. Eventually.

That's exactly why I'm decluttering. We have a cupboard in our bedroom that we bought when we lived somewhere else. This house came with a built-in cupboard in our bedroom, so we don't need that extra cupboard anymore. I'm emptying the bedroom out now so I can paint it and I'm not willing to put that thing back.

We generally wear lots of old clothes too. Not 25 years old, as he's only 30 ;-) but he has a nice pair of Levi's jeans that I think he's worn for almost 15 years. I'm taking my winter coat to the dry cleaner's later today and it's also at least 10 years old. But if you keep buying new shirts, you need to throw out old shirts. I came across an old Hot Rod Helloween costume, so that's one thing we don't have to buy this year...

My mom is big on decluttering. Dad is a pack rat. However, between visits she almost always gets a few things pried out of his possession - typically clothing he can't fit into any more. I've inherited quite a few shirts, some socks and a GREAT vintage corduroy jacket that's older than I am. Gets worn every winter. But the stuff I won't wear I just thank them for and put in the box for Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on July 22, 2017, 08:34:33 AM
I'm going to spend this weekend decluttering!

It's amazing how much stuff you gather when you are two minimalistic, frugal adults who have never had any kind of hoarding tendencies. I think boyfriend's clothes might be the next thing. I don't have a lot of clothes (just enough to wear for a weak and a few special occasion outfits) but my boyfriend wears band shirts and those are hard to get rid of. I have heard of a lot of minimalistic men who can't get rid of their band shirts. I'm not asking him to get rid of his favourite shirts from his favourite bands, but as he's in a band he's traded t-shirts with other bands, received shirts from festivals they played at or he worked at, he even has shirts from bands he hates that he got for free from a store he used to work in. They used to give the shirts that no one bought (Coldplay) as freebies to the employees.  I think he has at least 80 and he wears about 15 of them. Some don't even fit anymore and some are 15 years old.

Have you ever thought of making a tshirt quilt with the ones that do not fit? They are easy to do, and then you will have a useful quilt instead of drawers full of old, unworn shirts. You can also pay people to make them for you, but it is easy enough to do yourself. They can be done by hand, but if you have a sewing machine, or access to one, it is a snap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on July 22, 2017, 02:32:53 PM
I'm going to spend this weekend decluttering!

It's amazing how much stuff you gather when you are two minimalistic, frugal adults who have never had any kind of hoarding tendencies. I think boyfriend's clothes might be the next thing. I don't have a lot of clothes (just enough to wear for a weak and a few special occasion outfits) but my boyfriend wears band shirts and those are hard to get rid of. I have heard of a lot of minimalistic men who can't get rid of their band shirts. I'm not asking him to get rid of his favourite shirts from his favourite bands, but as he's in a band he's traded t-shirts with other bands, received shirts from festivals they played at or he worked at, he even has shirts from bands he hates that he got for free from a store he used to work in. They used to give the shirts that no one bought (Coldplay) as freebies to the employees.  I think he has at least 80 and he wears about 15 of them. Some don't even fit anymore and some are 15 years old.

Have you ever thought of making a tshirt quilt with the ones that do not fit? They are easy to do, and then you will have a useful quilt instead of drawers full of old, unworn shirts. You can also pay people to make them for you, but it is easy enough to do yourself. They can be done by hand, but if you have a sewing machine, or access to one, it is a snap.

I hadn't really thought of that, but that's an option too! I am actually a quilter and I've made several quilts from old jeans and I never thought about a band shirt quilt! As he's in a band, that might actually be a nice thing to take with him on the road.

I also went through our collection of winter gear and we have way too much scarves, many of them hand knit. My brother works for a charity supporting homeless people, so these are going to him. Maybe a good place for some of those band shirts as well, but as they get a lot of clothing he's going to check if t-shirts are what they need right now (limited storage space).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 22, 2017, 05:59:32 PM
This counts as decluttering to me. I borrowed a pressure washer from a friend (was going to rent and got lucky) to try to get the paint off the garage. Failed on that, but succeeded in cleaning out the garage!

Took all 42 cans of paint up to the hazardous waste drop off, along with the bag of lightbulbs.
Got rid of the layer of dirt that was on the concrete (several inches in a couple places).
Large pile of misc junk dragged out to the trash, and posted a "free" on Craigslist in case anyone wants it. Various wood (no, I'm NOT saving all the scraps of wood, just in case. That's why there's a large pile out back right now)
Large bag filled with misc trash that was on the floor, walls, ceiling or wherever.
For the first time ever, got the garage door open! Yeah, I need to replace it, there's some pieces of metal actually holding the door together...
Posted the 8 ft ladder that was in the garage on craigslist. (I have other, better ones)
Posted the pile of firewood on craigslist
Posted the firepit or whatever it is on craigslist.
Powerwashed all the walls, ceilings, the doors, shelves, etc.

I forgot to take the tv up to the e-waste though, so that's still in the garage :(

And since everything is out of the garage, I can put it all back in an organized, neat fashion. Just debating when - the garage is pretty wet, so it would be best for it dry some before I put stuff back in.

There's more stuff in the garage that I'll need help getting down. Not sure what most of that is, but there's at least one piece of PVC. However, it's not in the way, so can wait.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on July 22, 2017, 08:31:03 PM
And since everything is out of the garage, I can put it all back in an organized, neat fashion. Just debating when - the garage is pretty wet, so it would be best for it dry some before I put stuff back in.

If you have ever wanted to epoxy the garage floor, this is the time!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on July 22, 2017, 09:43:21 PM
Spent an hour on my pantry this morning.

Took everything out, wiped down the shelves, topped up my jars and canisters, updated some labels, and put a tin and a couple of jars without lids out for recycling.

My pantry looks gorgeous now. Twice I've gone and opened the door just to admire my handiwork. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on July 23, 2017, 01:39:31 AM
I went through our bathroom cupboard and drawers. Everything in there, we use! There were only a couple of small things to throw out. We might be able to move the hand towels or something back into that room!
and now I've photographed and emailed my siblings in case they want the kitchen gadgets or castoffs from our grandma (they are not nice clothes, just ones she doesn't want any more).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on July 23, 2017, 09:39:53 AM
Getting a lot of stuff out of the basement to prepare for painting and flooring.  It looks so amazing.  Some of it will be coming back but I am going to guard the stairs so carefully so that nothing we don't need makes it back into that area.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 23, 2017, 10:57:19 AM
And since everything is out of the garage, I can put it all back in an organized, neat fashion. Just debating when - the garage is pretty wet, so it would be best for it dry some before I put stuff back in.

If you have ever wanted to epoxy the garage floor, this is the time!

Multiple deep cracks in the floor. Wouldn't work. I'm happy to get all the dirt out. (this isn't attached to the house btw)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 23, 2017, 11:36:33 AM
@With This Herring: normally I'd agree with you. In this case, 1) there is no such free space and 2) ostensibly the ball is "mine", as I bought it and used it in place of an office chair for a time.

I'm taking a "better to ask forgiveness than permission" approach on this one item. Thanks for the deflation links!

Oh!  I didn't know it is yours!  That makes a big difference.  :)

He's been back from vacation since Thursday and hasn't noticed it's gone!  Win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on July 23, 2017, 11:45:51 AM
i decluttered my jewelry box and made $166 selling the broken gold necklaces, earrings with no match, etc. Then the costume jewelry I gave to friends and the rest to the thrift store.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 23, 2017, 11:51:59 AM
A carload of things to the donation center yesterday.  They rejected 2 boxes, which we sort of expected (vhs tapes mostly).  Still, only those 2 boxes of things will need to be thrown out, the rest will hopefully find new homes!  I think the highest demand things are going to be the 2x and 3x sized men's clothes, those are just hard to find at a reasonable price.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Shinplaster on July 23, 2017, 02:54:46 PM
They rejected 2 boxes, which we sort of expected (vhs tapes mostly).

Funny - those are in high demand at the Goodwill near us, along with VCRs.   I guess everyone takes them to the cottage for rainy days.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on July 23, 2017, 04:40:27 PM
They rejected 2 boxes, which we sort of expected (vhs tapes mostly).

Funny - those are in high demand at the Goodwill near us, along with VCRs.   I guess everyone takes them to the cottage for rainy days.
Huh, interesting.  Well I just found out that DH posted to Facebook about the tapes and very quickly had 2 people say they would like some.  Better than the trash!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on July 23, 2017, 07:44:29 PM
And since everything is out of the garage, I can put it all back in an organized, neat fashion. Just debating when - the garage is pretty wet, so it would be best for it dry some before I put stuff back in.

If you have ever wanted to epoxy the garage floor, this is the time!

Multiple deep cracks in the floor. Wouldn't work. I'm happy to get all the dirt out. (this isn't attached to the house btw)

When my father did it, I think he first filled cracks with...something.  (I was not around for the project.)  But good job and good riddance to dirt!

@With This Herring: normally I'd agree with you. In this case, 1) there is no such free space and 2) ostensibly the ball is "mine", as I bought it and used it in place of an office chair for a time.

I'm taking a "better to ask forgiveness than permission" approach on this one item. Thanks for the deflation links!

Oh!  I didn't know it is yours!  That makes a big difference.  :)

He's been back from vacation since Thursday and hasn't noticed it's gone!  Win!

Congratulations!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on July 23, 2017, 08:20:07 PM
Gave away 2 kitchen items through a FB group. Feels good.

I'm debating whether to give away a DVD box set that is UK region or whether to wait and lug it over to the UK next visit (next year) and try to sell it for a few pounds or even give it away there to charity. It cost about $100 and it was a gift. We were in the UK one year at Xmas and for some reason DH thought he'd buy it there. I should have returned it at the time but didn't click and ended up never watching it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on July 24, 2017, 04:22:21 AM
Not decluttering as such, but decluttering my to-do list and reducing waste, so I think I can count it? I mended a stack of hand-me down maternity clothes. Just some seams that had given way, and a bit of darning on a nightdress that had one hole but was otherwise perfectly functional and very comfortable.

I also took the opportunity to be ruthless with my non-maternity clothes as I was packing them away. There are many items from my early dressmaking days using fabrics that I no longer care for. I sewed size labels in (our local charity shop won't sell clothes without size labels) and they are now in the donate box. Feels good to get that done - my pregnancy lethargy and morning sickness had made that seem like a much bigger task than it really was.

Plus I'm definitely decluttering my friend's houses by accepting all their old maternity stuff LOL.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 24, 2017, 05:35:18 AM
With my daughter moving out next weekend, I am "getting rid" of the following:
- a dresser, a nightstand, a sofa and a small end table (she is getting a new bed)
- a couple of pots and pans
- some bowls and utensils
- some towels and bed linens

We also donated 3 large bags of assorted clothes and random stuff yesterday.  And after doing another purge of her closet, she packed another large bag for donation.  Some paperwork and stuffed toys will also be leaving my house (she will store her remaining possessions that she doesn't want to get rid of in her dad's house).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on July 24, 2017, 06:00:37 AM
Got rid of two kitchen gadgets at the weekend, feels good. One was bulky so I won't be moving it to get to other stuff now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jim555 on July 24, 2017, 09:30:51 AM
Gave away 2 kitchen items through a FB group. Feels good.

I'm debating whether to give away a DVD box set that is UK region or whether to wait and lug it over to the UK next visit (next year) and try to sell it for a few pounds or even give it away there to charity. It cost about $100 and it was a gift. We were in the UK one year at Xmas and for some reason DH thought he'd buy it there. I should have returned it at the time but didn't click and ended up never watching it.
Turn those into a video file and chuck the physical DVD.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on July 24, 2017, 09:32:40 AM
Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord brake calipers, rotors, brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Queen bed set
- LCD TV and stand
- Standing Hammock
- Paper Shredder
- Small TV Stand
- DVD player

To be listed:
- Multiple plate sets
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on July 24, 2017, 09:56:00 AM
Finally decided it was stupid to keep decorative pillows.

Recently got rid of:
8 pillows, decorative and one body
Two nightstands
A giant makeup kit I barely used that is years past expiration
Bathtub mat
1 bathroom floor mat out of 2

Probably need to tackle the wash cloths and tons of towels from a short-lived Airbnb stint.

Car tools and cleaning supplies are a real problem but I can't part with any of it. :( It's not a crazy amount, enough to fit in a small apartment if necessary, but still. I don't trust my car with those touchless car washes. I guess polish, compound, etc isn't super necessary but it does help increase resale value I suppose?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 24, 2017, 01:55:00 PM
If your car is shiny, it will definitely fetch more if you sell to a private party. It's usually cheaper to keep your car detailed if you do it yourself. I wouldn't worry about that stuff, sounds like you use it regularly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on July 26, 2017, 12:06:02 PM
I took my car into a local garage this morning for some work.  Yesterday I started clearing it out, which was on my to do list for months already and moved to the top because of being out of my sight for awhile.  I have been so proud of my progress in shredding and getting rid of old paperwork.  In my trunk was a bag of paperwork to be shredded that I shoved in there to take care of 'later' about a year ago.  I'm finding things from 1990 in there.  It seems that my 'later' stacks that I've shoved various places for the past 10 or so years will haunt me for awhile yet.  Now is that 'later', though, so I work my way through them.  I also take care of paperwork as it comes in now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on July 26, 2017, 06:01:30 PM
This week is the conversion of our long-time tool storage room (from the building of the house) into a rental bedroom for awhile before hopefully it becomes the originally planned library in a few years. Anyway, husband got the walls finished and the trim and light fixture up, then on to the emptying. Lots of building scraps too small to use went to the transfer station (snuck it out of county since our county has no legal way to dispose of anything, even if you're willing to pay, so don't tell!) Also a broken fan and a broken kerosene heater, and an ancient all-in-one which no longer either prints or scans (see above about no legal way to dispose of anything...)


The he took a bunch of building materials that are not too small to use elsewhere to the barn. The room is nearly ready (still sawdust everywhere, but that's tomorrow's project).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: lemanfan on July 27, 2017, 08:17:11 AM
Sent the old bluray player and a bunch of movies (VHS, DVD and Bluray) down to the local goodwill store run by The Salvation Army in my country.   Feels good.

Now I gotta get rid of three pieces of furniture too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 27, 2017, 11:15:09 AM
lemanfan, I also have a box to go to donation; it does feel good!

Mr. O is supposed to take the box, but hasn't yet.  I found a few filing supplies & binders that I want to go, so started a new box already!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on July 27, 2017, 01:59:35 PM
I have found a creative way to declutter my yarn stash! I don't have a massive amount of yarn, just one box, but still plenty of bits and ends I'd never use normally. My brother works with homeless people and he's known for always wearing a striped scarf I knitted for him. I'm going to use all my bits and ends to knit more scarves and hats like that so he can give them to people who need them. It might be a strange season for knitting winter gear but I hope to have a bag full by the time it's winter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on July 27, 2017, 05:35:55 PM
I have found a creative way to declutter my yarn stash! I don't have a massive amount of yarn, just one box, but still plenty of bits and ends I'd never use normally. My brother works with homeless people and he's known for always wearing a striped scarf I knitted for him. I'm going to use all my bits and ends to knit more scarves and hats like that so he can give them to people who need them. It might be a strange season for knitting winter gear but I hope to have a bag full by the time it's winter.

Knitters, and crafters in general, usually work in the off season, so the items are ready to go when needed.  It's not strange to a knitter!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 28, 2017, 11:21:54 AM
One person is coming over tonight to buy the cat tree (which my silly cats don't use!), and someone else is supposed to come tomorrow to get the fire pit/whatever it is out of the back yard. It will be nice to mow down the 3 ft tall grass behind it.

Update: cat tree is gone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on July 28, 2017, 12:35:26 PM
Decided to post my 46" smart TV for sale! Apparently I priced it too cheap at $150 because of the amount of interest I got, but oh well. Beats waiting around for someone to buy.

It's a bit of an older TV, so it makes any room incredibly hot. Good riddance. BF already has a 32" one anyway.

My next move should be a breeze. The only furniture I have in my possession is a bed, a tiny TV stand, and two chairs. I could get rid of all of those but I really like all of them. I guess that's how it should be!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on July 29, 2017, 09:58:43 AM
Fire pit is gone! And I cleaned up where it was a bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on July 29, 2017, 11:17:59 AM
Fire pit is gone! And I cleaned up where it was a bit.

Well done!

I have a feeling I might be done decluttering for now. I get that feeling sometimes, and then 2 months later I see so much more clutter that I start again. Strangely, after several rounds of decluttering, our house is still far from empty.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on July 31, 2017, 08:52:48 AM
Due to DD's moving out, a lot of stuff left my house: furniture (sofa, dresser, chair, two nightstands), two lamps, bed linens, towels, an umbrella, some pots and pans, utensils, hand held mixer, bowls, measuring cup and other miscellaneous things.  Hopefully she'll want some other stuff once she's situated in her new place :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on July 31, 2017, 08:59:15 AM
Got rid of a breast pump a friend gave me as a back up that is a different brand than what i use.

Also got rid of the extra flanges for my pump that don't fit me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on August 01, 2017, 07:42:17 AM
Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- TSX/Accord rotors, brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Queen bed set
- LCD TV and stand
- Standing Hammock
- Paper Shredder
- Small TV Stand

To be listed:
- Multiple plate sets
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random car parts
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
- TSX brake calipers
- DVD Player
- Card Table and 5 chairs
- Storage baskets
- pillow stuffing (free)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 01, 2017, 08:32:48 AM
Gave away my two favorite pairs of shoes. They are the cutest shoes and I love them. But my tendinitis doesn't let me wear heels anymore. So they are useless to me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on August 01, 2017, 08:33:14 AM
More clearing out of the basement.  Not all of it has left the property but moving it out to the garage is so close to it being gone.
Daughter has caught the bug.  She is 13 and has started to part with toys.  She threw out a ton of actual garbage and recycling she had stashed in her giant closet.  The carrot for all this is that we are going to paint her bedroom a new colour.  (We can't paint it with all that stuff in there.)
Son, 16, is easily giving away the mego blocks, kinex and some other non-lego stuff.  He has been organizing his lego in his bedroom and playing with it more. 
The toys in the basement only get played with when nieces and nephews visit.  I am going to keep all the good books and the really durable toys - for various ages but most of it needs to go.

My mom shows up with junk every time she visits. Hopefully the concrete rabbit with the broken ear and the concrete patch can just leave.  It is painted grey and pink and it looks so fake and ugly, I can't bear to have it in my garden.  She had it out of the car and into my daughter's hands as a 'birthday' present/project. 

My mom has passed along a huge pile of Halloween costumes.  A lot of it is musty rags but I think I will wash what I can and offer to my brothers (they have kids under 5) and the rest is going. It was great fun to play dress up when I was a kid.  All of it is now too small for my guys.  The sonic costume I made my son when he was nine (the mask took me 10 hours) is staying.  He still likes to wear the mask every now and then....
What is so surprising is how much complete junk we have.  Things with absolutely no functional life left.
We found:
The counterweight for a garage door. Hubs thought it might be useful for something.  I said - what if it contains lead?  Hubs said - this form of lead is safe.  I said - so why do we want to store it in the basement?  It was in the house when we bought it.  It is now in the garage.
Some long heavy metal rods.
A couple of pieces of tiles from our previous house.
A bunch of tiles that were leftover from floors that we have removed from this house.
Broken florescent lights.
A collection of broken, stripped and bent nails and screws and pieces from snapped knife blades.
Paint stir sticks - stuck together from paint stirring.

In addition to the many papers and user manuals of everything we have bought in the last twenty years.

It feels so amazing to get rid of this stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on August 01, 2017, 09:21:22 AM
Gave away my two favorite pairs of shoes. They are the cutest shoes and I love them. But my tendinitis doesn't let me wear heels anymore. So they are useless to me.
I donated all of my pairs of heels except for one pair a few years ago.  It was a great decision.  My feet feel better.  My running has improved, and I have way more room in my closet.  :)

I've stalled out on the clearing of clutter.  We got a new puppy, so the clutter has been coming in the house more and more...I'm feeling overwhelmed.  I need to start tackling one room a week. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on August 01, 2017, 03:42:28 PM
Two new pairs of jeans in, two old pairs of jeans sold on ebay.  Three years old, kind of surprised someone wanted them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on August 01, 2017, 06:44:18 PM
Almost all of the lumber has gone from the house to the barn. We've used a lot of it this week, but there will be some projects undone when husband goes off to grad school (and for the rest of our lives, undoubtedly). But we're almost ready to show the house to the prospective room renter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on August 02, 2017, 08:46:31 AM
I cleared three bagfuls of detective fiction off my bookshelves today and took them to the charity shop. I've been getting rid of bundles of novels intermittently for years, and last night I looked at the stack of one particular author's work on the shelf and thought, "Your turn. There are a million other books I want to read and I'm not going to re-read you lot. You can go and entertain someone else now."

I also cleared out and disposed of a small metal box of odds and ends. 11-year-old odds and ends. That box must have moved house with us unopened.

More importantly, I had a chat with my youngest daughter, who is about to go away to college and who has far too many clothes and trinkets, and she assures me that she's going to go through her clothes and donate a lot of them now, then have a second pass through the ones she keeps but doesn't take to college and donate any that she hasn't missed during her first semester. She has, however, explicitly banned me from having a yard sale with her collection of scented candles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on August 02, 2017, 10:20:47 AM
I have read pretty much this entire thread but this is my first time posting.  I love reading everyone's progress so keep the posts coming! 

I read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up in late 2015 as we prepared to move from a 1700 sq ft townhouse to a 1000 sq ft apartment!  It literally changed my life and I haven't looked back since.  We purged at least 50% of our belongings and it felt amazing.  I continue to cull through stuff as we have lived here but the biggest change was in my purchasing habits.  I really think hard before buying non-consumable items and I enjoy the things (especially clothes) I do purchase so much more than I did before.  I think the main benefit of the book for me was it gave me "permission" to purge so many things I always WANTED to get rid of but couldn't.  Prom dresses, bridesmaid dresses, graduation robes were several things that I finally felt ok about giving away.  It's amazing how much emotion can be tied to stuff.

As we approach 2 years at our current apartment, we are planning to move to a 760 sq ft apartment closer to my job.  I am already purging in anticipation of this move and it feels great.

Progress:
-sold my husband's car (almost never driven; we will be a one car family since I will be able to walk to work)
-wiped FIVE old iPhones and sent them to Amazon Trade-In.  I got $156 and it was so easy!
-donated several bags of stuff to a local community assistance center. (I always donated to Goodwill because it was easy but recently found out about this local charity and they do some great work!  I feel really good donating my gently used clothes and household goods to them)
-selling my bicycle this evening (cheap beach cruiser not suitable for any reasonable distance. My husband told me a cheap bicycle was a waste of money and he was correct.  Don't tell him I admitted he was right)
-sold my bike rack

I normally hate selling things because of the hassle but this new Facebook Marketplace is so easy and fast.  For me, it is way easier than craigslist or eBay.

I will keep posting as I make more progress!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on August 02, 2017, 06:42:54 PM
TCNG, great work!  I am a little jealous of you & others still in declutter mode.  I have hit a wall & lost my motivation for the time being.

At first I found Marie Kondo's "thank your items" thing a bit strange, but over time I came to interpret that as being about closure and permission to yourself to pass things on.  Just phrased a bit...spiritually?  I don't know what to call it.  Of course I could be off base, but that is what it means to me.  And seems like you have a similar interpretation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zamboni on August 03, 2017, 02:17:57 PM
After a long period of stalled progress, I resumed by donating four bags of clothes and lunch boxes yesterday.

And now I've treated myself to an Angie's list big deal house cleaning, so I have to get in gear and get this place cleared out for the cleaning! I have set myself up for a fun weekend . . .

Facebook marketplace sounds interesting. We also have a neighborhood for sale online group, but I haven't tried it yet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on August 03, 2017, 10:16:47 PM
I just reviewed a drawer in my son's dresser. I counted 29 t-shirts. That is just t-shirts. That doesn't include long sleeve shirts, school uniforms, dress shirts or any that are in the wash. I've pulled out 14 in smaller sizing. It seems like such a waste as they still fit him.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on August 04, 2017, 09:43:16 AM
I just reviewed a drawer in my son's dresser. I counted 29 t-shirts. That is just t-shirts. That doesn't include long sleeve shirts, school uniforms, dress shirts or any that are in the wash. I've pulled out 14 in smaller sizing. It seems like such a waste as they still fit him.

With a child's clothing, I would think you could let them go by attrition.  Just remove them as they are outgrown or become overly stained or worn.  Or do his drawers not have enough space?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on August 04, 2017, 04:13:43 PM
I just reviewed a drawer in my son's dresser. I counted 29 t-shirts. That is just t-shirts. That doesn't include long sleeve shirts, school uniforms, dress shirts or any that are in the wash. I've pulled out 14 in smaller sizing. It seems like such a waste as they still fit him.

With a child's clothing, I would think you could let them go by attrition.  Just remove them as they are outgrown or become overly stained or worn.  Or do his drawers not have enough space?

They are getting rather full.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on August 04, 2017, 07:42:23 PM
I just reviewed a drawer in my son's dresser. I counted 29 t-shirts. That is just t-shirts. That doesn't include long sleeve shirts, school uniforms, dress shirts or any that are in the wash. I've pulled out 14 in smaller sizing. It seems like such a waste as they still fit him.

It's only a waste if you throw them in the trash.  If they go to another family you know as hand-me-downs or are donated to a thrift shop, someone else will put them to good use!   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on August 05, 2017, 06:21:10 PM
Sold today:
 - 2 snorkel sets
 - a wooden chest that DS made in high school shop

Gave away:
 - an old box of Computer Arts magazines

Threw out:
 - a bunch of old ill-fitting bras

Put in the donation bag/box:
 - more clothes
 - placemats
 - a thrift store vase
 - wire rack thingy
 - Xmas decorations
 - mug rack
 - fridge magnets

Still need to list: (putting here to keep me accountable)
 - vintage canister set
 - sewing machine
 - fancy dresses
 - fancy dress shoes (never worn)
 - bread maker
 - electric wok
 - George Foreman grill

The space under the stairs is now totally clear, but I look around the house and you can't even notice my efforts. :( Oh well, the decluttering continues. (My sister calls it purging, but I hate that term. Makes me think of bulimia.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 05, 2017, 08:24:07 PM
Dropped off 3 gallons of paint that I can't use and 2 brand new water lines that don't fit anything in my house at the Habitat for Humanity Restore today.

Also found a high school drama teacher (I assume) who will happily take the partial gallon of paint. Just need to get it to her. Connections are wonderful.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on August 05, 2017, 11:16:00 PM
Helped a cousin move from one apartment to another today. Mr. O had our donation box in his car. Cousin deputized him to take her donation box as well, so he got rid of both of them today! Can I take credit for her stuff? ;-)

Started a new donation box. Cousin gave Mr. O a nicer salad spinner than the one we have. So I said, "We can put the old one in the donation box?" He said, "Sure...unless you want it". I said, "I don't spin my salads". He gave me the WTF look. I do not understand him sometimes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 06, 2017, 01:29:44 AM
Decluttered husband's wardrobe this afternoon.

It was a condition of buying him a new suit this morning, which was, in itself, an interesting experience.

He found a linen suit that he liked. I vetoed it.

The man practically travels for a living, and he wants to wear linen? No.

Inane shop assistant trying to make a sale: Oh but linen is lovely for when he goes to warm climates!
Me: Sure, like Detroit in January, London in February, New York in March, Norway last week...

Husband still didn't believe me, so I scrunched the sleeve up in my hand for 30 seconds and showed him how crushed it was.
Him: God, that would look awful after two days in a suitcase.
Me: You remember that aqua shirt you bought before we were married and refused to wear because it was a bitch to iron? THAT was linen.
Him: Ohhhhhh.

He ended up with something with a little stretch, much better for travel.

We've been working on making his wardrobe more mix and match, and less susceptible to fleeting trends, while being suitable for work and the filming and travel that goes with it. (And, of course, without spending a fortune!)

Understanding all this is why he gets a vote in his wardrobe, I get a vote in his wardrobe, and inane shop assistant doesn't get a vote.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on August 06, 2017, 04:43:12 AM
:D :D :D

Can you sort out my wardrobe MPGH?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 06, 2017, 05:09:19 AM
:D :D :D

Can you sort out my wardrobe MPGH?

Don't tempt me!

I'd be brutal. Bye-bye cricket shirt from 1998... :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on August 06, 2017, 05:54:50 AM
:D :D :D

Can you sort out my wardrobe MPGH?

Don't tempt me!

I'd be brutal. Bye-bye cricket shirt from 1998... :D

I'll have you know it's a summer 5-a-side soccer shirt from 1997. That remains the only soccer premiership team I've ever played in. I can't throw it away :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on August 06, 2017, 06:21:50 AM
:D :D :D

Can you sort out my wardrobe MPGH?

Don't tempt me!

I'd be brutal. Bye-bye cricket shirt from 1998... :D

I'll have you know it's a summer 5-a-side soccer shirt from 1997. That remains the only soccer premiership team I've ever played in. I can't throw it away :)

Do you wear it at least once a month?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 06, 2017, 12:22:46 PM
Well, I've got a bunch old clothes right now, and I do wear them. For working on the house/yardwork/general getting dirty. I also sew up the holes in the shirts from the cat claws. Until I'm done with the bulk of the work, I'm keeping them. I've run out of work clothes repeatedly.

On the decluttering side - I listed the cabinet, bathroom wall cabinet, and dehumidifier, all of which I have no need for, on craigslist. If I get my act together, I'll list the cat door too, but that's in the garage and requires shoes to take pictures.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 06, 2017, 08:55:36 PM
:D :D :D

Can you sort out my wardrobe MPGH?

Don't tempt me!

I'd be brutal. Bye-bye cricket shirt from 1998... :D

I'll have you know it's a summer 5-a-side soccer shirt from 1997. That remains the only soccer premiership team I've ever played in. I can't throw it away :)

Oh well that's completely different! :P
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wkumtrider on August 07, 2017, 05:11:50 AM
I have a box with my old sports trophies I got when playing baseball as a kid. I don't know what to do with them. I don't want to throw them away but I don't want them sitting around the house anymore.  I doubt I could give them to someone because they have my name on them, baseball league, etc.   Any ideas?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 07, 2017, 05:23:21 AM
I have a box with my old sports trophies I got when playing baseball as a kid. I don't know what to do with them. I don't want to throw them away but I don't want them sitting around the house anymore.  I doubt I could give them to someone because they have my name on them, baseball league, etc.   Any ideas?

Third time posting this here so forgive me for repeating myself.

Some churches take them for mission trips, or for sporting camps for under-privileged kids.

The plaques come off with a hair dryer to melt the glue and dental floss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on August 07, 2017, 06:34:04 AM
Just got rid of a bunch of stuff, ending up giving it to the guy working on the house (I'm just the tenant/roommate).

I also found out that he's being paid only $500 under the table for two months of work...Stuff like painting the whole house, ripping up carpet and installing laminate floors, installing ceiling fixtures, painting cabinets, back splash, building a porch, and a ton of other stuff.

Thankfully he's moving back to his home state and has a job and a house lined up. And now he has two hardly used sheet sets, a comforter, and some kitchen stuff from me so not starting entirely from scratch. And thankfully I'm moving out anyway because my landlord is clearly an asshole.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on August 07, 2017, 06:53:30 AM
A freakin' awesome weekend.  Got rid of our last big pieces of furniture (queen bed set, TV stand).

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- Honda/Acura brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Paper Shredder
- Small TV Stand
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random car parts
- Folding Bicycle

To be listed:
- LCD TV
- My bicycle
- Multiple plate sets
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
- TSX brake calipers
- DVD Player
- Card Table and 5 chairs
- Storage baskets
- pillow stuffing (free)
- TSX Rotors
- Shop Vac
- Queen bed set
- Standing Hammock
- TV Stand
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 07, 2017, 07:10:38 AM
Tried on all the clothes in the closet and got rid of a giant pile that doesn't fit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: wkumtrider on August 07, 2017, 07:11:53 AM
I have a box with my old sports trophies I got when playing baseball as a kid. I don't know what to do with them. I don't want to throw them away but I don't want them sitting around the house anymore.  I doubt I could give them to someone because they have my name on them, baseball league, etc.   Any ideas?

Third time posting this here so forgive me for repeating myself.

Some churches take them for mission trips, or for sporting camps for under-privileged kids.

The plaques come off with a hair dryer to melt the glue and dental floss.

Thanks for the reply mustachepungoeshere.  I'll look into that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on August 07, 2017, 12:29:58 PM
I have a box with my old sports trophies I got when playing baseball as a kid. I don't know what to do with them. I don't want to throw them away but I don't want them sitting around the house anymore.  I doubt I could give them to someone because they have my name on them, baseball league, etc.   Any ideas?

Third time posting this here so forgive me for repeating myself.

Some churches take them for mission trips, or for sporting camps for under-privileged kids.

The plaques come off with a hair dryer to melt the glue and dental floss.

Thanks for the reply mustachepungoeshere.  I'll look into that.

We took off the plaques off a box of old throphies and donated them to a charity that works with kids with Down's Syndrome to use them for the sports tournaments they organize.

Apparantly there's a market for second hand generic trophies because apparantly they are quite expensive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 07, 2017, 07:06:23 PM
Woo hoo! The firewood is gone! Apparently, it was about a cord of wood. And it is no longer in my backyard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on August 07, 2017, 11:27:22 PM
sw1tch - how big is your house???? I am very impressed by all the stuff you have got rid of, I'm just a little confused as to where you were keeping all that!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on August 08, 2017, 05:31:37 AM
Well, it looks like we are moving at the end of the year so that we can have a guest bedroom and a room for our son. Even though the house will be bigger, this is a prime opportunity to get rid of things that won't fit for the next phase of our lives.

What's weird is that a lot of the stuff I'm piling up to get rid of is brand new to us, mostly gifts or "I thought you could use...". I wonder if we need to have a talk with some people...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 08, 2017, 06:24:20 AM

What's weird is that a lot of the stuff I'm piling up to get rid of is brand new to us, mostly gifts or "I thought you could use...". I wonder if we need to have a talk with some people...

With people trying to give me stuff, I say, "If I can no longer use it, would you like it back?". No-one has ever said yes. Therefore I feel free to just donate. I don't want to tell them not to give us stuff as lots of useful things have come to us second hand, especially being pregnant. I'm getting a really expensive body pillow from a friend this week!

With gifts, I remind myself their intention was to make me happy. I thank them genuinely for the gift, then I do what will make me happiest. Usually that is to donate it. If I wouldn't have bought it for myself, it just becomes an obligation to me. No-one has ever noticed, and I have been doing it for literally years.

Note I never regift. I just think it's tacky. I donate, so a charity can benefit and someone can get something they truly want at a low price. And I choose people gifts I genuinely think they will enjoy, and then let them do with them as they choose.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on August 08, 2017, 06:39:05 AM

What's weird is that a lot of the stuff I'm piling up to get rid of is brand new to us, mostly gifts or "I thought you could use...". I wonder if we need to have a talk with some people...

With people trying to give me stuff, I say, "If I can no longer use it, would you like it back?". No-one has ever said yes. Therefore I feel free to just donate. I don't want to tell them not to give us stuff as lots of useful things have come to us second hand, especially being pregnant. I'm getting a really expensive body pillow from a friend this week!

With gifts, I remind myself their intention was to make me happy. I thank them genuinely for the gift, then I do what will make me happiest. Usually that is to donate it. If I wouldn't have bought it for myself, it just becomes an obligation to me. No-one has ever noticed, and I have been doing it for literally years.

Note I never regift. I just think it's tacky. I donate, so a charity can benefit and someone can get something they truly want at a low price. And I choose people gifts I genuinely think they will enjoy, and then let them do with them as they choose.

During gift season, it is a very good habit to make a wishlist of things you really want to get. If you are planning to buy something, put it on your wist and wait until the gift season. This way you might not receive so much nonsense.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on August 08, 2017, 06:58:32 AM
sw1tch - how big is your house???? I am very impressed by all the stuff you have got rid of, I'm just a little confused as to where you were keeping all that!

Glad you asked!  Well, in 2015 we moved out of our ~2000 sqft house, which had an unfinished basement and 2-car garage into a ~ 900 sqft duplex with a 1-car garage.  When we first moved, we got rid of ALOT of stuff (probably 75%), so all of this stuff is just what we moved from the first house.  We found that with our current lifestyle (DINKS that don't really need much), even 900 sqft is too large for us.  The garage also allowed me to justify keeping the 2nd car for way longer than necessary (2 years) and the extra space allowed for stuff to sit unnoticed (out of sight out of mind).  Going forward, I think we're good with 500 sqft - my wife only really cares about having a decent bathroom and kitchen.

With FIRE and life changes coming, we decided to completely minimize and start from scratch.  We are literally planning to sell the bed out from under us.  We're also planning to move about 10.5 hours south of our current location and I didn't want to pay to move/store more stuff than we needed/wanted.  We can always re-buy essentials.  Ultimately, our end-goal is to be able to pick up and leave any place that we end up at without having to go through an ordeal like this again!  The possibility of being nomadic or semi-nomadic is pretty appealing.

Anyhow, with our current timeline we have about a month left to get rid of / donate the rest of the items.  As I said elsewhere on the forum, maybe I'll journal about this experience someday soon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 08, 2017, 07:01:13 AM

During gift season, it is a very good habit to make a wishlist of things you really want to get. If you are planning to buy something, put it on your wist and wait until the gift season. This way you might not receive so much nonsense.

I do have a wishlist, well, a folder in my chrome favourites. All year when I see something someone might like I file it in the 'gift' folder. I have a subfolder called 'me' for stuff I would like but never buy! But I would only ever suggest something if someone asked. I would never volunteer that information without a specific request (which my in-laws regularly make, bless them).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on August 08, 2017, 03:53:56 PM
Anyhow, with our current timeline we have about a month left to get rid of / donate the rest of the items.  As I said elsewhere on the forum, maybe I'll journal about this experience someday soon.

If you do, please post a link here.  It seems like a really interesting journey!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 08, 2017, 07:38:34 PM
Dehumidifier sold and is gone! :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on August 08, 2017, 11:25:08 PM
sw1tch - how big is your house???? I am very impressed by all the stuff you have got rid of, I'm just a little confused as to where you were keeping all that!

Glad you asked!  Well, in 2015 we moved out of our ~2000 sqft house, which had an unfinished basement and 2-car garage into a ~ 900 sqft duplex with a 1-car garage.  When we first moved, we got rid of ALOT of stuff (probably 75%), so all of this stuff is just what we moved from the first house.  We found that with our current lifestyle (DINKS that don't really need much), even 900 sqft is too large for us.  The garage also allowed me to justify keeping the 2nd car for way longer than necessary (2 years) and the extra space allowed for stuff to sit unnoticed (out of sight out of mind).  Going forward, I think we're good with 500 sqft - my wife only really cares about having a decent bathroom and kitchen.

With FIRE and life changes coming, we decided to completely minimize and start from scratch.  We are literally planning to sell the bed out from under us.  We're also planning to move about 10.5 hours south of our current location and I didn't want to pay to move/store more stuff than we needed/wanted.  We can always re-buy essentials.  Ultimately, our end-goal is to be able to pick up and leave any place that we end up at without having to go through an ordeal like this again!  The possibility of being nomadic or semi-nomadic is pretty appealing.

Anyhow, with our current timeline we have about a month left to get rid of / donate the rest of the items.  As I said elsewhere on the forum, maybe I'll journal about this experience someday soon.

Ah that makes sense. We are DINKS also and I think 2000sqft would be too much space and would just fill up like yours did. We are now in about 1100sqft including a tiny garage and it's too big so we are going to go to 650sqft plus a decent sized garage that will store a car plus toys. In a couple of months I will do another round of decluttering so that hopefully next June/July when we move we won't have too much trouble fitting in...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on August 08, 2017, 11:54:31 PM

What's weird is that a lot of the stuff I'm piling up to get rid of is brand new to us, mostly gifts or "I thought you could use...". I wonder if we need to have a talk with some people...

With people trying to give me stuff, I say, "If I can no longer use it, would you like it back?". No-one has ever said yes. Therefore I feel free to just donate. I don't want to tell them not to give us stuff as lots of useful things have come to us second hand, especially being pregnant. I'm getting a really expensive body pillow from a friend this week!

With gifts, I remind myself their intention was to make me happy. I thank them genuinely for the gift, then I do what will make me happiest. Usually that is to donate it. If I wouldn't have bought it for myself, it just becomes an obligation to me. No-one has ever noticed, and I have been doing it for literally years.

Note I never regift. I just think it's tacky. I donate, so a charity can benefit and someone can get something they truly want at a low price. And I choose people gifts I genuinely think they will enjoy, and then let them do with them as they choose.

During gift season, it is a very good habit to make a wishlist of things you really want to get. If you are planning to buy something, put it on your wist and wait until the gift season. This way you might not receive so much nonsense.

That's a good idea! I have an online wishlist for some things I am considering buying, so I can keep an eye on when they get on discount. I have never thought about sharing it with others and I do get a lot of nonsense during gift season. For some reason my relatives think I need certain things because I don't have them in my home. Even though I've tried to explain them a million times I don't have them in my house because I don't want them. In the past, I always used to say I didn't want any gifts, but they would just turn up with massive amounts of succulents. Then I asked for money, if they really felt like they had to give me something, but they won't give me money because I do 'stupid' things with them like paying off my mortgage or investing.

As my online wishlist contains mostly scientific books and whitegoods that need to be replaced in the future I'm not sure if they'd want to give that but at least it's worth a try :P .
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on August 09, 2017, 12:08:48 AM

What's weird is that a lot of the stuff I'm piling up to get rid of is brand new to us, mostly gifts or "I thought you could use...". I wonder if we need to have a talk with some people...

With people trying to give me stuff, I say, "If I can no longer use it, would you like it back?". No-one has ever said yes. Therefore I feel free to just donate. I don't want to tell them not to give us stuff as lots of useful things have come to us second hand, especially being pregnant. I'm getting a really expensive body pillow from a friend this week!

With gifts, I remind myself their intention was to make me happy. I thank them genuinely for the gift, then I do what will make me happiest. Usually that is to donate it. If I wouldn't have bought it for myself, it just becomes an obligation to me. No-one has ever noticed, and I have been doing it for literally years.

Note I never regift. I just think it's tacky. I donate, so a charity can benefit and someone can get something they truly want at a low price. And I choose people gifts I genuinely think they will enjoy, and then let them do with them as they choose.

During gift season, it is a very good habit to make a wishlist of things you really want to get. If you are planning to buy something, put it on your wist and wait until the gift season. This way you might not receive so much nonsense.

That's a good idea! I have an online wishlist for some things I am considering buying, so I can keep an eye on when they get on discount. I have never thought about sharing it with others and I do get a lot of nonsense during gift season. For some reason my relatives think I need certain things because I don't have them in my home. Even though I've tried to explain them a million times I don't have them in my house because I don't want them. In the past, I always used to say I didn't want any gifts, but they would just turn up with massive amounts of succulents. Then I asked for money, if they really felt like they had to give me something, but they won't give me money because I do 'stupid' things with them like paying off my mortgage or investing.

As my online wishlist contains mostly scientific books and whitegoods that need to be replaced in the future I'm not sure if they'd want to give that but at least it's worth a try :P .
I need to get started on mine for this year. One relative will go overboard and get us additional junk regardless, but we have a chance of getting something we actually want/need this way (and we also never offer it up, but it's routinely asked for).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on August 09, 2017, 07:56:06 AM
I'm sure I've posted this around here before, but it's working for me, so I like sharing it.

I started asking for chocolate, coffee and wine for any gift occasion and being a little silly about it.  When I was a teenager I thought penguins were cute... so for ten years I received dozens of penguin themed items. I decided to gush over chocolate, coffee and wine and create that family knowledge that I love those things.  It's worked fairly well.  One year my cousin got me three pounds of coffee from a local roaster I'd never heard of.  I still dream about that coffee.  I've gotten starbucks giftcards, I often save them for when I am stuck in airports.  This past christmas my mom gave me a bag of coffee nestled in a bag full of fresh fruit from the local market.  It was perfect.  Consumable, something I buy myself as a treat, but for gifts people often splurge and I get to try new and different things.

As for getting rid of clutter.  I'm paused for now until I figure out my next life step, but I am actively working to finish things.  I completed a quilt this past weekend. 

I'm also traveling with a very small wardrobe this summer.  It's really helping me identify what works and what doesn't.  I lost some key pieces when I forgot them in a hotel room and found a hole in an almost new shirt, so I have been checking the thrift shops out, but working hard to resist extras and buy what I need.  I have tried a few styles that are new to me, but I've been able to return or donate back items that just don't work.  I tell myself it was just a $5 donation to goodwill and now I know what I don't like.  I don't need to keep it around just in case. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 10, 2017, 02:06:00 PM
I'm sure I've posted this around here before, but it's working for me, so I like sharing it.

I started asking for chocolate, coffee and wine for any gift occasion and being a little silly about it.  When I was a teenager I thought penguins were cute... so for ten years I received dozens of penguin themed items. I decided to gush over chocolate, coffee and wine and create that family knowledge that I love those things.  It's worked fairly well.  One year my cousin got me three pounds of coffee from a local roaster I'd never heard of.  I still dream about that coffee.  I've gotten starbucks giftcards, I often save them for when I am stuck in airports.  This past christmas my mom gave me a bag of coffee nestled in a bag full of fresh fruit from the local market.  It was perfect.  Consumable, something I buy myself as a treat, but for gifts people often splurge and I get to try new and different things.

As for getting rid of clutter.  I'm paused for now until I figure out my next life step, but I am actively working to finish things.  I completed a quilt this past weekend. 

I'm also traveling with a very small wardrobe this summer.  It's really helping me identify what works and what doesn't.  I lost some key pieces when I forgot them in a hotel room and found a hole in an almost new shirt, so I have been checking the thrift shops out, but working hard to resist extras and buy what I need.  I have tried a few styles that are new to me, but I've been able to return or donate back items that just don't work.  I tell myself it was just a $5 donation to goodwill and now I know what I don't like.  I don't need to keep it around just in case.

+100. Unfortunately it hasn't worked *as well* for me, but it's worked very well for husband (my family loves giving him things, haha). So he gets a lot of whiskey, coffee, wine. It's cut down on the influx of mis-sized clothing quite a lot, lol.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on August 10, 2017, 04:06:16 PM
Large bag of books and large bag of clothes both donated to the charity shop today.  The clothes were of the "this is a nice thing but not there's always something else I'd pick out to wear first" variety that have been hanging around unused for too long, so it was good to get rid of them and they should make a little money for the charity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on August 11, 2017, 12:05:55 PM
I'm halfway through the 'Simplify your life' challenge (by MuchelleB on youtube) and I've decluttered so much! Her approach is to declutter by category and take everything out of their normal space. That helps so much, because I've noticed I become blind to certain stuff when it's in its usual place.
1. Wardrobe
2. Books
3. Paper
4. Stationary
5. Electronics (excluding kitchen tools)
6. Digital space
7. Social media
8. Make-up
9. Kitchen
10. Beauty products, toiletries & medicine
11. Decor
12. Linen
13. Sentimental items
14. Category of choice (for me that was tools)

Oh and another great tip: keep a donation box at the bottom of a closet. So often I come across an item when I'm just going about my business and think "I don't really need this". Normally I'd put those items back because I didn't want to go to the thrift shop to drop off 1 item. Now I just toss it in the box. It fills up real fast!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on August 11, 2017, 01:08:08 PM
I know of another thing I can do during rainy days. In the past I have scanned many of our CDs into the computer. But there are many left that are not scanned and that declutter the house. Eventhough most of them stand in one of the spare rooms, I don't want to bring them along next time we will be moving to another house (after FIRE).
Yes, I know we are old fashioned. We don't have an iTunes perscription or spotify. Although my DH has started to buy some music electronically on iTunes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on August 11, 2017, 01:09:34 PM
I know of another thing I can do during rainy days. In the past I have scanned many of our CDs into the computer. But there are many left that are not scanned and that declutter the house. Eventhough most of them stand in one of the spare rooms, I don't want to bring them along next time we will be moving to another house (after FIRE).
Yes, I know we are old fashioned. We don't have an iTunes perscription or spotify. Although my DH has started to buy some music electronically on iTunes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: alleykat on August 11, 2017, 01:09:40 PM
I'm sure I've posted this around here before, but it's working for me, so I like sharing it.

I started asking for chocolate, coffee and wine for any gift occasion and being a little silly about it.  When I was a teenager I thought penguins were cute... so for ten years I received dozens of penguin themed items. I decided to gush over chocolate, coffee and wine and create that family knowledge that I love those things.  It's worked fairly well.  One year my cousin got me three pounds of coffee from a local roaster I'd never heard of.  I still dream about that coffee.  I've gotten starbucks giftcards, I often save them for when I am stuck in airports.  This past christmas my mom gave me a bag of coffee nestled in a bag full of fresh fruit from the local market.  It was perfect.  Consumable, something I buy myself as a treat, but for gifts people often splurge and I get to try new and different things.

As for getting rid of clutter.  I'm paused for now until I figure out my next life step, but I am actively working to finish things.  I completed a quilt this past weekend. 

I'm also traveling with a very small wardrobe this summer.  It's really helping me identify what works and what doesn't.  I lost some key pieces when I forgot them in a hotel room and found a hole in an almost new shirt, so I have been checking the thrift shops out, but working hard to resist extras and buy what I need.  I have tried a few styles that are new to me, but I've been able to return or donate back items that just don't work.  I tell myself it was just a $5 donation to goodwill and now I know what I don't like.  I don't need to keep it around just in case.

+100. Unfortunately it hasn't worked *as well* for me, but it's worked very well for husband (my family loves giving him things, haha). So he gets a lot of whiskey, coffee, wine. It's cut down on the influx of mis-sized clothing quite a lot, lol.


Me too, I know this all too well. At one time I was collecting porcelain houses so after people found out I was getting those every year well after I stopped collecting them. I didn't have the heart to tell people but I finally did a few years ago.  it was liberating.

As far as decluttering, I have been getting rid of this and that. Next  is the rest of my DVD collection.  I am about to take it to the library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 11, 2017, 05:48:36 PM
Well, got some items in (freebies from my mom going through her house), but more items OUT.
For example, since new slippers came in, my old slippers (worn down) are getting tossed.

Out of the house:
6 throw pillows (my mother keeps giving me throw pillows. I hate throw pillows)
SO MANY scrubs. Took in ALL my mom's old scrubs. Only 1 top and 2 pants fit, but that's still like $75 worth of scrubs. That shit be spendy. Will donate the WHOLE rest of the massive trash bag
An old pair of boots
1 pair uncomfortable slip ons
4 purses
1 wallet
2 pairs leggings
2 pairs tights
4 old shirts of hubby's, since he got new ones
2 small bags
1 duffel bag
40 bajillion hangars (approximate)
2 old workout shirts of hubby's
Probably more that I'm forgetting

I also threw out a few expired medicines and a nearly empty face cream I haven't used in ages.

It feels nice to make some forward progress on decluttering for the first time in a long time.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: happy on August 12, 2017, 12:17:21 AM
Well done everyone!
I'm still at it. Just finished decluttering and organising the linen cupboard. 3 large garbage  bags of assorted items have been donated, and a small bag of rubbish thrown out. I think I still have too much, but at least the items I've been hanging  onto and not using for over a decade (!!!) have all gone.

It feels good to know what is there, once more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on August 12, 2017, 01:36:35 AM
When I was at my parents house last weekend looking for some spare parts that came with my tuba, I ended up taking a bunch of old stuff home with me I didn't realize I had left at their house. It was pretty much all garbage. I pitched or gave away 95% of it. It was things like stuffed animals I won with skee-ball tickets and trinkets I had gotten on vacations when I was a kid like a miniature replica of the Liberty Bell. I was a pack rat when I was younger.

I think I finally have all of my old belongings out of my parents house now. The sad thing is, most of what I left there was just junk that could have been tossed 10 years ago and it would have made no impact on my life. I completely forgot about the stuff in my old drawers.

Now, I just need to convince my parents to let go of some stuff. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DrSweden on August 12, 2017, 03:26:55 AM
I usually Clean out our storage units once every year. The garage is nice and tidy since I also work out there. It is a very rewarding process to go through all thing, Clean and put the thing back you need. The Project for this summer will be to figure out a good way to store left over building material. I often find myself needing a piece of this and that. It is also good to have when doing thing with the Children. I am thinking about building some kind of shelf so the lumber does not lie directly on the floor
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on August 12, 2017, 07:58:53 AM
Restarted after our move. This move has shown how much stuff we have and how many of those I really didn't want to move. My goal is to do another round of decluttering before our move again in nine months.

Started with giving away a few good bags, some make up stuff and a few odds and ends. Today will be more decluttering as we go through a closet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on August 13, 2017, 01:00:31 PM
Our local Humane Society has a garage sale every fall so I have been going through stuff to give them especially dog related items. I helped my friend do some decluttering Sat so got a bunch of stuff from her too.  The only bad thing is I have to hold onto the stuff until Oct because they don;t have anywhere to store it either.  I do this twice/year for their sales. In between I take stuff to thrift stores.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 13, 2017, 02:13:18 PM
Sorted through the tub of airline toiletries and put aside five cans of shaving cream for my dad and four bags for my nephews.

I keep what we will use - toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc - but the rest of it is easy come, easy go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on August 13, 2017, 04:42:48 PM
Sorted through the tub of airline toiletries and put aside five cans of shaving cream for my dad and four bags for my nephews.

I keep what we will use - toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc - but the rest of it is easy come, easy go.

Hotel toiletries are the only bar soap we use. I have some of the nicer ones (still wrapped) in the guest bath cupboard. One in the dish.

But yes, it was a relief when I could get my wife to actually tackle her mixed piles of toiletries.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KBecks on August 13, 2017, 07:12:16 PM
Put together about 4 bags of miscellaneous items for goodwill. It is amazing how much a few bags can weigh!  Feels good to shed the pounds.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on August 13, 2017, 08:01:57 PM
I cleaned out my linen closet!  I've also put together a plan to attack the whole house one thing per day.  Clutter be gone!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 14, 2017, 05:29:35 AM
Daughter has moved out and I'm getting the house ready for sale.  She went through her things before she left so I brought a carful of stuff for donation yesterday: clothes, shoes, closet organizers, toys, cushions and lots of other random stuff.  And another batch is ready for consignment and already in my car.  I still have some drawers and baskets to go through but I can do it this week. 

ETA: I'm also bringing a bag of papers for shredding at work.  And I listed 4 items for sale on CL!

I'm trying to re-read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, because I found it very motivating the first time I read it.  I need to remember that one of something is enough in most instances.  And that things are easily replaceable...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 14, 2017, 06:58:48 AM
I feel SO guilty.
I am getting rid of my grandmother's sewing machine.  I wanted this so much; a treadle base, cabinet, and machine.  I never met my grandmother.

My great-aunt had it and I was given it upon her death.  However, it had sat in her garage and much of the base is rusted. It turns out my grandmother also had cut one side of the cabinet off to fit it in a smaller space.  And while it worked when I got it, the drive band was so old, it quickly snapped.  In other words, it is in horrible condition.

I am giving it to a neighbor who refinishes (and then usually sells) furniture.  I have no use for it, we have no good space to display it (though maybe if it was in good condition we could find a space).

My Dad will be so upset if he finds out I got rid of it. But should I really be obligated for life to keep this? No one else in the family wanted it.  (I had wanted the two trunks that my family immigrated here with, but the word didn't get to my Uncle before the clearing out garage sale.)

I still feel really guilty.  I should have refinished it or something.  But even if I had- it still would only have 3/4 of the cabinet...

So, +1 for getting rid of clutter.  -1 for feeling horrible.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on August 14, 2017, 07:39:16 AM
Monday update.  Got rid of a couple things.  Listed an 8-person tent and the TV.

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- Honda/Acura brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Paper Shredder
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random car parts
- LCD TV
- 8-person Tent

To be listed:
- My bicycle
- Multiple plate sets
- Random tools
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
- TSX brake calipers
- DVD Player
- Card Table and 5 chairs
- Storage baskets
- pillow stuffing (free)
- TSX Rotors
- Shop Vac
- Queen bed set
- Standing Hammock
- TV Stand
- Folding Bicycle
- Small TV Stand
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 14, 2017, 08:13:56 AM
I feel SO guilty.
I am getting rid of my grandmother's sewing machine.  I wanted this so much; a treadle base, cabinet, and machine.  I never met my grandmother.

My great-aunt had it and I was given it upon her death.  However, it had sat in her garage and much of the base is rusted. It turns out my grandmother also had cut one side of the cabinet off to fit it in a smaller space.  And while it worked when I got it, the drive band was so old, it quickly snapped.  In other words, it is in horrible condition.

I am giving it to a neighbor who refinishes (and then usually sells) furniture.  I have no use for it, we have no good space to display it (though maybe if it was in good condition we could find a space).

My Dad will be so upset if he finds out I got rid of it. But should I really be obligated for life to keep this? No one else in the family wanted it.  (I had wanted the two trunks that my family immigrated here with, but the word didn't get to my Uncle before the clearing out garage sale.)

I still feel really guilty.  I should have refinished it or something.  But even if I had- it still would only have 3/4 of the cabinet...

So, +1 for getting rid of clutter.  -1 for feeling horrible.

You don't need to feel guilty. You're not throwing it out. You're giving it to someone who will fix it up so it can be enjoyed by someone else.

Also, if your dad is going to feel so bad that you got rid of something that was owned by someone you've never met, then he should have stepped up and taken it originally. NOT YOUR PROBLEM.

-signed, the evil daughter who's making her mom get rid of everything (yeah, it's not working.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 14, 2017, 08:30:30 AM

Also, if your dad is going to feel so bad that you got rid of something that was owned by someone you've never met, then he should have stepped up and taken it originally. NOT YOUR PROBLEM.

-signed, the evil daughter who's making her mom get rid of everything (yeah, it's not working.)

To be fair, I didn't meet her because she died shortly before my Mom and Dad met.  I love sewing, and wanted something of hers (though I have her teacup collection from when my grandfather died), so I got it because I wanted it. But I think for my Dad taking an item is a lifelong commitment.

I am scared for when I have to clean out my parents house. My Dad isn't a hoarder, but only because they have a lot of space. SO MUCH STUFF. 
(When my Mom had me clear out my stuff from their attic we got 2 boxes to leave there.  I actually didn't leave anything there, I have my own attic.  Cue a year later "Jessi, you really need to clean out your stuff".  I put it all in her goodwill pile.  Two years later "Jessi, please clean out your stuff". That's when I said "Mom, at this point, it's Dad's stuff, not mine".  He kept setting aside my dolls, drill team uniform, school papers, thinks he "knew I really wanted".  Uh no, I didn't.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 14, 2017, 12:11:51 PM

Also, if your dad is going to feel so bad that you got rid of something that was owned by someone you've never met, then he should have stepped up and taken it originally. NOT YOUR PROBLEM.

-signed, the evil daughter who's making her mom get rid of everything (yeah, it's not working.)

To be fair, I didn't meet her because she died shortly before my Mom and Dad met.  I love sewing, and wanted something of hers (though I have her teacup collection from when my grandfather died), so I got it because I wanted it. But I think for my Dad taking an item is a lifelong commitment.

I am scared for when I have to clean out my parents house. My Dad isn't a hoarder, but only because they have a lot of space. SO MUCH STUFF. 
(When my Mom had me clear out my stuff from their attic we got 2 boxes to leave there.  I actually didn't leave anything there, I have my own attic.  Cue a year later "Jessi, you really need to clean out your stuff".  I put it all in her goodwill pile.  Two years later "Jessi, please clean out your stuff". That's when I said "Mom, at this point, it's Dad's stuff, not mine".  He kept setting aside my dolls, drill team uniform, school papers, thinks he "knew I really wanted".  Uh no, I didn't.)

One of my grandmother's died when I was a baby. I don't remember her at all. My mom may be attached to things that were hers (and she is), but any emotional attachments I have to those items are through my mom, not my grandmother.

You dad is a hoarder. The amount of stuff, or how unlivable the space is, doesn't matter. It's the behavior that determines the hoarder. Good luck with the house. If you're willing and it won't make things worse, take stuff from them now and get rid of it yourself.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on August 14, 2017, 06:17:33 PM
We have started decluttering our garage. It began late last week with no fanfare and it already looks better. This is the place where DH really brings out his inner hoarder, there are little piles of screws, tools, broken widgets everywhere there is a surface. If we can deal with those (sort & store/chuck) so I can move a box without first gathering up and moving random small junk then the rest is easy. Long term plan - to be able to park the car in there again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on August 14, 2017, 09:55:43 PM
My husband has a big Lego car kit which we enjoy building, but the box is about eight times the size of the contents.

He just agreed to move the Lego into a smaller plastic tub with the instructions and a picture from the box, and toss the box itself.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on August 15, 2017, 02:49:33 AM
My husband has a big Lego car kit which we enjoy building, but the box is about eight times the size of the contents.

He just agreed to move the Lego into a smaller plastic tub with the instructions and a picture from the box, and toss the box itself.

Genius optimising!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on August 15, 2017, 03:47:29 AM
Brought my stuff to consignment yesterday.  They took it all but 3 summer tops because the summer is ending :-(

I also shredded a whole bag of paper yesterday and tossed some other paper into recycling.  Paper seems to be multiplying on its own while I'm busy with other stuff.  So hard to stay on top of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on August 18, 2017, 07:35:11 PM
Not my house, but I did a ton of the work so I'm sharing it! At my parent's for the weekend. Spent the day:

Bagged up and disposed of a large number of old cleaning supplies. Also various garden stuff that could be trashed and was old.

Brought all the books down from the attic and up from the basement and sorted through them with mom and sis. I'm taking 2 boxes home, sis is taking 3 boxes. 6 boxes going to goodwill. One box for mom to read and probably get rid of afterwards. Half box for dad to read. 4 boxes put into the basement to keep. 2 boxes of yearbooks and some genealogy books that trying to figure out how to dispose of (mom won't toss or donate to goodwill).

Then we switched to the dishes boxes. Sorted through 3 or 4 (?) boxes of good china, crystal, etc. Most of that was repacked and put back in the attic, but got rid of about a box full of stuff, and looking into selling about 2 boxes worth of stuff. Towards the end of this, we were all hungry and I was very crabby, so stopped for lunch.

Picked back up with the pictures. Went through 4 boxes of framed pictures. I'm taking 1 picture home that I like, and a 2nd picture that mom wants to put up (there's a bedroom I've told her she can decorate). Also have a stack of maybe 12 pictures that I'll try to sell, or donate if that doesn't work.

Also tossed a wall shelf that used to be very pretty, until it developed multiple cracks and isn't safe to store stuff on anymore. Tossed 3 old boots from various foot injuries (very old, not usable anymore).

All in all, mom's car is sitting pretty low from the weight. Everything will be dropped off tomorrow sometime.

Please wave your magic wands and make mom decide that she doesn't need to keep stuff she hasn't used in 30 years just because it belonged to great aunt so-and-so. Then send the uhaul to pick up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on August 18, 2017, 08:10:42 PM
I got back from vacation yesterday. I was staying in a lovely Air bnb that just felt very zen and serene. I got home and my house just seemed so cluttered, even though I have been chipping away at it forever. It was kind of depressing.

It's not really a fair comparison because no one actually lives at the Air bnb, so there was no daily living stuff. But is has spurred me on to make another big push. Tomorrow is the day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on August 19, 2017, 04:07:08 PM
I decided to attack the laundry room today because it is one of the smaller rooms in the house and would show instant results.

So I:

Washed a couple of loads of dirty laundry.
Put away all the clean laundry, including folding all my socks and underwear and put them neatly away in a drawer.
Wiped down the washer and dryer.
Threw out a bunch of old laundry products. Put a full container of Speed Starch in the give away box.
Listed some stuff that I don't use any more on Facebook. Gave away and old TV/VCR combo that was collecting dust in there. Took down a dusty old floral swag arrangement and put it in the give away box.
Still trying to decide what to do with the ironing board. I haven't ironed anything in years, but it seems like one of those things one should have.
Took everything out and swept and mopped the floor.
Put up two cute country prints that I was going to give away, but give the room a nice farmhouse look. Now I'm even thinking of making a rustic farmhouse sign that says LAUNDRY. Ha ha!

Anyway, I feel so much better than I did yesterday. Just taking action and attacking one small room start to finish made a huge difference in my state of mind.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on August 19, 2017, 05:05:20 PM
Unless you have a neighbour you could ask to borrow theirs, I'd keep the ironing board. There's nothing worse than trying to iron without one.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on August 19, 2017, 05:53:50 PM
Unless you have a neighbour you could ask to borrow theirs, I'd keep the ironing board. There's nothing worse than trying to iron without one.
We have an ironing board now, but I used to used to iron on my dryer (put a towel down).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 19, 2017, 06:05:36 PM
Unless you have a neighbour you could ask to borrow theirs, I'd keep the ironing board. There's nothing worse than trying to iron without one.
We have an ironing board now, but I used to used to iron on my dryer (put a towel down).

+1. For a long time I did: a towel folded over, topped with a floursack cloth towel (no lint that way), on top of a stool.

That being said, now I have plenty of space.

And uh... you know, come to think of it, I might still not own an ironing board! I don't iron often, obviously.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on August 19, 2017, 07:21:16 PM
No ironing boad here either. I just put a towel on the washing machine when we have a funeral to go to. Other than that, I only iron when I'm giving a professional presentation and then I use the ironing board in my hotel room - no need to store one myself.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on August 22, 2017, 07:21:26 AM
Another update.  The bed under us is literally gone now.  Well, we still have an air mattress that we're using in the mean-time (just a few more weeks!).  That'll be a lot easier to move since we can just deflate and fold it up.

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Small weed whacker
- Honda/Acura brake pads
- shoe racks (3)
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Paper Shredder
- Random OEM 06-11 Civic parts
- Random car parts
- LCD TV
- 8-person Tent

To be listed:
- My bicycle
- Multiple plate sets
- Random tools
- SA2010 Race Helmet
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
- TSX brake calipers
- DVD Player
- Card Table and 5 chairs
- Storage baskets
- pillow stuffing (free)
- TSX Rotors
- Shop Vac
- Queen bed set
- Standing Hammock
- TV Stand
- Folding Bicycle
- Small TV Stand
- queen Mattress, box spring, frame
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on August 22, 2017, 07:29:08 AM
No ironing boad here either. I just put a towel on the washing machine when we have a funeral to go to. Other than that, I only iron when I'm giving a professional presentation and then I use the ironing board in my hotel room - no need to store one myself.

My DH sews clothes sometimes. He needs an ironing board for that. Also for taping Goretex clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on August 22, 2017, 09:07:11 AM
We have some unused furniture that was still taking up space because we don't have a car and didn't want to bother anyone to drive them to the charity shop for us (they charge for picking up ...) . Decided to list them on a Facebook group for free stuff on our off day and everything except 1 was picked up today, and that other item will be picked up tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DragonSlayer on August 23, 2017, 10:02:45 AM
Neighbor's kitchen cabinet fell off the wall, tearing up her counters, wall, floor, etc. While I don't think mine weigh nearly what hers did (she collects pottery), still a good reminder to get in there and clear out the useless stuff. Ended up with four bags and a box to take to Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on August 23, 2017, 01:01:33 PM
I helped a friend declutter because she's moving soon. We decluttered 3 large boxes of baking supplies. She's keeping two ...  but at least that means the majority is gone. I have never seen so many cookie cutters in my life, seriously not even in a cookware shop. She offered me a lot of things too, but I only took two things (that I'll really use). This is actually how I get most of my stuff: my spendypants friends throw out perfectly good stuff and I take it home. The cookie sheet I took yesterday is actually still in the original packaging and the price sticker is still on it. Who pays €15 for a cookie sheet? :o
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 23, 2017, 01:26:34 PM
I helped a friend declutter because she's moving soon. We decluttered 3 large boxes of baking supplies. She's keeping two ...  but at least that means the majority is gone. I have never seen so many cookie cutters in my life, seriously not even in a cookware shop. She offered me a lot of things too, but I only took two things (that I'll really use). This is actually how I get most of my stuff: my spendypants friends throw out perfectly good stuff and I take it home. The cookie sheet I took yesterday is actually still in the original packaging and the price sticker is still on it. Who pays €15 for a cookie sheet? :o

My local library checks out cake pans. They have like 500 to chose from.  It has saved us a ton of space and money.

Because you only use them once typically, but then you feel guilty getting rid of it because shaped pans aren't cheap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on August 24, 2017, 04:42:31 AM
No ironing boad here either. I just put a towel on the washing machine when we have a funeral to go to. Other than that, I only iron when I'm giving a professional presentation and then I use the ironing board in my hotel room - no need to store one myself.

My DH sews clothes sometimes. He needs an ironing board for that. Also for taping Goretex clothes.


I barely sew these days, but I'll agree I'd need one if I were. For just repairs and hems, though, the towel method has proved fine so far.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 24, 2017, 05:08:38 AM
Unless you have a neighbour you could ask to borrow theirs, I'd keep the ironing board. There's nothing worse than trying to iron without one.
We have an ironing board now, but I used to used to iron on my dryer (put a towel down).

I iron on the bed. Almost the same consistency as an ironing board (I have a firm mattress) and nothing meltable.

I learnt to do that when I was selling my house, and a friend told me to just iron the sheets once I had made up the bed.

Also, Ikea do a small table-top ironing board that hangs away with your clothes (there's a hook) for cheap. That's what I use for sewing projects when I need it near my sewing machine. http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/products/laundry-cleaning-products/ironing-boards/j%C3%A4ll-ironingboard-table-art-20242890/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on August 24, 2017, 06:22:26 AM
The ironing board conversation makes me laugh.  I actually have a HUGE ironing board- I had a custom board made to fit over the regular one to double the space on it. 

The only reason I iron is to sew.  And all the hacks won't work- you just cannot get a firm enough press on top of anything soft (like a towel on a counter, or a mattress.)


However, I'd throw clothes away before I would iron them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on August 24, 2017, 10:05:35 AM
May I please have some advice on old food?

In my (slightly) younger and (much) more optimistic days, I purchased a bunch of canned/jarred foods with big plans.  Well, I've become a better cook, eliminating the need for some of those foods, and others are just not things we eat.  So now I have a bunch of canned/jarred foods that are 2-5 years past their expirations.  Most of them are probably still good, but they won't be eaten here, and I know food pantries do not take expired food.  Additionally, DBF's mother gave use a huge box of baking mixes (which I have never used) years ago, and I didn't realize at the time that I should just donate them.

So, there are no compost bins/piles available around here.  I hesitate to put it on the free section of CraigsList because someone might eat something, get sick, then sue me.  Does anyone have less wasteful ideas for getting rid of long-expired food besides throwing it out?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on August 24, 2017, 11:05:31 AM
May I please have some advice on old food?

In my (slightly) younger and (much) more optimistic days, I purchased a bunch of canned/jarred foods with big plans.  Well, I've become a better cook, eliminating the need for some of those foods, and others are just not things we eat.  So now I have a bunch of canned/jarred foods that are 2-5 years past their expirations.  Most of them are probably still good, but they won't be eaten here, and I know food pantries do not take expired food.  Additionally, DBF's mother gave use a huge box of baking mixes (which I have never used) years ago, and I didn't realize at the time that I should just donate them.

So, there are no compost bins/piles available around here.  I hesitate to put it on the free section of CraigsList because someone might eat something, get sick, then sue me.  Does anyone have less wasteful ideas for getting rid of long-expired food besides throwing it out?

any farms near? might make good pig fodder. You could call and inquire with the farmer beforehand.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on August 24, 2017, 11:15:33 AM
May I please have some advice on old food?

In my (slightly) younger and (much) more optimistic days, I purchased a bunch of canned/jarred foods with big plans.  Well, I've become a better cook, eliminating the need for some of those foods, and others are just not things we eat.  So now I have a bunch of canned/jarred foods that are 2-5 years past their expirations.  Most of them are probably still good, but they won't be eaten here, and I know food pantries do not take expired food.  Additionally, DBF's mother gave use a huge box of baking mixes (which I have never used) years ago, and I didn't realize at the time that I should just donate them.

So, there are no compost bins/piles available around here.  I hesitate to put it on the free section of CraigsList because someone might eat something, get sick, then sue me.  Does anyone have less wasteful ideas for getting rid of long-expired food besides throwing it out?

I've volunteered at a food kitchen and they had expired canned food there. 2-5 years might be too long but it may depend on what it actually is.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on August 24, 2017, 11:54:27 AM
May I please have some advice on old food?

In my (slightly) younger and (much) more optimistic days, I purchased a bunch of canned/jarred foods with big plans.  Well, I've become a better cook, eliminating the need for some of those foods, and others are just not things we eat.  So now I have a bunch of canned/jarred foods that are 2-5 years past their expirations.  Most of them are probably still good, but they won't be eaten here, and I know food pantries do not take expired food.  Additionally, DBF's mother gave use a huge box of baking mixes (which I have never used) years ago, and I didn't realize at the time that I should just donate them.

So, there are no compost bins/piles available around here.  I hesitate to put it on the free section of CraigsList because someone might eat something, get sick, then sue me.  Does anyone have less wasteful ideas for getting rid of long-expired food besides throwing it out?

If you have a local Buy Nothing Project group, you could post on there (just be clear they're past date). I've seen expired canned food go in a lot of groups, some for people to eat, some for chickens or pigs. And Buy Nothing is very clear about 'participate at your own risk', so as long as you're clear about the dates, I don't think you're at any risk of trouble there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: geekette on August 27, 2017, 03:02:28 PM
I bought a yard of ironing board cover material (quilted non-scorch stuff) and iron on my kitchen island. I do have a tailor's ham on my wishlist, though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on August 29, 2017, 04:28:41 AM
I bought a yard of ironing board cover material (quilted non-scorch stuff) and iron on my kitchen island. I do have a tailor's ham on my wishlist, though.

A tailors ham is really easy to make, here is a free downloadable pattern and instructions: http://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/2012/08/how-to-make-tailors-hams-and-sausages.html

I filled mine with well shredded jersey scraps and it works a treat. Be sure to cut the pieces small and stuff stuff stuff if you go that route.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on August 29, 2017, 04:37:11 AM
Today someone is supposed to pick up our old bed! I hope he does turn up. 

Then I can finally reach the window and hang up the new curtain rods that have been lying around in their packaging for far too long. Then I can move the antique table and grandpa's chair in the living room up that room. I'll have a nice, light, quiet room upstairs where I can relax and read and we'll have more space downstairs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on September 05, 2017, 08:42:37 AM
I have 1 more week of work and 2 more weeks to get rid of as much as possible!  Can you say I'm overwhelmed?  A few keep-sakes will be put in storage until we have another place to live, but everything else will either be donated or sold.

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Honda/Acura brake pads
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Paper Shredder
- Random 06-11 Civic parts
- Random car parts
- LCD TV
- My bicycle :(

To be listed:
- Multiple plate sets
- Random tools
- SA2010 Race Helmet
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
- TSX brake calipers
- DVD Player
- Card Table and 5 chairs
- Storage baskets
- pillow stuffing (free)
- TSX Rotors
- Shop Vac
- Queen bed set
- Standing Hammock
- TV Stand
- Folding Bicycle
- Small TV Stand
- queen Mattress, box spring, frame
- 2 shoe racks
- small weed whacker
- Civic Si suspension
- 8 person tent
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 05, 2017, 08:44:27 AM
Sold 9 baby sleepers for $10.  Have a pick up of 4 more tomorrow (hopefully...)

Need to keep going through the baby stuff and listing it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on September 05, 2017, 02:48:32 PM
I got rid of leftover stuff from our laundry renovation so the garage is looking pretty empty. And the tiles that were sat in boxes are now on the walls, does that count ;) The wall cabinets will go up shortly in the laundry and I am itching to fill them with all the stuff that has been stored in the wrong place for months.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on September 05, 2017, 07:59:48 PM
Dropped off the old clarinet to a local organization that works with kids that wouldn't have an opportunity to do music otherwise. Yay, out of the house! And I'm pretty sure that's the last of the instruments out of parent's house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 06, 2017, 04:32:16 AM
Another pile of random stuff is ready to be brought to Goodwill and waiting in the garage.  You'd think that after getting rid of so much already, I would have nothing left that I don't need.  But I'm still finding things around the house that I can get rid of easily.  And there will be more when the house sells.  I've decided that I want my new apartment to be quite minimalistic because I'm really enjoying the feel of empty spaces.  It's peaceful.

No takers for any of my CL listings - I need to lower the prices aggressively and if they still don't sell, just donate them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on September 06, 2017, 05:10:58 AM
I got some more of my old stuff out of my parents attic over the weekend. I still had some old college text books, baseball cards, and an old photo scanner up there.  I recycled the old text books and am selling or giving away the baseball cards. The cards are pretty much worthless. I had an old complete set that was still in its original box so I'm selling that. I'm giving away the loose cards. I'm also giving away the scanner. It's 1999 vintage and I would be surprised if it even still worked or if you could find drivers for it.

Now, I just need to convince my parents to let me help clean up and organize their stuff in the attic. I found cancelled checks from the late 80's, old photographs strewn on the floor, unopened VHS tapes, a bathtub my dad bought in the 90's when he thought he was going to finish the attic and add a bathroom, and a bunch of other unused crap. They have no idea what is even up there at this point. I don't want to be dealing with this that crap in15-20 years after they die or we have to move them to a new place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 06, 2017, 09:52:03 PM
I'm wearing a dress to work that I've decided will be (washed and) donated after today.

I'd need to have it tailored in order to keep wearing it, and I'm just not going to spend that money on an eBay dress that will start looking a bit, well, loved before too long.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on September 07, 2017, 06:49:46 AM
This is a tiny thing, but I have a container in the bathroom of the sample packets of lotions and such that come in magazines and are handed out at street corners. I rarely use them because they have more product in them than i need at one time. I recently finished a jar of cream, so I have started decanting the sample packets into that and fully using them up. 

Also, my dentist gives out travel size containers of toothpaste. Since I'm not travelling much these days for work, they've been filling up another bag in the bathroom. We just finished a big tube of toothpaste, and I'm not buying another until we're down to two travel tubes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on September 07, 2017, 06:53:29 AM
A bit unconventional for this thread, but I just deleted a ton of apps on my phone that I haven't used in a while.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on September 07, 2017, 07:01:03 AM
I decided to keep the ironing board for now, but I relegated it to the basement. When/if I eventually downsize to a condo I will probably get rid of it and go with the Ikea one if I need to iron something.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on September 07, 2017, 09:56:56 AM
A bit unconventional for this thread, but I just deleted a ton of apps on my phone that I haven't used in a while.

Mental clutter is very important. I didn't delete the latest batch of apps, but I removed them from my home screens.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sobezen on September 07, 2017, 05:29:52 PM
Just like there is mental garbage, there is also bloatware on phones and computers.  Keep both forms of unnecessary garbage out of your life.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on September 07, 2017, 07:34:14 PM
A bit unconventional for this thread, but I just deleted a ton of apps on my phone that I haven't used in a while.

Less stuff to manage.  Potential savings in time, bandwidth and even electricity.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on September 08, 2017, 03:30:09 AM
A bit unconventional for this thread, but I just deleted a ton of apps on my phone that I haven't used in a while.

Less stuff to manage.  Potential savings in time, bandwidth and even electricity.

I agree. Getting rid of digital clutter is still valid decluttering.

I would include getting rid of financial accounts as part of this. Last year after we paid off our house, we eliminated 2 accounts associated with the mortgage holder. We also closed the joint account the mortgage holder used to use for automatic payments. I closed an old HSA account and transferred the money to my current HSA. The fewer accounts you have, the easier it is to manage your finances.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on September 08, 2017, 09:28:48 AM
Well, in my never ending quest to declutter, we found some gold (not real gold, just keep reading...).  So my college son spent the summer working and also researching and selling his old Legos.  He figures out what's worth good money and sells small collections.  He's brought in well over $1000 doing this and as his last sale before heading back to college, put a somewhat random box of 15 pounds of legos out there and sold it for $110.  Ok.....next thing he starts researching.  Do you remember the old yu-gi-oh! cards that kids spent way too much money on.  TV cartoons to feed the craving.  Well, he found a bunch of his old "valuable" ones, most well preserved in perfect condition.  These are all serialized, so they can be researched to find their age and potential value.  Well, one that's in a protective case has several examples that have sold on eBay for over $500!  Yikes!  So we've worked into our hidden decluttering, looking for these cards.  What do I mean by hidden?  Well, the wife just can't bring herself to throw anything out so I bring her a 6"x9"x12" container with things I think should be thrown out (mostly random small plastic parts to baby toy kits.....my youngest turns 17 in 2 weeks) and this has been sitting for her to go through for 3 months.  So while on the lookout for yu-gi-oh! cards or magic, the gathering cards, I put paper crap in one bag and plastic crap in another.  When she's out, these get dumped into the appropriate recycling containers.  I'd estimate I've offloaded about 10 full trash barrels of stuff over the past 3 years and nobody even notices since we have every toy (from our inlaws) known to man in our house from when the kids were little.

Little bites out of the clutter at a time.  We'll get there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on September 08, 2017, 09:33:50 AM
This is somewhat depressing - the more I get into clearing out the more clearing out there appears to be. 

I am putting my office / studio back together after some redecorating.  This means throwing out stuff I printed out more than a decade ago and moved without even looking at then.  I am a pack rat.  And a slob -so much dust - and I am finding mold - boy this is going to be great when it is done.

The new storage units are supposed to hold everything.  All tools, supplies and references are being sorted and nothing gets to stay without a good dusting first and then it has to be stored with all the similar tools so I can find everything.  This means digging into other hoards of stuff to consolidate and pitch.  In the end I and daughter will have all our materials for sewing, krafting, art making and my paid work all in one area and all easy to access - and most important - put away when finished.

We have been here 7 years and things are out of control because this house has too many storage spaces.  I keep carrying things up to the garage and now the garage is a complete disaster. Last weekend Hubs did a dump run and you would never know it.  I haven't even looked under the stairs and only peaked in the sauna (it is full of junk) and there are two giant closets packed to the gills.

Enough mold and dust for today.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: sw1tch on September 08, 2017, 09:38:47 AM
Just needed to announce to all those that have been observing my journey that I've now gotten rid of my Bicycle.  That bike served me well and allowed me to sell my car earlier this year.  I'm kind of sad now that I think of it, but it was definitely necessary for what we plan to do in the future.  It's strange how quickly things that you thought were important just don't seem that sentimental anymore when you learn to disassociate yourself with the notion (provoked by marketing and peers) of material possessions.  I know I'll buy another bike when we get settled again, but the bike itself isn't what matters; it's how I choose to enjoy it and push myself forward while on it.

Anyhow, I have only until a week from Monday to sort through and donate the rest of the items.

Listed:
- Manzanita branches
- Honda/Acura brake pads
- Other wedding gifts that are still sitting around (married 8 years ago)
- Kitchen appliances
- Paper Shredder
- Random 06-11 Civic parts
- Random car parts
- LCD TV

To be listed:
- Multiple plate sets
- Random tools
- SA2010 Race Helmet
- Clothes
- too much stuff...

SOLD:
- Car
- Supercharger kit
- Lawn mower
- Fertilizer spreader
- Low profile mechanic's creeper
- Civic shift assembly
- Deep fryer
- Old subwoofer
- Votive candle holders
- 17' Ladder
- Console Table
- Jug of antifreeze
- Civic wheels & tires
- Trumpet vases
- Lawn chairs
- Desk and chair
- Couch and loveseat
- Coffee table
- Printer
- Papasan
- Dining table set w/ 6 chairs (gone in 2 days; maybe should've listed higher)
- 2 table lamps
- Box fan
- Wall Mirror
- TSX brake calipers
- DVD Player
- Card Table and 5 chairs
- Storage baskets
- pillow stuffing (free)
- TSX Rotors
- Shop Vac
- Queen bed set
- Standing Hammock
- TV Stand
- Folding Bicycle
- Small TV Stand
- queen Mattress, box spring, frame
- 2 shoe racks
- small weed whacker
- Civic Si suspension
- 8 person tent
- my bike (2007 Trek 7.2 FX)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 08, 2017, 12:07:39 PM
Such great progress reports from everyone!  I am planning to bring the stuff I've been gathering around the house to Goodwill this weekend.  And I'm going to put together another batch of clothing for consignment and bring it in next week. 

I've decided that I want to live a minimalist lifestyle when I move next year.  My current place is about 1600 sq ft and I will be downsizing to 650 sq ft.  I'm looking forward to having less.  A lot less!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 08, 2017, 05:57:43 PM
Finally tossed a little stool that was left in my garage by the previous tenants of my apartment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on September 08, 2017, 08:51:11 PM
I'm moving tomorrow and it's been much easier to pack this time than when I moved 3 months ago. I specifically got rid of decorations and things that were particularly difficult to pack, such as decorative paper lantern lights. Or a pretty cool set of reusable stickers that made a tree on a wall. Not worth the effort. Now all that's left is like two pictures and some glued and framed puzzles.

I do still have a dream catcher left that isn't super easy to pack but it has stayed together pretty well and I really like it. I'm trying to only keep things that I see myself keeping for life. What's the point of temporary decorations?

Same with kitchen stuff--I'm almost 100% cast iron now. Less toxic (especially if I ever get a pet bird) and will last forever!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 09, 2017, 03:29:18 AM
Tossed a couple more things from the balcony. Feeling good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on September 09, 2017, 05:13:47 AM
Tossed a couple more things from the balcony. Feeling good.
I hope there was nobody underneath.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on September 09, 2017, 10:38:08 AM
DD came home for a weekend and we did a major haul in the garage - I had a huge pile of recycling out that week.  I am still shredding old papers and bank statements and those are done (I think) and I am now doing old insurance policies.  I keep thinking I have mostly empty boxes now, and then I pick one up and it is not empty! 

I've donated masses of old books and magazines.  If it is fiction that my local library has, it goes.  A lot of the non-fiction (reference material) is also in the going/gone category.  I've always been a heavy-duty reader, so getting rid of books is probably one of the most traumatic parts of decluttering for me.

Basement is next, craft things need sorting and decluttering.  Christmas decorations too.  Re crafts, I had a very pretty sheet set (lovely embroidery at the top of the sheet) wear out, and I am proud of myself that it hit the garbage instead of being stored for salvage of the embroidery part.

Almost of all DD's stuff is now at her place, and the rest is in a neat pile in the garage for my next trip there, so all this stuff is mine, all mine, only me to blame.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on September 09, 2017, 11:09:02 AM
I got rid of a bunch of old baseball cards this week. My parents bought me complete sets for Christmas for a few years when I was a kid, but they pretty much just went up in the attic. I checked the value online, and they weren't worth much at all. Like $20-30 for a box in good shape. I sold the one that was still in it's original box and gave away the ones that I stored in these cheesy baseball shaped storage cases my parents got. I'm pretty confident many of the cards were missing from the ones that I stored in the cases.

Now I just need to get rid of my old comic books. Of the 300 some books I have, only about 20 of them are worth anything. The rest I probably couldn't sell for the cover price :(

I don't collect anything anymore. Collecting is more of a hassle than it's worth especially when you no longer want the burden of caring for the collection or trying to get rid of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 09, 2017, 07:28:23 PM
Tossed a couple more things from the balcony. Feeling good.
I hope there was nobody underneath.

Hehehehehe.

Point taken.

I disposed of a some things that had been stored on the balcony.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 10, 2017, 04:32:29 AM
Brought 2 bags of clothes, 3 pairs of shoes and 3 bags of miscellaneous stuff to Goodwill yesterday.  Another batch of clothes is ready for consignment and I will bring it in on Monday.  Still finding things around the house that I can get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on September 10, 2017, 07:10:54 PM
The box of Wedgewood I've been trying to sell for months finally sold! yay! All packed up, I'll take to the post office tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 11, 2017, 08:17:54 AM
16 things picked up that I gave away on the buy nothing project. Including 8 graphing calculators.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 11, 2017, 11:11:22 AM
Brought a bunch of clothing items to the consignment store.  They took all but a few that were not in season.  I have some more winter things that I will bring at the beginning of October as it is still too early for them.  Received $69.84 for prior sales.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trudie on September 12, 2017, 11:47:27 AM
Trying to figure out what to do with my MIL's old silver cutlery...

Took another small bag to the community thrift store.  I get tax deductions, not cash, but they invest all proceeds directly back into our local community.  It's my way of doing "United Way" without doing "United Way."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on September 12, 2017, 12:00:18 PM
Trying to figure out what to do with my MIL's old silver cutlery...

Took another small bag to the community thrift store.  I get tax deductions, not cash, but they invest all proceeds directly back into our local community.  It's my way of doing "United Way" without doing "United Way."

Kudos for keeping it local and not contributing towards the United Way CEO's salary of over $1.2MM.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chasingthegoodlife on September 14, 2017, 03:50:14 PM
We are halfway through installing the second hand kitchen cabinets we have been storing in our garage for the last year. I have started mentally preparing my partner that once the cabinets are out of the garage we will be going through everything we have stored out there during the renovations and deciding what we want to bring into the house and what we are ready to get rid of. Some of the books may need to stay in the garage until we get around to building the built in shelves we are planning (seems silly to buy bookcases for 6 months of use) but there is plenty that can go.

One of the challenges for me has been convincing him that it's ok not to provide unlimited free storage to family and friends - usually for things they don't want themselves but can't quite bring themselves to get rid of. If someone has left something with you for years, while they've changed their living situation several times, they're probably not going to wake up one day and think 'Gee, it's quite rude that I've been expecting XX to store my crap for years without making any effort to find a home for it. I better go and pick it up or let them know they can get rid of it.'. These people need a little push. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on September 14, 2017, 07:52:26 PM
This weekend is the great closet purge of '17. Posting here for accountability. I have a real problem getting rid of clothes (6 Rubbermaid totes of stuff that doesn't fit, plus a jammed walk in closet). but sometimes you have to just rip the bandaid off.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on September 14, 2017, 08:04:11 PM
Listening to radio coverage of the damage Irma left behind, I heard one woman describing how the storm took everything she owned. The house is wrecked, her possessions are gone or damaged beyond repair, her clothes are gone or ruined. She literally has nothing.

It made me look around and re-evaluate the value of a lot of my stuff and wonder why I have some of it at all.

If a storm wrecked my home and possessions, what would I bother replacing? What would I take  with me as I fled ahead of the storm? If I was that woman on the radio, how would I face starting from absolute zero stuff?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 15, 2017, 07:13:15 AM
This weekend is the great closet purge of '17. Posting here for accountability. I have a real problem getting rid of clothes (6 Rubbermaid totes of stuff that doesn't fit, plus a jammed walk in closet). but sometimes you have to just rip the bandaid off.

Good luck!  I have problems with clothes and shoes as well.  I've made a lot of progress but still have a ways to go.  Let us know how it went on Monday!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on September 15, 2017, 07:50:10 AM
This weekend is the great closet purge of '17. Posting here for accountability. I have a real problem getting rid of clothes (6 Rubbermaid totes of stuff that doesn't fit, plus a jammed walk in closet). but sometimes you have to just rip the bandaid off.

Well, those 6 totes are going to be pretty easy. Straight to consignment/donation. Good luck with the rest!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on September 15, 2017, 08:00:07 AM
Listening to radio coverage of the damage Irma left behind, I heard one woman describing how the storm took everything she owned. The house is wrecked, her possessions are gone or damaged beyond repair, her clothes are gone or ruined. She literally has nothing.

It made me look around and re-evaluate the value of a lot of my stuff and wonder why I have some of it at all.

If a storm wrecked my home and possessions, what would I bother replacing? What would I take  with me as I fled ahead of the storm? If I was that woman on the radio, how would I face starting from absolute zero stuff?

I actually think I would be okay. I don't even have that many clothes, less than four garbage bags full doing the hanger/garbage bag trick. Maybe 3 weeks worth of clothes, most of which are t-shirts/tank tops?

Really, the only thing I'd be upset about is my bike probably, but even that wasn't super expensive. The car tools would be a little annoying to replace but it would be easy to find the same stuff again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on September 15, 2017, 09:54:20 AM
I don't even have that many clothes, less than four garbage bags full doing the hanger/garbage bag trick.

I am ignorant.  What is this trick?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on September 15, 2017, 10:43:57 AM
I don't even have that many clothes, less than four garbage bags full doing the hanger/garbage bag trick.

I am ignorant.  What is this trick?

Image attached. It's not super common, but very helpful! Keeps your clothes all in the same order and it only takes a couple minutes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on September 15, 2017, 11:57:09 AM
I don't even have that many clothes, less than four garbage bags full doing the hanger/garbage bag trick.

I am ignorant.  What is this trick?

Image attached. It's not super common, but very helpful! Keeps your clothes all in the same order and it only takes a couple minutes.

Ooo, fancy that!  Thank you!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on September 15, 2017, 01:38:46 PM
Put out another 15 children's books and workbooks in the Little Free Library.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on September 16, 2017, 03:30:18 AM
I pulled down some old telephone wiring that was stapled to the walls in my garage by a previous owner. It wasn't connected to the phone wire in the house and it wasn't connected to a jack either. Somebody in the past started the job of removing it but never finished it. So I just had random wire stapled to the wall at that point.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on September 16, 2017, 02:08:29 PM
This weekend is the great closet purge of '17. Posting here for accountability. I have a real problem getting rid of clothes (6 Rubbermaid totes of stuff that doesn't fit, plus a jammed walk in closet). but sometimes you have to just rip the bandaid off.

Good luck!  I have problems with clothes and shoes as well.  I've made a lot of progress but still have a ways to go.  Let us know how it went on Monday!

I took everything out of the closet, and I am only putting back stuff that fits, and which I love. Currently 4 garbage bags full are in the car. I had to repair a small patch of drywall, and I am currently taking a break and waiting for that to dry. Then I can put a shelf and rod back up that has literally been hanging up with ropes for the last 10 or so years. A lot of this effort is because I am planning to downsize in the future, so I want the closet to look all fancy and be a selling point. I will probably only put some empty baskets on the repaired shelf for fear it might fall down again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on September 21, 2017, 07:36:07 AM
We took 10 cubic meter of thrash to the dump yesterday! Granted, most of it wasn't mine. A friend and I rented a van together - she's moving out and leaving most of her stuff behind. When we want to get rid of something, we put it in the garage and wait until someone we know is renting a van so we can share the cost.

We dumped three old sofas. We have been given several nearly-worn out sofas in the past by friends who bought a new one. We then used them until they would literally break down or couldn't be cleaned anymore, then we'd put them in the garage to be taken to the dump in the future. We now have a really nice (free) sofa that's nearly brand new and hopefully this one will last us years. We also took some chairs to the dump that weren't safe to sit on and an extremely worn out chest of drawers.

We are now for the first time at the point where all our furniture is nice-looking and functional and we don't expect anything to need replacement within the next 5 years. We've had a lot of semi-worn-out furniture in the past 10 years and we're now at the point where our house looks nice and cosy and put-together. We are extremely happy with the result. We feel like proper 'grown-ups' now (end 20s/early 30s) and we still barely spent any money on it. A lot of it is older, quality wooden furniture that we restored and refinished ourselves.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on September 23, 2017, 02:13:58 PM
This is a big day.

To Goodwill:
--Bread machine (working)
--Skis
--T-shirts from a past job

Waiting to be loaded into the truck and taken to electronics recycling drop-off:
--Power Mac G4
--Windows tower PC
--2 CRT monitors
--2 keyboards
--combo VCR/DVD player
--DISH satellite receiver from 2000
--CD player that was old when I bought it at a yard sale in the 1990s
--2 boxes of misc. dead computer parts and other electronics
--100-150 VHS tapes  They wouldn't take tapes.
--dead microwave (not sure if they'll accept this) They took it, yay!

To the trash:
--papers and files from the job that laid me off in 2012
--B.S. management books from same job
--outdated other books ditto
--the ten-year anniversary Lucite block ditto (gee, thanks)

I was holding on to that stuff because it represented SO MUCH WORK that I did, work that I was happy and proud to do. But it also carries lousy memories because of the awful way it ended. I am finally ready to let go of the evidence of my work, and get all the reminders of that shitty experience out of my life forever. It felt good to toss it into the recycling bin.

What Marie Kondo said holds true for me--that you have to get the stuff you don't want out of your life (and the associated feelings) before you can make mental room for activities and things that make you happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BiscuitsForBreakfast on September 24, 2017, 05:37:29 PM
I am moving in with my boyfriend (yay!) and already have a renter lined up who will take my place furnished (can postpone some decisions!) so am in use-up and purge mode. I have finally let go of the notes I took in college 20 years ago, for one thing, but this clearing effort can sometimes take weird paths: today I made molasses cookies (to consolidate flour/sugar/molasses) and froze them in preparation for an event later this week, and wild rice with Brussels sprouts with oyster/soy sauce glaze for dinner just to use up ingredients. Lunch was homemade strawberry ice cream from earlier in the summer ;)

I have a pile for consignment, and the car is full for a trip to a thrift store after work tomorrow. I think of this thread a lot, even if I don't check it too regularly, so thank you all for the inspiration!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on September 24, 2017, 07:07:08 PM
I spent a good chunk of time on Saturday in the basement. 
A lot of stuff got tidied up in preparation of laying flooring in the last remaining unfinished part of the basement.
Fabric bins- reduced in quantity, no longer any swatches that will not have any functional uses in the future, all folded neatly and can see everything.  Large contribution to the garage donation pile.
Shoes that don't fit - sorted - and in donation pile
Shoes that are beyond repair - in garbage
Some more old sports gear is in the donation pile or sold to Play it Again.
A bunch of old toys - sorted into keep forever and located in an easy to reach area or in the donation pile in the garage.
Luggage - cleaned and stored if we are keeping, the rest is in the donation pile.
Sewing area - set up for functionality, all the equipment and supplies are now set up in our clean maker space / studio / office.
My closet - cleaned up (dusted) and edited.


The basement is looking amazing - the garage is looking really bad.  The garage has a deadline - once there is frost on the windows in the morning - hubs will be super keen to get cracking on clearing out so he can park in there. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 24, 2017, 09:31:30 PM
Visited my parents over the weekend so I took a few minutes to keep decluttering my childhood bedroom.

I found a drawer full of papers - uni assignments, press clippings, old birthday cards, etc. I didn't bother sorting through, just dumped the lot.

My tally for the weekend:
- 2 bags of garbage
- 1 bag to charity
- 1 rusty clothes airer
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on September 25, 2017, 01:33:06 AM
Earlier this year we sold both our racing bikes, because they didn't get used anymore. A few weeks ago my DH managed won an electric bicycle. He tried it out, but it was not as powerful as he hoped for, so he decided to sell it. We received a nice sum of cash that compensates for a big negative financial impact that happened recently.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on September 25, 2017, 06:52:04 AM
Did not do too well this weekend in getting stuff out the door- but I got rid of two drying racks that were in the kitchen, a bunch of cleaning supplies we don't use, and some random paperwork.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on September 25, 2017, 11:40:56 AM
...
--100-150 VHS tapes  They wouldn't take tapes.
...

A surprising number of people still want VHS tapes. You can probably donate these.
Source: the townwide garage sale last weekend, at which I saw multiple people excitedly buying stacks of VHS tapes. I prefer to think they just don't like DVDs, please don't abuse me of that if there's a gross reason.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 25, 2017, 11:48:27 AM
Did not do too well this weekend in getting stuff out the door- but I got rid of two drying racks that were in the kitchen, a bunch of cleaning supplies we don't use, and some random paperwork.

Do you mean implements or cleaning products? 

What do you do with cleaning and/or laundry products you don't use?  Pour them down the drain and recycle the containers?

Any suggestions anyone?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on September 25, 2017, 01:02:26 PM
Did not do too well this weekend in getting stuff out the door- but I got rid of two drying racks that were in the kitchen, a bunch of cleaning supplies we don't use, and some random paperwork.

Do you mean implements or cleaning products? 

What do you do with cleaning and/or laundry products you don't use?  Pour them down the drain and recycle the containers?

Any suggestions anyone?
Try your local women's refuge.  Typically what they can't use in the refuge itself will go into starter packs for women who move on from the refuge into new p.ermanent accommodation.  They'll also take toiletries.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on September 25, 2017, 02:48:25 PM
...
--100-150 VHS tapes  They wouldn't take tapes.
...

A surprising number of people still want VHS tapes. You can probably donate these.
Source: the townwide garage sale last weekend, at which I saw multiple people excitedly buying stacks of VHS tapes. I prefer to think they just don't like DVDs, please don't abuse me of that if there's a gross reason.

Thanks--that's good to know. Maybe we will just take them to Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on September 25, 2017, 03:08:44 PM
I have a dilemma.
We are in the beginning stages for planning a fundraiser to "free cycle" / share, etc household goods in March or April 2018.   Very large community event held in a local hall.   Concept -- All items are free, except there is a limit (one bag per person before they re line up) and an entrance fee that decreases by the hour, until $0 after lunchtime. 

Meanwhile I have quite a volume of books, games, CDs, DVDs, and quality older kid and household items waiting to be taken to goodwill.   I am unsure if I should just store it all longer (an area 5x7 in my garage and growing), or get rid of it.    It is the kind of stuff that would lure people to the event if it was photo'd and put on craigslist with "freecycle" event tagged on it.

If I get rid of it, I may be able to park the car AND the utility trailer in the garage over winter (rainy here, not snow).

If I keep it, it would truly help seed the event with items worthy of people's time to show up... and I would be a primary organizer of the event.

What would you do?  Store it for 6 months or release it?

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaypinkHH on September 25, 2017, 03:25:44 PM
Mr. HH and I are moving, which has accelerated our dejunking plan!

We moved into our current house in 2014, did a HUGE clean out January 2016, so compared to what we moved here with we are way down on stuff, but yet we still managed to get rid of the following:

Donate:
2 Large bags of used sheets/towels/pillow cases to an animal rescue
1 Large bag of various house hold goods to Value Village (books, games)

Recycle:
A ton of notes/workbooks/papers from university and our early working days (don't need them any more)
Magazine pages that I had ripped out years ago and never looked at
A bunch of co-ax cables and other electronic goods

Selling:
Outdoor furniture
BBQ
Ikea shelves and entertainment unit
Filing cabinet
Various other items


It feels so good knowing we are going to have a clean slate when we get to our new house!


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on September 25, 2017, 05:14:03 PM
...
--100-150 VHS tapes  They wouldn't take tapes.
...

A surprising number of people still want VHS tapes. You can probably donate these.
Source: the townwide garage sale last weekend, at which I saw multiple people excitedly buying stacks of VHS tapes. I prefer to think they just don't like DVDs, please don't abuse me of that if there's a gross reason.

No gross reason that I know.  People either don't have a DVD player, can't get those specific VHS movies on DVD, or maybe have a secondary location (summer cottage?) with a working VHS player that doesn't need to be replaced.  When you have a good VHS player and VHS movies are going for cents, there is no need to shell out for a DVD player.





Goldielocks, is there storage space at the hall where the event will be held?  If they have a large attic, utility closet, or whatnot, maybe they can accumulate some of the donations until the big day.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on September 26, 2017, 12:00:20 AM
...
--100-150 VHS tapes  They wouldn't take tapes.
...

A surprising number of people still want VHS tapes. You can probably donate these.
Source: the townwide garage sale last weekend, at which I saw multiple people excitedly buying stacks of VHS tapes. I prefer to think they just don't like DVDs, please don't abuse me of that if there's a gross reason.

No gross reason that I know.  People either don't have a DVD player, can't get those specific VHS movies on DVD, or maybe have a secondary location (summer cottage?) with a working VHS player that doesn't need to be replaced.  When you have a good VHS player and VHS movies are going for cents, there is no need to shell out for a DVD player.





Goldielocks, is there storage space at the hall where the event will be held?  If they have a large attic, utility closet, or whatnot, maybe they can accumulate some of the donations until the big day.

Yah no storage there... I am also on the committee to "get rid of the junk and keep it out of the hall"...  Too many dump runs in the past year..
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 26, 2017, 02:30:58 AM
13 items out the door. $175 in pocket.

Bagged a bunch more and I need to do another run this week to get them going.

Next batch to be posted on Craigslist for sale.

I've also let the paper monster grow and grow for the past two months. Need to start working on it. Sigh! We get too much paper.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 26, 2017, 07:18:18 AM
Another run to Goodwill last night: bed linens, towels, kitchen stuff...  I think I'm slowly getting there.  The agent who listed my house for sale commented that the house feels "minimal" (in a good way :-)

And I took an easy way out on the cleaning/laundry products.  I put the lot in the local laundromat with a sign saying Free stuff - please take.  Hopefully there will be some takers.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on September 26, 2017, 06:37:04 PM
...
--100-150 VHS tapes  They wouldn't take tapes.
...

A surprising number of people still want VHS tapes. You can probably donate these.
Source: the townwide garage sale last weekend, at which I saw multiple people excitedly buying stacks of VHS tapes. I prefer to think they just don't like DVDs, please don't abuse me of that if there's a gross reason.

My parents just like VHS tapes. Their player works, and their vision isn't that sharp anymore - so all this new 4K (or even HD) doesn't make a difference for them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 26, 2017, 07:36:38 PM
Opened a cupboard this morning looking for something. Didn't find what I was looking for but grabbed six things (paperwork and brochures) that could all go straight in the recycling bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 27, 2017, 02:43:24 PM
Exchanged a bunch of stuff with neighbors. Got rid of 25 items that we didn't need (balloon weights, books, etc) and got items we could use (soap, cleaning stuff, gift bags, etc). Even though it was not true decluttering, I'd consider it as such since we now have things we can use and none we can't. Also those things we couldn't use will be used by someone else. Double win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 27, 2017, 06:59:32 PM
I can't remember if I've posted about this idea before but I finally acted on it.

Husband travels a lot for work. Often that means getting off an international flight and going straight to the office. Sometimes it means he goes to work in jeans and a t-shirt and finds out he has to meet with a CEO, and there's a bit of a panic over wardrobe. Sometimes he has to fly interstate with a couple of hours' notice.

We've been cutting back his wardrobe anyway, so I packed a go-bag for his office: a change of clothes, shoes, toiletries, phone charger, etc.

That gets about a dozen excess things out of my house (including a gifted overnight bag which we just didn't need).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on September 28, 2017, 04:26:11 AM
Exchanged a bunch of stuff with neighbors. Got rid of 25 items that we didn't need (balloon weights, books, etc) and got items we could use (soap, cleaning stuff, gift bags, etc). Even though it was not true decluttering, I'd consider it as such since we now have things we can use and none we can't. Also those things we couldn't use will be used by someone else. Double win!

It is a good form of decluttering. Well done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on September 28, 2017, 01:42:00 PM
My husband has been trying to get me to clear out clutter, but I've been resistant.  Y'all have inspired me to actually participate.  This week:

a) Husband cleaned our game room.  We are giving away 5 board games we don't play, and the ones we're keeping (30+ ... baby steps) are sorted so we can actually see what we own.

b) I sorted through my desk at home.  Reference books were returned to their actual bookshelf homes.   Paperwork was sorted and filed or recycled.  I finally looked in the two pretty baskets on the top shelf and realize they were full of paperwork and tchotchkes I had forgotten about.  The recycle bin is now full, my daughter took one of the baskets to organize HER desk, and the other basket went into the Goodwill box.  My husband is amazed that I can actually see the surface of my desk now (honestly, so am I).

c) We tried on 75% of the stuff in our closet.  Two big bags to give away, and a bunch of just-slightly-too-large stuff folded and put in a storage tote. If it is still too large next year, I'll give it away.

d) Cleaned off the kitchen island, which had served as an open-air junk "drawer"

e) I requested The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up from the library after I saw several people recommend it on this thread.

This weekend's goals:
1) Finish cleaning out our closet.  Be realistic about which shoes I will never wear again.
2) Get rid of 4 things in the kitchen.
3) Tackle top of dresser (I have no idea what that mess is, but I suspect I don't need 85% of it)


Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 28, 2017, 02:11:22 PM
I am down to some difficult things that I'm trying to decide as to what to do with:

- sterling flatware (it was a gift from my parents but not something that has been in the family) - I don't like the pattern and never use it because it's a pain the neck to clean
- a set of antique silver utensils (another gift but never used)
- a gold necklace (worn a few times but not recently and doesn't fit with my current or future lifestyle)

Together, these items would probably bring $800-$1000 if sold for scrap.  But I feel bad about scrapping or selling fairly valuable gifts from my parents.  And the thought of the necklace melted down makes me sad.

I brought the necklace to a local jewelry store but they were not interested in buying it for their vintage collection.  So the only option is to sell it is for scrap.

Any ideas as to how to deal with these?  Should I just get over the guilt and sell the lot if I know I won't be using it? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 28, 2017, 03:49:40 PM
ZiziPB, I don't have any suggestions but I can commiserate on the difficult feelings. I have listed my toddler's (preschooler now) tricycle. Even though I know she will not use it anymore and had outgrown it (nor will her siblings use it), I want to hold on to it just for the memory's sake. It feels as if I'm giving away a part of her toddlerhood. :(

The only thing that has helped so far is taking pictures of it and reminding myself that the bike has given us fun memories which are stored in my heart and I don't need the bike to remind me of them. Still working on it though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on September 29, 2017, 02:58:14 AM
My husband has been trying to get me to clear out clutter, but I've been resistant.  Y'all have inspired me to actually participate.  This week:

a) Husband cleaned our game room.  We are giving away 5 board games we don't play, and the ones we're keeping (30+ ... baby steps) are sorted so we can actually see what we own.

b) I sorted through my desk at home.  Reference books were returned to their actual bookshelf homes.   Paperwork was sorted and filed or recycled.  I finally looked in the two pretty baskets on the top shelf and realize they were full of paperwork and tchotchkes I had forgotten about.  The recycle bin is now full, my daughter took one of the baskets to organize HER desk, and the other basket went into the Goodwill box.  My husband is amazed that I can actually see the surface of my desk now (honestly, so am I).

c) We tried on 75% of the stuff in our closet.  Two big bags to give away, and a bunch of just-slightly-too-large stuff folded and put in a storage tote. If it is still too large next year, I'll give it away.

d) Cleaned off the kitchen island, which had served as an open-air junk "drawer"

e) I requested The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up from the library after I saw several people recommend it on this thread.

This weekend's goals:
1) Finish cleaning out our closet.  Be realistic about which shoes I will never wear again.
2) Get rid of 4 things in the kitchen.
3) Tackle top of dresser (I have no idea what that mess is, but I suspect I don't need 85% of it)

Awesome progress for just a week!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 29, 2017, 07:33:38 AM
ZiziPB, I don't have any suggestions but I can commiserate on the difficult feelings. I have listed my toddler's (preschooler now) tricycle. Even though I know she will not use it anymore and had outgrown it (nor will her siblings use it), I want to hold on to it just for the memory's sake. It feels as if I'm giving away a part of her toddlerhood. :(

The only thing that has helped so far is taking pictures of it and reminding myself that the bike has given us fun memories which are stored in my heart and I don't need the bike to remind me of them. Still working on it though.
Thanks for the support firelight!  Even though I'm not particularly sentimental it is hard to deal with objects that have all these feelings attached to them.  In my case, one additional feeling I'm struggling with is guilt - I know that these gifts were a big expense for my parents at the time they were given so it's hard to just discard them and show total disregard for that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on September 29, 2017, 08:07:00 AM
ZiziPB, I don't have any suggestions but I can commiserate on the difficult feelings. I have listed my toddler's (preschooler now) tricycle. Even though I know she will not use it anymore and had outgrown it (nor will her siblings use it), I want to hold on to it just for the memory's sake. It feels as if I'm giving away a part of her toddlerhood. :(

The only thing that has helped so far is taking pictures of it and reminding myself that the bike has given us fun memories which are stored in my heart and I don't need the bike to remind me of them. Still working on it though.
Thanks for the support firelight!  Even though I'm not particularly sentimental it is hard to deal with objects that have all these feelings attached to them.  In my case, one additional feeling I'm struggling with is guilt - I know that these gifts were a big expense for my parents at the time they were given so it's hard to just discard them and show total disregard for that.

Not knowing anything about your relationship with your parents... These gifts are like a cashmere sweater that is two sizes too big.  It's beautiful and lovely but just doesn't fit you and it's just not useful, and honestly it's so big and baggy that it loses its beauty and looks rough.  You would trade in that sweater for one that fit.  And you can trade in these items for something that fits.  Maybe that is money towards debt or savings.  Maybe it is a necklace or kitchen utensil you're more likely to use.  They served their purpose.  You have admired their loveliness. You aren't disregarding their worth.  You tried them on.  They don't fit. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on September 29, 2017, 08:29:35 AM
ZiziPB, I don't have any suggestions but I can commiserate on the difficult feelings. I have listed my toddler's (preschooler now) tricycle. Even though I know she will not use it anymore and had outgrown it (nor will her siblings use it), I want to hold on to it just for the memory's sake. It feels as if I'm giving away a part of her toddlerhood. :(

The only thing that has helped so far is taking pictures of it and reminding myself that the bike has given us fun memories which are stored in my heart and I don't need the bike to remind me of them. Still working on it though.
Thanks for the support firelight!  Even though I'm not particularly sentimental it is hard to deal with objects that have all these feelings attached to them.  In my case, one additional feeling I'm struggling with is guilt - I know that these gifts were a big expense for my parents at the time they were given so it's hard to just discard them and show total disregard for that.

Not knowing anything about your relationship with your parents... These gifts are like a cashmere sweater that is two sizes too big.  It's beautiful and lovely but just doesn't fit you and it's just not useful, and honestly it's so big and baggy that it loses its beauty and looks rough.  You would trade in that sweater for one that fit.  And you can trade in these items for something that fits.  Maybe that is money towards debt or savings.  Maybe it is a necklace or kitchen utensil you're more likely to use.  They served their purpose.  You have admired their loveliness. You aren't disregarding their worth.  You tried them on.  They don't fit.

Yes, that's good advice! 

I was thinking though that I should let my mom know I'm doing this and the reasons for it.  She's a logical person who will understand.  And I will feel better if this is cleared up between us instead of being left unsaid.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on September 29, 2017, 08:35:43 AM
ZiziPB, I don't have any suggestions but I can commiserate on the difficult feelings. I have listed my toddler's (preschooler now) tricycle. Even though I know she will not use it anymore and had outgrown it (nor will her siblings use it), I want to hold on to it just for the memory's sake. It feels as if I'm giving away a part of her toddlerhood. :(

The only thing that has helped so far is taking pictures of it and reminding myself that the bike has given us fun memories which are stored in my heart and I don't need the bike to remind me of them. Still working on it though.
Thanks for the support firelight!  Even though I'm not particularly sentimental it is hard to deal with objects that have all these feelings attached to them.  In my case, one additional feeling I'm struggling with is guilt - I know that these gifts were a big expense for my parents at the time they were given so it's hard to just discard them and show total disregard for that.

Not knowing anything about your relationship with your parents... These gifts are like a cashmere sweater that is two sizes too big.  It's beautiful and lovely but just doesn't fit you and it's just not useful, and honestly it's so big and baggy that it loses its beauty and looks rough.  You would trade in that sweater for one that fit.  And you can trade in these items for something that fits.  Maybe that is money towards debt or savings.  Maybe it is a necklace or kitchen utensil you're more likely to use.  They served their purpose.  You have admired their loveliness. You aren't disregarding their worth.  You tried them on.  They don't fit.

And you have feel the love that the givers of these gifts wanted you to feel.  They have completed their purpose in your life.  There is some one out there that may have another use for these items.  And if you can translate them into something more useful in your life, then you should.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 29, 2017, 09:30:00 AM
I ended up giving the toddler bike to another mom with a 1.5 year old. I now know someone else will use it well and get to make more fun memories with it. That made it a wee bit easier to part with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on September 29, 2017, 11:16:28 AM
Another run to Goodwill last night: bed linens, towels, kitchen stuff...  I think I'm slowly getting there.  The agent who listed my house for sale commented that the house feels "minimal" (in a good way :-)

And I took an easy way out on the cleaning/laundry products.  I put the lot in the local laundromat with a sign saying Free stuff - please take.  Hopefully there will be some takers.

Animal shelters also get great use out of linens and towels!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on September 30, 2017, 09:33:28 PM
Two items out the door and two more pending pickup tomorrow. Time to list more items.

I have some fan memorabilia for shows like orange is the New Black, Bojack horseman, etc. Putting as auction on eBay would give the best possible price but would include shipping work, cut in profits to eBay etc. Posting as porch pickup on Facebook and Craigslist keeps it local and doesn't have shipping hassles but I won't get the best price. What should I pick?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Tick-Tock on October 01, 2017, 08:45:29 PM
Another couple boxes of clothes and misc to the thrift store and some books to the library for its upcoming sale.  Every little bit helps.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on October 02, 2017, 06:37:26 AM
Two items out the door and two more pending pickup tomorrow. Time to list more items.

I have some fan memorabilia for shows like orange is the New Black, Bojack horseman, etc. Putting as auction on eBay would give the best possible price but would include shipping work, cut in profits to eBay etc. Posting as porch pickup on Facebook and Craigslist keeps it local and doesn't have shipping hassles but I won't get the best price. What should I pick?

Large stuff: Definitely Craigslist/FB route.

Small stuff: Start on Craigslist/FB, sell the rest on eBay or give away if low value (<$10). Having envelopes/boxes ready for each item helps if you do eBay, cuts out the stress of last-minute shipping.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on October 02, 2017, 08:02:10 AM
Two items out the door and two more pending pickup tomorrow. Time to list more items.

I have some fan memorabilia for shows like orange is the New Black, Bojack horseman, etc. Putting as auction on eBay would give the best possible price but would include shipping work, cut in profits to eBay etc. Posting as porch pickup on Facebook and Craigslist keeps it local and doesn't have shipping hassles but I won't get the best price. What should I pick?

Any kind of niche interest item is best sold on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 02, 2017, 08:12:22 AM
Made $35 on a Super Nintendo game on ebay this weekend.  (Which makes me wish we had listed the hundreds of games we sold to Half Price books last year... but mostly, I wanted them out of the house- this is one we somehow missed.)

Didn't do a great job getting stuff out of the house this weekend.
Gave some ribbon away, which was hard. Craft stuff is always "what if I need this later".
Got rid of the dish towels we don't like, and the dog towels that are super old and we downgraded other towels to dog towels.

Also, last weekend I got rid of unused power strips that had been sitting around for years. This weekend, I needed a power strip. Go figure.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: norabird on October 02, 2017, 08:29:34 AM
A friend wants some more kitchens tuff so I'm going to give her some of the spare spatulas and glasses we have around. Maybe even some of my fancy dessert plates--I have roughly a million...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 02, 2017, 08:39:45 AM
3 hand-knitted shawls out of the house this weekend - I gave them as gifts to my cousin, aunt and friend.  But my cousin gave me some yarn to add to my knitting supplies.  In my defense, she wanted to give me a full bin but I selected 6 or 7 skeins out of it and didn't take the rest.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 02, 2017, 10:29:56 AM
The pile in the garage grows but there is an increasing spaciousness in the house.
This morning I cleared out the sauna - yes we have a sauna that came with the house and we have been using it for storage ever since we moved in.  I really want to take sauna's. 
We made it much smaller a couple of years ago and it has never been re-connected.  It just held less junk.  This morning I carried out all the junk, (an old computer box, a spare shower door, and a bunch of old text books).  Daughter grabbed the big ball for her room - they are old enough that they don't fight over the ball.  I hid it in there in desperation one day probably four years ago.
I also grabbed two random boxes in the utility room and they are in the garage.  One was really good children's clothes that I was going to keep forever.  Now I have six nieces and nephews under four so the outfits can be offered to them and then released if there are no takers.
Daughter is giving her dollhouse and random toys to little cousins. 
The last of the flooring was installed on Sunday so we can get rid of all the extra bits.
It also means that we can set up hubs' mancave stuff and make him a work out room.  The treadmill that we got from parents is going to get carried down from the garage.  Weights in son's room under bed and random boxes from the garage will live together in one place. It gets lots of light now that the windows aren't blocked with the clutter!
We overheated the shredder but got through about four boxes.  We are down to a small filing cabinet and one bankers box.  As my hubs does all the booking keeping for his family I think this is ok.
Son emptied all the extra hockey gear from his hockey bag that he hadn't worn for his game.
This coming weekend is Canadian Thanksgiving and the garage is getting sorted.  A dump run, donation run and a photography session to list stuff on kijiji is happening.   
It is feeling amazing even though we only have so much more to do.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on October 02, 2017, 11:11:53 AM
It looks like several Halloween stores exploded in our living room. We're pulling everything out, going through it and culling a large amount of decorations.

Did I mention I'm a super duper Halloween decorator? So we're talking LOTS and LOTS of stuff. I have a full sized carnival ticket booth in the garage and a clown mouth entrance arch and skeleton/clown performers, along with an entire graveyard complete with stones, fencing and resident ghosts. And not even counting the junk stored inside the house.

BUT I'm also tired of storing so much stuff, and tastes/themes have changed so some of it is just not my style any more and I'm creating quite a large pile of stuff to re-home.

I do also have a large amount of clothing/shoes to take to the thrift store this week as well.

And the husband is going through several large boxes of his old toys - GIJoes, transformers, ET, Star Wars... all really bad shape tho, so he's likely going to ask a few die-hard friends if they want the majority of the stuff. 

The Halloween stuff likely will be listed on Craigslist or my Halloween group's site (just depends if I feel like dealing with shipping junk all over).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaypinkHH on October 02, 2017, 02:45:47 PM
Got rid of a frozen turkey today!

We had a old frozen turkey way down in our deep freeze, and won't be using it for Canadian Thanksgiving, so with the move coming up I posted it online, and it was gone within 30 mins. Someone will be eating old turkey, but probably delicious!

I legit had a dream about food waste the other day so I think getting rid of the turkey will make me feel better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 02, 2017, 05:41:02 PM
Got rid of about 35 things over the weekend.

Lots of birthdays at the moment so I'm delighted to be working my way through my stash of cards and gift bags.

I pulled out my stash of velvet and satin Christmas ribbons to give to my mum to use up (I will never get through them).

Husband agreed to part with some more work-related paperwork.

Next job is to list a pair of shoes on eBay.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on October 03, 2017, 11:54:19 AM
This weekend's goals:
1) Finish cleaning out our closet.  Be realistic about which shoes I will never wear again.
2) Get rid of 4 things in the kitchen.
3) Tackle top of dresser (I have no idea what that mess is, but I suspect I don't need 85% of it)

1) I bought a new pair of shoes this week, so in exchange I threw away 2 pairs that are really worn out, I'm giving away two pairs that pinch my toes, and a third pair that pinches I'll try to sell.
I also gave away a few more clothing items and packed several more into the "slightly-too-big-for-me, will-give-away-in-a-year-if-I-maintain-the-weight-loss" box.

2) I found 3 things in the kitchen I didn't want anymore.

3) Instead of the dresser, I cleaned out the hall closet.  We hung up two framed pictures that have been hiding there since we moved in 4 years ago, threw away a bunch of stuff, moved several things to areas where I will remember that we actually have them (what possessed me to put paper plates in the hall closet?????), sorted through the coats to give away the ones that don't fit anymore, and gave away other stuff that we didn't remember we'd stuffed in the closet.

Bottom line - I filled up a giant trash bag full of stuff for Goodwill, filled a bin for recycling, and realized that if you have to store things in weird places just to say you have a home for it, then you have waaaaay too much stuff.

I also realized I need to do another pass through our linen closet to find room for the tablecloths that were in the back of the hall closet, and I need to find a better way to sort and store scarves and gloves.  I apparently buy new ones every year (especially for the kids) when I can't find the old ones.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 04, 2017, 01:37:24 AM
...if you have to store things in weird places just to say you have a home for it, then you have waaaaay too much stuff.

Stealing this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 05, 2017, 07:43:43 PM
I'm doing this gauntlet for October. It's the one where you do one object on Day 1, two on Day 2 etc. Hubby is quite adamant that we've decluttered enough so the challenge will be a combination of decluttering and storing things in their correct place for me.

https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/throw-down-the-gauntlet/minimalist-challenge-for-october/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on October 06, 2017, 01:52:19 AM
I'm doing this gauntlet for October. It's the one where you do one object on Day 1, two on Day 2 etc. Hubby is quite adamant that we've decluttered enough so the challenge will be a combination of decluttering and storing things in their correct place for me.

https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/throw-down-the-gauntlet/minimalist-challenge-for-october/

To be honest, that challenge would be too much for me. I might have something to declutter every day for a month, but not 30 things on day 30. Luckily my house is tidier than that. ;-)
... or maybe I do, but don't realize it. Cannot rule that out...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on October 06, 2017, 02:00:09 AM
You never know until you try linda norway. I let 23 things go today.  I have so much more to go.  I have already got rid of so much too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 06, 2017, 02:07:16 AM
Linda, I'm totally cheating in how I count the items :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 06, 2017, 07:03:59 PM
7 items out the door. Sadly I bought three toys for kiddo so the final tally is only 4. Looking forward to getting rid of more tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nick663 on October 07, 2017, 09:02:57 AM
Sold a random part from a ceiling fan (spare downrod) on ebay today.  Always nice to clean out clutter while growing the savings account.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on October 07, 2017, 03:02:46 PM
Another 45 items to go. Have to wait for the charity store to open since it's the weekend but I have it boxed and ready to go. This includes 31 cookbooks, several coffee mugs, some glass bowls still in their boxes and some other random kitchen items.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 07, 2017, 05:47:11 PM
Husband took his ruined bike to the bike library.
We get a tax receipt and space in the garage. They get some salvage parts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on October 07, 2017, 07:39:35 PM
Reduced number of loose leaf recipes from 9 display folders to one. Recycling the pages. Storing the display folders for kids to use at school. This has taken me a couple months to work through.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 07, 2017, 10:38:50 PM
Sold an old phone. One item out the door.  Chipping away...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on October 07, 2017, 11:56:53 PM
I moved apartments recently and packed a fair few boxes full of stuff that has been a "to sell" or "to throw out" for years. I thought I'd be motivated to do better after the move, but of course they've sat there in boxes for the last couple of months. Such is life, hey?

Except my partner's father passed away last week, and we've been cleaning out his house. He has rooms and rooms of junk, with a study full of messy paperwork from 2008 mixed in with mouldy towels and his daughter's artwork from primary school, and two sheds full of cobwebs and old broken furniture.

It's like a shock of cold water to the face to see this much junk. When I get back home I'm going super hard on my clutter and boxes - no excuses.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 08, 2017, 02:30:46 AM
So sorry to hear about your FIL Ascotillon.

It's pretty bad clearing out leaving junk for others to clear but I have to say that my dad and I had a reasonably good bonding experience clearing out my mum's stuff after she passed. It was sort of cleansing, it helped somehow. That was just one room (her study) though!

We had a great win today. Up til now our tv, apple tv, PS3 and aerial have plugged into a power board that lies below the tv cabinet, gathering dust and dog hair. Every time we tried to vacuum up the aerial got knocked out. The PS3 we barely used, it's really just used for DVDs and we have Netflix now, so that was unplugged is stored in the tv cabinet. We bought 2 x surge protected double adaptors and some reuseable ties and coiled up the other three cords so that they are hidden behind the tv and not touching the floor. It looks so much better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 08, 2017, 10:30:53 AM
So sorry about your FIL and that you have to clear so much junk.

I have a few boxes of stuff to sell for the past few years. But with kids, I never ended up doing it and moved with it more than 400 miles. We have another move in 6 months and that is my end date - what doesn't get sold but then goes to donations. That thought has spurred me to start selling. Hope you get to sell/donate your stuff too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on October 08, 2017, 12:32:12 PM
I am making baby steps. I gave away one of my books ito a colleague. I promised of my books to a friend. I just haven't met this friend for a few weeks, so the book is still here. I also think I am going to give away a third book to my SIL when I see her in the Christmas holiday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on October 08, 2017, 12:37:06 PM
I moved apartments recently and packed a fair few boxes full of stuff that has been a "to sell" or "to throw out" for years. I thought I'd be motivated to do better after the move, but of course they've sat there in boxes for the last couple of months. Such is life, hey?

Except my partner's father passed away last week, and we've been cleaning out his house. He has rooms and rooms of junk, with a study full of messy paperwork from 2008 mixed in with mouldy towels and his daughter's artwork from primary school, and two sheds full of cobwebs and old broken furniture.

It's like a shock of cold water to the face to see this much junk. When I get back home I'm going super hard on my clutter and boxes - no excuses.

Sorry for your loss! Must be tough to find items worth keeping between all the mess. But all the more reason to dispose of your own junk, so it's very clear which items mean something to you and which items aren't adding anything positive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 08, 2017, 04:06:57 PM
There is a council clean-up scheduled for my building tomorrow. Finally!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 08, 2017, 04:12:36 PM
There is a council clean-up scheduled for my building tomorrow. Finally!

Ours is normally October but I'm waiting, waiting... We've got a couch and a bunch of downpipes to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Ascotillion on October 08, 2017, 04:20:41 PM
Must be tough to find items worth keeping between all the mess.
My partner and his sisters don't want any of their dad's stuff, but their mum is insistent that our generation throws too much stuff away and all of this stuff is still good. She also says that she needs to buy an extra storage unit because her house is already full of old furniture. Can't make this stuff up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on October 09, 2017, 07:07:32 AM
Must be tough to find items worth keeping between all the mess.
My partner and his sisters don't want any of their dad's stuff, but their mum is insistent that our generation throws too much stuff away and all of this stuff is still good. She also says that she needs to buy an extra storage unit because her house is already full of old furniture. Can't make this stuff up.

Sounds very familiar. And if they run out of arguments, they can always say: 'you know how happy we were to have x when the war happened?'. First of all, the war was 70 years ago. Warfare is different now. Secondly, they were lucky to have been able to stay in their house, many people had to flee or had their houses destroyed by bombs. Thirdly: if a war happens, you're not going to need Wedgwood porcelain or fake Queen Anne style furniture. What you are going to want is money, so you can leave the country before it happens. You know what the rich people in our town did right before WWII? They left en masse to the US, where they were more than welcome, found a place to live, put their kids in school and put their skills to good use supporting the war effort. They only took their money, stocks and bonds. They knew everything else was replaceable.

It is a fact that the younger generations throw away a lot of stuff that belonged to the older generations, but it's wrong to guilt trip the kids into keeping it all. After all, the parents were the ones who bought too much stuff and held on to other people's crap too. That overconsumption was a waste, but you can't undo that waste by hanging on to the products. It's much better to take it to the dump so it can be recycled into useful stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 09, 2017, 07:12:00 AM
Haven't made any progress this weekend but next weekend Daughter will be home so I'm planning to set aside stuff that she may want.  If she doesn't, out it goes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Imma on October 09, 2017, 08:35:43 AM
I have just decided that the boots I wore to work need to go. I've had them for 10 years, they are super comfortable and matched with both jeans and dresses, but they are now beyond repair. There's a big rip in the leather on the side of the foot where it's supposed to be attached to the sole. The heels are damaged and so is the leather on the nose. I've also condemned an old shirt and pair of shorts that belong to my partner. He lost weight a couple of years ago and he's not going to get that heavy again. They are now so big he can't wear them anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on October 09, 2017, 01:15:56 PM
Well, we just started Operation Glistening Wood. In short, we reclaimed a bunch of oak flooring for free, and are going to redo our house. Since our house isn't that big, some tetris is going to be played. I'm hoping to use this as a motivation to declutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 09, 2017, 09:44:06 PM
Council clean-up stuff went out this morning.

A friend just messaged me offering me some work clothes (corporate stuff) which she no longer needs. I asked what I can trade her, and suggested a few things, which she jumped at.

Even if the clothes don't work out, it will be easier for me to donate her things than mine.

(And we always exchange like this with no strings attached.)

I owe 90 per cent of my running gear to this friend (all new when she gave it to me). Happy days!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 09, 2017, 10:16:29 PM
Tiny things

Decanted the last of a roller ball perfume into a teeny tiny sample bottle. Easier to use. Tossed the original.

consolidated and tossed a couple spice jars and medicine bottles. (I think I do this every time I post.  Why am I never done?)

Tossed random packaging.

Took a grocery bag of clothing items to goodwill. Tossed some worn items.

Got out my safety razor and tossed the last disposable.

Down to my last tub of lotion. Last body wash. Last soap. stretching these out for three weeks before international move. Will be so satisfying to just toss them! 



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 10, 2017, 07:41:14 AM
Garage is now sorted into piles:  e-waste, recycling, building materials for re-store, donations to BFM, list on kijiji, hand me down clothes for neighbours to go through, bottle returns, toxic disposal.  This took two of us six hours. 

Basement is looking so good. - the workout equipment is migrating from various locations in the house and garage to be arranged in a man-cave for hubs and son
Building materials that will come in handy are stored the loft over the garage door in a logical manner.  Hubs found some scraps of baseboard that will fit the small pieces needed in man-cave
Sauna is completely empty - ready for friend to hook it up to the panel and for hubs to finished rebuilding the benches.
Utility room lost three boxes to recycling pile in the garage. Won't say how many more to go.....
Wheelie bins are completely full.  Piles ready to fill neighbour's bins with permission of course - would cost to take to the dump.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on October 10, 2017, 08:24:52 AM
My sister in law flew into town last week.  While lakeside, having a picnic, her and my wife get to talking about the old Barbie dolls they had and some other doll (can't remember the name) and how they're worth so much.  Neither of them have sold a thing in their life while I've literally sold thousands of things between eBay, craigslist and specific forums for things.  I said that none of these dolls are worth anything if they're not willing to actually take action and go out and sell them. 

Meanwhile, the house is slowly but surely being decluttered under my wife's nose.  My college son has 7 week terms and is home for a week between terms.  Lately, he's used his "Mr Research" to find values on his old toys, cards, legos to see what he has and what can sell to help both declutter and bring in some cash.  He's been very successful and under the premise of looking for legos/magic cards/yu-gi-oh! cards which are indeed selling for good money, I covertly fill paper shopping bags in two categories.  #1 is burnables.  If it's paper or wood, it goes in there.  We heat with a wood furnace in the winter, so I'm currently filling that up with a light-off on cool weekend days.  The other bag is plastic toys.  Our town has huge recycling bins that are collected curbside every 2 weeks so I'm able to dump quite a bit into this.  I'm getting rid of on the order of probably 25 gallons of plastic every other week.  Even at that, it's not even noticed.  If the amount of junk starts becoming noticeably light, I've got plastic bins in the basement full of more of these toys and will bring them upstairs to keep the junk level fairly constant.  We had years of in-laws who made visits several times a week and would never think of coming in the door without some junk Wal*Mart plastic shit that would last almost until the end of their visit.  The wife will throw away nothing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 10, 2017, 12:14:10 PM
Cleared out a few boxes - stuff donated and boxes ready for recycling.

Next on list: baby bottles. Will keep some Dr Browns and give away the rest.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 10, 2017, 05:06:08 PM
The sole of my favorite fall dress shoes split the whole way across, during the middle of a rain storm in the middle of my work day. Sad, but easy to toss.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadesofgreen on October 11, 2017, 11:04:32 AM
I gifted a co-worker 2 bottles of scented laundry soap along with some liquid fabric softener. So happy that I know they will use the stuff up and I don't have to deal with heavy scented detergent.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 11, 2017, 11:21:37 AM
Six boxes of magazines are gone. Why do I keep these things?  They were so damned dusty!
Two pairs of heels that are done - one was 19 years old and disintegrated as I tried to put it on.  The other was always too small.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on October 11, 2017, 03:55:43 PM
Quote
one was 19 years old and disintegrated as I tried to put it on. 

This happened to me at a wedding. I thought the ground was unusually lumpy, and then I noticed chunks of foam rubber on the grass where I'd been walking. Good thing it was a casual wedding.
It happened again just last month--fortunately, before the wedding this time. I guess I *really* don't need white pumps.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 11, 2017, 07:12:22 PM
Returned two small decor pieces I'd borrowed for an event.

Gave away some window plastic and bug spray. I just picked a random friend who owns a large older house and sure enough, he was delighted "I just said last week I need to buy some!"  Satisfying.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 11, 2017, 07:32:04 PM
A few days of rain, followed by a few days of not feeling 100 per cent, followed by a few days away has resulted in washing overload at my place. I've done four loads in three days, with another in the machine to run tonight.

Last night I did all the folding, which still left about one and a half baskets of ironing.

You would think that with so many clothes not in the wardrobe - because they are in the washing machine, on the line, or waiting impatiently in the ironing basket - the wardrobe would be empty.

But, to my eternal frustration, it's not.

My husband has lost some weight and is working to lose more, so I'm in a holding pattern with his wardrobe, which is fine.

But he also has a heap of jackets from special events (swag through work) that he won't part with.

Forgive me for venting. I'm at work, when I would rather be home putting my house back to rights.

In other news, we just found out my team is moving offices within our building, so a work declutter is on the horizon.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on October 13, 2017, 03:50:26 AM
Took a large antique blanket box to auction yesterday.  I love having the space much more than the storage.

Although I now have a pile of jigsaw puzzles to complete and donate.  (It was the family tradition to do a big jigsaw together over Christmas.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 13, 2017, 09:57:27 PM
Vent: I've been doing good at decluttering but got into the rabbit hole of selling some of the stuff. I have a lot of people interested but no concrete buyers yet. Not to mention the scammers that want you to ship stuff to them. Everytime I sell I go through this pain and apparently I forget :( hope it sears in memory this time and I don't sell anything more unless it's like for 100% profit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frankies Girl on October 14, 2017, 12:00:00 AM
I currently am having a bit of a panic attack about taking roughly 9 large boxes of various items (decor/clothes/toys) to the thrift shop tomorrow. Lots of like new "valuable" stuff that we could technically try to sell, but the idea of dealing with selling said items just makes me want to hop on the NOPEtopus to NOtown.

And some things were from my childhood/family, so there are stupid FEELINGS attached to them. But they are junk or things I absolutely can't use or even want out in my house!

Will sleep on it and possibly just wait a bit longer, as usually I will end up staring at the boxes/piles and finally get sick to death of looking at it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on October 14, 2017, 12:12:58 AM
Vent: I've been doing good at decluttering but got into the rabbit hole of selling some of the stuff. I have a lot of people interested but no concrete buyers yet. Not to mention the scammers that want you to ship stuff to them. Everytime I sell I go through this pain and apparently I forget :( hope it sears in memory this time and I don't sell anything more unless it's like for 100% profit.

In my experience it differs. Some items only generate messages and scam offers. But we have also sold things quickly for a good price, like three bicycles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 14, 2017, 04:06:43 AM
I have a pile of things in my courtyard that have been collecting in my shed. We have a verge pickup (council sends people around to take our stuff to the tip). Bye bye, stuff!

Gotta take some other things to the charity donation bins and work out how to get rid of our mostly full box of disposable nappies that don't fit this week. And work out how best to store outgrowth baby things for the next kiddo in 2-3 years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on October 14, 2017, 02:17:19 PM
I currently am having a bit of a panic attack about taking roughly 9 large boxes of various items (decor/clothes/toys) to the thrift shop tomorrow. Lots of like new "valuable" stuff that we could technically try to sell, but the idea of dealing with selling said items just makes me want to hop on the NOPEtopus to NOtown.

And some things were from my childhood/family, so there are stupid FEELINGS attached to them. But they are junk or things I absolutely can't use or even want out in my house!

Will sleep on it and possibly just wait a bit longer, as usually I will end up staring at the boxes/piles and finally get sick to death of looking at it.

Well if I can do it so can you!several years ago I sold my baby dolls. I had hauled them feom state to state for 30 years. I loved them but felt it was time to let them go. One went to live in
Japan via ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 14, 2017, 04:13:09 PM
We have a verge pickup (council sends people around to take our stuff to the tip).

We had ours last week. Put everything out, cheering.

Yesterday I was in the laundry and spotted the blind rack from our previous apartment. Kicking myself for forgetting to put it out.

I'd been waiting a year for council clean-up!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Meesh on October 14, 2017, 05:17:05 PM
Donated about 7-8 garbage bags of stuff today and it felt so good. Came back with my huge tv that hasn't been hooked up in 5 years. They wouldn't take electronics apparently.

It's also alarming to me that I had 7-8 bags to donate and still feel like I have way too much stuff. Must. get rid of. crap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 14, 2017, 08:11:52 PM
We have a verge pickup (council sends people around to take our stuff to the tip).

We had ours last week. Put everything out, cheering.

Yesterday I was in the laundry and spotted the blind rack from our previous apartment. Kicking myself for forgetting to put it out.

I'd been waiting a year for council clean-up!

You need to find a friend in the next clean up suburb on the list who will take it....

Ours is next weekend but I believe I may live further than is appropriate to bin your thing. Can it not squish in the general bin? If it's metal and you pop it on the verge for a day it may be gone by the time you get home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 14, 2017, 08:34:38 PM
huge success today. 
One huge van load of stuff donated to bibles for missions.  I don't mind using them because they have folks working there who couldn't get work any where else.
Three shelves put out on the sidewalk and they were gone before we got back from the donation drop off.
Next was scrap metal - the tool library was collecting scrap at a church downtown so it was on the way to my son's friends. 
Then hubs loaded the stuff for the sorting yard.  Shredded paper - two huge bags, three bags of plastic film, random cardboard that didn't fit in our already full bin, e-waste, toxic waste, old medications.
The garage has room for a car now.
One more parking space to clear out still but huge progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 14, 2017, 08:40:46 PM
huge success today. 
One huge van load of stuff donated to bibles for missions.  I don't mind using them because they have folks working there who couldn't get work any where else.
Three shelves put out on the sidewalk and they were gone before we got back from the donation drop off.
Next was scrap metal - the tool library was collecting scrap at a church downtown so it was on the way to my son's friends. 
Then hubs loaded the stuff for the sorting yard.  Shredded paper - two huge bags, three bags of plastic film, random cardboard that didn't fit in our already full bin, e-waste, toxic waste, old medications.
The garage has room for a car now.
One more parking space to clear out still but huge progress.

Being able to park your car in the garage is massive, congrats!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on October 14, 2017, 08:47:56 PM
Finally got the old light fixture out of my house. I'd replaced it, and it's been sitting around for a month waiting for me to take it to Habitat for Humanity. Someone else will like it. Not me!

Also dropped off some stuff to the hazardous waste collection event today. Most of that stuff went earlier this summer, but I'm happy to get rid of the small bag too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on October 14, 2017, 11:34:18 PM
Finally got the old light fixture out of my house. I'd replaced it, and it's been sitting around for a month waiting for me to take it to Habitat for Humanity. Someone else will like it. Not me!

Also dropped off some stuff to the hazardous waste collection event today. Most of that stuff went earlier this summer, but I'm happy to get rid of the small bag too.

As one who regularly volunteers there, WE DO!!

Obligatory video when I say "WE DO" (https://youtu.be/AYHUEjHME20)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 14, 2017, 11:52:18 PM
We have a verge pickup (council sends people around to take our stuff to the tip).

We had ours last week. Put everything out, cheering.

Yesterday I was in the laundry and spotted the blind rack from our previous apartment. Kicking myself for forgetting to put it out.

I'd been waiting a year for council clean-up!

You need to find a friend in the next clean up suburb on the list who will take it....

Ours is next weekend but I believe I may live further than is appropriate to bin your thing. Can it not squish in the general bin? If it's metal and you pop it on the verge for a day it may be gone by the time you get home.

Thanks Freshwater, I'll take it home to my parents and let my dad dispose of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 15, 2017, 02:31:22 AM
We went to 2 donation bins today to find one that wasn't stuffed full. We are SO glad to have that stuff gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on October 15, 2017, 06:18:58 AM
Today I wanted to find out in which year DH and I went to live together. (Needed the information for something.)
I took out the fully stuffed drawer where our living-together contract should have been. But I think I ditched the contract after we got married. I did find the bill, so I know the date.
In the drawer I found lots of things that are just memories. Like school reports from elementary school. And diploma's from dancing championships. And a certificate that I weighed enough to not be a witch. Combined with relevant diplomas from higher education.
I guess when we'll downsize at FIRE this is one of of the personal stuff that we need to remove, just to get less stuff in total and make it easier to move between (rental) houses in the first period. Yes, I understand folks emotions about throwing away childhood memories. I am really not there yet to be rigorous about it. Maybe I should start photographing some of it to store it electronically. Then it can be thrown away later. I'll put the photografing on my todo list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on October 16, 2017, 05:25:39 AM
Today I wanted to find out in which year DH and I went to live together. (Needed the information for something.)
I took out the fully stuffed drawer where our living-together contract should have been. But I think I ditched the contract after we got married. I did find the bill, so I know the date.
In the drawer I found lots of things that are just memories. Like school reports from elementary school. And diploma's from dancing championships. And a certificate that I weighed enough to not be a which. Combined with relevant diplomas from higher education.
I guess when we'll downsize at FIRE this is one of of the personal stuff that we need to remove, just to get less stuff in total and make it easier to move between (rental) houses in the first period. Yes, I understand folks emotions about throwing away childhood memories. I am really not there yet to be rigorous about it. Maybe I should start photographing some of it to store it electronically. Then it can be thrown away later. I'll put the photografing on my todo list.

I am planning to do this as well. I bought an external hard drive to store the pictures on, but haven't started doing it yet. I'm also planning to store family photos on it, so when I downsize I can get rid of the paper copies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on October 16, 2017, 10:38:27 AM
I'm reading Marie Kondo's book on tidying and although it sounds hokey, am loving the approach of thanking things and releasing them. If I keep it up much longer, I may only have the dog and my bed left in the house soon :)

I just finished the book this weekend.  It's a lovely new perspective, and it is working for practical me.

I started with my dresser this weekend - dumped everything out on the bed and touched each item.  She was right - my reactions to each piece were really different.  I now have about 1/2 of what I started with, and it is folded nicely so I can actually find a pair of socks.  (I found 5 pairs of stockings still in the packaging that I must have bought 5 years ago.  I kept buying because I couldn't find anything.)

I also did a second pass through my closet, and I've already got some items in mind for a third pass.  In total, 2 large bags to Goodwill, 1 large bag to cloth recycling.   

We are recycling a tv whose screen is just about dead, and we decided to sell the treadmill, and, if I really decide I need one, I can find a newer, smaller model on sale later. 

Hubby and I decided the bedroom "feels" different now - we were both calmer now that we've gotten so much stuff out of it. 

While we watched tv last night, I thanked and released 40% of my cd collection.

Husband worriedly asked if he's going to be on the list of things to thank and release.  I told him he brings joy, so he gets to stay.  The kids, well.....   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on October 17, 2017, 07:24:18 AM
Any ideas how/where to get rid of perfume, scented lotions, bath salts, and mostly full Scentsy packs?  I cleared out the "things that smell good" category last night and I have a lot of stuff that needs to go away.  Most is unopened; some has been opened and tried once or twice before I realized I didn't like it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaypinkHH on October 17, 2017, 07:50:33 AM
@FDM, have you tried a freecycle/facebook buy and sell group?

Mr.HH has staged our house to move, and now that I see it all empty and cleaned out, it makes me so happy, but also sad, because we don't get to enjoy it in it's clutter free state. Have to remember this when we unpacking...I still feel like we have too much stuff, and want to sort through it even more.

Not sure how much stuff we got rid of in the end, but we definitely moved out with significantly less stuff than what we moved in. We only will be using 2 U-haul Pods (which is the recommended for a 1 bdrm apartment), we technically have a 3 bedroom small house, so it makes me happy that we have way less stuff than the average mover.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on October 20, 2017, 09:25:16 AM
Slowly but surely.  College son is home and has made a HUGE dent in the Legos, selling off some more valuable ones, then putting together a 10 pound random piece box and shipping them all out.  Meanwhile, I've been digging through an attic storage area, bringing more legos, burnable crap and Brio stuff out.  Found the one thing I have been searching for....a brio train roundhouse.  Granted, it's not worth much, but this was the one big thing I knew we still had.  Brio stuff now up on craigslist.  Have removed (and burned) a bunch of empty boxes that were in storage.  Why are we storing empty boxes?  Continued baby plastic toys and pieces into the recycling bin (youngest son is 17.....we need baby stuff why?).  Also saving yu-gi-oh! cards and Magic the Gathering cards as college son has found buyers.  Son greeted me when I got home yesterday and said that our upstairs room (where the mess resides) is starting to look like space has opened.  This is good and bad.  If my wife notices, she'll probably go ape shit.  My plan now includes getting a bin of similar crap from the basement, dumping it upstairs and then bringing the container to the recycling center to hide the evidence.  She won't notice basement reduction in crap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on October 20, 2017, 09:37:08 AM
For the unopened lotions and salts - have you tried your local woman's shelter? The women and families there often have to leave on short notice with nothing, and certainly need a bit more joy in their lives as they rebuild.

Also, it is nice for them to get a small care package when they move out to their new homes.

For opened things and perfume, I second Freecycle.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on October 20, 2017, 09:49:21 AM
Slowly but surely.  College son is home and has made a HUGE dent in the Legos, selling off some more valuable ones, then putting together a 10 pound random piece box and shipping them all out.  Meanwhile, I've been digging through an attic storage area, bringing more legos, burnable crap and Brio stuff out.  Found the one thing I have been searching for....a brio train roundhouse.  Granted, it's not worth much, but this was the one big thing I knew we still had.  Brio stuff now up on craigslist.  Have removed (and burned) a bunch of empty boxes that were in storage.  Why are we storing empty boxes?  Continued baby plastic toys and pieces into the recycling bin (youngest son is 17.....we need baby stuff why?).  Also saving yu-gi-oh! cards and Magic the Gathering cards as college son has found buyers.  Son greeted me when I got home yesterday and said that our upstairs room (where the mess resides) is starting to look like space has opened.  This is good and bad.  If my wife notices, she'll probably go ape shit.  My plan now includes getting a bin of similar crap from the basement, dumping it upstairs and then bringing the container to the recycling center to hide the evidence.  She won't notice basement reduction in crap.

Carjack,  this seems like it could have huge negative impact on your wife's and mental health and your family relationships.  Are you exploring professional help or ways to help her deal with whatever is holding her back and making it so difficult for her to let go of this? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 20, 2017, 12:16:02 PM
Carjack, I second getting your wife involved sooner than later. It'll keep the trust factor in the relationship intact. I know many people who would freak out if their spouse had been removing stuff from home under their nose without their knowledge..... even if that stuff is pure crap. You know your wife better but if she has so much attachment to this stuff as you say, it's better to get her onboard.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on October 20, 2017, 01:36:42 PM
The problem with people that will throw away nothing is that usually therapy is unsuccessful and so is talking to the person. It is a deep seated behavior usually from childhood trauma, not having enough, not feeling good enough, etc.  Yes she may be mad if she finds out but she may never find out.   The person that would like a decent home has some rights too and 9 times out of 10 talking to the hoarder is not going to work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on October 20, 2017, 04:19:47 PM
The problem with people that will throw away nothing is that usually therapy is unsuccessful and so is talking to the person. It is a deep seated behavior usually from childhood trauma, not having enough, not feeling good enough, etc.  Yes she may be mad if she finds out but she may never find out.   The person that would like a decent home has some rights too and 9 times out of 10 talking to the hoarder is not going to work.
I'm not sure, even if you're correct about the statistics, that just because it's likely not to work that he shouldn't try at all? That seems rather defeatist and guaranteed to have a bad outcome, instead of maybe him trying for a good outcome?
Title: Tackled the garage!
Post by: Mel70 on October 20, 2017, 04:59:47 PM
Yes, the garage can fit two vehicles now. Gave away books, clothing, furniture, backpacks, and paint. As others have mentioned, I still feel like there is so much more I want to get rid of. One step at the time!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on October 20, 2017, 05:18:32 PM
My guess is that he has tried many times through out the years and nothing has worked.   But I agreed if he never tried that he should have.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 20, 2017, 10:24:24 PM
Did a Goodwill run and put together stuff for sales. If they don't sell in a week or two, they'll be donated too. At this point, I'm done with the first pass through home and now have a few areas I need to concentrate on. I can't believe how much we've given away, trashed and sold. Still they keep coming! But we are atleast down to just a few areas needing attention now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: JoJoP on October 21, 2017, 09:49:01 PM
There's a theme here - I also decluttered my bookshelves this weekend.

I had a few cookbooks where there was one recipe I loved, but I knew I probably wasn't going to make anything else out of it. I photographed the recipe on my phone, printed it out and put it in my recipe binder. Books can now be donated.

I showed my husband what I was keeping, including a book I thought he would never get rid of. (I do not touch his stuff, as I find I can make a huge difference just doing my own, and I don't want to be a nag). Anyway, he saw that book, and said, "oh, you can get rid of that". That would not have happened 18 months ago.

He is really coming round. Since I removed one of our two bookcases he keeps saying, "Oh there is so much space! Doesn't it look great? Oh it's so lovely having so much less stuff". I really think I may be winning the war without fighting a single battle :)

You're an inspiration! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on October 22, 2017, 04:06:48 AM
There's a theme here - I also decluttered my bookshelves this weekend.

I had a few cookbooks where there was one recipe I loved, but I knew I probably wasn't going to make anything else out of it. I photographed the recipe on my phone, printed it out and put it in my recipe binder. Books can now be donated.

I showed my husband what I was keeping, including a book I thought he would never get rid of. (I do not touch his stuff, as I find I can make a huge difference just doing my own, and I don't want to be a nag). Anyway, he saw that book, and said, "oh, you can get rid of that". That would not have happened 18 months ago.

He is really coming round. Since I removed one of our two bookcases he keeps saying, "Oh there is so much space! Doesn't it look great? Oh it's so lovely having so much less stuff". I really think I may be winning the war without fighting a single battle :)

You're an inspiration!

This reminds me of me having too many cookbooks. They still fit onto two shelves of an Ikea Billy book shelf. But there are books that I literally never look into, or do look into, but always put away without inspiration. Time do clean up and throw away those that don't add anything new to alternatives on the internet. Those that I might keep are the ones with general instructions and the ones with inspirational recipies and pictures. And the ones that are most often used.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on October 22, 2017, 07:41:14 PM
Pulled out the winter clothes and put away the summer ones last night. Per my usual habit, I evaluated items that could go away. Have a bag of clothes ready for donation. Also gathered the handful of other items that I wanted to dispose of.

There's a box of books that I've been shipping out for my sister (she's selling online). Logistics are fun, thus why I have them instead of her. The remainder will be donated by the end of the year, until then they're out of the way. And once the current ebay listings expire, I'll add the unsold pictures I got from mom's house to the donation pile.

Also, the garage is done for the year! It's been a project all summer, scraping, painting, replacing bad wood, etc. Some parts were left for next year, but everything for this year is done. I spent a little bit of time cleaning out the garage. Filled a bucket with the dirt from the floor, organized some things. I'll have to do some more rearranging and cleaning so I can get the car in this winter, but it's sooooo much better already.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on October 23, 2017, 07:38:32 AM
Packed two boxes with decor items (a large vase, several candleholders) and entertainment items (charger plates, fancy glasses) to bring to consignment - if they don't want them, they will go to Goodwill.  Also prepped a box of random kitchen and household stuff for donation.
 Reduced two drawers of random papers, office supplies, holiday cards, etc. to one.  Things ended up in a shred pile, the donation pile or went back to the office at work.  A couple of weeks ago, I went through a pile of recipe printouts and clippings and got rid of pretty much everything.  I'm left with just a few favorites that I filed in a recipe book. 

Things I want to tackle this week:
- repost items previously posted on CL that haven't sold
- prepare listings for a few additional items I want to sell
- go through some bins in the basement and prepare items for donation
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on October 23, 2017, 07:48:01 AM
Contributed 2 bags of clothing to qualify for an upcoming clothing swap.

Finished a container of bubble bath.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 23, 2017, 08:11:26 AM
Two furniture items posted on kijiji.
One car fits in the garage and I can see how ten items re-homed would permit a second car in the garage as well.  We are so close!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on October 23, 2017, 05:20:09 PM
You go Frugal Lizard - success is within your grasp:)

Finally finished clearing out the utility room and sorted out the trash area. It feels so good to have a clear space again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 23, 2017, 09:28:17 PM
Two furniture items posted on kijiji.
One car fits in the garage and I can see how ten items re-homed would permit a second car in the garage as well.  We are so close!

That will be an awesome milestone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on October 30, 2017, 01:40:52 PM
Apparently Freecycle/etc are not a thing in the suburb where I live.  I found one FB group with minimal involvement and managed to get rid of all of my perfume (the woman who took them was so grateful - she lost everything during the Harvey floods).

The unopened other things I've put in a bag to bring to the woman's shelter to see if they'll take it.   The rest of the opened things are now sitting in a box near my front door to entice visitors (my ex actually took a bottle of extra-special "swimsuit detergent" that I must have been feverish when I purchased).

We've turned our den into a staging place for Craigslist ads; in addition to stuff we don't want, my kids are piling up toys that they want to sell.  We promised to give them any money their stuff brings in.  Within two hours of that pronouncement, it looked like Toys R Us threw up in the den - and they still aren't done!

We sent 4 bags of non-donation-quality cloth (stained tablecloths, old towels, used socks, etc) to the recycle place.

I got rid of 1/3 of my jewelry.  My daughters took some of the earrings and necklaces I'd had for decades, and the rest can go to the donation center.  I can actually see all of what is left.  No more digging around trying to find something and/or forgetting I owned it.

I am a book hoarder by any definition.  Although H and I went through the bookshelves this summer and gave away more than 100, I did a second pass this weekend.  I have another 67 books to bring to Half-Priced Books, plus 22 I want to read once more and then get rid of.    This is a relatively small portion of my books, but STILL, I'm so proud of me!  Every pass, it gets easier to get rid of stuff (goodbye, Jane Austen "sequels" that my well-intentioned family thought I might one day read).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on October 30, 2017, 02:31:26 PM
My DH decluttered the study which he uses for his various projects. He selected a computer screen, two computer mice, a keyboard and a bunch of data cables to be thrown away. I added a stove that the previous owner of our house used to cooking tar, pluss some other electrical stuff that has been waiting in a drawer to be driven away. I drove it all to the local garbage place, as we are not supposed to throw away electral stuff in our bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: honeybbq on October 30, 2017, 03:57:37 PM
I need to be in this thread more and decluttering more. I did a little this weekend:

This weekend I found some perfume and perfume samples in my bathroom. I never wear perfume. I gave them away on our FB buy nothing page and they were gone in an hour.

I threw away a bunch of old makeup and filled another bag with 'make up to throw away the next time I decide I don't care about makeup but can't bear to throw away today'.

Maybe this has been asked and answered: Do you guys scan all your old photograph prints? I have all these old photo albums I have pulled the photos out of. But I think I'd like to scan them and make them digital but that seems so overwhelming and time consuming compared to just throwing them in a box. Any ideas?

Another item stumped me. It's a music box from when I was a kid. It seems to no longer work. It was bought in Switzerland (I was born in Europe) so it's a nice antique. I was thinking I would give it to my daughter when I found it wouldn't work. Can these be repaired? Or should I toss it? Anyone know?

Also, any suggestions for people who have plenty of space to store this junk but still want to get rid of it? This is the hard part for me. My junk 'fits' in my closet. But my closet is HUGE. Or kitchen stuff, etc. How can I motivate myself when I can hide everything behind doors and it's still neat?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on October 30, 2017, 04:32:59 PM
I need to be in this thread more and decluttering more. I did a little this weekend:

This weekend I found some perfume and perfume samples in my bathroom. I never wear perfume. I gave them away on our FB buy nothing page and they were gone in an hour.

I threw away a bunch of old makeup and filled another bag with 'make up to throw away the next time I decide I don't care about makeup but can't bear to throw away today'.

Maybe this has been asked and answered: Do you guys scan all your old photograph prints? I have all these old photo albums I have pulled the photos out of. But I think I'd like to scan them and make them digital but that seems so overwhelming and time consuming compared to just throwing them in a box. Any ideas?

Another item stumped me. It's a music box from when I was a kid. It seems to no longer work. It was bought in Switzerland (I was born in Europe) so it's a nice antique. I was thinking I would give it to my daughter when I found it wouldn't work. Can these be repaired? Or should I toss it? Anyone know?

Also, any suggestions for people who have plenty of space to store this junk but still want to get rid of it? This is the hard part for me. My junk 'fits' in my closet. But my closet is HUGE. Or kitchen stuff, etc. How can I motivate myself when I can hide everything behind doors and it's still neat?

About the photos, it would be time consuming. If you want to get rid of the physical photos but don't have the time, there are probably services out there. Or if they are family pics, maybe there's a teenager in the family who you might pay to do it?

The music box, I have no idea myself but here we have a couple of volunteer staffed places where they try and fix things (to keep them from landfill). Do you have anything like that?

With the cupboards - if you know it is really junk, leave the doors open the whole time and you might feel motivated to deal with it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on October 30, 2017, 04:41:47 PM
honeybbq

For photos, I just keep them in the box.  It is so easy, easy is very good! and every 5-7 years, I pull them out and look through them.  I prefer the printed versions to online because I never look at photos more than 7 years old online.  And it is so much easier.  They are all stored in a 1/2 trunk, so together and out of the way.

Music box -- I have one from Germany, too, from when I was about 13 and bought with my own money on a trip.  Kids broke it about 10 years ago, but I keep it because it brings me good memories, even broken.  DD wouldn't want it the same way, she liked it when she was small and while it worked.  I would get rid of it if YOU don't want to keep it... But yes, these can be fixed, as simple as buying a new music mechanism on-line and replacing the old one.

I have a ton of space...  It is hard to get rid of stuff, but easier in some ways, too.  I ask myself "Have I touched this in the past 4 years?".  If the answer is no, it is an easy item to purge.   I can wait until I "feel like it" to go through things.   I can only do this easy purge because I have 4 years of stuff and so much room.   Sometimes I keep good things that I don't use... but then after 2 years, I can bring myself to chuck it.   (I am looking at you, inflatable mattress! Your day has come!). 

Off to my camping storage...   That is a hard one for me because I love so much of it and have used it, but when is it truly worn out enough to not want to use it again.. or could I use it a few more times if I patch, but should I get rid of it because I have a different item that overlaps the same role, but maybe it is not quite as good in HEAVY rain after all, and just in case??  Also, I randomly need to outfit more people than I ever thought (kids + friends for a backpack trip?! )  I can spend a lot on camping each year prepping to fill holes in my "needs", so when I have lots of used stuff to choose from, i don't spend nearly as much, and I know this, so I store a lot more than I need to.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on October 30, 2017, 04:55:10 PM
I cleaned out the pantry on the weekends and parted with some empty spice jars (I have more than enough to keep reusing).

After looking for the right size box to organise a few things in the bathroom (our vanity is one big drawer), I finally came to my senses and started using a spare toiletry bag. Saved money and put something to use, win win.

Threw out four very faded cushion covers (after saving the cute buttons) that had been outside, plus one of the cushions that was getting past it.

Tossed out five magazines and my 2007 diary (as in, planner diary, not journal diary).

That leaves 2008-2016. I have no concrete reason to keep them, except for a tiny voice that says I might need to check the dates of something. At the very least I could toss up to 2012 and keep the past five years for tax reasons.

For all my decluttering, stuff seems to be piling up twice as fast:
- FiL stayed on the weekend and left a pair of hiking boots because he couldn't fit them in his luggage to go home
- bottle refund scheme starts in December so I'm saving bottles in the laundry
- a friend gave me a bag of baby clothes for another friend
- I have a birthday present for one friend, and a growing stash of presents put away for Christmas
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on October 30, 2017, 05:31:16 PM
Honey BBQ, I followed the konmari method and ask myself if an item brings joy. If your music table does, maybe repair and keep it. If not, since it's an antique, museums might be interested.

Also, my goal is to have less stuff to deal with, period. When I move I want to have an easy and light move. I also now feel sad for things that are not used regularly. That spurs me to let go of more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 30, 2017, 05:37:58 PM
One item sold.  Interest in the second item. 
Toys are going to my brother's kids on Sunday. 
Have to drop off the table to a friend once the toys are gone.  So so close....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on October 30, 2017, 08:48:06 PM
Camping items in garage now sorted and put away.  Two large bins worth for sale or donation.   Still have inside camping items (sleeping bags) to go through.  Moved the utility trailer back into garage, and tomorrow will get the car in there, too.

I have a severe problem with loving bags and backpacks of all types.   Can't seem to toss those.  Other than that, I think I was pretty straight forward.  It helps that I did this 2 years ago, and tossed a lot of pure crap then. 

Next problem -- should I actually have a mini craigs-list one day sale with all of the stuff? (Each room cleared adds another bin's worth to the pile.. the pile is growing).  Some items are worthy of selling individually on craig's list, and many others would get taken away for free. Hmmmmm....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on October 31, 2017, 02:47:56 AM
Camping items in garage now sorted and put away.  Two large bins worth for sale or donation.   Still have inside camping items (sleeping bags) to go through.  Moved the utility trailer back into garage, and tomorrow will get the car in there, too.

I have a severe problem with loving bags and backpacks of all types.   Can't seem to toss those.  Other than that, I think I was pretty straight forward.  It helps that I did this 2 years ago, and tossed a lot of pure crap then. 

Next problem -- should I actually have a mini craigs-list one day sale with all of the stuff? (Each room cleared adds another bin's worth to the pile.. the pile is growing).  Some items are worthy of selling individually on craig's list, and many others would get taken away for free. Hmmmmm....

Wow, well done, congratulations on your progress! I can understand that having a large 'Get Rid Of' pile is a new challenge. First challenge is going through everything and deciding whether you want to keep it or not, but then... do you sell, donate or throw away? Such a hassle! In my experience, some thing I thought would definitely sell haven't sold and things I was planning to donate got sold quickly. It's a strange market... What I've done with a similar heap: post *everything* online with the price you'd like to get. Ten days later, reduce the price of all items that are left (I mostly cut the price in half). Ten days after that, reduce to 'free pickup'. Ten days after that: donate whatever's left. At that point I'd rather have my space and time back.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on October 31, 2017, 06:57:52 AM
Camping items in garage now sorted and put away.  Two large bins worth for sale or donation.   Still have inside camping items (sleeping bags) to go through.  Moved the utility trailer back into garage, and tomorrow will get the car in there, too.

I have a severe problem with loving bags and backpacks of all types.   Can't seem to toss those.  Other than that, I think I was pretty straight forward.  It helps that I did this 2 years ago, and tossed a lot of pure crap then. 

Next problem -- should I actually have a mini craigs-list one day sale with all of the stuff? (Each room cleared adds another bin's worth to the pile.. the pile is growing).  Some items are worthy of selling individually on craig's list, and many others would get taken away for free. Hmmmmm....

Wow, well done, congratulations on your progress! I can understand that having a large 'Get Rid Of' pile is a new challenge. First challenge is going through everything and deciding whether you want to keep it or not, but then... do you sell, donate or throw away? Such a hassle! In my experience, some thing I thought would definitely sell haven't sold and things I was planning to donate got sold quickly. It's a strange market... What I've done with a similar heap: post *everything* online with the price you'd like to get. Ten days later, reduce the price of all items that are left (I mostly cut the price in half). Ten days after that, reduce to 'free pickup'. Ten days after that: donate whatever's left. At that point I'd rather have my space and time back.
I like the methodology.  Wish I had done it that way.

Maybe for the next round.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on October 31, 2017, 07:21:50 AM
This thread is so motivating for me!  Well done, everyone.  I've been following but haven't posted in a while.

Preparing for move after the holidays. 
Yesterday I listed a couple of lamps, a printer, and a cabinet on the FB Marketplace.  Sold the cabinet in a matter of minutes!

 I also rounded up some books that don't belong to me and I'm going to return those to their rightful owners this weekend. 

I further culled  my already small DVD collection (if I haven't watched it in five+ years, I'm not going to watch it again)

I ordered a bag from ThredUp to mail in some of my nicer clothes I need to get rid of (bridesmaid dresses and the like). 

I'm also planning to start the Project 333 for the month of November.  Only wear 33 items for three months (only I am only going to do it until I move so it's more like two months).  I'm going to pull out my 33 items to wear and pack up the rest. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: honeybbq on October 31, 2017, 10:19:37 AM
I need to be in this thread more and decluttering more. I did a little this weekend:

This weekend I found some perfume and perfume samples in my bathroom. I never wear perfume. I gave them away on our FB buy nothing page and they were gone in an hour.

I threw away a bunch of old makeup and filled another bag with 'make up to throw away the next time I decide I don't care about makeup but can't bear to throw away today'.

Maybe this has been asked and answered: Do you guys scan all your old photograph prints? I have all these old photo albums I have pulled the photos out of. But I think I'd like to scan them and make them digital but that seems so overwhelming and time consuming compared to just throwing them in a box. Any ideas?

Another item stumped me. It's a music box from when I was a kid. It seems to no longer work. It was bought in Switzerland (I was born in Europe) so it's a nice antique. I was thinking I would give it to my daughter when I found it wouldn't work. Can these be repaired? Or should I toss it? Anyone know?

Also, any suggestions for people who have plenty of space to store this junk but still want to get rid of it? This is the hard part for me. My junk 'fits' in my closet. But my closet is HUGE. Or kitchen stuff, etc. How can I motivate myself when I can hide everything behind doors and it's still neat?

About the photos, it would be time consuming. If you want to get rid of the physical photos but don't have the time, there are probably services out there. Or if they are family pics, maybe there's a teenager in the family who you might pay to do it?

The music box, I have no idea myself but here we have a couple of volunteer staffed places where they try and fix things (to keep them from landfill). Do you have anything like that?

With the cupboards - if you know it is really junk, leave the doors open the whole time and you might feel motivated to deal with it!

Re: the music box - actually I think I saw something on facebook the other day.  A Tinker-er shop or something like that. Good idea!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: honeybbq on October 31, 2017, 10:21:24 AM
I'm also going to use Thredup after reading this thread. Thanks!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on October 31, 2017, 10:37:15 AM
Sold a mystery box on ebay for $5 + shipping.  10 items out the door.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on October 31, 2017, 03:45:02 PM
After deliberately sorting through my clothes for probably the first time in my life, I have gotten rid of a lot.  That, plus going through my scrap fabric/old clothes for pieces stash left me with 1.5 trash bags to donate and 2 trash bags for cloth recycling.  The local Goodwill accepts fabric for recycling, which is awesome!  Now it is all out of my closet/dresser and my car trunk as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 01, 2017, 07:20:54 AM
Cloth recycling is so great!  Our city started doing it last month.  I've already put 3 bags out on the curb, and I have another to put out this week.

I put my box of "opened pretty smelling stuff I don't want anymore" on the front porch last night with a sign that said "Free stuff".  By the end of trick-or-treating, it was all gone!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on November 01, 2017, 06:22:45 PM
Wow, nice surge of activity recently, everyone!  So inspiring, especially the folks who have had a hard time letting go in the past.

I surprise-decluttered my cat costume (ears, tail and gloves).  I say surprise because I had put it in the donation box, but a co worker wanted the costume for next year.  I brought it to her today.  Win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 01, 2017, 06:31:53 PM
I surprise-decluttered my cat costume (ears, tail and gloves).  I say surprise because I had put it in the donation box, but a co worker wanted the costume for next year.  I brought it to her today.  Win!

I surprise un-decluttered something from the donation box this week, too.

I wanted light, summery pants to wear one evening this week. My beach pants were in the wash, and I remembered I'd thrown a pair in the donation box. I had thought, oh, they're sort of duplicate, I don't really need them. Rescued them, wore them, they're not going back in the box. I like them too much. But I still feel like I need to rationalise keeping my own pants...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on November 01, 2017, 07:15:41 PM
I surprise-decluttered my cat costume (ears, tail and gloves).  I say surprise because I had put it in the donation box, but a co worker wanted the costume for next year.  I brought it to her today.  Win!

I surprise un-decluttered something from the donation box this week, too.

I wanted light, summery pants to wear one evening this week. My beach pants were in the wash, and I remembered I'd thrown a pair in the donation box. I had thought, oh, they're sort of duplicate, I don't really need them. Rescued them, wore them, they're not going back in the box. I like them too much. But I still feel like I need to rationalise keeping my own pants...

Whoever says you can only have 1 pair light summery pants, tell 'em to shove off. :)

Maybe 2 is the right number for you & your lifestyle.  If it is, please let go of the guilt.  You are actually using them, after all.  It's not a mustachian move to declutter to the point that you have to go out and buy replacements of some of the things...or to live in a state of deprivation.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on November 01, 2017, 07:41:28 PM
I put my box of "opened pretty smelling stuff I don't want anymore" on the front porch last night with a sign that said "Free stuff".  By the end of trick-or-treating, it was all gone!

What a brilliant idea. I might steal that one for next year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on November 01, 2017, 09:50:18 PM
I put my box of "opened pretty smelling stuff I don't want anymore" on the front porch last night with a sign that said "Free stuff".  By the end of trick-or-treating, it was all gone!

What a brilliant idea. I might steal that one for next year.
+1 I have a lot of stuff that would've been gladly taken away by our trick or treating visitors. Oh well! Next year for sure
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 02, 2017, 04:50:55 AM
Honeybbq, I also have plenty of storage space too but I do get a lot of joy out of empty drawers and cabinets :-)

I have two boxes of decor items waiting for me to bring them to consignment - I'm planning to do that tomorrow.  And then a whole bunch of things for donation, which I will do this weekend.

When my DD comes home for Thanksgiving, we will bring the remainder of her things to her dad's house and we're also planning to go through our books to see if she wants to keep any.  Anything she doesn't want will leave my house, except for a few favorites of mine.  Although I may even get rid of them too, because all of them are classics, available for free downloading on the internet. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on November 02, 2017, 06:49:32 AM
One more unused item gone.  Courtesy of Craigslist, I sold my 1974 custom built racing bike.  Haven't ridden in at least a year and when I do ride, I take out the mountain bike.  A little sad to let go a thing I built myself in high school but again, I don't ride it anymore and have access to my son's road bike if I wanted to use it.  The shed now has one empty hook for a bike. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on November 02, 2017, 08:10:03 AM
One more unused item gone.  Courtesy of Craigslist, I sold my 1974 custom built racing bike.  Haven't ridden in at least a year and when I do ride, I take out the mountain bike.  A little sad to let go a thing I built myself in high school but again, I don't ride it anymore and have access to my son's road bike if I wanted to use it.  The shed now has one empty hook for a bike.


When I give away or sell items which were expensive and/or very meaningful to me at one point in time, I like to imagine the new owner enjoying the item instead of it sitting in storage.  I gave a couple of business suits to Goodwill and I like to imagine someone looking for a suit for a job interview and finding a great deal at goodwill.  It's kind of silly but it helps me let go of things.  I tell myself I'm being greedy for keeping something I'm not using.  The item has already served me well and now it's time For it to serve someone else.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 02, 2017, 05:12:51 PM
Storage question!  Ladies who wear molded-cup brassieres:  Where do you keep them?  Before going through all my clothes, they lived on a random bookshelf in the room (with the rest of my clothes living on that shelf, in the dresser, in the teeny hanging-only closet, on top of the dresser, and on my chairdrobe).  Now that everything fits in the dresser and the closet, where should the bras go?  I don't have dresser drawers big enough to store them without crushing them, so I have been hanging them on a hook rack on the inside of the closet door.  I'd rather not have them in the open.

Is there some regular storage place that people have?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 02, 2017, 07:45:45 PM
I have them all in a drawer, but in a stack, where the cup behind sits inside the cup in front. So they sit vertically in the position you'd be wearing them, and they all keep their shape with no folding of the cups. Does it make sense? The straps are just folded behind. It's the Marie Kondo way I think. I googled it and there is a KonMarie video, but the front image of it sort of shows what I mean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on November 02, 2017, 10:07:13 PM
I’m hoping that joining this thread will inspire me to go through my clothing and my basement storage area. I’ve read a couple of recent pages and it’s pretty motivating.

Last week, I felt good about donating some stationery items, shoes and clothing to a school in Africa (a friend is taking a group on a tour and they can each take a certain amount of extra baggage, so he put out a wish list of donations). I always like passing stuff on that I know will be used and appreciated.

Just need to get into the right headspace to let stuff go. This will be my goal for 2018 (and I’m decent about goals when I commit in writing).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 02, 2017, 10:43:35 PM
Welcome Step37!

I also posted this at the end of the minimalist October thread, I'm continuing doing the thing where you get rid of a number of items corresponding with the day of the month. 1, 2 etc. It totals almost 500 at the end. This month I'm doing it with business merch in the hope that I can store the car in the garage in December. I can only do it on weekdays but it will still remove about 8 boxes from the garage.

Day 1 and 2 have gone to plan :) Let's see if I can remember today.

I might do the same thing in December but with only digital clutter...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Primm on November 02, 2017, 10:46:31 PM
I spent a considerable time yesterday going through my inbox, unsubscribing to everything apart from bare essentials, and then deleting to Inbox Zero.

That counts, right?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 03, 2017, 05:48:40 AM
I like the KonMari questioning 'does this spark joy?' or Brooks Palmer's (https://clutterbusting.com/) question 'do I love and want to keep this?' where any answer other than an emphatic yes means no, get rid of it. For practical useful things, I prefer to focus on annoyance level.

This week we donated 3 bags of stuff:
- a skirt I got in a clothes swap earlier this year but realised I didn't actually love it
- from DH, a belt, a pair of shiny shoes barely worn, several short sleeved shirts that no longer sparked joy
- a couple of old watches
- some plastic containers in as new condition but I can no longer open them due to some injuries
- a lingerie washing bag that turned out to be made of rough fabric
- a storage box that didn't work for what I wanted it to (solved this by rearranging where some things got stored)
- a magazine
- a small torch that used AAA batteries (we normally only have AA batteries on hand)
plus a few other bits and pieces

I also realised that now that we've pretty much switched to LED lightbulbs we don't need spare bulbs in the cupboard. LED bulbs last for ages plus when they fail, they tend to fail slowly (ie you have plenty of time to go out and buy a replacement). So we got rid of 1 old dim CFL globe, donated 5 x 50W halogen globes (in perfect working condition) and through out a bunch of empty light bulb boxes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on November 03, 2017, 05:50:12 AM
I spent a considerable time yesterday going through my inbox, unsubscribing to everything apart from bare essentials, and then deleting to Inbox Zero.

That counts, right?

Yes it does!! Virtual stuff is too often missed, but there is still that relationship.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 03, 2017, 10:33:44 AM
I think I might be overly obsessed with clearing out clutter.

When I put away my shoes last night I noticed a dress in the closet that fits and looks okay but I don't really like it.  I dreamed about the stupid dress, and the first thing I did when I woke up was take it out of the closet and put it in the box I'll be sending to Dress for Success.  I felt so much better as soon as it was out of the closet.

I never imagined I'd get to a point that a dress would annoy me that badly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Nederstash on November 03, 2017, 01:07:57 PM
I think I might be overly obsessed with clearing out clutter.

When I put away my shoes last night I noticed a dress in the closet that fits and looks okay but I don't really like it.  I dreamed about the stupid dress, and the first thing I did when I woke up was take it out of the closet and put it in the box I'll be sending to Dress for Success.  I felt so much better as soon as it was out of the closet.

I never imagined I'd get to a point that a dress would annoy me that badly.

it's the Decluttering Curse... once you start to see all the useless things you have, you just can't unsee it. You might've bypassed a pair of jeans for years, once you get the decluttering curse, that thing will haunt you like a denim demogorgon
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TabbyCat on November 04, 2017, 03:58:49 PM
So, what do you do when each individual thing you pick up *does* spark joy, but you've still got way too much stuff and need to ditch it? We already got the easy things (another 6 full bags to the thrift store today) but I'm now finding myself going through the same closet/bookshelf/cabinet again and again, annoyed with the clutter but with nothing to happily part with. Just finished reading "the life changing magic of tidying up" and found it inspiring, but am still stuck at a slow trickle of maybe 1-2 things a day to part with. We aren't hoarders by any means, but I still dream of open space in the cabinets (and no embarrassing pile of craft supplies with no home in the spare bedroom).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 04, 2017, 05:38:06 PM
So, what do you do when each individual thing you pick up *does* spark joy, but you've still got way too much stuff and need to ditch it? We already got the easy things (another 6 full bags to the thrift store today) but I'm now finding myself going through the same closet/bookshelf/cabinet again and again, annoyed with the clutter but with nothing to happily part with. Just finished reading "the life changing magic of tidying up" and found it inspiring, but am still stuck at a slow trickle of maybe 1-2 things a day to part with. We aren't hoarders by any means, but I still dream of open space in the cabinets (and no embarrassing pile of craft supplies with no home in the spare bedroom).

One of these might work, depending on the type of stuff:

Find alternative ways of accessing the things you love
Try getting rid of some of your books with the understanding that next time you want to read a certain have permission to buy the e-book or can borrow it from the library. Check to see if your favourite movies are on Netflix, then donate your DVDs.

Use up the consumables
You mentioned craft supplies. Is the joy in the owning or in the using and then giving away the finished product? If the joy is in the using, then commit to working your way through the stash. Then when the hoard is at an acceptable level, set yourself a limit, e.g. all craft supplies must fit in this plastic tub, or this cupboard, or this shipping container, whatever space you think is suitable. Then you know you can't buy more till you've used up some of what you have.

Get creative with how you store memories
Drowning in kids' artwork? Take a photo and get rid of the piles of craft paper and pipe cleaners.

Take some time then start again
Now that you've offloaded a lot of stuff, you need to adapt to this new base. In time, you might find yourself reassessing what you decided to hang onto. Yes, it did spark joy, but for whatever reason it doesn't anymore. Or maybe now that you've gotten rid of the stuff you don't like, you can better discern between the things you like and the things you love.

I have friends who complain about how they're drowning in stuff. But I love more than 90 per cent of what surrounds me at home. I love my doona cover, I love my favourite chair, I love these two little aqua bowls I have. I live in an apartment, so like doesn't really cut it anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sloeginfizz on November 04, 2017, 10:10:15 PM
I’m curious about the best way to get rid of alcohol i don’t want any more. My husband and I were always light drinkers but now he isn’t drinking at all and I’ve decided to limit myself to one drink an evening, if I’m out and it seems right at the time, but not drink at home. I have several nearly full bottles of hard liquor (bourbon, gin, and of course, sloe gin) and eleven bottles of vintage port. Most of the people I know who would take this stuff should not be encouraged/enabled in their problematic drinking. I already contacted one place that buys vintage port but they aren’t interested because it wasn’t professionally cellared. We don’t entertain often.

There has to be something less wasteful than pouring it all down the sink, right?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 04, 2017, 10:45:28 PM
So, what do you do when each individual thing you pick up *does* spark joy, but you've still got way too much stuff and need to ditch it? We already got the easy things (another 6 full bags to the thrift store today) but I'm now finding myself going through the same closet/bookshelf/cabinet again and again, annoyed with the clutter but with nothing to happily part with. Just finished reading "the life changing magic of tidying up" and found it inspiring, but am still stuck at a slow trickle of maybe 1-2 things a day to part with. We aren't hoarders by any means, but I still dream of open space in the cabinets (and no embarrassing pile of craft supplies with no home in the spare bedroom).

One of these might work, depending on the type of stuff:

Find alternative ways of accessing the things you love
Try getting rid of some of your books with the understanding that next time you want to read a certain have permission to buy the e-book or can borrow it from the library. Check to see if your favourite movies are on Netflix, then donate your DVDs.

Use up the consumables
You mentioned craft supplies. Is the joy in the owning or in the using and then giving away the finished product? If the joy is in the using, then commit to working your way through the stash. Then when the hoard is at an acceptable level, set yourself a limit, e.g. all craft supplies must fit in this plastic tub, or this cupboard, or this shipping container, whatever space you think is suitable. Then you know you can't buy more till you've used up some of what you have.

Get creative with how you store memories
Drowning in kids' artwork? Take a photo and get rid of the piles of craft paper and pipe cleaners.

Take some time then start again
Now that you've offloaded a lot of stuff, you need to adapt to this new base. In time, you might find yourself reassessing what you decided to hang onto. Yes, it did spark joy, but for whatever reason it doesn't anymore. Or maybe now that you've gotten rid of the stuff you don't like, you can better discern between the things you like and the things you love.

I have friends who complain about how they're drowning in stuff. But I love more than 90 per cent of what surrounds me at home. I love my doona cover, I love my favourite chair, I love these two little aqua bowls I have. I live in an apartment, so like doesn't really cut it anymore.
This is fantastic! Definitely saving to read later.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 04, 2017, 10:50:16 PM
I’m curious about the best way to get rid of alcohol i don’t want any more. My husband and I were always light drinkers but now he isn’t drinking at all and I’ve decided to limit myself to one drink an evening, if I’m out and it seems right at the time, but not drink at home. I have several nearly full bottles of hard liquor (bourbon, gin, and of course, sloe gin) and eleven bottles of vintage port. Most of the people I know who would take this stuff should not be encouraged/enabled in their problematic drinking. I already contacted one place that buys vintage port but they aren’t interested because it wasn’t professionally cellared. We don’t entertain often.

There has to be something less wasteful than pouring it all down the sink, right?

I would definitely gift anything unopened at Christmas. You said most but that means not all your drinking friends were problem drinkers! I love port, give it to me!

Otherwise I'd investigate cooking uses eg stews and desserts with port (the alcohol will burn off), pickling veg, household cleaning/ fabric or air freshener and mouthwash.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 04, 2017, 11:00:14 PM
This is fantastic! Definitely saving to read later.
Thanks. I should have re-read it and fixed mistakes before you quoted it!

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 04, 2017, 11:08:49 PM
I’m curious about the best way to get rid of alcohol i don’t want any more. My husband and I were always light drinkers but now he isn’t drinking at all and I’ve decided to limit myself to one drink an evening, if I’m out and it seems right at the time, but not drink at home. I have several nearly full bottles of hard liquor (bourbon, gin, and of course, sloe gin) and eleven bottles of vintage port. Most of the people I know who would take this stuff should not be encouraged/enabled in their problematic drinking. I already contacted one place that buys vintage port but they aren’t interested because it wasn’t professionally cellared. We don’t entertain often.

There has to be something less wasteful than pouring it all down the sink, right?

I would definitely gift anything unopened at Christmas. You said most but that means not all your drinking friends were problem drinkers! I love port, give it to me!

Otherwise I'd investigate cooking uses eg stews and desserts with port (the alcohol will burn off), pickling veg, household cleaning/ fabric or air freshener and mouthwash.

Other recipes: the bourbon can be used to make vanilla, or it's great in place of amaretto in whipped cream; the port can be used in puddings or trifles, very handy with Christmas coming up.

If you're not comfortable giving it to friends who drink, could you barter with friends, use it for thank you presents, get to know your neighbours...

I get it though. People love giving me wine, but I don't drink wine, so I'm forever rifling through the booze cupboard trying to find the stuff I actually drink.

I have been making an effort to use up these endless bottles of red (so much pasta!), but they're being replaced faster than I cook my way through them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on November 05, 2017, 03:44:20 AM
Heaps of stuff has left my house this weekend.

2 large plastic storage drawers to my SIL.
2 broken terracotta pots.
DVDs and booklets from a seminar I attended 11 years ago.
Lots of kids crafts and projects. (Some scanned or photographed first)
An old modem
Several power cords/phone cords that don't have anything to connect to anymore.
Dried up felt pens (thanks DS)
Crayon bits and paper wrappers.
Pencils that won't sharpen (I have blisters on my fingers from testing them so had to stop. Have about a quarter of the basket to go.) Still have another 3 pencilcases to sort. Where do they all come from!
Some items to be returned to FIL ate at the door ready to go.
Halloween decorations pulled down and put away.

I've also been cleaning, tidying and washing all weekend so my house is feeling much lighter and fresher.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 05, 2017, 04:19:48 AM
Reposted a bunch of things on CL.  If they don't sell by the end of the month, they will be donated.

Also prepped two large batches of things for consignment and donation.  I still need to go through a bin in the basement that held my skiing stuff and that to the right piles.  Will bring the donation in today and consignment on Monday.

I have a tea/coffee set that I've been debating getting rid of for a while now.  I removed it from the cabinet in the kitchen and packed it up a year or so ago but haven't been able to part with it completely.  So yesterday I pulled it out and said to myself that if I want to keep it then it shouldn't be packed away.  But when I tried to put it back into the kitchen cabinet I had an immediate and very strong feeling of doing something wrong :-)  I felt that the cabinet that now has plenty of empty space was choked by the addition.  Since I haven't used the set in years and it evoked such a strong negative reaction when going back into the cabinet, I think it's time to finally let it go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 05, 2017, 04:30:59 AM
I like the KonMari questioning 'does this spark joy?' or Brooks Palmer's (https://clutterbusting.com/) question 'do I love and want to keep this?' where any answer other than an emphatic yes means no, get rid of it. For practical useful things, I prefer to focus on annoyance level.

This week we donated 3 bags of stuff:
- a skirt I got in a clothes swap earlier this year but realised I didn't actually love it
- from DH, a belt, a pair of shiny shoes barely worn, several short sleeved shirts that no longer sparked joy
- a couple of old watches
- some plastic containers in as new condition but I can no longer open them due to some injuries
- a lingerie washing bag that turned out to be made of rough fabric
- a storage box that didn't work for what I wanted it to (solved this by rearranging where some things got stored)
- a magazine
- a small torch that used AAA batteries (we normally only have AA batteries on hand)
plus a few other bits and pieces

DH also got rid of a few short sleeved shirts that he hadn't worn in a while and there's now a pile of magazines at the door ready to be donated to a different charity fundraiser.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 05, 2017, 05:30:32 AM
I did unvoluntarily clear out another piece of clothing. One of my woolen vests was so dirty that I wanted to wash it. I did not choose wool program in the washing machine and it came out filted and children's size.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on November 05, 2017, 08:17:06 AM
I’m curious about the best way to get rid of alcohol i don’t want any more. My husband and I were always light drinkers but now he isn’t drinking at all and I’ve decided to limit myself to one drink an evening, if I’m out and it seems right at the time, but not drink at home. I have several nearly full bottles of hard liquor (bourbon, gin, and of course, sloe gin) and eleven bottles of vintage port. Most of the people I know who would take this stuff should not be encouraged/enabled in their problematic drinking. I already contacted one place that buys vintage port but they aren’t interested because it wasn’t professionally cellared. We don’t entertain often.

There has to be something less wasteful than pouring it all down the sink, right?

Do you know anyone who is hosting for the holidays? Even if they are not drinkers themselves (or much, or picky), they likely would appreciate good drinks to serve to their guests.

When I "inherited" a large amount of various alcohols when a relative moved, I ended up gifting them through my neighborhood's Buy Nothing Project. I just did one bottle per person, so it's not like I was dumping a huge amount onto any one person, and got to 'spread the love'.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on November 05, 2017, 12:08:08 PM
I did unvoluntarily clear out another piece of clothing. One of my woolen vests was so dirty that I wanted to wash it. I did not choose wool program in the washing machine and it came out filted and children's size.

OTOH, I have purchased extremely dense, beautiful cashmere sweaters at the thrift store for this very reason -- Size L but fits a Size S.! 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on November 05, 2017, 12:18:02 PM
Okay,  I have a lot of items up on Craigslist right now, and on my way to getting $40 before lunch.
Man, there is a huge volume of things I want to sell / give away.   Next weekend, it will be "free giveaways", then the last of it to thrift store, I guess.  Seems like a lot of work, which is why I can declutter (to the garage staging area),then I stop.

Each room I enter, I now have the urge to declutter and the garage pile will start to grow quickly.  It fills the utility trailer right now.

Kids items are worth quite a bit (scooter / pogo stick, like new downhill biking helmet)..  maybe I will need to wait until spring to sell those...  argh, the challenge is what to do with a kid's (the helmet) item that cost $90, that was worn about twice.. giving it away seems like such a loss of $$'s.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 05, 2017, 12:32:24 PM
Hopefully a kijiji pick up happens today. 
Half a van load left this morning for my brothers house and for his little kids.  So far much of the hand-me-downs have hit the bulls eye for happiness making for niece and nephews. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: KirstyB on November 05, 2017, 07:26:28 PM
If you are trying to use up Port, google 'venison with port and apricots' by Mary Berry. Fabulous stew and uses up about 250ml of port if I recall correctly each time, and you could easily sub beef for the venison.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 06, 2017, 07:33:04 AM
No kijiji sales materialized yesterday.  Maybe today - two parties are interested or maybe it is just one party pretending to be two.  I have dropped the price to $15 bucks.  Sheesh - this weekend I am taking it to the Bibles for Missions - enough already.
I would have done it last weekend but it was crappy and the van keeps getting a flat so I while I inflate the tire at home, I don't want to be away the compressor I know how to use with a flat.
Maybe the person will show up at 12 and we will be done with it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 06, 2017, 09:41:43 AM
So, what do you do when each individual thing you pick up *does* spark joy, but you've still got way too much stuff and need to ditch it? We already got the easy things (another 6 full bags to the thrift store today) but I'm now finding myself going through the same closet/bookshelf/cabinet again and again, annoyed with the clutter but with nothing to happily part with. Just finished reading "the life changing magic of tidying up" and found it inspiring, but am still stuck at a slow trickle of maybe 1-2 things a day to part with. We aren't hoarders by any means, but I still dream of open space in the cabinets (and no embarrassing pile of craft supplies with no home in the spare bedroom).

I've definitely found myself making "rounds" of cluttering.  Husband and I sorted our bookshelves this summer and got rid of more than 100 books.  I was satisfied that everything else I really *had* to keep.  This weekend, I got rid of 100 more books.  I suspect that after Christmas, I'll be able to get rid of 50 more (which still leaves me with more than 1k books, but now they won't be crammed every which way).

As you get peel off each layer of things that have outlived their purpose, give yourself time to see if there are more layers.  The key for me was to focus on the konmari point of thanking my things for the past happiness they had brought me - now I'm able to let things go without feeling guilty.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 06, 2017, 09:50:12 AM
This weekend, I made my 11-year-old sort through her closet.  She doesn't want more than half of her clothes.  Granted, a lot of them she had outgrown, but there were multiple things with the tags still on that she didn't want anymore.  We had a nice heart-to-heart, and she confessed that although she likes the idea of those clothes, she really hates wearing X, Y, and Z type clothes.  Simple fix - we aren't buying those types of garments anymore. 

It was also reallllly irritating to find a few nice skirts and blouses crammed into a drawer.  Those would have been appropriate for a funeral we had to go to recently; instead, we spent $100 buying a dress at the last minute (I literally had 20 minutes to shop, so I bought the first thing that fit her).   

Now, we can see into her drawers and her closet and know exactly what she has!

I took her with me this weekend to drop 2 bags off at Goodwill, to sell the nicer clothes at the resale shop, and to sell 100 books at the used bookstore.  She was SHOCKED at the tiny amounts of money we got for what was easily more than $1k worth of stuff, bought new.  It was a nice teachable moment about why I'm suddenly refusing to buy stuff.  We're being wasteful.

I'm going to do the same exercise with middle daughter next weekend, and maybe I can pin son down sometime during the week to make him go through his closet too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: honeybbq on November 06, 2017, 03:58:40 PM
Okay,  I have a lot of items up on Craigslist right now, and on my way to getting $40 before lunch.
Man, there is a huge volume of things I want to sell / give away.   Next weekend, it will be "free giveaways", then the last of it to thrift store, I guess.  Seems like a lot of work, which is why I can declutter (to the garage staging area),then I stop.

Each room I enter, I now have the urge to declutter and the garage pile will start to grow quickly.  It fills the utility trailer right now.

Kids items are worth quite a bit (scooter / pogo stick, like new downhill biking helmet)..  maybe I will need to wait until spring to sell those...  argh, the challenge is what to do with a kid's (the helmet) item that cost $90, that was worn about twice.. giving it away seems like such a loss of $$'s.

I would think those would sell in a heartbeat with the tagline "GREAT FOR XMAS!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 06, 2017, 04:02:42 PM
This weekend, I made my 11-year-old sort through her closet.  She doesn't want more than half of her clothes.  Granted, a lot of them she had outgrown, but there were multiple things with the tags still on that she didn't want anymore.  We had a nice heart-to-heart, and she confessed that although she likes the idea of those clothes, she really hates wearing X, Y, and Z type clothes.  Simple fix - we aren't buying those types of garments anymore. 

I have a 34-year-old friend who can't admit that yet. Good on your daughter for having that level of self-awareness so young.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on November 06, 2017, 08:26:06 PM
Another big purge day.

9 hats
Sons clothes - 13 shirts, 4 shorts, 2 pair shoes
Daughter's clothes - 7 long sleeve tops/jumpers, 2 tshirts, 2 dresses, 4 leggings.
Quilt cover set
Safety plugs
Broken curtain rod holder
Spare toy pram handle
Doll stand
Daughter's school scrapbooks from last year
10 items from the bathroom cabinet
Money box
And a few other sundry items.

Hubby also filed a large garbage bag full of crap from his side of our room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on November 06, 2017, 09:03:40 PM
I took her with me this weekend to drop 2 bags off at Goodwill, to sell the nicer clothes at the resale shop, and to sell 100 books at the used bookstore.  She was SHOCKED at the tiny amounts of money we got for what was easily more than $1k worth of stuff, bought new. It was a nice teachable moment about why I'm suddenly refusing to buy stuff.  We're being wasteful.

Great lessons for your daughter.

This is definitely a huge part of what’s making me hold onto my shoes and clothing that I no longer wear. While I never went into debt accumulating all of it, I spent an absurd amount over several years and I just can’t bear to take the loss (yes, I know I’ve already taken the loss/it’s a sunk cost... I’m obviously not mentally ready to let it go). At least it’s all well organized and accessible. 2018 is going to be Step37’s Year of (getting mentally prepared for?) Closet Consolidation... yes, yes it IS. I stopped buying clothes and shoes nearly three years ago (other than replacements of worn-out items such as gym shoes), so this is the next logical step. God knows I’ll never wear all of it out.

The wastefulness of it all really bothers me. I abhor waste (I’m the person who saves all the only-one-side-printed paper and prints anything that doesn’t leave the office on that), so I have to get rid of things in a way that doesn’t feel wasteful (selling is good!).

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on November 07, 2017, 07:08:02 AM
I made so much progress since last week!

-started Project 333 (with the exception of attire for a wedding I was in this weekend).  Easy so far.  Boxed up all my other clothes and plan to not open the box until I move.
-gave away a floor lamp
-found someone who wants my printer that is taking up space and rarely used
-bagged up clothes to sell to ThredUp (never done this before; it seems like the CleabOut kit I ordered is taking forever to arrive)
-filled an entire box with clothes, DVDs, etc to be donated to the local community assistance center

This weekend I plan to:
-have my husband go through his clothes and try on things to see if there is anything he wants to get rid of
-clean up my patio furniture and take a nice picture to list it all for sale
-clean up a couple of laptops which aren't really functioning and need to be recycled (I already found a recycling center for these)
-take several barely worn J.Crew pieces to the local high-end consignment store.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 07, 2017, 12:22:13 PM
This is definitely a huge part of what’s making me hold onto my shoes and clothing that I no longer wear. While I never went into debt accumulating all of it, I spent an absurd amount over several years and I just can’t bear to take the loss (yes, I know I’ve already taken the loss/it’s a sunk cost... I’m obviously not mentally ready to let it go). At least it’s all well organized and accessible. 2018 is going to be Step37’s Year of (getting mentally prepared for?) Closet Consolidation... yes, yes it IS. I stopped buying clothes and shoes nearly three years ago (other than replacements of worn-out items such as gym shoes), so this is the next logical step. God knows I’ll never wear all of it out.


I've purged a bunch of stuff from my closet.  Others are hard to get rid of. I have a box in my closet of clothes that I don't really want, or that don't fit.  It's a transparent tub, so I can still see the clothes.  I'm going to look at them on the top shelf for a year, and then get rid of them.

It also helps me to thank each item of clothing for the value that it already brought my life.  I am generally a very practical, no-room-for-woo-woo-craziness person, and I felt really silly doing this when I started the Konmari method.  I was surprised at how well it worked to alleviate my guilt for the waste.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 07, 2017, 02:17:01 PM
Had my husband go through the newspapers he had stashed in a drawer and pull out the pages he wanted to keep. The rest went into recycling.

I recently received what I call a Generic Girl Gift (uninspired gifts of body butter and bath products, usually strongly scented, occasionally full of glitter).

I messaged my mum and asked if she can regift it to anyone. She needs something for a group gift exchange (where generic gifts are encouraged), so that’s one more thing out of the cupboard.

And I dropped some small tech components in a zip-lock bag and threw out the box they were in.

Once again I feel like I’m making progress on getting rid of the clutter but I have a lot of stuff in a holding pattern (Christmas gifts, two birthday gifts, shoes to return to shop, a bag to return to family...) Get out of my house!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 07, 2017, 03:22:20 PM
Storage question!  Ladies who wear molded-cup brassieres:  Where do you keep them? 

I keep mine daily ones in a drawer and some fancy ones in a bin on a shelf. Your hook idea gave me an idea though. How about one of those space-saving multi-skirt hangers - one with several rows of clips? If you clipped one bra strap to each clasp, you could keep a bra per tier, preserve their shape, and hide them a bit by hanging it among your clothes.

An example of the hanger I'm talking about: https://www.amazon.ca/Miyare-Foldable-Closet-Multi-layer-Trousers/dp/B07478KCVV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1509669433&sr=8-1&keywords=multi-skirt+hanger

Ooo, I like the hanger idea.

Sunhat, my drawers are too shallow to hold bras without crushing them.  :(  But thank you!

So, what do you do when each individual thing you pick up *does* spark joy, but you've still got way too much stuff and need to ditch it? We already got the easy things (another 6 full bags to the thrift store today) but I'm now finding myself going through the same closet/bookshelf/cabinet again and again, annoyed with the clutter but with nothing to happily part with. Just finished reading "the life changing magic of tidying up" and found it inspiring, but am still stuck at a slow trickle of maybe 1-2 things a day to part with. We aren't hoarders by any means, but I still dream of open space in the cabinets (and no embarrassing pile of craft supplies with no home in the spare bedroom).

Adding to mustachepungoeshere's list:
Store things in different places than you have previously!  When I started looking at some random oddments (large plastic cooler, old music stand, and many more) that live in a weird place (at the top of the stairs leading to our apartment there's a little landing/open storage area), I knew I would be able to trim them down, but I didn't think they'd be gone completely, and I couldn't see how things would ever look organized.  However, after I pared down some food storage and food containers storage, suddenly I have an open shelf inside the apartment.  Now the cooler can go there, and it will probably be joined by other oddments later.

So, in your case, maybe decluttering a linen closet or the attic or the under-bed storage space will lead to extra space that will let you store the crafting supplies you love in a more pleasing manner.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 07, 2017, 04:45:27 PM
Someone bought my daughter's old twin bed and I indicated that the box spring was included and also managed to include all the miscellaneous pieces of wood that hubs had used to make it super over-structured.  It was taking up a couple of locations in the garage. 

Now I am back focused inside the house.  I painted two dressers so I took all the clothes out of the drawers.  Hubs dumped all his back in without sorting through them.  I am going to go through all mine and refold first.  I did t-shirts this morning before work.

So what should I do with all the bras that don't fit anymore.  I bought three new bras two years ago.  I got them because none of my bras fit - I was so appalled at the size of them it was the incentive to lose weight.  Now they are huge.  And they are brand new looking - well two of them are.  And they were expensive. I don't even want to say what I paid. It was probably my last pre-MMM purchase.  Do I keep in case I put 10 pounds back on - or say goodbye to the Goodwill. Does Goodwill even sell bras? This is not something I want to put on kijiji and it is a little embarrassing to ask a friend no? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 07, 2017, 08:00:59 PM
*snip*

So what should I do with all the bras that don't fit anymore.  I bought three new bras two years ago.  I got them because none of my bras fit - I was so appalled at the size of them it was the incentive to lose weight.  Now they are huge.  And they are brand new looking - well two of them are.  And they were expensive. I don't even want to say what I paid. It was probably my last pre-MMM purchase.  Do I keep in case I put 10 pounds back on - or say goodbye to the Goodwill. Does Goodwill even sell bras? This is not something I want to put on kijiji and it is a little embarrassing to ask a friend no?

The Goodwill stores in my area only sell new bras, but you could call your local branch and ask.  Certainly try kijiji!  Alternatively, do the cups still fit, or are they now wrong as well?  If just the bands are an issue, you can take them in a bit.  Safety-pin the parts you want to take in first to make sure the straps are still placed appropriately.
Easy band alteration, easy to reverse, bra will be obviously altered (http://brasihate.blogspot.com/2013/10/tutorial-shortening-bra-band.html)
Very pretty band alteration, more tricky but bra will still look good (http://walkingwithdancers.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-to-alter-bra.html)
List of bra-altering guides for bands, straps, and cups; probably varied difficulty levels (http://bustyresources.wikia.com/wiki/How-to_alter_a_bra)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaleidoscopicalkris on November 08, 2017, 07:10:33 AM
So what should I do with all the bras that don't fit anymore.  I bought three new bras two years ago.  I got them because none of my bras fit - I was so appalled at the size of them it was the incentive to lose weight.  Now they are huge.  And they are brand new looking - well two of them are.  And they were expensive. I don't even want to say what I paid. It was probably my last pre-MMM purchase.  Do I keep in case I put 10 pounds back on - or say goodbye to the Goodwill. Does Goodwill even sell bras? This is not something I want to put on kijiji and it is a little embarrassing to ask a friend no?

If you're comfortable dealing with shipping, you can always try https://www.reddit.com/r/braswap/ . There's a number of women there who are swapping and selling their bras.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 08, 2017, 09:15:02 AM
I started going through the kitchen last night, until husband made me stop and sit and cuddle for a little while.

I've got about 1/4 of my baking stuff ready to go way, and maybe 1/6 of our kitchen utensil-y tools.  The drawers still look too crowded, so I need to figure out what else I don't realllly need. (I'll confess, I REALLY LIKE kitchen gadgets.  Unfortunately, I don't need them.)  A lot of this stuff are things I use, but only because they are there.  I'm trying to declutter based on "would I buy this again if it burned up in a fire tomorrow".  If not...goodbye.

My ultimate goal is to have nothing sitting on the kitchen counters except the knife block, AND be able to quickly identify everything in the drawers/cabinets just by opening it up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Plina on November 08, 2017, 09:53:30 AM
Someone bought my daughter's old twin bed and I indicated that the box spring was included and also managed to include all the miscellaneous pieces of wood that hubs had used to make it super over-structured.  It was taking up a couple of locations in the garage. 

Now I am back focused inside the house.  I painted two dressers so I took all the clothes out of the drawers.  Hubs dumped all his back in without sorting through them.  I am going to go through all mine and refold first.  I did t-shirts this morning before work.

So what should I do with all the bras that don't fit anymore.  I bought three new bras two years ago.  I got them because none of my bras fit - I was so appalled at the size of them it was the incentive to lose weight.  Now they are huge.  And they are brand new looking - well two of them are.  And they were expensive. I don't even want to say what I paid. It was probably my last pre-MMM purchase.  Do I keep in case I put 10 pounds back on - or say goodbye to the Goodwill. Does Goodwill even sell bras? This is not something I want to put on kijiji and it is a little embarrassing to ask a friend no?

I have heard that organisations that gives clothes to homeless needs bras because almost nobody donades underwear. Maybe also safe houses.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 08, 2017, 12:25:36 PM
I dropped another batch of stuff at the consignment store: a large vase, some candle holders, bowls, pretty utensils, some clothes and shoes.  They took pretty much everything.  Now I need to pack all the stuff that is sitting in the garage and waiting to be donated at Goodwill or Salvation Army.  I have also renewed all my CL listings.  If things don't sell by the end of the month, they will be given away for free or donated.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 08, 2017, 02:11:07 PM
I’m getting brutal now. Threw out two lamps than have been sitting in the cupboard for more than a year waiting for a good home. I paid $40 for the two lamps and two bedside tables six years ago, and used them for five years. They’ve served their time.

Had a wardrobe re-think this morning too. I put on a work top I haven’t worn in a ages and I realised my colleagues would ask if it was new. I’ve been at my job for just over a year now so they know my wardrobe by now. Gave up on the top (I still don’t like it), but at least that’s a new way of assessing work clothes. Never been worn to this job? It’s out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TabbyCat on November 08, 2017, 03:48:39 PM
So, what do you do when each individual thing you pick up *does* spark joy, but you've still got way too much stuff and need to ditch it? We already got the easy things (another 6 full bags to the thrift store today) but I'm now finding myself going through the same closet/bookshelf/cabinet again and again, annoyed with the clutter but with nothing to happily part with. Just finished reading "the life changing magic of tidying up" and found it inspiring, but am still stuck at a slow trickle of maybe 1-2 things a day to part with. We aren't hoarders by any means, but I still dream of open space in the cabinets (and no embarrassing pile of craft supplies with no home in the spare bedroom).

One of these might work, depending on the type of stuff:

Find alternative ways of accessing the things you love
Try getting rid of some of your books with the understanding that next time you want to read a certain have permission to buy the e-book or can borrow it from the library. Check to see if your favourite movies are on Netflix, then donate your DVDs.

Use up the consumables
You mentioned craft supplies. Is the joy in the owning or in the using and then giving away the finished product? If the joy is in the using, then commit to working your way through the stash. Then when the hoard is at an acceptable level, set yourself a limit, e.g. all craft supplies must fit in this plastic tub, or this cupboard, or this shipping container, whatever space you think is suitable. Then you know you can't buy more till you've used up some of what you have.

Get creative with how you store memories
Drowning in kids' artwork? Take a photo and get rid of the piles of craft paper and pipe cleaners.

Take some time then start again
Now that you've offloaded a lot of stuff, you need to adapt to this new base. In time, you might find yourself reassessing what you decided to hang onto. Yes, it did spark joy, but for whatever reason it doesn't anymore. Or maybe now that you've gotten rid of the stuff you don't like, you can better discern between the things you like and the things you love.

I have friends who complain about how they're drowning in stuff. But I love more than 90 per cent of what surrounds me at home. I love my doona cover, I love my favourite chair, I love these two little aqua bowls I have. I live in an apartment, so like doesn't really cut it anymore.

All good input. Our biggest category is kid stuff - clothes and toys saved for the next kid, clothes and toys handed down to us that don't fit yet. I've been whittling this down, but most of it is not in deep storage because I'm reluctant to buy totes for the garage, and the 2yo pulls stuff out of closets - it might be time to get it moved into the garage, or move beyond the simple door nob cover for keeping the kid out of things. It still isn't a huge amount (we still have less than half the toys of anyone else I know with kids and what we do have is pretty open ended, not talking toys, etc) but it needs a better solution.

The craft supplies are mostly used on things that stay in the house once completed, not much leaves as gifts. I am trying to find more things I can make for Christmas gifts, but since crafting time is limited I tend to spend it on special things that we keep (knit a sweater for the kid, make a quilt, etc. My 2yo tends to immediately destroy everything she makes (and loves that part just as much) so we have very little kid artwork, haha.

I do love to read, but prefer the library, so we've only got maybe 30 books for adults in the house - but we have maybe 200 kids picture books and those are getting paired down as well.

I did find two new bags of stuff to let go of today, and I think my takeaway is to try get rid of more of the saved kid clothing and to also take a good chunk of the kids books to good will or maybe try half price books.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 08, 2017, 04:52:16 PM
Thanks for the great suggestions to donate - the bras are too big in both the band and the cup - two sizes too big in the cup.  I really like the idea of donating them to a shelter or clothing cupboard.  One is completely molded so would be impossible to make smaller.  The other one is just difficult.  One of my friends helps out at a clothing cupboard for people making transitions, either immigrants getting jobs or coming out of mental health care or corrections.  She would probably be delighted to give these to a client.
Now if I could loose the muffin top instead of just the boobs, that would be great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 08, 2017, 05:45:10 PM
All good input. Our biggest category is kid stuff - clothes and toys saved for the next kid, clothes and toys handed down to us that don't fit yet. I've been whittling this down, but most of it is not in deep storage because I'm reluctant to buy totes for the garage, and the 2yo pulls stuff out of closets - it might be time to get it moved into the garage, or move beyond the simple door nob cover for keeping the kid out of things. It still isn't a huge amount (we still have less than half the toys of anyone else I know with kids and what we do have is pretty open ended, not talking toys, etc) but it needs a better solution.

I wouldn't classify clothes and toys your child has grown out of or hasn't yet grown into as items that spark joy - they're just necessities. And that's ok.

In that case, you might get something from reading some of what Rachel Jonat (The Minimalist Mom) has written on the subject.

She has three children but is not a big believer in stockpiling clothes for future kids because you can't predict sex, sizing or seasons, so what you keep might never get worn.

She is also a big proponent of minimalist wardrobes, even for children.

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2011/09/paring-down-for-fall-toddler-clothes/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2015/04/bye-bye-baby-stuff-2/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2016/01/week-4-kid-clothes/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2012/06/childwardrobe/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 09, 2017, 11:50:51 AM
I'm ambivalent about hand-me-downs.  My girls are 18 months apart.  The oldest is what my friends call a "gigantor" child.  She's almost 12 and is taller than I am and weighs a little more.  The younger one is average height and skinny skinny.

Younger daughter is JUST NOW able to fit into clothes her sister outgrew 5 years ago.  Unfortunately, the styles just don't work for her body type.  After we figured that ou,t I gave away all the other clothes....except for the few pairs of shoes and jeans I kept for myself! 

My sister gives me hand-me-downs for my son.  I keep some of it, but most I give away.  Her son is more of a husky size, and mine is lanky and short, so they don't fit him right.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 09, 2017, 12:32:18 PM
I tackled the kitchen last night.  This is apparently the one area my husband isn't as interested in decluttering, because he retrieved multiple items.  I think he's feeling possessive because a lot of the stuff I was decluttering were items he brought into our marriage ... 5 years ago.  I do most of the cooking, so...anyway, I'll keep extra pots to help him feel more secure.

The bigger problem:  I have a full set of Pfaltzgraff dishes with all the accessories (all bought in 2000).  I don't ever use the teacups/saucers, the sugar dishes, etc.  They take up 3 shelves, and I don't want them.  At the same time, I feel like because it's a set I should keep it all together.

Help!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on November 09, 2017, 01:25:21 PM
The bigger problem:  I have a full set of Pfaltzgraff dishes with all the accessories (all bought in 2000).  I don't ever use the teacups/saucers, the sugar dishes, etc.  They take up 3 shelves, and I don't want them.  At the same time, I feel like because it's a set I should keep it all together.

Help!
You've kept the set together for nearly 18 years, so it's all grown up now and you can send the parts you don't want out into the world without guilt.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 09, 2017, 02:04:32 PM
The bigger problem:  I have a full set of Pfaltzgraff dishes with all the accessories (all bought in 2000).  I don't ever use the teacups/saucers, the sugar dishes, etc.  They take up 3 shelves, and I don't want them.  At the same time, I feel like because it's a set I should keep it all together.

Help!
You've kept the set together for nearly 18 years, so it's all grown up now and you can send the parts you don't want out into the world without guilt.

Agreed.

My dinner set came with 12 mugs that I knew we would never use. We're not coffee or tea drinkers, and we had been given a set of six mugs that we could use for guests.

I gave away the 12 spare mugs almost eight years ago and, until you posted about your dinner set, hadn't given it another thought.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 09, 2017, 02:06:54 PM
Yesterday I came home from a conferance with a new bag. Not a pretty one and not one we needed. I double checked with DH and ditched it. No new rubbish in the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 09, 2017, 02:42:01 PM
The bigger problem:  I have a full set of Pfaltzgraff dishes with all the accessories (all bought in 2000).  I don't ever use the teacups/saucers, the sugar dishes, etc.  They take up 3 shelves, and I don't want them.  At the same time, I feel like because it's a set I should keep it all together.

Help!
You've kept the set together for nearly 18 years, so it's all grown up now and you can send the parts you don't want out into the world without guilt.

This made me laugh, and it is exactly what I needed to hear.  It's time to launch them into the world!

Thanks to you and to mustachepungoeshere!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 09, 2017, 03:03:57 PM
Yesterday I came home from a conferance with a new bag. Not a pretty one and not one we needed. I double checked with DH and ditched it. No new rubbish in the house.

I always find those decisions are easier as soon as you get the item or bring it home. My husband gets a lot of that sort of thing and I try to triage it immediately, otherwise it gets put in a cupboard, he forgets we even have it, then I drag it out and he inevitably wants to keep it because, well, we’ve kept it this long, it must have been for a reason.

>.<

Nope. Better to rip off the Band-Aid as soon as he gets home. Even better, don’t bring it home!

I have to keep reminding him that hotels have bins. No luck yet.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on November 10, 2017, 08:46:46 AM
More progress!

-found a buyer for my coffee/end tables (selling them for what I paid for them used 7 years ago)
-found the replacement coffee table that I want (used, of course).  This is kind of decluttering since my coffee and two end tables are being replaced by one coffee table (that I actually love)
-letting go of the tv in my bedroom that I never watch and just takes up space and annoys me.  Probably will go to Goodwill since it's nearly 10 years old.
-husband agreed to go through his collection of cards and letters and I'm going to go through mine again (throwing out a few at a time).
-we agreed to go through our books and DVDs again.  I don't watch many DVDs as there are so many movies included with Amazon Prime.  I also use the library heavily and I pretty much never re-read books.  One of the biggest decluttering victories is that I pretty much stopped buying books a couple of years ago and I'm finally comfortable letting go of a few more.


Big decluttering plans for this weekend!  I am so ready!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 10, 2017, 10:45:31 AM
I gave away my nice woolen, now filted vest to a colleague with a 10 year old daughter. She thought the daughter would fit it and would like it.

Next time: use the f... wool program when washing nice woolen clothes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 10, 2017, 01:22:47 PM
Ooooo, I've done that before.  It's so disappointing to see one of your favorite pieces become child-sized.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Plina on November 10, 2017, 03:29:13 PM
Yesterday I came home from a conferance with a new bag. Not a pretty one and not one we needed. I double checked with DH and ditched it. No new rubbish in the house.

I always find those decisions are easier as soon as you get the item or bring it home. My husband gets a lot of that sort of thing and I try to triage it immediately, otherwise it gets put in a cupboard, he forgets we even have it, then I drag it out and he inevitably wants to keep it because, well, we’ve kept it this long, it must have been for a reason.

>.<

Nope. Better to rip off the Band-Aid as soon as he gets home. Even better, don’t bring it home!

I have to keep reminding him that hotels have bins. No luck yet.

I have started avoiding those bags if possible or leaving them back discretly at the venue. I got a cup at a bike race that I bought with me to my workplace. People are really surprised when you say no Thank you to something that is free.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 10, 2017, 06:23:16 PM
I mentioned to a friend that daughter had grown out of snow pants and was going to list them on kijiji and whining about how people can be so annoying about not showing up but since they were in such good shape I wanted try and sell first.  She asked what size and how much did I want for them and is going to pick them up this weekend.  No haggling and no no shows and $25 bucks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 10, 2017, 06:26:52 PM
I gave 41 business merch items away this week. That's one ahead of schedule, so yay. I've moved four boxes into the house so that they annoy me so much that I continue with the plan.

We've been decluttering the shed and found more stuff in the garage too. The bad news is that in order to park the car in the garage, the four bikes will have to live in the spare room. I'd rather the bikes than the hedge trimmer etc! The garage is  about 5.5 x 2.4m for context - built in an era of matchbox cars. We have a small car but you have to be a contortionist to get out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 10, 2017, 08:29:24 PM
We've been decluttering the shed and found more stuff in the garage too. The bad news is that in order to park the car in the garage, the four bikes will have to live in the spare room. I'd rather the bikes than the hedge trimmer etc! The garage is  about 5.5 x 2.4m for context - built in an era of matchbox cars. We have a small car but you have to be a contortionist to get out.

In America, many garages have a high-enough ceiling to hang bikes over cars.  Would that work for you?  With the small footprint of your garage, it sounds like one of those wall storage pegboards for bikes wouldn't work.  Maybe someday your shed will fit the bikes!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 10, 2017, 09:50:49 PM
We've been decluttering the shed and found more stuff in the garage too. The bad news is that in order to park the car in the garage, the four bikes will have to live in the spare room. I'd rather the bikes than the hedge trimmer etc! The garage is  about 5.5 x 2.4m for context - built in an era of matchbox cars. We have a small car but you have to be a contortionist to get out.

In America, many garages have a high-enough ceiling to hang bikes over cars.  Would that work for you?  With the small footprint of your garage, it sounds like one of those wall storage pegboards for bikes wouldn't work.  Maybe someday your shed will fit the bikes!

No the ceiling is only just over head height! We used to stack bikes in the laundry but renovated it to include a second toilet & shower. We bought a small bike sized shed but it's not secure enough so it's full of typical garden shed type stuff which is fine. We have plans to build a new garage with storeroom so the bike storage is just for now so the car can get shelter while it's hot and for hail storms. The road bike already lives in the spare room so it's not a huge leap!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 11, 2017, 12:17:57 AM
Last night I tossed two old towels, a couple of operating manuals and some random other crap.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 11, 2017, 04:02:09 AM
Formatted an old external hard drive and gave it to husband to take to work to keep his laptop in order.

He manages a lot of large video files and is forever trying to free up space, so this is a win-win.

I’m also making a concerted effort to use up my supplies of stationery and candles. Makes for quite a relaxing evening really, writing cute letters to my baby nephews by candle light.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on November 11, 2017, 08:01:10 AM
The bigger problem:  I have a full set of Pfaltzgraff dishes with all the accessories (all bought in 2000).  I don't ever use the teacups/saucers, the sugar dishes, etc.  They take up 3 shelves, and I don't want them.  At the same time, I feel like because it's a set I should keep it all together.

Help!
You've kept the set together for nearly 18 years, so it's all grown up now and you can send the parts you don't want out into the world without guilt.

Agreed.

My dinner set came with 12 mugs that I knew we would never use. We're not coffee or tea drinkers, and we had been given a set of six mugs that we could use for guests.

I gave away the 12 spare mugs almost eight years ago and, until you posted about your dinner set, hadn't given it another thought.

For anyone buying open stock dinnerware (and that isn't many any more,)  I always advise them to skip cups and saucers, and service pieces. If you love a china pattern buy dinner plates and appetizer/bread plates first. you can fill in with i expensive plain white or plain cream for the other pieces. Later, if important, you can spend real money on the patterned pieces. But by then maybe no one will care.

"Open stock" refers to the old fashioned concept of dinnerware that could be purchased piece by piece at a department store or specialty shop.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on November 12, 2017, 12:56:45 PM
Two big bags of plastic bags/baggies went to Wal-Mart, where they have a collection bin in the lobby. I took three boxes of unloved art supplies to Volunteers of America, plus a gift I'd gotten for Xmas a couple years ago and did not want (still in its gift bag, so it's ready to go for the next giftee!). I also got rid of two turtlenecks I didn't like anymore, and a mug (I recently got a new mug from sister, so I'm using the "one in, one out" rule that A Slob Comes Clean uses in her blog).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 12, 2017, 02:55:03 PM
Tossed three old cushions that had been on outdoor furniture. I had toyed with the idea of tossing the perished covers and keeping the cushions, but when I went to remove the covers the cushions had split, so I got to throw out the lot without feeling guilty.

Not technically decluttering since it was replaced, but in keeping with the one-in, one-out rule, we got rid of my husband's old laptop backpack and bought one better suited to his needs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on November 12, 2017, 03:44:11 PM
Well, that's one way to declutter. When we closed our door today, some lumber fell in the garage and crushed a speaker we have in there. It hasn't been getting much use anyway, so we were considering donating it. That makes the choice pretty easy right there!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 12, 2017, 04:31:17 PM
I have to give away 13 bits of business merch today and it's so hard as I don't see many people on Mondays. Luckily at the last minute I'm meeting a new client and a business that might refer clients (there's probably a business word for that) and they are both going to get loaded up. Another client mentioned they really like the stuff and implied they don't want to run out so they're going to get loaded up too!

This is a real stretch goal to have set myself!! My idea for the high numbers at the end of the month is dropping some to a charity to use and to some more referring businesses if I drop by. I hate promoting so it's actually good to have another reason to go.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 13, 2017, 07:34:27 AM
Sold the food processor that hasn't been getting any use lately.  Plus I wouldn't be able to take it with me when I move anyway.  My other listings are lingering on CL but they are all low cost $10-15 sales.  If not gone by the end of the month, I will donate them.

Talking about donations, I have several bags and boxes of stuff ready to go and sitting in the garage but didn't have the energy to bring them in this weekend.  Must do it soon though as I hate a crowded garage!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 13, 2017, 11:44:54 AM
I made my first Craigslist ads ever this weekend!  Hopefully some of this stuff will sell.

This weekend we also got rid of 2 trash bags of junk, 2 bags of cloth recycling, and donated a giant box of kitchen stuff to Goodwill, as well as the wedding dress from my (failed) first marriage.  I tried to donate my second wedding dress, but current husband said no.  It is highly amusing me that he's the one more willing to hold onto sentimental items than I am, when I was always the clingy one.

We ended up with only an hour to clean the downstairs in preparation for having people over on Saturday, and it was amazingly easy!  Most of the clutter was stuff I'm trying to sell on Craigslist.  We've found homes for everything that used to sit out now that I've given away so much other stuff.  I really can't wait until we get through the rest of the house.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 13, 2017, 06:02:17 PM
A colleague read somewhere that whatever you keep in plastic storage tubs, you don't actually need.

Apparently this was groundbreaking new for my team.

"Oh my god, I've got so many of those and they're full to the brim. But you're right, I never wear what's in them."

Made me grateful for six solid years of decluttering/living with less.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 14, 2017, 05:35:42 AM
Two big bags of plastic bags/baggies went to Wal-Mart, where they have a collection bin in the lobby. I took three boxes of unloved art supplies to Volunteers of America, plus a gift I'd gotten for Xmas a couple years ago and did not want (still in its gift bag, so it's ready to go for the next giftee!). I also got rid of two turtlenecks I didn't like anymore, and a mug (I recently got a new mug from sister, so I'm using the "one in, one out" rule that A Slob Comes Clean uses in her blog).

Oh my goodness, I love that blog! And the podcast too.

I gave away a gift I wasn't going to use for a charity raffle. It was hard because I knew it was worth money and I was tempted to sell it... but the peace of mind of it going to a good cause and getting it out of my house quickly won.

Husband continues to come around to living with less. It's so amazing to me! He was just telling my brother the other day how great it is to only have things you use, and that when we move, we are going to be ruthless about what comes with us! I can't wait (though I am still decluttering in the meantime).

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 14, 2017, 05:55:10 AM
I filled the recycling bin in my office up last night.  It is really hard to throw out things that I have drawn.  Even if they are junk.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 14, 2017, 07:54:28 AM
I live in a foreign country. Currently cleaning out my basket of cook books. Many are written in Dutch and no Norwegians can read it. But I asked the Dutch cook at my job if he wanted to receive a pile of Dutch cookbooks. He said he would love to receive them.

For some of the cookbooks that I am keeping, we are just not using them enough. DH says we should look into more, because we keep making the same dishes. So I have put one of the cookbooks on the kitchen counter. My task is to find a recipe, buy the ingredients, and prepare it. And write the tasting result in the cookbook.

I took a look into one of the books I originally put in a bag to donate. And on the second recipe I found a note that said "tastes good". So I put this book back. Now I only donate the books I really don't ever use or the ones that only contain super exclusive ingredients that I don't want to spend money on. Then I will give the rest of the books another chance before deciding to donate them.

If there's just a handful of recipes in a book, copy them then donate the book. Get a binder with plastic sleeves and put them in there, or write on index cards and keep in an appropriate sized container.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheWifeHalf on November 14, 2017, 08:13:05 AM
When we get rid of stuff, I always ask myself "Could someone else find value in this?"  If the answer is yes, or even maybe, we stick it out front and it's usually gone in maybe a couple of hours at most.
One time we were getting rid of a microwave cart, we stuck it out front, and 1/2 hour later I decided I could use it for something else. It was already gone!
We had a desk, gotten from my husband's Grandma, that my daughter used for school. We stuck it out front and a guy came to our door asking if it was ok to take it. I told him yes, and he said his daughter could use it for school. I explained to him that it served my daughter well and I hoped it would do the same for his daughter. We now put 'free' signs on things.
Someone has one of those basketball hoops and stand too.

My husband made a 'desk' for this computer. It was a system of pullout 'table ledges' that pulloe out but could be pushed back in to save space. The guy that did out cabinets made a new one so my husband said to just put the old one in the trash. It was so nice I told him I bet someone could use it. Habitat for Humanity said they could so we took it there. We took a bunch of unused leftover building supplies there now that we know of this place.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 14, 2017, 03:31:42 PM
I didn't get as much done last night as I wanted, so I tackled a couple of little jobs this morning.

Went through my husband's drawer, snapped photos with my phone of any business cards that were floating around, and tossed the actual cards.

Sorted through the little first aid kit he uses for travelling.

I've always got a to-do list when it comes to decluttering but a couple of days ago I added goals, to encourage me to think about what I'm actually working towards, rather than an endless cycle of just getting rid of Stuff.

One of those goals was to free up a second shelf in the linen cupboard so I could spread out the luggage. It had been packed on one shelf but every time you went to put something away or get something out, something invariably fell out.

This morning I realised I already have the space to do that, so I rearranged a couple of things and boom, second shelf for the luggage.

It was a Pancakes and French Fries/Mrs Kendall blog post years ago that changed my thinking on all this.

Previously I had stored luggage on the top shelf of the linen cupboard, because that's where everyone keeps luggage, out of the way until you need it. Then my husband started travelling a lot for work, and after a couple of weeks of manhandling suitcases over my head, I started actually organising things in a way that best suits us. (Yep, it took me an embarrassingly long time to get to that point.)

That meant culling the linen we never used, moving the reduced amount of spare linen to a high shelf, and putting the suitcases at waist height when you open the linen cupboard.

And now it has two shelves.

This really must be thrilling for you all to read.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: plainjane on November 14, 2017, 05:55:21 PM
I took a look into one of the books I originally put in a bag to donate. And on the second recipe I found a note that said "tastes good". So I put this book back. Now I only donate the books I really don't ever use or the ones that only contain super exclusive ingredients that I don't want to spend money on. Then I will give the rest of the books another chance before deciding to donate them.

I love finding notes from myself in cookbooks. A couple of weeks ago I found a recipe from 2002 that said the SO liked the variation so much that they had thirds.

At lunch today I learned that a new co-worker makes overnight oats with chia seeds. So I asked if they would like an unopened bag that I have kicking around in my cupboard, and they said yes. So that is in my bag to go into the office tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 15, 2017, 08:00:50 AM
*snipped luggage Tetris*

This really must be thrilling for you all to read.

You say this, but it is stories like this that make someone realize than can fix their own storage woes by revisiting their default arrangements.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 15, 2017, 08:18:13 AM
*snipped luggage Tetris*

This really must be thrilling for you all to read.

You say this, but it is stories like this that make someone realize than can fix their own storage woes by revisiting their default arrangements.
It made me smile - it is nice to know I am not the only one devoting brain power to these types of problem.  And just think of all the time you saved with this optimization.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 15, 2017, 12:35:38 PM
Ack!  I'm still finding clothes in my closet that I don't love. I put two work tops and a blazer in the donate box today.  One of them I've never worn.  It looked way better in the store.  Sigh.

When I changed jobs 8 months ago I stuffed everything in my office into 3 boxes and brought them home.  I have a tiny desk now, so no room for most of it at work.  The boxes have just been sitting at home for months.  I've decided that while I wait for the kids to brush their teeth at night, I will pull at least one item out of the box and deal with it.

Last night I pulled out an intro book on project management that I got from a class in 2000.....I'm now certified in project management, with way more technical reference material.  I laughed to my husband that I've been carting this overly simplified book from job to job for 18 years; he scolded me because he's taking a project management class in college right now, and this book is a perfect study companion that he could have really used last month.  At least now he has it to study for finals!  And then we can give it away.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on November 15, 2017, 02:23:52 PM
Yay, I get to jump back into the fray. Finally took the last extra hard drive from an old computer and a kaput thumb drive to the computer recycling place.  My desk is starting to show up again!

mustachepungoeshere, I go through those kind of thought processes, too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BlueHouse on November 16, 2017, 02:40:58 PM
I just read that the average person spends 40% of their cleaning time on things they don't even use.  I'm so inspired to start getting rid of things!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on November 16, 2017, 05:43:06 PM
I thought I might have to buy a new dress since my weight has been fluctuating lately. I tried on my dress from last year and it still fits. So I'm set for the office Christmas party. I have also pulled out 2 dresses that I no longer wear to be donated. Double win.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: shadowmoss on November 17, 2017, 07:33:35 AM
I cleared out one large tote that was Christmas decorations.  Winnowed it down to a smaller tote, and my Mom gets to give away the rest.  She was obviously excited to give them to her neighbors in the senior housing.  Discovered that my Lodge wants any and all empty totes for storage.  Great motivation to clear out some more.  I'm clearing a 10' x 20' storage unit as I live in my motorhome now.  This has been a years long project, but I'm making progress I can see now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 17, 2017, 07:37:11 AM
I live in a foreign country. Currently cleaning out my basket of cook books. Many are written in Dutch and no Norwegians can read it. But I asked the Dutch cook at my job if he wanted to receive a pile of Dutch cookbooks. He said he would love to receive them.

For some of the cookbooks that I am keeping, we are just not using them enough. DH says we should look into more, because we keep making the same dishes. So I have put one of the cookbooks on the kitchen counter. My task is to find a recipe, buy the ingredients, and prepare it. And write the tasting result in the cookbook.

I took a look into one of the books I originally put in a bag to donate. And on the second recipe I found a note that said "tastes good". So I put this book back. Now I only donate the books I really don't ever use or the ones that only contain super exclusive ingredients that I don't want to spend money on. Then I will give the rest of the books another chance before deciding to donate them.

If there's just a handful of recipes in a book, copy them then donate the book. Get a binder with plastic sleeves and put them in there, or write on index cards and keep in an appropriate sized container.

That might be a good idea. I have started trying them out.
I might also just remember the combination of ingredients of the good and simple recipies and make them from memory next time, depending on what it is.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ACyclist on November 17, 2017, 08:09:25 AM
Guess I can get rid of this tail light, now.  HA!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on November 18, 2017, 01:53:03 PM
Put four pairs of shoes and some odds & ends in the donate box. This hurts a little because I had intended to try to sell two pairs of shoes that were never worn, and still in their boxes. But, since I never seemed to get around to it, I decided to just get them out of the house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 18, 2017, 02:37:51 PM
We have an office chair that recently broke. This afternoon we bought a second hand good quality replacement. Now I need to bring away the old chair that is now standing in the (hall)way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TabbyCat on November 18, 2017, 03:21:52 PM
Question for parents - what age did your kid like blocks and/or a rocking horse, or never? 2.5 yo is not at all interested in either, but I'm on the fence as to whether that means we should tuck them away for 6 months, or just donate now. Possibly relevant - we have no flashy/talking toys - just wood toys, books, a few puzzles - I try to keep the toys both minimal and open-ended.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TabbyCat on November 18, 2017, 03:29:50 PM
All good input. Our biggest category is kid stuff - clothes and toys saved for the next kid, clothes and toys handed down to us that don't fit yet. I've been whittling this down, but most of it is not in deep storage because I'm reluctant to buy totes for the garage, and the 2yo pulls stuff out of closets - it might be time to get it moved into the garage, or move beyond the simple door nob cover for keeping the kid out of things. It still isn't a huge amount (we still have less than half the toys of anyone else I know with kids and what we do have is pretty open ended, not talking toys, etc) but it needs a better solution.

I wouldn't classify clothes and toys your child has grown out of or hasn't yet grown into as items that spark joy - they're just necessities. And that's ok.

In that case, you might get something from reading some of what Rachel Jonat (The Minimalist Mom) has written on the subject.

She has three children but is not a big believer in stockpiling clothes for future kids because you can't predict sex, sizing or seasons, so what you keep might never get worn.

She is also a big proponent of minimalist wardrobes, even for children.

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2011/09/paring-down-for-fall-toddler-clothes/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2015/04/bye-bye-baby-stuff-2/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2016/01/week-4-kid-clothes/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2012/06/childwardrobe/

Good stuff, thank you! I think I'll haul the three totes of baby stuff and clothes in from the garage today and try to cut it in half. I do want to save stuff for the next kid but we don't need ALL of it. I think with the next kid it will become clear what's worth saving vs. just planning to buy again later to a degree, but since we didn't find out gender in advance the baby stuff is 50/50 girl/boy (people still bought clothes even not knowing). At this point the toddler grows so slowly she wears out all her cloths and the only things that get saved for later are bigger items like snow pants and nice coats. Also, we live in a climate where you can pretty much have the same wardrobe for 75% of the year and you just don't use the heavy winter coat for all of that - ha! So if the next kid is born in the opposite season we'd still make use and only need to buy a handful of summer things in whatever size was needed for those few months.

Edit to add - I just bookmarked this blog after readying a few entries - thanks! As you can see, I am often torn between wanting to be minimalist and HATING buying something again that I had donated in the past which makes it hard not to stockpile. Still looking for the happy medium.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 18, 2017, 03:36:07 PM
We had 10-15 stress ball type promotional objects (shaped like lightbulbs, frogs etc from various companies). They are all GONE!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 18, 2017, 04:32:15 PM
All good input. Our biggest category is kid stuff - clothes and toys saved for the next kid, clothes and toys handed down to us that don't fit yet. I've been whittling this down, but most of it is not in deep storage because I'm reluctant to buy totes for the garage, and the 2yo pulls stuff out of closets - it might be time to get it moved into the garage, or move beyond the simple door nob cover for keeping the kid out of things. It still isn't a huge amount (we still have less than half the toys of anyone else I know with kids and what we do have is pretty open ended, not talking toys, etc) but it needs a better solution.

I wouldn't classify clothes and toys your child has grown out of or hasn't yet grown into as items that spark joy - they're just necessities. And that's ok.

In that case, you might get something from reading some of what Rachel Jonat (The Minimalist Mom) has written on the subject.

She has three children but is not a big believer in stockpiling clothes for future kids because you can't predict sex, sizing or seasons, so what you keep might never get worn.

She is also a big proponent of minimalist wardrobes, even for children.

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2011/09/paring-down-for-fall-toddler-clothes/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2015/04/bye-bye-baby-stuff-2/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2016/01/week-4-kid-clothes/

http://www.theminimalistmom.com/2012/06/childwardrobe/

Good stuff, thank you! I think I'll haul the three totes of baby stuff and clothes in from the garage today and try to cut it in half. I do want to save stuff for the next kid but we don't need ALL of it. I think with the next kid it will become clear what's worth saving vs. just planning to buy again later to a degree, but since we didn't find out gender in advance the baby stuff is 50/50 girl/boy (people still bought clothes even not knowing). At this point the toddler grows so slowly she wears out all her cloths and the only things that get saved for later are bigger items like snow pants and nice coats. Also, we live in a climate where you can pretty much have the same wardrobe for 75% of the year and you just don't use the heavy winter coat for all of that - ha! So if the next kid is born in the opposite season we'd still make use and only need to buy a handful of summer things in whatever size was needed for those few months.

Edit to add - I just bookmarked this blog after readying a few entries - thanks! As you can see, I am often torn between wanting to be minimalist and HATING buying something again that I had donated in the past which makes it hard not to stockpile. Still looking for the happy medium.

Glad you find it useful.

I don't have kids but I've followed Rachel's blog for years and always get a lot out of it. I've also given a couple of copies of her book The Minimalist Mom's Guide to Baby's First Year as baby shower gifts to friends who I think can still be saved. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 18, 2017, 04:38:03 PM
I have a ceramic pot from the last time someone sent me flowers.

I don't need it but it would be a waste just to throw it out, so I'm going to ask the local florist if she can re-use it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 18, 2017, 04:46:33 PM
We had 10-15 stress ball type promotional objects (shaped like lightbulbs, frogs etc from various companies). They are all GONE!

I don't know anyone that actually uses those things! They make me stressed not less stressed because I have a hand injury and they remind me I have no strength, ha ha. I have used them in the past for dog toys (my dog is small and a light chewer and doesn't swallow bits).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 18, 2017, 08:57:58 PM
Did musical rooms today, my parents are coming for Thanksgiving so I need the spare bedroom for them, not the cat's litterbox. In the process, did a bunch of cleaning and started some house repair (scraping bubbled paint off the wall. Leak is fixed though). While doing all that, I gathered up the pile of stuff to go away and got it ready to take to the drop off.

I also got the Ikea boxes out of the living room. I bought a dresser to use for sheets/towel storage as I don't have a linen closet, but since I knew I'd be doing all this stuff, I wanted to wait until after I'd done the cleaning to put the boxes in that room. I've been lazy and haven't put it together, but I figure that my dad may be able to help with that. I'm capable, but it makes him feel good to be needed, and I think he's still able to do this (dementia sucks).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 18, 2017, 09:01:10 PM
I have a ceramic pot from the last time someone sent me flowers.

I don't need it but it would be a waste just to throw it out, so I'm going to ask the local florist if she can re-use it.

I took the pot with me when I walked to the shops to buy groceries, and the florist was happy to take it.

Win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on November 18, 2017, 09:47:45 PM
Yay mustachepungoeshere!

We had 10-15 stress ball type promotional objects (shaped like lightbulbs, frogs etc from various companies). They are all GONE!

I don't know anyone that actually uses those things!

We do! Or rather, the cat does. She has 4 or 5 of them and she plays soccer with them. She's very good at dribbling them at extreme speed from one room to another. I haven't seen any for a few days so I assume they're all under the couches and spare bed. I would totally take spares for kitty.



Yesterday when I was looking up the modular mates in the Tupperware catalogue I suddenly realised I was over the cereal container/dispenser thingy that I store my All-bran in because it always goes stale and bleah before I finish the packet (and I eat it nearly everyday). So I found a spare large Tupperware container that wasn't being used and repurposed it as my cereal holder (actual Tupperware, not generic plasticware). Yay! Old cereal container that I bought cheaply when I was first setting up my own place when I'd just left the ex is now in the donate pile.

I've also decided to take unopened sachets of cup-a-soup and sugar-free jelly to work and hopefully someone will take it home.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 18, 2017, 09:54:17 PM
Question for parents - what age did your kid like blocks and/or a rocking horse, or never? 2.5 yo is not at all interested in either, but I'm on the fence as to whether that means we should tuck them away for 6 months, or just donate now. Possibly relevant - we have no flashy/talking toys - just wood toys, books, a few puzzles - I try to keep the toys both minimal and open-ended.

I can only answer this as a former child (haha), but my siblings and I were using a rocking horse until we were told we were too big for it, and the blocks were in use for many years to build houses for dolls, Lego guys, and stuffed animals.

You might try the parenting section of the forum for more opinions, if no one else answers here.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TabbyCat on November 19, 2017, 09:29:17 AM
Question for parents - what age did your kid like blocks and/or a rocking horse, or never? 2.5 yo is not at all interested in either, but I'm on the fence as to whether that means we should tuck them away for 6 months, or just donate now. Possibly relevant - we have no flashy/talking toys - just wood toys, books, a few puzzles - I try to keep the toys both minimal and open-ended.

I can only answer this as a former child (haha), but my siblings and I were using a rocking horse until we were told we were too big for it, and the blocks were in use for many years to build houses for dolls, Lego guys, and stuffed animals.

You might try the parenting section of the forum for more opinions, if no one else answers here.

Thanks. It's tempting to ditch all the toys she isn't going for right now but after sleeping on it I feel like we should keep these and just hide them for a few months while she grows into them, since they are simple classics.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 19, 2017, 07:13:43 PM
Two cars are parked in the garage.  Hubs went inside at 12 noon after a couple hours of putting away furniture, summer tires and sorting through another load for the dump and loading the car trunk for donating.  I went into stealth mode while he ate lunch and increased the load for the dump.  He left for three hours and when he returned DS and I had finished clearing out the garage and I had (more impressively) backed the van into the van side of the garage so that he could pull into the car side.  He was all "how did you do that".  I also put away a ton of stuff on the porch.
A whole load of old garden pots are ready for dropping off at the nursery that will reuse them.  All the broken hoses and old feedbags are sorted.  Another load of old sports equipment is ready for donation
And I made 50 bucks selling too small winter clothing. 
My house is looking better and better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 20, 2017, 07:31:01 AM
Finally got the pile of stuff that was sitting and waiting in the garage to Goodwill.  There was a comforter and some decorative pillows, a large bag of clothes, several pairs of shoes, a set of glasses, some unused kitchen gadgets and a bag of random things.  What a relief to get this all out of the house. 

I also cleaned out the cabinet under the kitchen sink and tossed a couple of empty soap containers. 

After a couple of years of decluttering, I am really enjoying the vastly emptier and simplified house.  Cleaning is a breeze now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: DS on November 20, 2017, 07:54:16 AM
Popped open another trash bag to leave by closet. Slowly add to it as I realize things aren't being worn until it fills, then take to charity-based thrift store. Boom!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on November 20, 2017, 05:23:26 PM
Gave away a bag of beads to a friend who is on a crafting kick.

Put some old scrapwood to good use this weekend and cleared out the chicken supply storage, which I suppose counts as decluttering.

I have a small box of things to be donated, but think I've almost reached decluttering equilibrium; I just don't have the big boxes of stuff to clear out like in years past, which means less money is being wasted on crap I didn't need or really want.  Win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 20, 2017, 05:35:16 PM
I have a small box of things to be donated, but think I've almost reached decluttering equilibrium; I just don't have the big boxes of stuff to clear out like in years past, which means less money is being wasted on crap I didn't need or really want.  Win!

I love this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ADV_CJ on November 21, 2017, 06:29:04 AM
Cleaned out two junk drawers in the kitchen.  50 items in total went in the trash.  Threw away numerous items in the garage that was just laying around, taking up space.  Decided to go digital on my media (movies/video games) and sold 17 video games for $200. 

67+ items gone = $200 in my pocket
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 21, 2017, 07:25:13 AM
Cleaning out the garage - mostly reorganizing as opposed to "getting rid of", but I did get rid of the following: broken snow blower, broken yard trimmer, hovercraft (yes, hovercraft), 3 sets of kids' golf clubs (well these are in my trunk to be given to a cousin at Thanksgiving), charcoal briquettes (we have gas grills now), and cleaning products (donated to cleaners). 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on November 21, 2017, 08:53:02 AM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 21, 2017, 11:58:52 AM
Husband and I are almost done decluttering our bedroom.  As part of this, the treadmill went away yesterday!  One of my neighbors was absolutely thrilled when I gave it to him for free.  My mom had passed it down to me for free 10 years ago, and I used it heavily for years.  My exercise habits have changed, and I'm just glad it will be used now.  That, and it's out of my house.

We've rearranged the other furniture and repainted the accent wall to a color we both like.  The room feel so much more spacious now, and now when I walk in I feel soothed and not assaulted with clutter and crappy colors.  We still have a few small projects to finish in the room, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

For this room anyway.  The rest of the house is in varying stages of decluttering/reorganizing.

My plan for Black Friday is to get rid of stuff instead of bringing more into my house.  I have another trunkload for Goodwill, a big bag for the recycle center, and a big basket of craft supplies I'm hoping the elementary school art teacher will take.  It doesn't seem to matter how much stuff I get rid of - within a week there's always another huge box full of crap I don't want in my house anymore.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on November 21, 2017, 12:37:06 PM
A charity was asking for kitchen stuff, towels, blankets and warm jackets to help set up people in housing. Just when I think I have nothing left to get rid of I search and found a big box of stuff to donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: theadvicist on November 22, 2017, 08:42:42 AM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

Love this. When I started clicking unsubscribe I couldn’t believe how quick and easy most websites make it. I thought it would be arduous but in the time it would take me to delete the email I stopped the flow forever. I can attest my inbox is so much easier to manage now. Keep at it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on November 22, 2017, 09:47:40 AM
I tossed a broken can opener I found in the cupboard while cleaning the kitchen. I composted a bag of unshelled peanuts my wife got from a coworker who I'm guessing couldn't bear to throw them away herself. They have been sitting on top of our refrigerator since last year. I also composted a box of gluten free crackers my wife opened then never finished because they didn't taste very good. The top of the refrigerator is now nice and clean.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 22, 2017, 10:04:02 AM
Daughter is coming home for the weekend and we're planning to go through the remainder of her things in the closet in her room (I will ask her to bring the things she wants to keep to her dad's house where she has a room with a closet).  The goal is an empty closet at the end of the weekend :-) I also want to go through books and some miscellaneous things with her - there's not much left of it so it won't take long.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 22, 2017, 02:40:46 PM
Cleaning out the garage - mostly reorganizing as opposed to "getting rid of", but I did get rid of the following: broken snow blower, broken yard trimmer, hovercraft (yes, hovercraft), 3 sets of kids' golf clubs (well these are in my trunk to be given to a cousin at Thanksgiving), charcoal briquettes (we have gas grills now), and cleaning products (donated to cleaners). 

Cleaned out two junk drawers in the kitchen.  50 items in total went in the trash.  Threw away numerous items in the garage that was just laying around, taking up space.  Decided to go digital on my media (movies/video games) and sold 17 video games for $200. 

67+ items gone = $200 in my pocket

You two are killing it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 22, 2017, 02:43:45 PM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

I'm doing this with my team's generic email at work (think info@company.com.au).

We get ungodly amounts of marketing rubbish and spam, and I'm the only one who blocks spammers or unsubscribes from mailing lists.

Colleagues: But it takes longer.

It takes a second longer, and it saves us all time in the long run!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on November 22, 2017, 03:19:23 PM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

I'm doing this with my team's generic email at work (think info@company.com.au).

We get ungodly amounts of marketing rubbish and spam, and I'm the only one who blocks spammers or unsubscribes from mailing lists.

Colleagues: But it takes longer.

It takes a second longer, and it saves us all time in the long run!

It's helped a lot. It usually comes from websites I have purchased things from in the past.

I just wish I could do that with the physical junk mail I get. Junk mail is a waste of time, paper, and the energy used to print and transport it. The vast majority of I get goes directly in to the recycling bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 22, 2017, 03:35:00 PM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

I'm doing this with my team's generic email at work (think info@company.com.au).

We get ungodly amounts of marketing rubbish and spam, and I'm the only one who blocks spammers or unsubscribes from mailing lists.

Colleagues: But it takes longer.

It takes a second longer, and it saves us all time in the long run!

It's helped a lot. It usually comes from websites I have purchased things from in the past.

I just wish I could do that with the physical junk mail I get. Junk mail is a waste of time, paper, and the energy used to print and transport it. The vast majority of I get goes directly in to the recycling bin.
Actually, there is way to reduce it. Someone recommended it a while ago but I don't remember the website now.  I'll look for it.  My junk mail got reduced by over 50%.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 22, 2017, 08:25:26 PM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

I'm doing this with my team's generic email at work (think info@company.com.au).

We get ungodly amounts of marketing rubbish and spam, and I'm the only one who blocks spammers or unsubscribes from mailing lists.

Colleagues: But it takes longer.

It takes a second longer, and it saves us all time in the long run!

It's helped a lot. It usually comes from websites I have purchased things from in the past.

I just wish I could do that with the physical junk mail I get. Junk mail is a waste of time, paper, and the energy used to print and transport it. The vast majority of I get goes directly in to the recycling bin.
Actually, there is way to reduce it. Someone recommended it a while ago but I don't remember the website now.  I'll look for it.  My junk mail got reduced by over 50%.
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 2microsNH on November 23, 2017, 04:36:05 AM
I just sold my 12-year-old snow tires (great condition) for $200, and this weekend I'm going to post a bunch of old cycling stuff that's in great condition, but which I don't use anymore. I'm really paring down and I love the simplicity.

I recently encountered this quote by Socrates: "How many things there are that I don't want." Indeed.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 23, 2017, 04:57:37 AM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

I'm doing this with my team's generic email at work (think info@company.com.au).

We get ungodly amounts of marketing rubbish and spam, and I'm the only one who blocks spammers or unsubscribes from mailing lists.

Colleagues: But it takes longer.

It takes a second longer, and it saves us all time in the long run!

It's helped a lot. It usually comes from websites I have purchased things from in the past.

I just wish I could do that with the physical junk mail I get. Junk mail is a waste of time, paper, and the energy used to print and transport it. The vast majority of I get goes directly in to the recycling bin.
Found the thread.  I used the recommended links and my junk mail went down significantly. https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/share-your-badassity/receiving-(almost)-no-junk-mail/msg591429/#msg591429
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on November 23, 2017, 05:01:20 AM
I've been working on unsubscribing from marketing emails. I spend way too much of my day deleting them on my phone as they arrive.

I'm doing this with my team's generic email at work (think info@company.com.au).

We get ungodly amounts of marketing rubbish and spam, and I'm the only one who blocks spammers or unsubscribes from mailing lists.

Colleagues: But it takes longer.

It takes a second longer, and it saves us all time in the long run!

It's helped a lot. It usually comes from websites I have purchased things from in the past.

I just wish I could do that with the physical junk mail I get. Junk mail is a waste of time, paper, and the energy used to print and transport it. The vast majority of I get goes directly in to the recycling bin.
Found the thread.  I used the recommended links and my junk mail went down significantly. https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/share-your-badassity/receiving-(almost)-no-junk-mail/msg591429/#msg591429

Thanks ZiziPB! I'll look into that. We do a pretty good job recycling what we can, but it would be much better to just not get it to begin with. It boggles my mind how much stuff in the world gets produced just to be thrown away pretty much immediately.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 23, 2017, 05:50:15 AM
I have been calling the addressee on the addressed ad mail and for the most part that has worked well - except for Rogers.  Now instead of my name or the previous homeowners name, the junk mail is addressed to 'Resident'.
But all the others have stopped.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 23, 2017, 02:22:32 PM
Do you all think youth biking accessories (new) and snow shoes (with tags youth size) would qualify for "Toys for Tots"?  Otherwise I'll donate them to the local middle school....We always seem to receive triplicates of things because of having 3 kids, but 1 or 2 are all we use at a time so one stays "new" until it's too late to use them.  Kids school is having a toy drive, and work is also having a toy drive. I see snow shoes and bike gear as big kid toys, but maybe I'm just scroogey....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 23, 2017, 03:55:55 PM
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.

What is this "buy" thing you speak of? :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 23, 2017, 04:03:21 PM
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.

What is this "buy" thing you speak of? :D
Or make? I don't generally see them going for free! And I don't have the stuff to make one. And I can't just write on the letterbox (renting)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 23, 2017, 04:11:51 PM
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.

What is this "buy" thing you speak of? :D
Or make? I don't generally see them going for free! And I don't have the stuff to make one. And I can't just write on the letterbox (renting)

I'm just taking the piss. ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 23, 2017, 04:41:24 PM
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.

What is this "buy" thing you speak of? :D
Or make? I don't generally see them going for free! And I don't have the stuff to make one. And I can't just write on the letterbox (renting)

I'm just taking the piss. ;)
Haha oh whoops! I was thinking "what magic source do they have that I don't? Must know!"
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 23, 2017, 08:07:48 PM
I knew husband was getting low on aftershave so I mentioned it to family who asked about a Christmas present for him.

Husband then dramatically announced yesterday that he had run out of aftershave (expecting, what, me to rush out at 6am and buy more? I don't know.)

I wordlessly pointed him at the plastic tub of spare toiletries, including more than a dozen Bvlgari mini aftershave bottles that will more than tide him over till Christmas.

He was fascinated by the tub. "Hey, there's some great stuff in here!"

How many times have I mentioned triaging what goes in that tub, and he apparently had no clue it existed. >.<

Anyway, that's a roundabout way of saying the aftershave collection will be decluttered naturally.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Plina on November 24, 2017, 11:31:40 AM
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.

What is this "buy" thing you speak of? :D
Or make? I don't generally see them going for free! And I don't have the stuff to make one. And I can't just write on the letterbox (renting)

Paper were you write ”no junk mail” and tape that you use to cover the paper works fine. You can take it away when you move.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on November 24, 2017, 04:35:26 PM
Here I can just buy a "no junk mail" sign and stick it on my letterbox.

What is this "buy" thing you speak of? :D
Or make? I don't generally see them going for free! And I don't have the stuff to make one. And I can't just write on the letterbox (renting)

Paper were you write ”no junk mail” and tape that you use to cover the paper works fine. You can take it away when you move.
There is magic! Brilliant, I'll be doing this.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zikoris on November 24, 2017, 06:58:20 PM
Man, in Canada you just need to put a red dot sticker inside your box, and boom, no junk except for political stuff. And my apartment building ha a recycle bin right under the mailboxes for the political stuff anyways. It would seriously piss me off having to deal with junk mail on a regular basis.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mc6 on November 24, 2017, 08:32:10 PM
I donated 5 bags of clothing and linens to my favorite charity thrift shop today.  As I was leaving I saw the volunteers holding up my Harris Tweed mini skirts of 2005 to price.  Sure hope some fashionable lady enjoys them as much as I did. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on November 25, 2017, 10:04:14 AM
-Sold a bike the kids had outgrown for $50. (Bonus, kids did all of the work prepping it, washing it, & taking pictures. They are then splitting the $50 towards Christmas gifts they would like to give.)
-Cleaned our hall closet. Found lots of junk to get rid of. But, best part is that I found three pieces of hardware from work. All of these are assigned to me via asset tags, so I need to turn them in. I'm considering it part of my pre-FIRE prep. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 25, 2017, 12:48:03 PM
I spoke with my friend who works with a clothing closet and she would love to have my expensive not fitting practically new bras.  She said FOR sure.  They are always needed because they are not often donated and rarer still, in new condition. 
I can drop them off at her house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 26, 2017, 07:37:06 AM
We have an office chair that recently broke. This afternoon we bought a second hand good quality replacement. Now I need to bring away the old chair that is now standing in the (hall)way.

I had a very tiresome and long working day week last week and did not have the energy to bring it away. I will do it this coming week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on November 26, 2017, 09:39:22 AM
Went through the kids rooms & got rid of a bunch of junk, paper, stuffed animals (donated) & cleaned & organized. So much easier to find everything! And, now I don't cringe when I walk into their rooms. Win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gaja on November 26, 2017, 12:09:05 PM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 26, 2017, 12:24:36 PM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Oh no! I hope you can find them, undamaged.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 26, 2017, 12:28:01 PM
I think digital clutter counts, right? Saw something online about decluttering old social media posts so I decided to take a look at Facebook. Holy cow, there's a lot of old stuff there. I'm taking a lazy day, so working that.

Also piled more stuff up for donation, and have 3 light fixtures to sell on ebay once I get boxes for them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on November 26, 2017, 01:21:57 PM
Two more trash bags of stuff to goodwill. A couple of items that I hesitated to donate -- maybe should have thrown away. How do you decide if it's "nice enough" to donate? Part of me thinks it's better that Goodwill makes that decision...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on November 26, 2017, 01:42:04 PM
Two more trash bags of stuff to goodwill. A couple of items that I hesitated to donate -- maybe should have thrown away. How do you decide if it's "nice enough" to donate? Part of me thinks it's better that Goodwill makes that decision...

I agree that Goodwill should decide... I think many clothing items get cut into rags if they’re not salable. Conversely, something you think is garbage might be just what someone is looking for.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on November 26, 2017, 05:14:01 PM
I gave away a giant solid wood china cabinet. It was beautiful, but there is literally no where in the house where it works. It served me well and someone else will enjoy it. Now there is so much more space in the office, and we can replace it with something that provides more functional storage.

We moved everything else out so I could paint the room. Now my husband is going through piles of his stuff to weed out broken electronics,  useless papers, and other accumulated crapola. AOL floppy disks anyone?  Boxes of empty boxes? Takeout menus from restaurants in a town we moved away from 13 years ago? I am so pleased with him.

Seven cans of dried-out paint into the trash also. Some of it is from the previous owner's paint job in 2003. I can't believe we have so much of this shit.

And another box of clothes I just don't want anymore.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 26, 2017, 05:40:19 PM
I managed to lose an entire box of bubble wrap at the church sale this weekend at the Treasure table , as well as some random odds and sods. 
The basement storage continues to get trimmed down.  A bunch of stuff has slowly left our bedroom as my hubs figured out alternate storage for it. 
I am really looking forward to pulling out all the Christmas stuff and just not putting it all back away at the end of the holiday.  Anything broken or no longer our taste will not make it back into the two boxes total that I am allowing.
We now have at least 5 empty tote bins in the garage.  I am thinking of repurposing them as planter bins in the greenhouse.
All this paring down is actually starting to be noticeable when I go to clean the house.  It is so nice to open a cupboard and not have the contents spill out onto the floor or have a space to put the object in my hand away into.
 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on November 26, 2017, 07:32:07 PM
Finally got around to dropping off three bags to charity, have three more to go.

Then proceeded to have dinner with a friend who gave me two bags of new clothes, including a heap of running gear. She went on a big shopping spree for when she reached her goal weight then never reached it.

She wouldn't let me pay so I'm doing some graphic design work for her.

So got rid of stuff I won't use, brought home stuff I will use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 27, 2017, 04:26:48 AM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Check coat pockets, trouser pockets, her bed and her school bag, if you didn't do that already. I hope you'll find them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 27, 2017, 05:04:27 AM
It was a good weekend for decluttering:
- Daughter went through her closet and decided which items to keep (I will bring them to her dad's house) and which items to get rid of (several clothing items that can be consigned)
- I sold an orbital sander that has been lingering on CL for almost a year
- Daughter and I looked through books - she wants to keep 5, which means I can get rid of almost everything else
- I gave a box of CDs I no longer wanted to my ex

On the other hand, we were shopping with Daughter for her birthday presents and I got sucked into buying some things for myself which I really don't need.  After bringing them home, I think I will return most of them.  I will keep a white shirt I bought, though, because it fits perfectly and I've been looking for one for a few months now...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on November 27, 2017, 06:52:56 AM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Check coat pockets, trouser pockets, her bed and her school bag, if you didn't do that already. I hope you'll find them.
also lift couch/sofa cushions completely off so that you can find tiny things.  We had paid for the replacement library book and then when we moved it was found behind the cushions when the movers bagged them up before loading the couch onto the truck.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 27, 2017, 12:59:33 PM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Check coat pockets, trouser pockets, her bed and her school bag, if you didn't do that already. I hope you'll find them.

Also - if she has a lunch box, check the zippers on the side.  Oh - and check between the mattress and the box spring and under the top rail of the bed headboard if you haven't already (and between couch cushions).  We've found ear things in all those locations for grandma in the past.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 27, 2017, 01:06:46 PM
While I was cooking yesterday an innocuous kitchen utensil in the drawer was fairly screaming "ha ha, I don't belong here".  I ushered it straight to the giveaway box.  I was highly amused at the magic of the KonMari method.

Over the weekend, I delivered a trunkful of stuff to Goodwill, mailed a big box of work clothes to Dress for Success, and completed my first Craigslist sale - 2 pots!  My house is still a mess with stuff we're trying to sell; if it isn't gone by the week before Christmas, I'm giving it all away.

Decluttering has slowed, however.  My husband is not on board with getting rid of almost anything that he might consider useful one day.  He thinks that because we have tons of space, it's okay to keep it all.  He has big plans to build better storage systems....and doesn't seem to hear me when I talk about cleaning out rather than organizing. 

For now, I'm going to keep focusing on my stuff and the children's rooms.  That should keep me busy for a few weeks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gaja on November 27, 2017, 01:42:37 PM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Check coat pockets, trouser pockets, her bed and her school bag, if you didn't do that already. I hope you'll find them.
also lift couch/sofa cushions completely off so that you can find tiny things.  We had paid for the replacement library book and then when we moved it was found behind the cushions when the movers bagged them up before loading the couch onto the truck.

Also - if she has a lunch box, check the zippers on the side.  Oh - and check between the mattress and the box spring and under the top rail of the bed headboard if you haven't already (and between couch cushions).  We've found ear things in all those locations for grandma in the past.

Thank you all! We have been through all coat pockets of everyone in the family, and think we've been through all her other pockets. All beds have been checked thoroughly, including removing and shaking the matresses, and pulling the bed out from the wall. One sofa has been completely taken apart, will do the other one soon. No lunch boxes with zippers, but we could probably go through her school bag again.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 27, 2017, 02:40:00 PM
While I was cooking yesterday an innocuous kitchen utensil in the drawer was fairly screaming "ha ha, I don't belong here".  I ushered it straight to the giveaway box.  I was highly amused at the magic of the KonMari method.

Over the weekend, I delivered a trunkful of stuff to Goodwill, mailed a big box of work clothes to Dress for Success, and completed my first Craigslist sale - 2 pots!  My house is still a mess with stuff we're trying to sell; if it isn't gone by the week before Christmas, I'm giving it all away.

Decluttering has slowed, however.  My husband is not on board with getting rid of almost anything that he might consider useful one day.  He thinks that because we have tons of space, it's okay to keep it all.  He has big plans to build better storage systems....and doesn't seem to hear me when I talk about cleaning out rather than organizing. 

For now, I'm going to keep focusing on my stuff and the children's rooms.  That should keep me busy for a few weeks.

It comes up periodically that someone starts and the spouse isn't on board. But after a while, the benefits of having less stuff start showing themselves, and the spouse starts participating. So don't give up hope. Just work on what you can.

Also, feel free to start passing horror stories on about people you know who are stuck cleaning out relative's homes after they've passed. It isn't fun.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 27, 2017, 02:51:28 PM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Check coat pockets, trouser pockets, her bed and her school bag, if you didn't do that already. I hope you'll find them.
also lift couch/sofa cushions completely off so that you can find tiny things.  We had paid for the replacement library book and then when we moved it was found behind the cushions when the movers bagged them up before loading the couch onto the truck.

Also - if she has a lunch box, check the zippers on the side.  Oh - and check between the mattress and the box spring and under the top rail of the bed headboard if you haven't already (and between couch cushions).  We've found ear things in all those locations for grandma in the past.

Thank you all! We have been through all coat pockets of everyone in the family, and think we've been through all her other pockets. All beds have been checked thoroughly, including removing and shaking the matresses, and pulling the bed out from the wall. One sofa has been completely taken apart, will do the other one soon. No lunch boxes with zippers, but we could probably go through her school bag again.
Does she have a locker at school?  Could she have left them there or any other place at school?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marion10 on November 27, 2017, 04:23:09 PM
On the hearing aids- if they are fairly new- they may still be covered under a warranty that includes replacement. Or you might be able to file under your home owners insurance.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on November 27, 2017, 05:45:07 PM
On the hearing aids.  Check inside all shoes. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on November 27, 2017, 05:56:41 PM
Two more trash bags of stuff to goodwill. A couple of items that I hesitated to donate -- maybe should have thrown away. How do you decide if it's "nice enough" to donate? Part of me thinks it's better that Goodwill makes that decision...

I agree that Goodwill should decide... I think many clothing items get cut into rags if they’re not salable. Conversely, something you think is garbage might be just what someone is looking for.

After reading your post, I feel better about my donation.  The fewer decisions I have to make when I declutter the better!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on November 27, 2017, 06:15:28 PM
I sold five items on eBay. Probably going to make about $8, so definitely not worth the time, but happy to get them cleared out!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on November 27, 2017, 06:19:47 PM
Gaja,  You remind me of when DD lost her retainer when we went swimming at the pool.   (She wrapped it in tissue for some awful reason, put it in her locker or left on the bench).  And then told me she must have thrown it into the garbage.  Do you know what sorts of things get thrown into the ladies garbage at a swimming pool change room / washroom?  Yeah.  I got to dig through 2 large bags of that.  Nothing found.  Then DD found her retainer at home... in the retainer case. 

My best wishes are with you.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on November 27, 2017, 06:25:42 PM
We have a few ceramic plant pots stored in various locations the house. Too small for any plants we currently have but DH isn't keen to get rid. Had a brilliant idea to turn them into xmas gifts - potted indoor succulents. I already have the plants & cactus potting mix, just need a couple of handfuls of white gravel.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on November 27, 2017, 06:48:21 PM
DD got new fancy tiny hearing aids, and promptly lost them. So far we have decluttered her room, the car, my office, large parts of the living room, and her sister's room in an effort to find them. You don't notice all the tiny stoff in drawers and boxes, until you have to look through everything in the search for small expensive things. We have thrown away sooo much junk. Much of it is tiny junk, but it all adds up.

The hearing aids are so fancy that they even have an app with a "find me" function, but we found out the hard way that it doesn't work when they are turned off.

Aaauugh...  I'm sure you've tried everywhere, but have her check her lockers (normal and gym) at school, school lost-and-found, and the cars of any family friends that have given her rides.  Check any air-return vents in the floor, especially if you have pets.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on November 28, 2017, 02:02:12 AM
Yesterday afternoon I brought away our broken office chair that was occupying the hall way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on November 28, 2017, 11:00:43 AM
Two huge box forts removed from the basement - 4X7 and 3X6....They'd been there since September.  The kid that built them is 15.....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on November 28, 2017, 11:52:57 AM
My spare bed is gone - mattress, box spring and metal frame.  Best is that it is going to a friend's daughter, so the friend can sleep over at her daughter's when the drive home is too nasty.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on November 28, 2017, 01:17:30 PM
The carpet cleaners came yesterday.  We have one giant family room that is just filled with plastic bins full of crap.  While I couldn't get much out (wife takes months to let go of a broken toy from when the kids were 3....youngest is 17), the wife looks at the guitar amp that's pretty much been an end table for the last year and asks me "do you use that anymore?".  I thought about it and since I quit the band 3 years ago, I think the only thing it's been used for was to demo guitars to craigslisters who came to buy.  So yah, that can go.  Into craigslist and I have a guy on the hook and hope to unload it Saturday.

Although they don't take much room, I've started selling off my silver coins.  It's all circulated US silver so just scrap value.  It'll bring in some good money and I will solidify my knowledge not to hold precious metals thinking it'll go up.  Taking maybe a 30% loss on it but I expect nothing going forward and my equities have done really well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on November 29, 2017, 10:21:07 AM
Found a FitBit outside of our office a couple of weeks ago. Tucked it in the pocket of my rain coat, & promptly forgot all about it. Brought it to work today & made the trek to the lost & found. Hopefully it will be reunited with its owner!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on November 29, 2017, 01:22:41 PM
Brought another batch of things to consignment and collected a check for $67 for prior sales.  I also completed the returns of a few items I purchased but decided I didn't need or like enough to keep.

Have a couple of people interested in a small propane tank I listed on CL.  Other CL listed items are not getting any bites so I will be donating or giving them away for free next week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on November 29, 2017, 01:40:36 PM
Started working through the paperwork in my study.  Threw out about a dustbin's worth, and at the same time put a lot of what I need to keep in good order.  There's work ahead still, but it's feeling good so far.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on November 29, 2017, 02:58:54 PM
I've been thinking for weeks of what to get rid of and I'm still at a loss. I moved so many times in the past year and a half that I naturally dumped a lot of stuff (such as decorations that were fragile/difficult to transport). I can think of maybe a handful of things, like 3-4 books, a cast iron skillet because my FMIL gave me two instead of one, some excess bike accessories that got replaced with better versions, and MAYBE some clothes but I already have very little compared to most.

I guess it's a good problem to have or I just need to step up my criteria. Does anyone have a list of things to declutter for inspiration (I seem to remember a list of 100 things to declutter online somewhere) or tips towards the final stages of decluttering? I have bought a decent amount of new things in the last year since moving into my first apartment post college graduation, some of which I may not have necessarily needed (e.g. oil and vinegar bottles). Those things are the hardest for me to get rid of mentally but I've still done it several times. It's so difficult to get rid of something you bought less than six months ago! But on the bright side, I learned what I really needed and what I didn't. It seems like a lot of y'all have really old things to declutter from a house you have lived in for years, which is a different challenge in itself.

I think part of this itch to minimize further is because I'm considering applying to jobs in other states and I have no idea how I'm going to move all this stuff plus two cats that hate each other in my tiny coupe. Without paying a moving company, of course.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on November 29, 2017, 03:44:57 PM
Posted a nearly full bottle of water additive for dogs (to help with oral health) on kijiji that my dogs decided they no longer liked. It’s about $25/bottle but I wanted it gone so put up for free. Someone is (supposed to be) picking it up in a couple of hours. Sometimes kijiji people are very flaky...

Currently going through a small bin of stuff that has replaced the junk drawer (cleaned out junk drawer last year and stupidly left this junk collector on the counter “to deal with”). Some just needs to be put away; the rest needs to be tossed. I hate all this random crap. Getting a jump start on my 2018 goal of further decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on November 29, 2017, 10:17:25 PM
I've been thinking for weeks of what to get rid of and I'm still at a loss. I moved so many times in the past year and a half that I naturally dumped a lot of stuff (such as decorations that were fragile/difficult to transport). I can think of maybe a handful of things, like 3-4 books, a cast iron skillet because my FMIL gave me two instead of one, some excess bike accessories that got replaced with better versions, and MAYBE some clothes but I already have very little compared to most.

I guess it's a good problem to have or I just need to step up my criteria. Does anyone have a list of things to declutter for inspiration (I seem to remember a list of 100 things to declutter online somewhere) or tips towards the final stages of decluttering? I have bought a decent amount of new things in the last year since moving into my first apartment post college graduation, some of which I may not have necessarily needed (e.g. oil and vinegar bottles). Those things are the hardest for me to get rid of mentally but I've still done it several times. It's so difficult to get rid of something you bought less than six months ago! But on the bright side, I learned what I really needed and what I didn't. It seems like a lot of y'all have really old things to declutter from a house you have lived in for years, which is a different challenge in itself.

I think part of this itch to minimize further is because I'm considering applying to jobs in other states and I have no idea how I'm going to move all this stuff plus two cats that hate each other in my tiny coupe. Without paying a moving company, of course.
Depending on your storage, just set a time limit -- anything you have not touched /used in a year is a good start.  Then anything not used in the past month would be a lean approach.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on November 30, 2017, 06:40:01 AM
I've been thinking for weeks of what to get rid of and I'm still at a loss. I moved so many times in the past year and a half that I naturally dumped a lot of stuff (such as decorations that were fragile/difficult to transport). I can think of maybe a handful of things, like 3-4 books, a cast iron skillet because my FMIL gave me two instead of one, some excess bike accessories that got replaced with better versions, and MAYBE some clothes but I already have very little compared to most.

I guess it's a good problem to have or I just need to step up my criteria. Does anyone have a list of things to declutter for inspiration (I seem to remember a list of 100 things to declutter online somewhere) or tips towards the final stages of decluttering? I have bought a decent amount of new things in the last year since moving into my first apartment post college graduation, some of which I may not have necessarily needed (e.g. oil and vinegar bottles). Those things are the hardest for me to get rid of mentally but I've still done it several times. It's so difficult to get rid of something you bought less than six months ago! But on the bright side, I learned what I really needed and what I didn't. It seems like a lot of y'all have really old things to declutter from a house you have lived in for years, which is a different challenge in itself.

I think part of this itch to minimize further is because I'm considering applying to jobs in other states and I have no idea how I'm going to move all this stuff plus two cats that hate each other in my tiny coupe. Without paying a moving company, of course.
Depending on your storage, just set a time limit -- anything you have not touched /used in a year is a good start.  Then anything not used in the past month would be a lean approach.

I'm pretty close to this. I'd say there are only a handful of things that I don't use in a month, such as seasonal stuff (not decorations but stuff like electric blanket, jackets, etc) and tools for working on my car. My seasonal stuff is already pretty minimal though, I only have one sweater and no long sleeves. Tools are probably the biggest category of things I could get rid of, but it's still fairly minimal and I have plenty of storage for it. I theoretically don't NEED a torque wrench and some of the other stuff since auto parts stores usually loan that stuff out but I already have the tools so...

My problem is stuff that I use but probably don't need. Like the oil and vinegar bottles, which are convenient when you buy in bulk and get giant bottles. Or a deep fryer. No one needs a deep fryer! Or the crazy amounts of spices and dry food I have, which required buying a spice shelf and a large storage shelf to act as my pantry (apartment doesn't have one). But I was perfectly fine without those things for years.

Maybe I'm being too hard on myself. I keep comparing my life now to 4 years ago at my first apartment in college when I had very little. But I barely drove so didn't need to work on my car, didn't cook as much of a variety of food, didn't have two cats, etc...

I think it will help if I make a list of things I would bring with me on a cross-country move. Would I keep my 75 spices? I have no idea...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gaja on November 30, 2017, 08:47:27 AM
Hearing aids are still not recovered. Sofa #2 has been dismantled. DH is planning to empty all his storage boxes this weekend. If we had bought the hearing aids, we would probably let it go and used it to teach her a lesson ("if you don't take care of things, you'll have to use old crappy things for a longer time"). But they are paid for by other peoples' tax money, so I really feel an obligation to find them. Since we got them through the welfare system, there also is no insurance.

Thank you all for good advice, we are slowly moving through them while decluttering everything. There are now no too small clothes or single mittens in any wardrobes. I tossed two large garbage bags, mainly containing old papers, and a pile of old pens, from my office. All paper and plastic recycling has been taken to the dump. Even the fridge has been decluttered.

Aaauugh...  I'm sure you've tried everywhere, but have her check her lockers (normal and gym) at school, school lost-and-found, and the cars of any family friends that have given her rides.  Check any air-return vents in the floor, especially if you have pets.

Does she have a locker at school?  Could she have left them there or any other place at school?

No lockers, neither at home or school. No air vents in the floor. The school is very small, so if they had found them, they would have let us know. She has only been in our car, but we will go through that again to be 110% sure. We have told her to search at school, but I will also ask the teachers to have an eye out for them. I doubt the school is the place, she rarely removes both aids there. If one was missing; yes. But not both.

Gaja,  You remind me of when DD lost her retainer when we went swimming at the pool.   (She wrapped it in tissue for some awful reason, put it in her locker or left on the bench).  And then told me she must have thrown it into the garbage.  Do you know what sorts of things get thrown into the ladies garbage at a swimming pool change room / washroom?  Yeah.  I got to dig through 2 large bags of that.  Nothing found.  Then DD found her retainer at home... in the retainer case. 

My best wishes are with you.
Thank you! We have been through all garbage bags from the kids' rooms, bathrooms, and office. Not the most fun activity. Same goes for dismantling the vacuum cleaner.

On the hearing aids.  Check inside all shoes.
Good tip - will do! Some of the shoes could probably be tossed too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: haypug16 on November 30, 2017, 09:00:54 AM
New to this challenge but I love decluttering. DH and I dropped off a small bag of clothes and a few other house hold items to Savers on Tuesday. DH then proceeded to buy half a dozen books! He has promised he is going to scan all the pages and then donate them back. This is never going to happen but he was so excited about the books I didn't put up much of a fight.

Hope to donate another bag of stuff this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on November 30, 2017, 09:32:08 AM
My 8-year-old agreed to sort through his room when I reminded him that there are a lot of kids with no toys, and we could donate things he didn't want anymore.

He really got into the KonMari method.  It was obvious which toys still gave him joy.  The others he'd pick up, tell me a story about a time he loved playing with that item, then tell it goodbye and put it in the giveaway pile.  About 2/3 of what we sorted went in the giveaway pile.  There are now more than 3 giant boxes of toys ready to go away.   I asked him this morning if he had second thoughts about any of the items and he said nope, he was ready for them to go.

We're leaving all the stuff stacked in the living room.  Our parents are coming over tonight, and we want them to see how much stuff kiddo had, and how much he's decided isn't necessary to his happiness.  Maybe this will cut down on the crazy Christmas we usually have.

I'm really proud of him.  He wants to go through the rest of his room (books, clothes, Legos) this weekend.  Then we'll reorganize so he can easily access the things he loves.

The 11-year-old saw us sorting and went to work in her room too. 

Now I just have to get the 10-year-old onboard.  Then we'll work on H.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on November 30, 2017, 11:51:31 AM
I've been thinking for weeks of what to get rid of and I'm still at a loss. I moved so many times in the past year and a half that I naturally dumped a lot of stuff (such as decorations that were fragile/difficult to transport). I can think of maybe a handful of things, like 3-4 books, a cast iron skillet because my FMIL gave me two instead of one, some excess bike accessories that got replaced with better versions, and MAYBE some clothes but I already have very little compared to most.

I guess it's a good problem to have or I just need to step up my criteria. Does anyone have a list of things to declutter for inspiration (I seem to remember a list of 100 things to declutter online somewhere) or tips towards the final stages of decluttering? I have bought a decent amount of new things in the last year since moving into my first apartment post college graduation, some of which I may not have necessarily needed (e.g. oil and vinegar bottles). Those things are the hardest for me to get rid of mentally but I've still done it several times. It's so difficult to get rid of something you bought less than six months ago! But on the bright side, I learned what I really needed and what I didn't. It seems like a lot of y'all have really old things to declutter from a house you have lived in for years, which is a different challenge in itself.

I think part of this itch to minimize further is because I'm considering applying to jobs in other states and I have no idea how I'm going to move all this stuff plus two cats that hate each other in my tiny coupe. Without paying a moving company, of course.
Depending on your storage, just set a time limit -- anything you have not touched /used in a year is a good start.  Then anything not used in the past month would be a lean approach.

I'm pretty close to this. I'd say there are only a handful of things that I don't use in a month, such as seasonal stuff (not decorations but stuff like electric blanket, jackets, etc) and tools for working on my car. My seasonal stuff is already pretty minimal though, I only have one sweater and no long sleeves. Tools are probably the biggest category of things I could get rid of, but it's still fairly minimal and I have plenty of storage for it. I theoretically don't NEED a torque wrench and some of the other stuff since auto parts stores usually loan that stuff out but I already have the tools so...

My problem is stuff that I use but probably don't need. Like the oil and vinegar bottles, which are convenient when you buy in bulk and get giant bottles. Or a deep fryer. No one needs a deep fryer! Or the crazy amounts of spices and dry food I have, which required buying a spice shelf and a large storage shelf to act as my pantry (apartment doesn't have one). But I was perfectly fine without those things for years.

Maybe I'm being too hard on myself. I keep comparing my life now to 4 years ago at my first apartment in college when I had very little. But I barely drove so didn't need to work on my car, didn't cook as much of a variety of food, didn't have two cats, etc...

I think it will help if I make a list of things I would bring with me on a cross-country move. Would I keep my 75 spices? I have no idea...
If you have room, keep the bulk to small container systems, and only reduce spice count, as you need to.   But check the spices, 75 is a lot,  any not used in the past month can go and you won't notice.

But -- if you actually use the deep fryer every month, then keep it for now, and re-evaluate when you move.    If you are paying down debt, just put it on sale for a high-ish amount, and use it until you sell it or move.

Being minimal for the sake of being minimal is a bad idea.  Other than the potential move, why do you want to reduce further?  What is your driver to do so?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on November 30, 2017, 12:09:47 PM
If you have room, keep the bulk to small container systems, and only reduce spice count, as you need to.   But check the spices, 75 is a lot,  any not used in the past month can go and you won't notice.

But -- if you actually use the deep fryer every month, then keep it for now, and re-evaluate when you move.    If you are paying down debt, just put it on sale for a high-ish amount, and use it until you sell it or move.

Being minimal for the sake of being minimal is a bad idea.  Other than the potential move, why do you want to reduce further?  What is your driver to do so?

I have a nice container system for pretty much everything, from spices to rice and beans. I also use all the spices pretty regularly (not quite every month) with a couple exceptions. There are probably some I won't buy again, like pumpkin pie spice, especially if I can DIY them from other spices. I really dislike eating the same things all the time hence the spices. I cook food from many different cultures.

It just feels...ridiculous to have this much food. I guess it comes with the territory of being vegan and needing to be a tad more creative, on top of being picky and not wanting to eat the same things all the time. I feel like this is something I need to work on, force myself to eat up some weird ingredients before I get anything new. I also don't want to feel pressured to stay because of STUFF.

It's also a lot of stuff to constantly feel the need to organize, clean, etc. I need to find a better way to organize my tools than a cardboard box, but that might be my best bet in a 2nd floor apartment that I share. I don't know, I just feel envious of those who live the ultra minimalist lifestyle like Jacob from ERE. It just makes life so much simpler and easier in a lot of ways. I know I don't want to live in one place for too long, so how awesome would it be if I could just pack up my car and go, no need to declutter or stress about what to keep?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on November 30, 2017, 12:20:36 PM
On the hearing aids - any chance they could have gone down the drain? (hope not...)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BobTheBuilder on November 30, 2017, 12:28:45 PM
We did the classic a few days ago. My better half and I each with a medium sized trash bag going into every room and filling it up with just... stuff. In the end, we had a few over 5 kg in 2 bags and threw it away. Nothing to donate or sell. I already forgot what it was we got rid off. Good feeling!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Plina on December 02, 2017, 05:33:39 AM
I've been thinking for weeks of what to get rid of and I'm still at a loss. I moved so many times in the past year and a half that I naturally dumped a lot of stuff (such as decorations that were fragile/difficult to transport). I can think of maybe a handful of things, like 3-4 books, a cast iron skillet because my FMIL gave me two instead of one, some excess bike accessories that got replaced with better versions, and MAYBE some clothes but I already have very little compared to most.

I guess it's a good problem to have or I just need to step up my criteria. Does anyone have a list of things to declutter for inspiration (I seem to remember a list of 100 things to declutter online somewhere) or tips towards the final stages of decluttering? I have bought a decent amount of new things in the last year since moving into my first apartment post college graduation, some of which I may not have necessarily needed (e.g. oil and vinegar bottles). Those things are the hardest for me to get rid of mentally but I've still done it several times. It's so difficult to get rid of something you bought less than six months ago! But on the bright side, I learned what I really needed and what I didn't. It seems like a lot of y'all have really old things to declutter from a house you have lived in for years, which is a different challenge in itself.

I think part of this itch to minimize further is because I'm considering applying to jobs in other states and I have no idea how I'm going to move all this stuff plus two cats that hate each other in my tiny coupe. Without paying a moving company, of course.

I have also moved a lot and my criteria nowadays is do I use this and do I want to pay for moving it. If it doesn’t fit those criterias it will be gone before the next move. Sofas are one of those things that cost more to move than I want to pay so I sell my used one. I also have a large bookcase that will cost more to move then to buy a new one at Ikea. It have helped my tremendeously to Get rid of things before the move. I am going to an interview next week that would result in a move if I got the job and I am already thinking of what I could get rid of if so happens.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on December 02, 2017, 04:13:45 PM
Cleaned up my balcony, and threw out 6 old plastic pots from plants that I'd repotted.

Also removed all traces of paper from my living room. That makes a huge difference to the look and feel of the room.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 03, 2017, 02:35:50 AM
Cleaned up my balcony, and threw out 6 old plastic pots from plants that I'd repotted.

Also removed all traces of paper from my living room. That makes a huge difference to the look and feel of the room.

Good stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on December 03, 2017, 06:12:44 PM
Any suggestions on how to dispose of a sofa?  I have a reclining leather sofa that is peeling badly and looks terrible.  I posted it on Facebook Marketplace and CraigsList for free but no interest.  I need to get rid of it within 30 days (I’m moving) and can’t put it out at the street as I live in an apartment complex.  Putting it at the apartment dump is a no-no (although technically I could do that).  1-800-Go-Junk charges $140 to come get it and dispose of it.  Any suggestions?

When I lived at a house I just called the local trash service and asked which days they picked up furniture and put it on the street that day.  With apartment living there seems to be no such option.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 03, 2017, 06:17:54 PM
Inventoried all of my random (international) coins that I've had sitting around. Finally researched which was which, bagged, labeled & took about $25 USD (equivalent) for my work trip. Will use it all, and/or donate whatever's left.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on December 03, 2017, 08:04:47 PM
Any suggestions on how to dispose of a sofa?  I have a reclining leather sofa that is peeling badly and looks terrible.  I posted it on Facebook Marketplace and CraigsList for free but no interest.  I need to get rid of it within 30 days (I’m moving) and can’t put it out at the street as I live in an apartment complex.  Putting it at the apartment dump is a no-no (although technically I could do that).  1-800-Go-Junk charges $140 to come get it and dispose of it.  Any suggestions?

When I lived at a house I just called the local trash service and asked which days they picked up furniture and put it on the street that day.  With apartment living there seems to be no such option.

If you've posted it on CL, make sure to renew/refresh/bump (NOT REPOST) your post to the top every day or two.  If there is a FreeCycle website for your area, post it there as well.  Finally, can you put up a few fliers around your complex?  This will catch people who wouldn't normally look for free sofas on CL because of transport issues.
Quote
FREE SOFA!  Resident of apartment 26A is moving away December 31 and wants to give you a free sofa!  [photos of sofa]  It's peeling, but it is leather, really comfy, and it reclines!  My home has (no) pets and (no) smokers.  I will be taking these posters down when it is gone, so if you see this poster it is still available!  Leave a note in my mailbox/text me at XXX-XXX-XXXX.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on December 04, 2017, 08:40:42 AM
Dug into the Christmas decorations and discovered the storage area under the stairs is packed full of stuff that Hubs cleared out of the main area of the basement.  It made getting the bins out really difficult.
Will be pitching a bunch of Christmas light that no longer work.  Feeling bad about the volume of waste.  They were the first generation of LED bulbs so they are probably nine years old.  Hopefully they have some recyclable components.
I casually mentioned to Hubs that I was not allowing a couple of pairs of underwear back into his drawer - they were now dusting clothes.  I added : your drawer looks really full so I am sure you have enough.  He ended up going through the draw and pulling out several pairs from deep in the drawer.  He was in awe of how the elastic waist band just disintegrated when he tested them to see if they would still fit. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on December 04, 2017, 09:45:17 AM
We had a hugely productive weekend.  I had to make two trips to Goodwill to get everything out of the house.

I got out all of the Christmas decorations yesterday and told the family there was one rule - you can only put something on the tree or on the walls if you personally love it.  Everything that was left on the floor at the end of the decorating party went in the Goodwill box.  We managed to get rid of 2 boxes of Christmas village stuff (40% of it), and probably 10% of the rest of the ornaments and other decorations.

On top of all that, middle daughter finally agreed to clean out her room.  For the first time EVER, D's closet doors can close.  It freaked her out to see them.

Somehow her room became a spectacle for the entire family - the other kids were offering her tips that they used when making choices in their rooms.  H kept offering his opinion on whether or not she wanted an item before she had a chance to say a word.  He told me "I know my girl"; I responded that SHE needs to be able to make these decisions for herself and kicked him out of the room. 

He wanted her to keep lots of stuff that had sentimental meaning for him (gifts from people he loved) that she has never played with and is most definitely too old for it now. She agreed to keep one book inscribed from a grandparent she's never met and asked that the rest go. 

H ended up taking the Beanie Baby bears out of the giveaway box and moving them to his desk.  (He doesn't believe me that they are essentially worthless now.)

He helpfully pulled a few other boxes of mostly my stuff out of the attic while he was digging out the Christmas stuff, so I'll go through those this week.  My goal is to be done with the first pass through the house by the end of the year.  Then I'll re-evaluate and set goals for the second pass.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 04, 2017, 03:49:38 PM
Yesterday was a day for dealing with books.

I decluttered my books hard a few years ago, but a few others had crept in (usually freebies).

I brought those to work and gave them away in five minutes.

Then a colleague dumped about 20 books on my desk before he went on leave, so I grabbed four for friends who will appreciate them, and put the rest out for people to help themselves.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TheWifeHalf on December 04, 2017, 05:48:31 PM
We recently remodeled our kitchen and though the dishwasher worked, it didn't 'match.' It's been sitting in our garage and last week TheHusbandHalf said we had to do something with it because it's not good for the motor to freeze. I told him we can take it to the HH Restore and he said first he'll just stick it out front and see if someone takes it.
It was gone in 15 minutes.
That's the way to get rid of stuff!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 04, 2017, 08:39:28 PM
We recently remodeled our kitchen and though the dishwasher worked, it didn't 'match.' It's been sitting in our garage and last week TheHusbandHalf said we had to do something with it because it's not good for the motor to freeze. I told him we can take it to the HH Restore and he said first he'll just stick it out front and see if someone takes it.
It was gone in 15 minutes.
That's the way to get rid of stuff!

Are you lost?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on December 04, 2017, 08:56:15 PM

Are you lost?
LOL
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on December 05, 2017, 05:25:38 AM
Sold the propane tank from my grill which brings my recent CL and consignment sales to over $140.  I have 4 more listings on CL but no takers for months now, so I will donate these things. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on December 08, 2017, 08:48:21 PM
I love how I can put stuff outside and it disappears! It is wonderful magic.

I have rid our house of games, clothes, books, kitchen stuff we were gifted and never used. Now I am planning to eBay some vintage items. I see people are buying them on ebay, so maybe I will make $40.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on December 08, 2017, 08:55:41 PM
I saw on the forum, someone (LWTG?) said that, when they put out christmas decor, rather than just adding it to whats there and having everything bare feeling after the holidays, they take a lot of their regular decor DOWN, and store it, then put the christmas stuff up. That gives them a chance then to clean and minimize stuff when they go to return to the regular decor, and you get less of the "post holiday funk". This sounded like a fantastic idea, so that's my approach this year!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on December 09, 2017, 06:52:48 AM
I gave away a small fiber optic Christmas tree to a lady who's aunt is in an assisted living facility. She messaged me some pictures and said her auntie loves it. That was one of those declutters that really gave me the good feels.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: stashgrower on December 09, 2017, 06:58:58 AM
Started the decluttering (again). One room mostly done, one small box of stuff to give away to op shop or friends. Back in the ring tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on December 09, 2017, 09:44:42 AM
Trash pickup was after DH left for work, so I was able to add some broken baskets and junk items that he would have deemed salvageable. ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oldtoyota on December 09, 2017, 08:38:35 PM
I recycled a stack of papers, and I have two boxes ready to donate.

This past month, a neighbor was able to take some of our unopened games and give them to families in need through a program at her work. I was really happy about that. =-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on December 09, 2017, 08:50:09 PM
Got a big pile ready to put in the car and take to Goodwill. Also working on finding appropriate boxes for some light fixtures so I can put them on ebay and attempt to sell.

Also got the Christmas presents wrapped up. Need to box up 2 of them and ship out, drop off some at the recipient's house near me, and the rest are being sent home with my mom. But it will be nice to get those out of the house too.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on December 10, 2017, 06:52:02 AM
Went through three of the boxes that I had been dumping stuff into for years as it was loosely associated with flower arranging or decoration making.  Now there is one much smaller box and all the dust and random garbage that made even opening these boxes unappealing is properly sorted into the correct bins.  All the mixes materials are broken down so they can be recycled or composted and the remainder to the dump.  This is one zone that I have been postponing for ever.

Hubs went through a box of work out gear that smelled beyond awful.  It had been hanging out in the garage.  Much of that went to the correct bins.

We are getting to a point where we can see how our pack rat habits have caused us to not be able to properly take care of our stuff.  This is really helping me not to want to buy stuff.  Being wasteful by not looking after things hits harder than be wasteful about spending money that I should be saving. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on December 10, 2017, 03:45:56 PM

Well done, everybody!  It feels great to be letting go of things while I see these advertisements urging me to fill my house with more things. 
  I
Finally received a bag from ThredUp (which I ordered back in October).  It’s a huge bag and I filled it almost all the way up.  That will be dropped at the UPS store tomorrow.

Additionally, one whole bag of other items went to Goodwill today.

I culled my Christmas decor down to one Christmas tree, one wreath, and two Rubbermaid bins of decor.  The remainder (two full Rubbermaid bins and small tree) went to someone at work who needed decor for a military family day.  Now it’s going to someone else she knows who needs it for a military ball of some sort.  I love to see my old stuff put to good use and to know that they didn’t have to buy any new decorations.

I paid someone to dispose of my giant peeling sofa today and it was worth every penny and is out of my house!  Hurray!

Brought several items to my parents who wanted and can use them: Patio string lights, bird feeder, etc.  They are redoing their patio and the items will all be put to good use!

Only a few items remain before I move!  So relieved at my progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 10, 2017, 04:35:29 PM
Chucked an old eye shadow & makeup brush that have been lingering in the back of one of my drawers forever. Told myself when we moved (last winter), that if I hadn't worn it in 2017, it was going to the garbage. Close enough! Also, in my search for a couple of dressy work outfits for my trip last week, stumbled across a very nice dress that doesn't fit me properly. Put it aside in my donation pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 10, 2017, 09:57:52 PM
Another bag to charity (see earlier discussion, husband should not have brought this stuff home from a recent event).

A friend gave me a mug for Christmas - I'm donating it to the mug collection at work.

I've nearly finished writing Christmas cards. Once I'm done, the leftover cards can go into my normal card box. (Usually Christmas cards have their own box since I buy them on sale and stash them for a year. Not doing that next year.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on December 11, 2017, 06:13:13 AM
The basement is looking pretty good - but there is a pile accumulating in the garage again.
I am going to have to drop out of decluttering for a spell while I pull off Christmas. Although using up the odd ingredients in the pantry for those once a year recipes will actually help out the pantry clutter.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: haypug16 on December 11, 2017, 08:32:25 AM
Dropped off some Books, CDs, and clothes to Savers this weekend. DH is getting on board. He sold his car (the extra one that's been sitting in the Driveway) and teased me that he has therefore cleared out more space than me. So now this is turning into a fun competition for us. Though he is at an unfair advantage since he has so much more stuff than me. I never met a guy with more clothes in my life. He has like 3 dressers full and can never find anything to wear.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on December 11, 2017, 08:46:57 AM
Well, I should have known better.  I was on a trek to find a pair of hiking boots and a pair of work boots that were last used last winter.  Our basement is full of bins and plastic bags of clothes packed away for the next appropriate season.  In the process of working through these, I put things that we would obviously never use again (pants too small for either of the kids....onesies.....our youngest is 17....shoes the kids long outgrew).  I should have kept these donation bags in the basement where they wouldn't be seen, but I felt they were so obvious that they should just go.  So 3 garbage bags full near the door and the wife says "So these are for me to look through".  AAAAAARGH!!!  If I were to hand my wife 3 onesies, it would take her literally a month to decide that these should be donated away.  So now we have 3 huge bags sitting in the bedroom next to the plastic bins of crap that I already earmarked for trash that have been there for 3 months now.  Yes, my wife is the hoarder wannabe.  Well, back to the basement and I've learned my lesson.  Wait till I'm alone at home, then bring bags out to the trunk of my car.

On the bright side, I put up 2 pairs of xc skiis and 3 pairs of downhill skiis with poles and some tennis rackets and a ski bag with a "take it all" price for craigslist of $25 and have a buyer who just needs me to be home for him to come get it all.  That'll be a nice unloading of crap that hasn't been used since at least the early 80's.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on December 11, 2017, 11:13:18 AM
Car Jack - it's the story of my life in reverse! DH is the hoarder.  I used to take things over to the neighbor's until collection. Sadly, that neighbor moved. I now have to put them in the garage attic until trash day....and then hope he leaves before they collect the trash. ;-)

Today I unloaded a mini air hockey table that sat under our pool table for years.  Yay!

The car is loaded up with a charity run and set of returns for my daily shopping run.  I have a back seat full of American Girl dolls to go to a family cousin for xmas.  In 15 minute increments I am getting through things.

Each weekend I ask the family to go through stuff in the basement - each weekend they don't, I throw away a bag of goods I deem trash/give away a bag of goods I've reviewed as being charity items the following week.  Petty, but I wonder when they are going to figure out my MO. I'm at the point where I want to hire some moving guys to move things around where I want them to be.  I wonder if they'd notice then?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on December 11, 2017, 01:06:36 PM
We keep all of our clothes (and a whole bunch of ther stuff in a big cabinet/wardrobe thingy.  I reorganized my drawers and designated one for dirty laundry. We'll see how it works.  Hopefully it means no more pile in the corner but we'll still have then pile of stuff to be reworn on the side table.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on December 11, 2017, 01:18:01 PM
We keep all of our clothes (and a whole bunch of ther stuff in a big cabinet/wardrobe thingy.  I reorganized my drawers and designated one for dirty laundry. We'll see how it works.  Hopefully it means no more pile in the corner but we'll still have then pile of stuff to be reworn on the side table.

I don't think it's good for dirty laundry to be in a drawer. Not enough air circulation-and it might make the clean clothes smelly.
2 thumbs up for organizing things!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on December 11, 2017, 03:42:40 PM
We keep all of our clothes (and a whole bunch of ther stuff in a big cabinet/wardrobe thingy.  I reorganized my drawers and designated one for dirty laundry. We'll see how it works.  Hopefully it means no more pile in the corner but we'll still have then pile of stuff to be reworn on the side table.

I don't think it's good for dirty laundry to be in a drawer. Not enough air circulation-and it might make the clean clothes smelly.
2 thumbs up for organizing things!!!

Yeah.  Considered that.  It isn't a tight cupboard. Definitely as much airflow as a wicker hamper. Gym clothes are stored separately anyway, so will try this and see how it goes.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 12, 2017, 08:03:09 AM
Found four bottles of super old nail polish while digging out the thermometer for a sick kiddo. Threw those away. We got rid of A LOT with both of our moves, so we don't have a ton of extra stuff, and I try to stay on top of it every day. However, in 2018, my plan is to go room by room again, & ensure we're using everything.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on December 12, 2017, 10:24:19 AM
MaybeBabyM, how are you going to track that you're actually using all of those things?  I'm very interested in systems for things like that.

This weekend I found the collector book for the American state quarters.  I remember sorting through my change looking for new quarters when these were first released.  WHY did I (or any of us) care so much?  So much wasted effort.  My son spent half an hour reclaiming the quarters (they went straight into his piggy bank) and then threw the book away. 

The children have started to comment on the fact that the surfaces are emptier...except that every surface I clean off my H then fills with electronics parts.   They want the electronics to go away.  :) 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on December 12, 2017, 10:29:24 AM
MaybeBabyM, how are you going to track that you're actually using all of those things?  I'm very interested in systems for things like that.

This weekend I found the collector book for the American state quarters.  I remember sorting through my change looking for new quarters when these were first released.  WHY did I (or any of us) care so much?  So much wasted effort.  My son spent half an hour reclaiming the quarters (they went straight into his piggy bank) and then threw the book away. 

The children have started to comment on the fact that the surfaces are emptier...except that every surface I clean off my H then fills with electronics parts.   They want the electronics to go away.  :)

With clothes, you can do the hanger method where you hang everything one direction to start then turn the hanger opposite when you put it back in the closet after wearing and washing it. I don't use a dresser so not sure how you would handle clothes in a dresser.

I guess with everything else it's just memory based. Maybe put things you think you don't use or need in a box and everything that's still in the box after a set amount of time gets donated.

I also had the quarter thing many years ago. I'm pretty sure I eventually took the quarters out because I realized it was ridiculous.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 12, 2017, 03:13:03 PM
MaybeBabyM, how are you going to track that you're actually using all of those things?  I'm very interested in systems for things like that.

This weekend I found the collector book for the American state quarters.  I remember sorting through my change looking for new quarters when these were first released.  WHY did I (or any of us) care so much?  So much wasted effort.  My son spent half an hour reclaiming the quarters (they went straight into his piggy bank) and then threw the book away. 

The children have started to comment on the fact that the surfaces are emptier...except that every surface I clean off my H then fills with electronics parts.   They want the electronics to go away.  :)

With clothes, you can do the hanger method where you hang everything one direction to start then turn the hanger opposite when you put it back in the closet after wearing and washing it. I don't use a dresser so not sure how you would handle clothes in a dresser.

I guess with everything else it's just memory based. Maybe put things you think you don't use or need in a box and everything that's still in the box after a set amount of time gets donated.

I also had the quarter thing many years ago. I'm pretty sure I eventually took the quarters out because I realized it was ridiculous.

We've moved 2x in the last four years, so the easy wins are out of the way. We're left with the somewhat regular upkeep stuff:

-Clothes people have torn or outgrown (hopefully the kids on the latter, but sometimes I get realistic with my own size)
-Trash, homework, & general school stuff that finds its way home, and into the kids rooms
-Toys/games that the kids no longer play with. We're really in the home stretch with this one, but expect that upcoming Christmas & birthdays will bring a new round of options.
-Seasonal decorations & general house stuff that we just don't use. We've greatly simplified our holiday decor. I tend to travel a lot for work over the holidays (and we don't spend Christmas at home), so it's just a pain to get everything back up & down again

For everything else, I like to deep clean the rooms, which leads me to finding random things I've forgotten about & just haven't used in a while.

I do try & keep an inventory of things like: toiletries, cleaning products, plus our food (pantry, fridge, freezer), as keeping a regular rotation on that prevents waste. But, for everything else, I integrate the de-cluttering into my standard cleaning processes, and then with the kids rooms, just do quarterly full clean outs.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 12, 2017, 03:24:09 PM
MaybeBabyM, how are you going to track that you're actually using all of those things?  I'm very interested in systems for things like that.

This weekend I found the collector book for the American state quarters.  I remember sorting through my change looking for new quarters when these were first released.  WHY did I (or any of us) care so much?  So much wasted effort.  My son spent half an hour reclaiming the quarters (they went straight into his piggy bank) and then threw the book away. 

The children have started to comment on the fact that the surfaces are emptier...except that every surface I clean off my H then fills with electronics parts.   They want the electronics to go away.  :)

With clothes, you can do the hanger method where you hang everything one direction to start then turn the hanger opposite when you put it back in the closet after wearing and washing it. I don't use a dresser so not sure how you would handle clothes in a dresser...

Free up one drawer.

As you wear something, put it in that drawer.

Continue until you have drawers of things you wear and drawers of things you don't wear (label if necessary). Donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on December 12, 2017, 06:04:32 PM
I am deep cleaning my home this week in preparation for a large holiday party this weekend.

Having less stuff this year certainly makes a large difference in the time it takes -- I am focusing on cleaning and minor maintenance, not on finding a place to put "stuff".   Even the "stuff" I have taken down to make room for holiday decor is easy to put away -- open a drawer and it is empty!  Put away.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on December 13, 2017, 12:40:29 PM
No Rant Wednesday for me today :D.

The Craigslist guy and I worked out last night as a workable common time and he came and for $25 took away 3 pairs of late 70's downhill skis, 2 pairs of xc skis, a gaggle of ski poles and 3 random tennis rackets.  This is a great clean up win for me.  I haven't ski'd since at least the 80's (a knee injury had me stop then) and I think I only kept this stuff because it was top of the line, expensive stuff when I bought it.....even on my barely out of high school earnings working at the ski shop.

Time to look for the next craigslist listing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on December 13, 2017, 01:14:45 PM
11 propane canisters of varying states of fullness (2 for sure new) were donated to our local scout master. They camp even in winter, so this should help.

Our 3rd car is now barely parked in the 3rd car garage for winter.  The first real snow is expected today.  Avoiding a morning idle and snow clearing each morning of winter more than offsets the cost of the canisters.  Our neighbors will be happy not to have to look at our 2005 Honda minivan with the rear end dented any longer. ;-) Yes, the third car is wasteful, but all the cars are paid off and 5 years, 9 years, and 12 years old respectively.  Baby steps.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on December 16, 2017, 04:26:42 PM
This is different decluttering, but I think it counts? It's certainly less in the closet! I've got around a dozen gallons of paint sitting in the closet since I'm planning on painting the entire house. I've been painting this week.

Emptied 2 quart cans and 1 gallon of paint, those are dried and put out in the garbage.
1/2 gallon of paint left of one color, will be used when I find a painter to do the hallway. (I'm not falling down the stairs.)
Got another gallon down to about 1/4 full, and that will be used up with the 2nd coat on the closets. Granted, the house looks awful because I've completely emptied and disassembled 2 closets and stuff is all over, but it's temporary. No idea how much woodwork paint I have, but I'll use it up and need more once I get around to doing all the wood work and 4 doors.

In other news, you should periodically paint closets. More than every 30 years at least. House is about 100 years old, and it looks like 2, maybe 3 coats of paint in the closets. I wouldn't be surprised if the closets were last painted in the 50s, the colors are about right for then. The closets are soaking up 2-3 times the amount of paint as is typical. Luckily, I started with 4 gallons of paint I can use for them, and I might use just about all of it.

Even better, I have friends who are teachers, and one of them hooked me up with the local drama teacher. They love getting paint. Whatever is left that I don't want to save for future I can easily donate.

Since I pulled everything out of the closets to paint, when I put it back I can be more organized, and also get rid of a few things. I just moved earlier this year, so they're not too bad, but one of these closets is also the main long term storage area in the house. It will be full, but I'll pick away at a few things.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 16, 2017, 06:25:16 PM
Gave three jars to a friend for candles.

I can't bring myself to throw away or recycle "good" jars, so this makes me happy.

Enlisted another cute jar in putting together a Christmas present, and using up my stash of cloth and satin ribbons on gifts.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fuerchtegott on December 17, 2017, 06:02:25 AM
Received yesterday an umbrella from a supplier as a Christmas gift.

3 hours later a friend visited me and I asked him if he needs this umbrella. He took it.

Fasted stuff giving ever.

Gesendet von meinem SM-T819 mit Tapatalk

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 17, 2017, 08:42:40 AM
As a combo "odd chore of the day" & cleaning out clutter, finally organized our three tiered tray. It's where everything that can't be immediately thrown away or recycled goes. And, I stay on top of it pretty well, but every few months, it needs a deep clean. Took care of that yesterday, & there are just a few things remaining in the pile. Woohoo!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 17, 2017, 02:06:21 PM
I decluttered the bathroom cabinets today.  I had several empty containers in there, thinking I'd use them someday to make my own lotions and things.  Spoiler alert: that never happened.

Also went through my side of the garage and cleaned up.  Some empty plastic bins are going out to the shed, and some things from my job are headed back to the office.  Now I need to go through all my extra saddle pads and take the ones I no longer want to the stable to give away.  Feels nice to be able to see the top of the work bench again.

A couple of the plastic bins from the garage turned out to be perfectly sized for storing canning and brewing supplies in the laundry room, and resulted in way more space and less clutter in those cabinets.

My husband has been out of town, but is getting assigned to declutter some of his zones when he gets back.  I've spent too much time this week swearing at him under my breath for his little trash heaps.  Because he doesn't clean his trash heaps, he starts encroaching on other areas in the house even though he has tons of space that I've agreed to turn a blind eye towards.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on December 17, 2017, 02:09:44 PM
Another can of paint empty, just waiting for it to dry out and I can toss it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on December 17, 2017, 05:42:43 PM
We've been renovating the basement.  Today we tossed 3 garbage bags full of debris, plus burned a good sized pile of scrap wood, all oak pieces and non-treated pine.  There are still 3 more bags of debris to go at least, but I can park in the garage again after a 3 week push to finish the basement floors and cabinets.  It's looking good!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on December 17, 2017, 06:02:44 PM
I went through a couple more boxes in the garage and got rid of a few things.  Good bye non-functioning Christmas lights, some building supplies and one box of total junk are now sorted into the right disposal stream.  The tarps are now stored.  The garden tools are hung up.  The hoses are rolled up and in one location.  The empty bins are washed out and stacked.  I have now emptied six bins so next summer I can go one more pass through all the zones and purge another round. One of the bins contained some really good clothing for tiny girls so I am now washing them and will give them to nieces this week.  If nieces don't want I will try and sell on kijiji. 
I sorted through the mess in the closet under the stairs and while most of it is still there - there is some logic to it and all of the spare house parts are now together on one side.  The Christmas decorations are all on the tree and the broken bits of junk are broken up and sorted into the correct waste stream. 
A number of items from the freezer are now used up.
Hubs returned some purchases we didn't use and that freed up a large space on the work bench.
A large pile awaits the restore and a dump run. 
The house is looking better and better.  And the garage is looking way better as well.  It feels totally amazing to deal with this stuff.  Most of the stuff is not stuff we bought. We found it, or accepted it as hand-me-downs or it was gifts.  This sense of scarcity that I have has really made me feel weighed down with all these acquisitions that I can no longer manage.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 17, 2017, 07:51:22 PM
-Got rid of a holiday shirt that was too small. (Donated)
-Donated a pair of ski boots that no longer fit
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 18, 2017, 02:03:53 AM
So we have this site here where people post odd jobs and I bid for them. I just scored my first decluttering gig, v excited! I love love love sorting out shit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on December 18, 2017, 02:20:03 AM
So we have this site here where people post odd jobs and I bid for them. I just scored my first decluttering gig, v excited! I love love love sorting out shit.

Ooooh. That sounds really interesting! Please let us know how it goes! (in as much detail as you're comfortable with)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 18, 2017, 02:48:48 AM
So we have this site here where people post odd jobs and I bid for them. I just scored my first decluttering gig, v excited! I love love love sorting out shit.

Ooooh. That sounds really interesting! Please let us know how it goes! (in as much detail as you're comfortable with)

Will do! I'm on holiday for a week after Chrimbo so good way to spend time. Hope client's got aircon tho.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ThreeCarbsNoGrains on December 18, 2017, 09:57:12 AM
Well done, everyone!   I feel like the constant barrage of holiday advertisements is motivating me even more.

Sold my patio set on CraigsList!  The couple who came to get it were so excited. 

Took a large load of stuff plus a crappy old office chair to Goodwill.  Further purged my drinkware collection. 

Replaced my crappy old office chair with a VERY nice used office chair I got for $30.

Completely emptied a small storage closet since we won’t have a storage closet at the new apartment.

Also deep-cleaned my stove and oven so it will hopefully only need a wipe-down when we move in a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: haypug16 on December 18, 2017, 12:35:38 PM
Another weekend of dropping stuff off at Savers. I can't wait for the day when I feel like I couldn't possible give away any more as everything left brings me joy and fulfills my life. I think I'm quite a while away from that day though ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on December 18, 2017, 12:47:57 PM
My son put up the Christmas tree and out of 4 strings of lights, an LED string works, one other string, 1/4 of the lights work, 2 others, no lights.  I'm not spending 10 hours figuring out which one bulb doesn't work.  Out to the garage with wire cutters.  I recycle (sell) wire periodically so cut off the lights and plugs and saved the wire.  More clutter gone!

The wife actually pitched in!  I found a plastic bin of saved articles from her last work in an HMO.  Everything is now easily found on the web (she left the job 17 years ago).  It's all become starter paper for our wood burning furnace. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsTuxedocat on December 18, 2017, 10:51:28 PM
- Donated three purses that I never use
- Also donated three pairs of shoes. I have all these high heels that I never wear!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on December 19, 2017, 09:57:27 AM
Yay for Christmas procrastinators - I've finally managed to sell a bunch of my daughters' doll furniture and clothes.  The girls are $145 richer, and that's way less stuff in my house.  They've agreed that anything that doesn't sell by December 23rd can be donated.  I set the same rule with H - he has a stack of broken Christmas stuff that he said he would fix; if it isn't ready by Christmas Eve, it's going to be recycled or thrown away.

We are planning to take yet another full carload of donations to Goodwill on Thursday.  Second passes in most of the rooms we've already tackled revealed even more stuff no one wants. 

In a marriage-saving effort, H and I have started tackling the (nice, huge, climate-controlled, walk-in) attic.  My goal is to get everything out of there except Christmas decorations and his electronics crap.  That way I can get to the stuff I need without having to climb over the crap, and he can store all the electronics crap without me yelling at him.  Win-win!  We've given away a lot and relocated some stuff to now-empty areas in other parts of the house. 

My son (8) finished KonMari-ing his room. Over the weekend, for the first time in months, he closed himself in his room and happily played with his toys for hours.  Not a peep of "I'm bored".  This stuff really works.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: horsepoor on December 19, 2017, 01:26:26 PM
Decluttering is infectious; today I decluttered worn-out dry erase pens from the conference room during a boring conference call.  No more trying three pens before finding one that works properly.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on December 19, 2017, 02:55:34 PM
Decluttering is infectious; today I decluttered worn-out dry erase pens from the conference room during a boring conference call.  No more trying three pens before finding one that works properly.

Will you please come to my office and do that? 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cookie78 on December 19, 2017, 09:28:27 PM
I'm hanging out at my moms for a few months while I'm visiting family and have been helping out around the house while I'm here, trying to make her life a little easier. My mom has zero interest in decluttering but we tease each other about it. She laughs and tells me about it every time she throws something out!

Her fridge is packed full of all sorts of condiments, sauces, dressings, etc. I cleaned out a couple things with mold, and sorted out the rest so I knew what was there. We are playing a little game now where we pick one condiment in the fridge then look up a new dinner recipe we can make to use it up. So far we are 5 days in and have finished up 8 different containers. Soon there will be room in the fridge!

PS. Also I'm enjoying the little game of discovering recipes and hanging out with my mom so much!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: soccerluvof4 on December 20, 2017, 10:49:33 AM
Had piles of empty boxes from all sorts of stuff (ALdi's to furniture) that I have been tossing to the side in the garage. Well with winter coming I finally cut them up into small enough pieces to get them in our big recycle bin. This was like 30 boxes and if there not cut small enough they wont take them. Got them all in the bin and there gone!! Garage looks so spacious !
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on December 22, 2017, 04:53:30 AM
Set timer in DD's room for 15 minutes. One bag of trash and a full laundry basket of things to relocate. Preteen girls....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 22, 2017, 09:06:55 AM
I'm hanging out at my moms for a few months while I'm visiting family and have been helping out around the house while I'm here, trying to make her life a little easier. My mom has zero interest in decluttering but we tease each other about it. She laughs and tells me about it every time she throws something out!

Her fridge is packed full of all sorts of condiments, sauces, dressings, etc. I cleaned out a couple things with mold, and sorted out the rest so I knew what was there. We are playing a little game now where we pick one condiment in the fridge then look up a new dinner recipe we can make to use it up. So far we are 5 days in and have finished up 8 different containers. Soon there will be room in the fridge!

PS. Also I'm enjoying the little game of discovering recipes and hanging out with my mom so much!

This sounds so lovely, and made me smile that you are turning it into a fun experience with your mom.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 22, 2017, 10:55:45 AM
Went through younger son's backpack, and we sorted out all of the paperwork, signed everything that needed to be returned, & recycled the remainder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rollin on December 24, 2017, 04:40:10 PM
I'm hanging out at my moms for a few months while I'm visiting family and have been helping out around the house while I'm here, trying to make her life a little easier. My mom has zero interest in decluttering but we tease each other about it. She laughs and tells me about it every time she throws something out!

Her fridge is packed full of all sorts of condiments, sauces, dressings, etc. I cleaned out a couple things with mold, and sorted out the rest so I knew what was there. We are playing a little game now where we pick one condiment in the fridge then look up a new dinner recipe we can make to use it up. So far we are 5 days in and have finished up 8 different containers. Soon there will be room in the fridge!

PS. Also I'm enjoying the little game of discovering recipes and hanging out with my mom so much!

Now that is creative! And, wonderful that you get to spend time with your mother.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on December 24, 2017, 08:25:57 PM
Two years of conscious decluttering and I do have two regrets. I really wish I hadn't given away half of my nail polish collection, and I really wish I still had my soap making supplies. But mostly I'm glad to have less stuff
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on December 26, 2017, 11:54:19 AM
I just started a new job, so of course don't have any PTO. Thus, I'm in the office. There's about 5 people here (out of 120ish)

My desk had a ton of stuff on/in it. I sorted through all of it, pulled out the binder clips, salvaged a notebook and couple binders, and stacked the rest. The paper shredding bin I'm required to use was almost full, so I filled it up and left the rest of the 2 foot tall stack of paper in the drawer. Once it gets emptied I'll be rid of the rest of it.

At home, gathering stuff up to make it all disappear. I plan to donate several things I got for Christmas, and have some shopping I need to do. I will happily take advantage of the post Christmas sales on things I need anyway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on December 26, 2017, 12:32:50 PM
January is usually a time I declutter like mad.

We have put in an offer on another house, one that would act as a second home. That means all decluttering of useful items is stopped until we get that house and can move stuff there.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on December 26, 2017, 01:16:34 PM
I did a big declutter of the downstairs of my house ready for guests on Christmas Day.  My sitting room in particular is now looking splendidly decluttered and intentional.  Sadly nearly all of the detritus is just hiding upstairs behind the closed door of the spare bedroom.  I'm counting it as a win, though, because 1) there are a couple of black bags ready to go to the charity shop next time I'm in town, and 2) most of the rest is waiting to find its proper place when the house extension is finished (I will have a library to go along with the study: priorities, right?).  I just need to avoid any unintended guests in the meantime.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on December 26, 2017, 11:45:59 PM
We have a small chest of drawers next to the front door. The bottom drawer is our 'to be filed' drawer. It was nearly full (ie about 5cm high stack of paper) because we hadn't done filing for about a year.

I run a lever-arch folder system. So we have about 5  or 6 folders for different categories, like finances, medical stuff, house stuff and so on. We tried to cull as we went. All got filed yesterday! Yay!

Then today my folder of old papers (that I unfortunately need to keep) was niggling at me. It covers some yuk periods of my life. I went through it more detail and only kept the essentials, and threw out a huge stack more of papers. Enough that we could consolidate 2 folders in one.

So: got rid of about 8 cm high stack of paper (either in recycling or in the compost if the document had sensitive info on it like bank details) and one lever-arch folder. Huzzah.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on December 27, 2017, 07:55:47 AM
Congratulations, Astatine!  Sorting the filing cabinets is on my tentative list for this weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 27, 2017, 08:46:42 AM
We have a vacation home, and I've already started going through some of the clothes left here (I leave a few items of clothing for each kid), making a big stack for donation. They've outgrown many of the items. Sadly, I too have outgrown some of my clothing and/or since we each only have a few things here, and line drying is harder in this house, the clothes are dried in the dryer much more frequently.

Every time we're here, my goal is to weed out the pantry/fridge/freezer from random things people leave behind, and go through our closets. Sounds like a good project for today, as I'm not feeling great.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on December 27, 2017, 08:19:08 PM
 I helped my son clear out some toys to make room for his Christmas presents. Two large black garbage bags going to charity. Another in the bin. A slightly smaller white garbage bag is in my room as he was unsure. I'm confident he won't want anything from it. This from a kid I had to work hard with not very long ago as he insisted on keeping actual rubbish. So proud of him.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 28, 2017, 07:54:17 AM
Cleaned out a giant toy bin/organizer. Made piles to donate, recycle or toss. Saved the very few toys people still play with, and then listed the empty organizer on Craigslist. No idea if this area has a robust enough Craigslist to get any action, but we'll see. If not, I'll have my sister bring it with her on her next trip & give it to the Goodwill.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on December 28, 2017, 07:58:27 AM
Spent yesterday on the mending pile.  It only warmed to minus 11 C yesterday - but the wind was wickedly cold.  So dealing with the mending pile was a great excuse to not go outside.  Some of the stuff in the mending pile should have been in the rag pile all along.  And here I was dreading the mending pile. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 28, 2017, 01:59:13 PM
Finally tossed the broken ironing board and curtain rail.

Christmas presents - and bags of Christmas packing - are gone from spare room.

Went through my bedroom at my parents' place and put a few things in the donation bag.

Husband got some new socks for Christmas so I'll go through his sock drawer and toss a couple of pairs that are past it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Jim Fiction on December 28, 2017, 03:02:43 PM
Over the past few days I went through every article of clothing I own and got rid of several large boxes worth of stuff. The newfound drawer space will be used for the little one that my wife and I are expecting in June.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: gypsy79 on December 28, 2017, 03:23:15 PM
Today I put together a bag of clothes for charity and also filled about half a trash bag with items for recycling. We keep things pretty clutter-free around here, so I knew it was time when I started getting annoyed at full closets and drawers!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on December 28, 2017, 04:14:26 PM
I'm away on holiday but keeping up with this thread and itching to get back to cull more stuff. This time last year I was given the Marie Kondo book and began a massive purge. A year on, I'm ready to go back and get rid of clothes that I have not worn in the last year.

Also, we have friends staying at our place while we are away which meant we got a preview and discussion of what it would be like to Airbnb our place. We still are at levels of stuff where it would not be possible. And we just don't keep the place clean enough - it basically needed a massive & time consuming spring clean for our friends and would need to be a whole other level for Airbnb.

My focus areas are clothes, random stuff that I've been meaning to list on eBay, and the pantry.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on December 28, 2017, 05:18:14 PM
I just listed a dozen things on eBay that are the very definition of one man's trash...

The only thing stopping me from dropping them in the recycling bin was the idea that I might get a few bucks for them, so I finally photographed them and listed them.

At least now if they don't sell I can toss them guilt-free.

Actually, it's not just the possible cash. I do like to see things re-used rather than get tossed out.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rowellen on December 28, 2017, 06:38:56 PM
Back in my son's room today. Cleared surfaces of dresser and bedside table. Another small bag of rubbish gone. Plenty more rehomed. The surfaces are now visible.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on December 29, 2017, 10:38:37 AM
Got rid of another box of papers and stuff from a job I left in 2001. The box included a bunch of awards in frames. I took the paper awards out of the frames. Now they take up much less room, and I have six or seven frames with glass suitable for photos (or donation).
I don't know what to do with the awards that are actual plaques mounted on wood. They have my name on them, so I don't feel comfortable just donating them.

At work, we're moving to a new office building. I dumped a ton of paper that would have filled 2 moving boxes (I work on hard copy a lot and paper tends to accumulate.) 

And a few more tchotchkes into the donation box. I love getting rid of stuff I don't even like.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on December 29, 2017, 08:49:26 PM
I made a great (and early!) start on my 2018 mission of sorting the basement office storage area. I’ve decided to switch the office with the guest room, which is upstairs, since I plan to work more from home and rarely have overnight guests. Spent the morning blissfully making a diagram of each of the rooms, and arranging the little furniture cutouts I’d made (to scale, of course - I may have missed my calling).

I decided to sell a dresser that would no longer fit in my new configuration, so checked kijiji to see what they were fetching vs. new (common IKEA dresser). I didn’t even have to list it! Someone was searching for one and she’s already come and picked it up for the price I wanted. I have some space back, $200 in my wallet and did not have to deal with a single flaky person.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on December 30, 2017, 01:08:21 AM
I made a great (and early!) start on my 2018 mission of sorting the basement office storage area. I’ve decided to switch the office with the guest room, which is upstairs, since I plan to work more from home and rarely have overnight guests. Spent the morning blissfully making a diagram of each of the rooms, and arranging the little furniture cutouts I’d made (to scale, of course - I may have missed my calling).

I decided to sell a dresser that would no longer fit in my new configuration, so checked kijiji to see what they were fetching vs. new (common IKEA dresser). I didn’t even have to list it! Someone was searching for one and she’s already come and picked it up for the price I wanted. I have some space back, $200 in my wallet and did not have to deal with a single flaky person.
Ah! I like it best when the stuff flies off the to-sell list without even having to list. Great work!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on December 30, 2017, 11:47:48 AM
Ok, I DIDN'T THROW THINGS OUT TODAY!  (wait for collective gasp)  Well, I did throw a couple shopping bags of burnable crap into the wood furnace, but that's par for the course for me and boring and not worth making a post about.

My college son who's also a weight lifter, so bigger than me went through his drawers and came out with a big bag of clothes to donate and asked me where to put them.  Knowing that it takes my wife at least 8 years to decide to throw out a onesie even though our youngest is 17, I said to hide it in my room.  So I went to sort through, figuring everything will either be tossed or given to my 17 year old.  Bunch of pairs of pants, in new condition.  Hmmmm.....the waste size is my size.  I try them on.  They all fit.  Couple of T shirts as well that fit.  So I have about 6 pairs of pants, 4 of which can be used at work. 

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: former player on December 30, 2017, 12:07:49 PM
Ok, I DIDN'T THROW THINGS OUT TODAY!  (wait for collective gasp)  Well, I did throw a couple shopping bags of burnable crap into the wood furnace, but that's par for the course for me and boring and not worth making a post about.

My college son who's also a weight lifter, so bigger than me went through his drawers and came out with a big bag of clothes to donate and asked me where to put them.  Knowing that it takes my wife at least 8 years to decide to throw out a onesie even though our youngest is 17, I said to hide it in my room.  So I went to sort through, figuring everything will either be tossed or given to my 17 year old.  Bunch of pairs of pants, in new condition.  Hmmmm.....the waste size is my size.  I try them on.  They all fit.  Couple of T shirts as well that fit.  So I have about 6 pairs of pants, 4 of which can be used at work.
Repurposing is good: even if you didn't get rid of stuff you did clear out clutter by moving the pants from your son's drawers to yours.  I bet you now have surplus pants which you can get rid of, right?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on December 30, 2017, 07:08:08 PM
Finally got everything ready to donate. 1 big bag, 1 box. Will take it to goodwill tomorrow (squeaking in under end of year deadline for tax deductions!).

Also put the tv thingy back into place after painting woodwork behind it, and my friend came over to lend a pair of hands in putting the support structures up in the big closet. With the hooks and bar back up, I have finally put everything back into the closet that has been junking up the dining room. In the process, sorted out the big box and storage tubby. Added a few things to the donate pile, put a couple things where they were supposed to be, generally rearranged, and the big box isn't in the closet anymore!

I have a couple light fixtures from my parent's house that I told them I'd put on ebay, and have been collecting boxes to find ones that would fit. I've got quite a few now, need to actually check them against the lights and recycle the ones that don't work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Frugal Lizard on December 30, 2017, 07:26:24 PM
sorted through my fabric stash - and now only have one bin - the other bins is empty.  I also mentioned to my step mom that I have this fabric for a Christmas tree skirt but no pattern.  She has offered to actually make the skirt because I don't actually have enough fabric.  So I am giving her the fabric that I have and will likely get a skirt next December.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on December 30, 2017, 07:43:45 PM
We dropped off a car load of clothing at Goodwill today.  I also posted a few items on my local Buy Nothing group. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on December 31, 2017, 09:39:22 AM
-Sent a ton of toys/outgrown clothes with my parents, to take to the Goodwill. (We're at our vacation house, and it's not close to a Goodwill. Normally, we handled the drop offs ourselves. :-))
-Gave my toy chest/furniture to my eldest nephew, as he's hoping to start a new side business of listing things on the local Facebook page & selling it for his car insurance money. :-)
-Found a couple of nice kids clothing items with tags still on them, so I will take these back home & sell on my local FB page.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on December 31, 2017, 05:30:39 PM
Also squeaking in under the wire by taking a donation to charity yesterday (1box). Wouldn't you know it, today I ran across a pair of slippers that I don't like. Wish I had got those out of the house yesterday, grr. Time to start a new box, I guess.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rosy on December 31, 2017, 06:09:28 PM
The purge continues.
1. Ten large new picture frames - donated. Kept one picture frame and reframed an existing picture.
2. A big box of miscellaneous household and craft items - donated.
3. Papercraft - new project material - donated.

4. Eight or more paint cans - various sizes - took it to the landfill - paid seven bucks for the privilege.
5. Disposed of a gas cylinder.

Half a box of donations left sitting in the shed.

Next week ..... I'm starting in on the boogey bear - boxes and more boxes of paper to sort, trash, file. Not looking forward to it, but I will work on it every day until it is done.
Then it is time for the closet, a small cabinet and finishing up the sorting out of the shed.

I am chomping at the bit to make some jewelry and work on my photography website. I need some creativity in my life - may even mosaic the door first, just for fun.
Regardless, I'll sort one box of paper and then clear out the work area in the shed/cum studio, so I can finish a long time jewelry project, an Egyptian style necklace with lapis and coral and gold.

Hopefully, that will keep me entertained and motivated to clear out all those boxes of paper.

 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marion10 on December 31, 2017, 08:11:34 PM
Sorted out all my stuff in the bathroom- threw away some things I finally admitted I was never going to use again. Had many sample sizes- donate most of them to our church for homeless program.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 01, 2018, 04:39:41 PM
Ist day of 2018, I decided to start small. I decluttered my bed-side table. A bunch of paper went to recycling, some things returned to their places, and other items were tossed.

Baby steps!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 01, 2018, 06:35:55 PM
Ist day of 2018, I decided to start small. I decluttered my bed-side table. A bunch of paper went to recycling, some things returned to their places, and other items were tossed.

Baby steps!

Well done for getting started!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 01, 2018, 08:46:19 PM
Committing on this forum to deal with my closet in 2018 has spurred me to take a good first step. I was talking with a friend the other day and she asked if I’d heard of an Instagram/FB site (in our city, amazingly!) that sells luxury fashion items on consignment (she was asking because she thought I might want to buy stuff, but that’s okay;). I contacted the site, sent photos of everything that might be suitable, and I have 15 items going (rather bulky, as I kept original shoe boxes). IF it all sells at the prices they’ve set, I could net just over 2k (and not have to ship anything or deal with anyone - just have to drop it all off at once to them, only 10 or 15km away).

I'm so relieved to be over my interest in (owning or buying) luxury fashion. It was an expensive phase of life.



Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 01, 2018, 09:01:02 PM
-Brought 6 things to donate, and 3 things to sell from our vacation house. I need a weekend there to really go through everything, but did make some serious progress.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 01, 2018, 09:46:44 PM
One of my colleagues has been talking for a year about how she desperately needed to declutter her home.

She took a month off over Christmas, and that was one thing she hoped to get done.

Back at work today and ... she didn't make much progress.

She said it was too overwhelming and that she needed a system to get organised, so she was going to go buy a notebook to help keep track of her decluttering tasks.

She came back to work with two notebooks ("I couldn't decide which colour"), a pencil case, a shopping list pad and a lamp. What clutter problem?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 02, 2018, 08:34:36 AM
One of my colleagues has been talking for a year about how she desperately needed to declutter her home.

She took a month off over Christmas, and that was one thing she hoped to get done.

Back at work today and ... she didn't make much progress.

She said it was too overwhelming and that she needed a system to get organised, so she was going to go buy a notebook to help keep track of her decluttering tasks.

She came back to work with two notebooks ("I couldn't decide which colour"), a pencil case, a shopping list pad and a lamp. What clutter problem?

hahaha. Although, I feel sad that she took an entire MONTH off & didn't make any progress. That was a prime opportunity, wasted. How I would love a month off for that type of work. I do have today off, so hoping to make the most of it! Maybe a used copy of the Mari Kondo book could make its way to her desk?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marion10 on January 02, 2018, 09:53:17 AM
Excess clothes boxed up and waiting for pickup for swap.com. Wool sweater, Fleece jacket and wool socks set aside for homeless clothing distribution this Saturday at church.  I have too many Christmas ornaments- going to make another sweep when we are putting the tree away and donate those.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: 4alpacas on January 02, 2018, 11:16:35 AM
We dropped off a car load of clothing at Goodwill today.  I also posted a few items on my local Buy Nothing group.
A bunch of stuff given away through my Buy Nothing group with minimal effort.  I also gave a friend a bunch of stuff that I know she uses (and was just collecting dust in my house). 

I have a few things to list on eBay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: nick663 on January 02, 2018, 12:12:23 PM
Sold a VHS tape on ebay yesterday for $6.

Yes, you didn't misread that.  VHS
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 02, 2018, 01:45:03 PM
One of my colleagues has been talking for a year about how she desperately needed to declutter her home.

She took a month off over Christmas, and that was one thing she hoped to get done.

Back at work today and ... she didn't make much progress.

She said it was too overwhelming and that she needed a system to get organised, so she was going to go buy a notebook to help keep track of her decluttering tasks.

She came back to work with two notebooks ("I couldn't decide which colour"), a pencil case, a shopping list pad and a lamp. What clutter problem?

hahaha. Although, I feel sad that she took an entire MONTH off & didn't make any progress. That was a prime opportunity, wasted. How I would love a month off for that type of work. I do have today off, so hoping to make the most of it! Maybe a used copy of the Mari Kondo book could make its way to her desk?

In her defence, she did have two young kids on school holidays and a terminally ill mother in and out of hospital every week, so the time off just didn't go as she had planned.

But I think maybe she has realised there is no perfect time or perfect way to declutter - she just has to do what she can, when she can.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on January 02, 2018, 02:19:31 PM

In her defence, she did have two young kids on school holidays and a terminally ill mother in and out of hospital every week, so the time off just didn't go as she had planned.

But I think maybe she has realised there is no perfect time or perfect way to declutter - she just has to do what she can, when she can.

I think she could benefit from some directed, small tasks that work towards decluttering.  No need for a notebook, pen, any organizing.  Here's my first step that seems to always work.

1) Approach an area to declutter with a paper shopping bag.
2) Find any "throw away" paper.  Put it in the bag.
3) Put the bag into paper recycling when full.

The end.

You might think that paper is small and won't put a dent into anything.  I can tell you, going through my grandmother's house when she moved and then her next house when she passed that paper makes up a tremendous percentage of clutter.  If you start simply throwing out unwanted paper, it absolutely will make a difference.  And it's something that can be interrupted any time and restarted any time.  No organizing is needed.  In my own house, I do this and since it's winter, my wood furnace is always burning away.  The bags get tossed in there to get rid of them.  I've tossed in at least 25 bags in the last 3 years......just from clutter....not regular recycling.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsTuxedocat on January 02, 2018, 09:08:21 PM
-Organized the cutlery drawer. It was such a mess and now when I grab a fork, I feel so relived.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 02, 2018, 09:59:32 PM
Sold a brand new, in box Le Creuset kettle on kijiji - I’d won it at a baby shower (strange, I know) and was not able to return it for store credit. Like MMM says, if you wouldn’t buy it, you should sell it. Lovely though it was, I prefer an electric kettle, and someone who wanted it got a great deal.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mongoose on January 03, 2018, 04:04:45 PM
After two major efforts of Rosy's time limited decluttering challenges, we finally have some of the house in a shape where I feel like we can begin decluttering it. I've been avoiding this thread because it was too much! We moved several years ago and immediately dumped everything where it fell and got to work. But I spent 2 hours today looking for some paint pens and discovered tons of stuff that my family has been stuffing in drawers. Ugh! I did manage to get all our loose paper in one room sorted...filed what we need to keep and recycled the rest.

Today I sorted through a small drawer and threw out some dried erasers and pens. We have so many pens and pencils that we may never need to buy another writing utensil again....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on January 04, 2018, 10:24:40 PM
Took 2 boxes to the donation centre today, and told them to keep the rubbermaid bin I bought less than a year ago since we don't need it to store anything and I have always hated the handles.  Later I bumped into our landlord who lives upstairs and mentioned that we could probably empty our locked storage room before lease renewal time and if they are interested in changing terms to give us a discount that room could be theirs again.  She said, 'That would be great! Our storage is all overflowing.'  I didn't say, yeah I've definitely noticed that in all the shared spaces.  So now I have a deadline to deal with the last few boxes and hopefully will save $ for each month of the new lease.  It's funny - in our shared laundry room we each have a side for storage.  Theirs has slowly become stacked to the ceiling, then spread out in 3 directions and sprouted up another stack close to the furnace.  Our side holds an apartment freezer, a pile of empty boxes that I keep filling with donate items to take, and a few boxes of recycling and papers to burn.  If I could dispose of those papers today then all of the items in the locked room would easily fit in that space in a neatly stacked arrangement. I'm just pretty sure we don't need to keep all that crap so I'm going to keep sorting and donating till the lease comes up. I also want them to realize how valuable that space is to them as their stacks keep building, to hopefully get the biggest discount (I'm hoping for $15-$25 per month since it's a little room, but locks).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 05, 2018, 03:55:53 AM
Congratulations, Astatine!  Sorting the filing cabinets is on my tentative list for this weekend.

Didn't see this earlier. Thanks! I go through my papers every so often, but this felt like a big advance on reducing the total volume of very old papers.


We've been doing more culling. DH is gradually going through his very extensive CD collection and culling to donate to a particular charity that does big fundraisers selling books, CDs etc.

We're also getting rid of:
- a big fold up chair (not very practical, unsurprisingly was a gift)
- a clock radio (modern but very large)
- some hair gel

I've also started a new bag of clothes to take to the next clothes swap. Hopefully one will happen in the next few months. (I don't want to donate my clothes to charity - my city is drowning in excess secondhand goods)

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mongoose on January 05, 2018, 08:59:08 AM
I started a box of paperwork that needs to be put in the filing cabinet. It's in an unheated area so will have to wait for Spring. DD commented yesterday that she likes our house much better now that we have more open space. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TartanTallulah on January 05, 2018, 02:22:00 PM
A small bundle of dresses and skirts that I'll never wear will be going to the charity shop tomorrow, and my visiting daughter has relieved me of some winter clothing including ski gloves bought many years ago for one of her step-siblings and a coat I've been contemplating giving away for years.

Having a houseful of people has highlighted the fact that my husband has been steadily decluttering the cupboard in which we keep spare bath towels into his bike rags basket and I may need to do some recluttering. I don't think DH will ever learn to tell the difference between one piece of towelling and another and they'll all end up as bike rags sooner rather than later, so the replacement towels will be charity shop purchases.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 05, 2018, 02:22:48 PM
-Got rid of one lipgloss (used it up - buying no more lipgloss/chapstick until current stash is gone)
-Did my filing. Sorted docs appropriately, shredded & recycled the rest
-Found another item to put on eBay
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on January 05, 2018, 02:29:44 PM
Piles of junk out of the garage. Rusty hibachi unused for 10+ years, parts for things we no longer own, punctured tubes that cannot be patched (in a carefully labeled bag!), etc., etc., etc.

A sculpture that I didn't display because it reminded me (and DH) of a previous bad relationship, but was also too beautiful to throw away. So it sat in the garage for YEARS. Finally, I dragged it out--it weighed a ton--and SMASHED it with a sledgehammer.
GONE!!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on January 05, 2018, 02:36:52 PM
Small things. I threw out the box where a iPad was delivered in. As we don't plan to sell the iPad I don't see the point of storing the box in a cupboard as my DH had done.

Threw away the old calender.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 05, 2018, 02:57:03 PM
When we got married we didn't really want any gifts and asked people to donate money to charity. We thought we shoud make a list as well as there would always be people that will buy things and we didn't want random stuff. On the list were sets of wine glasses because we thought we should have matching sets... However, two unopened boxes now sit in our pantry. I feel so bad getting rid and I doubt I'll be able to sell them for what they are worth but realistically, I doubt we'll ever be hosting a shindig where 8 people drink champagne and if we do, I'll borrow some.
PS 95% of people ignored the request for donations and bought gifts. The only thing I really regret from the list are the various glasses that we got.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 05, 2018, 03:14:33 PM
Does anyone remember how I had my first paid decluttering gig? It was this week and I said I'd report back..  Well it was good but a little disappointing - I thought it would be a bit more like extreme hoarders but their place is probably no more cluttered than mine :) I helped clear out about 1cubic metre van of stuff for charity and other giveaways but they'd done the bulk of the sorting before I got there.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 05, 2018, 03:26:42 PM
A sculpture that I didn't display because it reminded me (and DH) of a previous bad relationship, but was also too beautiful to throw away. So it sat in the garage for YEARS. Finally, I dragged it out--it weighed a ton--and SMASHED it with a sledgehammer.
GONE!!!

haha! That was not how I was expecting that story to end. Well done! I bet that felt cathartic :)

Does anyone remember how I had my first paid decluttering gig? It was this week and I said I'd report back..  Well it was good but a little disappointing - I thought it would be a bit more like extreme hoarders but their place is probably no more cluttered than mine :) I helped clear out about 1cubic metre van of stuff for charity and other giveaways but they'd done the bulk of the sorting before I got there.

Oooh. Cool! Did you just help with lifting stuff in to their van? Or did you help with some of the 'do I keep? do I donate? do I throw this out?' decision making?

And maybe the biggest help to them was the deadline of you showing up. (maybe a bit like how some people who have a regular cleaner tidy up before the cleaner arrives?)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 05, 2018, 07:51:03 PM
Does anyone remember how I had my first paid decluttering gig? It was this week and I said I'd report back..  Well it was good but a little disappointing - I thought it would be a bit more like extreme hoarders but their place is probably no more cluttered than mine :) I helped clear out about 1cubic metre van of stuff for charity and other giveaways but they'd done the bulk of the sorting before I got there.

I can understand that.

A lot of us clear the easy clutter first.

It’s only after stripping back several layers that many of us get to the hard stuff, the clutter with emotional connections, and I think that would be easier with an objective second opinion.

Client: But ... they hung in my childhood bedroom for years!
You: They’re moth-eaten orange curtains. Time to go!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 05, 2018, 11:13:12 PM
The only thing I really regret from the list are the various glasses that we got.

Tell me about it! I got married really young and registered for things because that’s what you did and OF COURSE I thought I “needed” a dozen of each red wine, white wine, and fancy water glasses plus four champagne flutes as well. I think these were $20-$30 per glass at the time. Good grief, what a waste. I don’t even care for wine! And guess which wine glasses I use when we have guests (still pretty rarely)? A cheap set (that were a gift). The rest just sit there in the cabinet behind the glass doors, unused. So dumb. Here’s hoping smaller wine glasses come back into favour - maybe someone will want them. Glassware regrets...

This weekend begins the basement storage purge/reorganize, so I should have some positive progress to report by Sunday:)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 06, 2018, 12:33:34 AM
Small things. I threw out the box where a iPad was delivered in. As we don't plan to sell the iPad I don't see the point of storing the box in a cupboard as my DH had done.

Threw away the old calender.

@Linda_Norway - I go through this with my husband all the time. He wants to keep the boxes forEVER. I used to argue about it, but decided life was too short. I let him keep them for a while and then put them in the recycling once or twice a year.

He has difficulty letting go of things he sees as having use or utility. I have difficulty keeping things I see as clutter.  :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 06, 2018, 12:56:32 AM
Does anyone remember how I had my first paid decluttering gig? It was this week and I said I'd report back..  Well it was good but a little disappointing - I thought it would be a bit more like extreme hoarders but their place is probably no more cluttered than mine :) I helped clear out about 1cubic metre van of stuff for charity and other giveaways but they'd done the bulk of the sorting before I got there.

Oooh. Cool! Did you just help with lifting stuff in to their van? Or did you help with some of the 'do I keep? do I donate? do I throw this out?' decision making?

And maybe the biggest help to them was the deadline of you showing up. (maybe a bit like how some people who have a regular cleaner tidy up before the cleaner arrives?)

It was totally the deadline thing. Where I helped was saying "that can be recycled, that can go to Vinnie's, that's not good enough for Vinnie's but trust me people will have it if I list it for free on Facebook, I can shred those personal papers for you." It was all stuff that was sorted and was going but there was just a bit of hesitation about the where and how. I have a van so took it away, listed some stuff. She listed some clothes for sale at the end of Day 1, I just did the free stuff, in case it didn't go and needed to go to the tip. There are small amounts of sentimental stuff that's being kept but not at clutter levels. The husband is a bit more hoardy but no worse than mine. I think that he can be swayed (like mine) once you suggest that this t-shirt can be recycled into a rag, and this can be repurposed this way etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 06, 2018, 03:55:39 AM
I have a question for all of you, aka asking for permission to get rid of the thing:

A year ago DH's aunt by marriage made a big song and dance about giving me a pearl necklace. She had given one to all of the women in that part of DH's family a similar necklace. I have no idea of the quality of the pearls, or even if they are pearls (I am clueless about jewelry). They came in a nice draw string bag, possibly made of silk. DH's aunt made it sound like this was a special expensive necklace (but she was a bit drunk at the time so who the hell knows) She'd been holding on to this necklace for several years that she'd bought specially for me (she had already long ago given the other necklaces to my SILs etc)

However, the lunch where I was given these pearls showed me that this aunt and her husband (DH's uncle, his dad's brother) have very different personal values to me. As in, I'm not sure I want to ever see either of them again (think transphobia vs me who is not cis-gendered).

I don't wear necklaces, ever. I wear my wedding ring and occasionally wear a bracelet made by a friend who loves me. A different friend suggested I could wear this pearl necklace doubled over as a bracelet. But it's been a year and I've never worn it.

Please tell me I can get rid of this necklace?

I am usually really good at getting rid of stuff. I am stuck on this one though. TIA
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 06, 2018, 05:14:02 AM
Yep, get rid. I mean if you liked her and you didn't like the bracelet you might still wear it when you see her to make her happy but it sounds like you're not her fan so having it around would be a pain. If it is valuable or a family heirloom you could return it and say maybe another niece could get more wear out of it because you don't really wear jewellery.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Zaga on January 06, 2018, 08:39:26 AM
Today we decluttered a mouse.  I sure wish our garage door was mouse proof, but the last time we tried they chewed through the barrier I put up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 06, 2018, 03:51:24 PM
Today we decluttered a mouse.  I sure wish our garage door was mouse proof, but the last time we tried they chewed through the barrier I put up.

My cats would LOVE a mouse (a real one that is, I have plenty of toy ones). Too darn cold to go out, even if they were ok with cold. Arwen is getting antsy and picking on Sibley, which results in a fight, which makes me yell at them.

Adding a small pillow to the go away pile. It was given to me as a gift today, by someone who has hoarder tendencies and can't understand that I don't want crap. Especially since it's a needlepoint pillow. I can make my own needlepoint pillows, and they'll be much better quality than this thing!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 06, 2018, 05:31:15 PM
Went through all of my workout clothes & drawers. Rolled all of my tank tops, sports bras & tshirts, so I can now easily see what I have. Found one shirt to donate, and two items to list on eBay. Organized my workout pants by: lounging around the house (super old), in the house workouts, and good for "in public" workouts. ;-)

I've listed two additional jackets on eBay as well. I went through a big Lululemon phase. Now I buy my workout gear from Costco, when I need it. The Lulu stuff sells well on eBay, so I'm getting rid of the remainder.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 06, 2018, 06:41:48 PM
When we got married we didn't really want any gifts and asked people to donate money to charity. We thought we shoud make a list as well as there would always be people that will buy things and we didn't want random stuff. On the list were sets of wine glasses because we thought we should have matching sets... However, two unopened boxes now sit in our pantry. I feel so bad getting rid and I doubt I'll be able to sell them for what they are worth but realistically, I doubt we'll ever be hosting a shindig where 8 people drink champagne and if we do, I'll borrow some.
PS 95% of people ignored the request for donations and bought gifts. The only thing I really regret from the list are the various glasses that we got.

Update: I found THREE unopened boxes of glasses and one box with two unused glasses inside. Horrors! The unopened ones are now for sale. In the dishwasher are six mismatched wine glasses that I hope I can give away but I expect no-one will want eg branded tasting glasses from a wine festival.

An extra benefit of getting rid of this stuff - the time planning the wedding and just after was unfortunately really stressful due to work and family. Everything was rushed and I regret not being able to put the thought into things because of my stupid job (ex-job). It was a great party but I regret things like the wedding list (had to do it all quickly online) so I'm glad to get rid of things that remind me of that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: oneday on January 06, 2018, 09:33:59 PM
Also squeaking in under the wire by taking a donation to charity yesterday (1box). Wouldn't you know it, today I ran across a pair of slippers that I don't like. Wish I had got those out of the house yesterday, grr. Time to start a new box, I guess.

Found a good size box to be the next donation box & put the slippers in right away!  Felt good.  Added a shirt & a cup.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 07, 2018, 12:51:48 AM
Getting the wine boxes out of the pantry caused me to rearrange a few things and give away some cooler bags (free gifts) that were cluttering it up.

Then I was on a roll so I continued on to the linen cupboard. Folded everything neatly, downgraded a towel and two pillowcases to rags and threw out a bunch more gross pillowcases and a pilled duvet cover and a couple of ragged cushion covers. There is one duvet cover and pillowcase set that is surplus and good enough to give away but DH said no. It looks a lot neater in the cupboard.

THEN, I moved onto my wardrobe. I've listed a few things as freebies and if no-one wants them I'll send them to charity. I have a few things I need to wash as they are musty including two dresses that I will try and sell as they are quite nice. I'm having real trouble relegating a couple of old tees to the rag pile. They've served me well, one of them I love for the shape and style :( There are a few winter things I want to go but I'll have to wait a bit as today was Sydney's hottest day since 1939, a scorcher!!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 07, 2018, 12:47:02 PM
Got rid of a blanket that was leaving red fuzz on everything, even after multiple washes.

Worked through the rest of our horseradish to help clear out the extra random condiments in our fridge. It won't be replaced. Need to figure out what to do with the hot sauces we don't like next. Seems a shame to waste them, but they're just sitting there.

Got rid of a stick blender that died a terrible death several months back. No idea why it was still in the drawer. We also kept a wooden tray from a gift given to us and are using it as a drawer organizer in that space now- hopefully isolating the "little stuff" in that drawer will mean fewer weird "kept the blender" instances like that one!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MrsTuxedocat on January 07, 2018, 12:48:37 PM
- Sold an unwanted Christmas gift on Craigslist -- made $30
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 07, 2018, 07:32:08 PM
-Gave an unwanted Christmas gift to a friend who was thrilled to receive it
-Found another item to sell on eBay
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 07, 2018, 10:23:56 PM
When we got married we didn't really want any gifts and asked people to donate money to charity. We thought we shoud make a list as well as there would always be people that will buy things and we didn't want random stuff. On the list were sets of wine glasses because we thought we should have matching sets... However, two unopened boxes now sit in our pantry. I feel so bad getting rid and I doubt I'll be able to sell them for what they are worth but realistically, I doubt we'll ever be hosting a shindig where 8 people drink champagne and if we do, I'll borrow some.
PS 95% of people ignored the request for donations and bought gifts. The only thing I really regret from the list are the various glasses that we got.

Update: I found THREE unopened boxes of glasses and one box with two unused glasses inside. Horrors! The unopened ones are now for sale. In the dishwasher are six mismatched wine glasses that I hope I can give away but I expect no-one will want eg branded tasting glasses from a wine festival.

An extra benefit of getting rid of this stuff - the time planning the wedding and just after was unfortunately really stressful due to work and family. Everything was rushed and I regret not being able to put the thought into things because of my stupid job (ex-job). It was a great party but I regret things like the wedding list (had to do it all quickly online) so I'm glad to get rid of things that remind me of that.
We got wine glasses (red, white, champagne, shot glasses and a few more sets of 6/8 each) for our wedding and I don't even drink! DH drinks out of his favorite glass (not in this pile). After three moves, I realized it was not worth all the effort and finally sold them all for $50. Someone got a great deal and I got them out the door.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 08, 2018, 07:23:09 AM
-Found 3 more items to list on eBay

I received a promotional offer from eBay for 50 free listings in January. My goal is to use at least 20 of them. I have 8 things live so far, so more work to do.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SEAK on January 08, 2018, 11:17:38 AM
Had a busy and satisfying weekend getting rid of clutter.

Sold unwanted Xmas presents: Longaberger basket and Essential Oil Diffuser.

Gave away for free: excess tree ornaments and stockings, craft rubber stamps, kids movies, and outgrown kids shoes. Today I'm mailing away my uncle's fleece that he left at our house two summers ago and returning some hockey gear.

Now what to do with the Amazon Echo we were gifted??
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 08, 2018, 11:40:38 AM
Had a busy and satisfying weekend getting rid of clutter.

Sold unwanted Xmas presents: Longaberger basket and Essential Oil Diffuser.

Gave away for free: excess tree ornaments and stockings, craft rubber stamps, kids movies, and outgrown kids shoes. Today I'm mailing away my uncle's fleece that he left at our house two summers ago and returning some hockey gear.

Now what to do with the Amazon Echo we were gifted??

Can you return the echo to a store that sells it for store credit?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 08, 2018, 11:44:03 AM
Had a busy and satisfying weekend getting rid of clutter.

Sold unwanted Xmas presents: Longaberger basket and Essential Oil Diffuser.

Gave away for free: excess tree ornaments and stockings, craft rubber stamps, kids movies, and outgrown kids shoes. Today I'm mailing away my uncle's fleece that he left at our house two summers ago and returning some hockey gear.

Now what to do with the Amazon Echo we were gifted??

Can you return the echo to a store that sells it for store credit?

Or, sell it on eBay/Craigslist?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SEAK on January 08, 2018, 11:53:40 AM
Had a busy and satisfying weekend getting rid of clutter.

Sold unwanted Xmas presents: Longaberger basket and Essential Oil Diffuser.

Gave away for free: excess tree ornaments and stockings, craft rubber stamps, kids movies, and outgrown kids shoes. Today I'm mailing away my uncle's fleece that he left at our house two summers ago and returning some hockey gear.

Now what to do with the Amazon Echo we were gifted??

Can you return the echo to a store that sells it for store credit?

Or, sell it on eBay/Craigslist?

Figure I can sell the Echo pretty quick on the local Facebook buy-sell-trade group. But wondering what to say when my brother in law asks how we like our Echo he gave us for Christmas?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on January 08, 2018, 11:55:00 AM


Please tell me I can get rid of this necklace?

I am usually really good at getting rid of stuff. I am stuck on this one though. TIA

If you don't want the people in your life, you don't need their gifts in your life, either. You have permission to get rid of it.
I like the idea of giving it to a niece or another relative who might like it. But you can just donate it, or throw it out the window if you prefer.
No obligation to keep any gifts, but especially gifts that remind you of people you don't have good feelings about!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: ZiziPB on January 08, 2018, 11:57:38 AM
I'm back from the holiday travels and more than ever motivated to get rid of stuff.  I stayed with my brother and SIL for two weeks - they are both packrats, especially my SIL.  I found their house suffocating and had to fight the urge to organize and declutter their stuff the whole time I was there :-)  My parents' apartment is even worse!  It was so refreshing to come home to my own blissfully uncluttered space. 

Since I have relocated the cat in anticipation of FIRE (she's staying with my brother temporarily until I relocate myself in a couple of months), I got rid of the cat's old litter box, the bucket I used for litter refills at Petco and an old blanket that the cat often slept on that became very ratty. 

I'm planning to go through the house this weekend to see what else I can get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 08, 2018, 12:07:55 PM
wondering what to say when my brother in law asks how we like our Echo he gave us for Christmas?

"I installed it somewhere unobtrusive, and now can't find it. I can tell you that the voice commands don't work. Try! Maybe you'll figure out where it is."
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: BookLoverL on January 08, 2018, 02:07:42 PM
I decided to make decluttering one of my goals for January. I'm starting with my bedroom, and I already reduced the number of storage boxes I need in there by three, and cleared half a bookshelf that had a bunch of magazines on it. I now have somebody coming to pick up a knee-high pile of New Scientist back issues in a couple of days time, and a whole bag of stuff to ebay.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 08, 2018, 10:53:11 PM
Delivered 15 clothing/footwear/accessory items this morning to the local consignment seller that I mentioned earlier in the thread. First item sold this afternoon, for the full asking price, so it’s off to a great start. Have had a few serious inquiries from kijiji listings, so will hopefully shift a couple more items this week.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: draco44 on January 08, 2018, 11:11:12 PM
Re. Astatine's pearl necklace, I second Fresh Bread.  The motion passes and you can now let it go. :) Beside, by the time you go ahead and post on a public forum that you are thinking of getting rid of it, especially after such an extended time period, I think you know what you should do.  If you want to read more about getting rid of unwanted gifts, read Karen Kingston's Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui.  Even if you ignore the feng shui parts, Kingston does a good job of talking about the psychology of our stuff.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 09, 2018, 01:40:47 AM
Thanks for all the replies about the pearl necklace.

:/ Turns out that if I'm actually at the point of asking about it on a forum, It's Complicated.

I have gotten rid of a shit ton of stuff over the years, including photos, diaries, millions of books, half my clothes etc so I should have know something was up if I had to ask about something I'm never going to wear.

It's a bit too upsetting to write about (and I'm at the point where I'm worried I'm gonna have bad nightmares tonight - like I said, It's Complicated). It's back in my little jewelry box for now and I'll have to deal with it later when the time is right.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 09, 2018, 01:59:15 PM
Thanks for all the replies about the pearl necklace.

:/ Turns out that if I'm actually at the point of asking about it on a forum, It's Complicated.

I have gotten rid of a shit ton of stuff over the years, including photos, diaries, millions of books, half my clothes etc so I should have know something was up if I had to ask about something I'm never going to wear.

It's a bit too upsetting to write about (and I'm at the point where I'm worried I'm gonna have bad nightmares tonight - like I said, It's Complicated). It's back in my little jewelry box for now and I'll have to deal with it later when the time is right.

Family stuff is often complicated.  :-(

Since it is DH's side of the family, would discussing it with DH be useful?

I have to admit, if I were in your shoes I would be taking the necklace to an appraiser to see if it is actually as special as aunt-in-law implied.  A cheap imitation would make everything so easy, eh?  Gone.  Worth lots of money?  Sell it and donate the proceeds to a charity that would drive Aunt-in-law bankers. 

Yes, the snark is strong today. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: kaypinkHH on January 09, 2018, 02:18:10 PM
My aunt gave me a Louis Vuitton bag that she had been gifted. At the time (only a mere 5 years ago, but feels like a lifetime in mustician years), I was thrilled. But after only using it a few times, it never "fit" my lifestyle.  I felt weird shopping at the discount grocery store with a legit LV purse, the rest of my frugal clothes didn't match the purse. It sat in my closet for years, and finally this fall I needed to get rid of it. I contemplated selling it, but instead gave it back to her with the simple comment of "I never use it, I'm sure you can find someone else who would love it".  She was not offended, and plans to give it to her daughter.

A similar approach with the necklace may be appropriate!

....

This weekend we packed up our entire house..does that count as clearing out the clutter?? We did a good job at paring down our stuff for the move, but I'm sure unpacking we will still find things we don't need/use.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 09, 2018, 02:33:09 PM
This weekend we packed up our entire house..does that count as clearing out the clutter?? We did a good job at paring down our stuff for the move, but I'm sure unpacking we will still find things we don't need/use.

At some point, you just need to get everything packed, so getting rid of stuff just stops. Keep a box handy for everything you find as you unpack though!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 10, 2018, 01:12:58 AM
Thanks for all the replies about the pearl necklace.

:/ Turns out that if I'm actually at the point of asking about it on a forum, It's Complicated.

I have gotten rid of a shit ton of stuff over the years, including photos, diaries, millions of books, half my clothes etc so I should have know something was up if I had to ask about something I'm never going to wear.

It's a bit too upsetting to write about (and I'm at the point where I'm worried I'm gonna have bad nightmares tonight - like I said, It's Complicated). It's back in my little jewelry box for now and I'll have to deal with it later when the time is right.

Family stuff is often complicated.  :-(

Since it is DH's side of the family, would discussing it with DH be useful?

I have to admit, if I were in your shoes I would be taking the necklace to an appraiser to see if it is actually as special as aunt-in-law implied.  A cheap imitation would make everything so easy, eh?  Gone.  Worth lots of money?  Sell it and donate the proceeds to a charity that would drive Aunt-in-law bankers. 

Yes, the snark is strong today. 

Thanks for replying :) I had talked it through with DH. He's very much, whatever makes you happy. Which is fine, unless I have Complicated Feelings.

I'm happy having it sit in my jewelry box for now. I'm ignoring transphobia (for now) in favour of 'being included in an extended family thing because I am estranged by my choice from every single relative of my own and part of me wants to feel like belonging to a family thing even though the gifter is very flawed'.

and yeah, it could quite possibly be imitation pearl. My best guess is cheap farmed pearls. But, given this particular person, it could potentially be worth $. I have no idea. Will just park it in my jewelry box for now.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trifle on January 10, 2018, 03:10:00 AM
I have three big boxes of old photographs that have been sitting under my desk for two years now.  I tell myself that I will get around to scanning these so I can toss them.  Still haven't gotten to it.  i'm going to offer up some $ to the kids if they will do it.  I like a spare, uncluttered house, and those three boxes are like a weight around my neck. 

Worst case scenario -- I am FIREing next summer, so I could do it as a FIRE project.  :(
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 10, 2018, 07:28:09 AM
I have three big boxes of old photographs that have been sitting under my desk for two years now.  I tell myself that I will get around to scanning these so I can toss them.  Still haven't gotten to it.  i'm going to offer up some $ to the kids if they will do it.  I like a spare, uncluttered house, and those three boxes are like a weight around my neck. 

Worst case scenario -- I am FIREing next summer, so I could do it as a FIRE project.  :(

Ahhhh. . . photos. I hadn't even mentally crossed into that place, but yes, I too have a bunch of physical photos that need to be scanned. I also have am trying to reduce my Facebook usage. The only reason I really use it now is to store photos, and share with others. A much better option would be to upload & manage my photos, and arrange by photo books (if I want one physical version). Photos need some more thinking on my part - clearly!

On my side, found one more item to sell on eBay. I plan to get another 10-15 items listed on Friday.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 10, 2018, 08:27:14 AM
Sold a pair of boots through the online consignment place yesterday, and shipping another pair this morning that I sold on Kijiji. :)

Oh, why did you guys have to mention photos?! Ack... one thing at a time. I will deal with the photos in due course. I need to finish the spare bedroom/office swap first and I’ll have a better workspace to organize photos...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 10, 2018, 10:30:16 AM
3 boxes of photos? You're so lucky. My mom does genealogy. She has 5-6 large boxes of just big photo albums. Another 8-9 boxes of loose photos and small albums. That's not counting the 3 boxes of albums, photos, and slides that she's got in her house from my dad's side of the family. I think 3 boxes of books and papers. These are not shoe boxes either. They're at least the "small" moving boxes, some are larger.

Oh, and none of this "can" be discarded. Even if you scan it first. I have no idea who else in the family(ies) may want this stuff. And mom will basically murder anyone who gets rid of genealogy. Suggestions? Cause I'm at a loss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 10, 2018, 01:00:08 PM
Well, that's one way to declutter. Just ripped a hole in my jeans =( So out they go, and in with a paid I had moved to the "replacement bin." Basically, we used to have too many clothes in circulation, but we have tons of duplicates (like, I had 5 pairs of these same jeans). So we put some in a bin, and I just keep 2 in circulation. Well, now we're down to only one or two more in the backup bin I guess!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LindseyC on January 10, 2018, 06:02:46 PM
I did a massive declutter a few years ago, but noticed I needed to do a little declutter maintenance.

So far in January I have donated:

6 old board games that are no longer played because of modern, better ones in the collection.

A number of craft supplies I don't think I will ever use.

A large bag of clothes I have shrunk out of and some extra knitted mittens I never wear.

A large box of extra Christmas decorations I didn't even use this year.

I still have a craft / office to completely clean out but the rest of my house is very tidy and decluttered.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: WootWoot on January 11, 2018, 08:48:20 AM
I have decided to do the "one in, one out" thing with stuff. I used to buy a LOT of books but I'm really cutting back on that & using the library.

As I'll be moving in the near future, I've really gotta get my rear in gear with decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 11, 2018, 10:19:29 AM
Have a bunch of stuff listed on eBay & just got 4 items shipped & mailed out. I have a huge stack of things in the closet, ready to get listed. Need to just keep working through the stack.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on January 14, 2018, 01:11:00 AM
3 boxes of photos? You're so lucky. My mom does genealogy. She has 5-6 large boxes of just big photo albums. Another 8-9 boxes of loose photos and small albums. That's not counting the 3 boxes of albums, photos, and slides that she's got in her house from my dad's side of the family. I think 3 boxes of books and papers. These are not shoe boxes either. They're at least the "small" moving boxes, some are larger.

Oh, and none of this "can" be discarded. Even if you scan it first. I have no idea who else in the family(ies) may want this stuff. And mom will basically murder anyone who gets rid of genealogy. Suggestions? Cause I'm at a loss.

Start asking around your family, and if you have nephews / nieces that are under 15, one of them may grow into wanting it, too.  Hey, you could even check out the next branch of the family tree, one that you don't have much contact with... if it goes back a ways, someone from that side may want the bulk of it, leaving you to just hold onto a few grandparent and parent photos.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on January 14, 2018, 05:58:10 AM
In the drawer beside my bed I fpund a step counter that I received at work mamy years ago. I now have a phone that automatically counts steps. So I ditched the step counter. It is moved to the box for technical devices to dispose in a responsible way.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 14, 2018, 12:37:21 PM
Yeah, mom's not going to give originals to anyone else. She'll make copies though! Basically, I think I'm stuck until she dies then I can actually do something about it all.

------------
Finally putting the closet back together after painting it. It's nice to clean up the rest of the house by putting everything back where it belongs. I'm going to try to put a couple more shelves in to help with storage, I'm pretty sure I have usable stuff in the garage to do this, which would help clean up the garage a bit. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LindseyC on January 14, 2018, 02:09:10 PM
More items from my craft room / office.

The last of the DVDs I own (12) which I never ever watch. I don't even have a DVD player other then using my computer.

Some more craft items headed to the community art space. I think by the end of the week I will have another huge box for them. I am finally going to give up some of the surplus craft / art supplies I never seem to find the time to actually use. It is so wasteful to store items when I have a wonderful community art space literally around the corner from me, where they always need supplies. I am actually a little ashamed of myself for "hoarding it" and buying new items when I have so much.

I also have a whole section of just random stuff to sort this week. Truly a mismatch of items that always end up in this small room because it is my last unorganized / decluttered space. It's a little overwhelming because some of this stuff I just don't know what to do with it. I think the sentimental items I will end up photographing and then donating / discarding because they just sits around in boxes and I almost never look at the items.

By the end of the month I am also going to work on my unfinished basement which I use just for storage. It's very organized down there and not at all cluttered but I know I have surplus items I really do not need.

Ideally by the end of January my declutter maintenance to maintain my huge clean from a few years ago will be complete and then I can get cracking on painting my rooms.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 14, 2018, 10:38:50 PM
A friend gave me a couple of expensive dresses now that she is off the corporate treadmill.

They were beautiful but ... not my style. Into the donation bin.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 14, 2018, 11:40:36 PM
My mum is coming to visit, and she's going to help me Dutch ditch things and store stuff properly! I am thrilled :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 15, 2018, 04:05:17 AM
Is 'Dutch things' an autocorrect doozy, or is it a new term I haven't come across? (I genuinely can't tell - am a tad tired)

Regardless, yay for help!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on January 15, 2018, 04:30:59 AM
Is 'Dutch things' an autocorrect doozy, or is it a new term I haven't come across? (I genuinely can't tell - am a tad tired)

Regardless, yay for help!

Maybe it is the autocorrection of "ditch things"?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 15, 2018, 05:23:20 AM
Pretty sure it involves blankets and farting.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: iris lily on January 15, 2018, 06:56:21 AM
3 boxes of photos? You're so lucky. My mom does genealogy. She has 5-6 large boxes of just big photo albums. Another 8-9 boxes of loose photos and small albums. That's not counting the 3 boxes of albums, photos, and slides that she's got in her house from my dad's side of the family. I think 3 boxes of books and papers. These are not shoe boxes either. They're at least the "small" moving boxes, some are larger.

Oh, and none of this "can" be discarded. Even if you scan it first. I have no idea who else in the family(ies) may want this stuff. And mom will basically murder anyone who gets rid of genealogy. Suggestions? Cause I'm at a loss.

If your mother values this excess load of crap, have her provide infoemation, in pencil, on the back of each photo. She needs to note the complete name of each person n the photo and a date it was taken, even if that date is approximate. Write “circa” if she is unsure of the date.

And remember that you can toss the crap when she is dead. I agree with her that some of it is absolute family treasure, but not without identifying information on the back. If she truly values it  she should make it useful. A photos with a bunch of ancient relatives, unknown names, is fairly useless to family genealogy.

I went through this with my own mother with a collection of photos of much smaller scale. She always had a plan to sit with me while we “put them in albums.” No.  Albums are to me less useful as a storage mechanism than is a box. And sure, scannin them is very useful, but the identifying information for each photos must somehow be attached.

With my family collection I scanned only 10% of the photos that were really old and that showed the Ancient Ones. The rest of the photos I divided between me and my brother. I pitched many.  Both of us have no children and these collections will die with us, so be it. The scanned data went to children of my cousins, so it was passed down a generation. They will do with it as they will.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 15, 2018, 07:07:05 AM
I need to get back into this. I've started an art hobby, and I really should have gotten rid of things before accumulating supplies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chloes1 on January 15, 2018, 08:33:03 AM
I'm a bit of a genealogy freak, what works for me is reach out to more extended family and see if they want them.  I have a 2nd cousin 1x removed (by adoption, by birth she's a 3rd cousin 1x removed, my grandfather was adopted so by blood we ain't cousins at all...) who was delighted to receive the documents and photos I have of her uncle/grandfather.  She paid the shipping costs too!

That may have to wait until your mother passes though. 

3 boxes of photos? You're so lucky. My mom does genealogy. She has 5-6 large boxes of just big photo albums. Another 8-9 boxes of loose photos and small albums. That's not counting the 3 boxes of albums, photos, and slides that she's got in her house from my dad's side of the family. I think 3 boxes of books and papers. These are not shoe boxes either. They're at least the "small" moving boxes, some are larger.

Oh, and none of this "can" be discarded. Even if you scan it first. I have no idea who else in the family(ies) may want this stuff. And mom will basically murder anyone who gets rid of genealogy. Suggestions? Cause I'm at a loss.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 15, 2018, 10:00:01 PM
Sold two more apparel items through the local consignment website, netting $420 - I am thrilled with getting this for what I’d long ago written off as sunk costs. I have lots more to pare down, but wins like this keep my motivation high.

I cleared out another dresser drawer and added to the donation pile.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 15, 2018, 10:56:32 PM
Is 'Dutch things' an autocorrect doozy, or is it a new term I haven't come across? (I genuinely can't tell - am a tad tired)

Regardless, yay for help!

Maybe it is the autocorrection of "ditch things"?
hah, whoops! Yes, Linda_Norway is correct.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 16, 2018, 01:23:27 AM
Is 'Dutch things' an autocorrect doozy, or is it a new term I haven't come across? (I genuinely can't tell - am a tad tired)

Regardless, yay for help!

Maybe it is the autocorrection of "ditch things"?
hah, whoops! Yes, Linda_Norway is correct.

Oh I thought maybe your mum was kiwi, ha ha.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on January 16, 2018, 01:52:49 AM
I friend of mine is trying to start a business as a professional organizer, so she came over and helped me go through a few of my trouble spots in the house. 

In addition to a much more organized living space, I also sold $430 worth of useful to other people items.  I've also got sales pending for another $350 worth of things!

Sounds like an interesting business. How does it work? Is she coaching and face-punching you through the process? Does she help evaluate and sell off your stuff? I was actually wondering whether such an endeavor would be successful, after much sorting and moving this week.

The thing that I thought was: Is this a potential side hustle?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 16, 2018, 07:32:11 AM
Sold another eBay item that I'm mailing this morning! Had one jacket not sell after two tries, so sticking it in the donation pile so someone else can enjoy it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NoraLenderbee on January 16, 2018, 11:27:09 AM
OMG. I found a shoebox of papers from the 1980s. Paycheck stubs. newspaper clippings. Postcards. Desk calendars.

I saved some letters and drawings from friends and tossed the rest.

It's only been 30 years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 16, 2018, 03:21:07 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on January 16, 2018, 03:41:43 PM
I took a vacation last week with friends.  One bought lots of souvenirs for friends and family.  Last year, that would have been me.  This year, I just looked on in bemusement.  There was nothing I could justify bringing into my home....except chocolate.  I bought the kids a giant chocolate bar.  They are busily decluttering that for me.

We're starting to think about moving; I got all excited about the idea of getting rid of more stuff.  More husband looked at me blankly and said, "Aren't we done now?  We gave away everything we didn't need."

I might have cackled a little bit.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 16, 2018, 05:12:52 PM
I took a vacation last week with friends.  One bought lots of souvenirs for friends and family.  Last year, that would have been me.  This year, I just looked on in bemusement.  There was nothing I could justify bringing into my home....except chocolate.  I bought the kids a giant chocolate bar.  They are busily decluttering that for me.

I laughed at this.

We're starting to think about moving; I got all excited about the idea of getting rid of more stuff.  More husband looked at me blankly and said, "Aren't we done now?  We gave away everything we didn't need."

This too. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 16, 2018, 06:04:27 PM
I took a vacation last week with friends.  One bought lots of souvenirs for friends and family.  Last year, that would have been me.  This year, I just looked on in bemusement.  There was nothing I could justify bringing into my home....except chocolate.  I bought the kids a giant chocolate bar.  They are busily decluttering that for me.

We're starting to think about moving; I got all excited about the idea of getting rid of more stuff.  More husband looked at me blankly and said, "Aren't we done now?  We gave away everything we didn't need."

I might have cackled a little bit.

You: Gazing intently, unblinking, at husband.
Him: What?
You: ...
Him: What are you looking at?
You: I am just thinking about other clutter I can get rid of.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 16, 2018, 09:11:07 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 17, 2018, 01:05:20 AM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 17, 2018, 12:22:53 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

The fact that you don't drink coffee or tea makes it even more interesting! My husband currently drinks out of a mug I made at a work event. It looks like a child made it. He thinks it's hilarious. The paint is crooked, the colors are awful. . . I'm clearly not an artist. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marty998 on January 17, 2018, 01:54:44 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

The fact that you don't drink coffee or tea makes it even more interesting! My husband currently drinks out of a mug I made at a work event. It looks like a child made it. He thinks it's hilarious. The paint is crooked, the colors are awful. . . I'm clearly not an artist. :-)

@mustachepungoeshere wait... you were given a pug mug? >_<
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 17, 2018, 02:38:26 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

The fact that you don't drink coffee or tea makes it even more interesting! My husband currently drinks out of a mug I made at a work event. It looks like a child made it. He thinks it's hilarious. The paint is crooked, the colors are awful. . . I'm clearly not an artist. :-)

@mustachepungoeshere wait... you were given a pug mug? >_<

@marty998, you know far too much! ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LindseyC on January 17, 2018, 05:35:50 PM
Another small box of items donated today - I am killing my declutter maintenance.

I also cleaned up and organized two kitchen drawers!

My craft room / office is the worlds smallest room and for the first time ever it is actually looking quite tidy. It is the only room in my house that is never streamlined because it is so small and I have quite a few necessary items in it. I have accepted it will never be minimal, but tidy is my definite goal.

I have mostly completed my maintenance declutter, now I am spending the rest of the month just organizing and working on putting items in logical locations and thinking about my household work flow.

I have decided instead of once a year, I will do a maintenance declutter every six months. That means in the summer I can work in my unfinished basement when the temperature is optimal.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Epor on January 18, 2018, 11:08:00 AM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

The fact that you don't drink coffee or tea makes it even more interesting! My husband currently drinks out of a mug I made at a work event. It looks like a child made it. He thinks it's hilarious. The paint is crooked, the colors are awful. . . I'm clearly not an artist. :-)

Picture please!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 18, 2018, 02:35:05 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

The fact that you don't drink coffee or tea makes it even more interesting! My husband currently drinks out of a mug I made at a work event. It looks like a child made it. He thinks it's hilarious. The paint is crooked, the colors are awful. . . I'm clearly not an artist. :-)

Picture please!

Will get one! As for decluttering, I sold & mailed another eBay item today. Yielding a whopping $4 in profit. But, item gone, and $4 made.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Cassie on January 18, 2018, 04:25:06 PM
I thought I didn't have anything to get rid of yet I filled my car and took it to the thrift store. I am getting rid of a ton of clothes. I probably am down to about a fourth of what I used to have.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on January 18, 2018, 07:42:31 PM
3 bags of clothes and a few misguided Xmas items to Goodwill. I spent several hours in the office last night getting rid of paper clutter. Still SO much to do. Trying to figure out if I just set aside a night a  week or ?  Every piece of paper that's left requires some kind of action or follow up.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 19, 2018, 03:09:42 AM
This weekend we are taking 5 boxes of books, CDs, DVDs and some games (not ours but we said we'd donate them for a friend) to Lifeline, which is a charity that fundraises by selling books etc a few weekends each year. (it's a decades-long institution where I live)

We'll also donating a fancy-pants clock radio that DH bought 10 years ago (still works but doesn't get used any more) and a cat scratch arch thing that a friend gave our cat a month ago, but cat has completely ignored it. Those will go to the big op shop/landfill diversion shed at the rubbish tip.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on January 19, 2018, 06:07:19 AM
Listed a heap of stuff on Buy Nothing yesterday and it left the house today. Such a good feeling. Listed a heap more today so that should be gone soon :D

Sister gave me a whole heap of storage containers and baskets. Immediately gave the rose gold baskets to a friend (not at all my style, and totally hers); now we're testing the rest of the stuff to see what fits in our wardrobe so we can give away the excess. Looking forward to a more organised wardrobe!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 19, 2018, 08:59:14 AM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

The fact that you don't drink coffee or tea makes it even more interesting! My husband currently drinks out of a mug I made at a work event. It looks like a child made it. He thinks it's hilarious. The paint is crooked, the colors are awful. . . I'm clearly not an artist. :-)

Picture please!

Will get one! As for decluttering, I sold & mailed another eBay item today. Yielding a whopping $4 in profit. But, item gone, and $4 made.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 19, 2018, 09:00:17 AM
Per your request, please feast your eyes on this artistic masterpiece. Note dripping paint, uneven color, white spaces . . . obviously my best work.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 19, 2018, 04:09:31 PM
Per your request, please feast your eyes on this artistic masterpiece. Note dripping paint, uneven color, white spaces . . . obviously my best work.

That was all on purpose....for artistic effect.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on January 19, 2018, 06:47:52 PM
Per your request, please feast your eyes on this artistic masterpiece. Note dripping paint, uneven color, white spaces . . . obviously my best work.

That was all on purpose....for artistic effect.

It's difficult to enter into this work because of how the reductive quality of the spatial relationships notates the eloquence of these pieces. I find this work playful because of the way the sublime beauty of the purity of line spatially undermines the remarkable handling of light.  It should be added that the subaqueous qualities of the biomorphic forms contextualize the distinctive formal juxtapositions.

Although I am not a painter, I think that the mechanical mark-making visually and conceptually activates the essentially transitional quality.  I'm surprised that no one's mentioned yet that the iconicity of the line-space matrix seems very disturbing in light of the substructure of critical thinking.

(Critique courtesy of Pixmaven The Instant Art Critique Phrase Generator (http://www.pixmaven.com/phrase_generator.html) and Random number generator (https://www.random.org/) with light editing by yours truly.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 19, 2018, 07:32:12 PM
Per your request, please feast your eyes on this artistic masterpiece. Note dripping paint, uneven color, white spaces . . . obviously my best work.

That was all on purpose....for artistic effect.

It's difficult to enter into this work because of how the reductive quality of the spatial relationships notates the eloquence of these pieces. I find this work playful because of the way the sublime beauty of the purity of line spatially undermines the remarkable handling of light.  It should be added that the subaqueous qualities of the biomorphic forms contextualize the distinctive formal juxtapositions.

Although I am not a painter, I think that the mechanical mark-making visually and conceptually activates the essentially transitional quality.  I'm surprised that no one's mentioned yet that the iconicity of the line-space matrix seems very disturbing in light of the substructure of critical thinking.

(Critique courtesy of Pixmaven The Instant Art Critique Phrase Generator (http://www.pixmaven.com/phrase_generator.html) and Random number generator (https://www.random.org/) with light editing by yours truly.)

This all made me deeply happy. I will use this mug with new fondness tomorrow.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 19, 2018, 07:50:52 PM
Per your request, please feast your eyes on this artistic masterpiece. Note dripping paint, uneven color, white spaces . . . obviously my best work.

That was all on purpose....for artistic effect.

It's difficult to enter into this work because of how the reductive quality of the spatial relationships notates the eloquence of these pieces. I find this work playful because of the way the sublime beauty of the purity of line spatially undermines the remarkable handling of light.  It should be added that the subaqueous qualities of the biomorphic forms contextualize the distinctive formal juxtapositions.

Although I am not a painter, I think that the mechanical mark-making visually and conceptually activates the essentially transitional quality.  I'm surprised that no one's mentioned yet that the iconicity of the line-space matrix seems very disturbing in light of the substructure of critical thinking.

(Critique courtesy of Pixmaven The Instant Art Critique Phrase Generator (http://www.pixmaven.com/phrase_generator.html) and Random number generator (https://www.random.org/) with light editing by yours truly.)

This all made me deeply happy. I will use this mug with new fondness tomorrow.

Bahahaha!! Amazing review, @With This Herring ... @MaybeBabyMustache, the colours are very pretty! ;)

Today, I got rid of an aerobic step bench (circa Jane Fonda’s Workout, inherited from my grandmother and never used — by me or my grandma, I’d guess) for $25!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: firelight on January 19, 2018, 08:07:55 PM
Sort of decluttering.... I'm visiting parents and am helping Mom use up some cosmetics and perfume. She wouldn't let them go even if they were not her type since they were a gift. But she is happy I'm using them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: With This Herring on January 19, 2018, 08:28:08 PM
Per your request, please feast your eyes on this artistic masterpiece. Note dripping paint, uneven color, white spaces . . . obviously my best work.

That was all on purpose....for artistic effect.

It's difficult to enter into this work because of how the reductive quality of the spatial relationships notates the eloquence of these pieces. I find this work playful because of the way the sublime beauty of the purity of line spatially undermines the remarkable handling of light.  It should be added that the subaqueous qualities of the biomorphic forms contextualize the distinctive formal juxtapositions.

Although I am not a painter, I think that the mechanical mark-making visually and conceptually activates the essentially transitional quality.  I'm surprised that no one's mentioned yet that the iconicity of the line-space matrix seems very disturbing in light of the substructure of critical thinking.

(Critique courtesy of Pixmaven The Instant Art Critique Phrase Generator (http://www.pixmaven.com/phrase_generator.html) and Random number generator (https://www.random.org/) with light editing by yours truly.)

This all made me deeply happy. I will use this mug with new fondness tomorrow.

I would like to request that you get a deep shadowbox-type picture frame to use as framed shelf for your mug when not in use.  It should have a tiny gold placard with something like this on it:
Quote
Synchonicity of Being
MaybeBabyMustache ~ 2007

I'm glad you enjoyed it, Step and MBM!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Plina on January 21, 2018, 05:55:27 AM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

You can always accidentally drop it so it breaks. :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Monocle Money Mouth on January 21, 2018, 06:04:14 AM
I spent the last week doing a major digital declutter. I deleted and organized the mail in my personal email accounts. My goal from now on is to keep my inbox empty and moving anything that is worth saving to a separate folder. Essentially, I'm treating email the same way I treat physical mail and ruthlessly trashing it. I've been unsubscribing from marketing emails for the last several weeks as well to prevent myself from getting more unnecessary junk to process.

I also spent about 3 days deleting old photos on my machine. For a couple of years, I was really into photography and I was taking all of my photos in the camera's native raw format which creates files about 5-6 times a large as a jpeg. I was also really lazy about culling the herd of blurry or poorly composted photos and I ran out of space on my machine. I deleted over 100GB of garbage photos. I'm also thinking about selling my camera gear because I haven't really taken any photos for fun in about a year and a half.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on January 21, 2018, 03:12:23 PM
A friend gave me a personalised mug... personalised as in it has a photo of her dog on it.

>.<

That was . . . a very risky decision. My husband would definitely use it, ironically.

He sounds fun. :) Tell him I'll do him a good deal on a mug!

Don't get me wrong, I love her dog.

But I already have too many mugs. I don't drink tea or coffee so any more than one is too many. :D

You can always accidentally drop it so it breaks. :-)

Oh you evil, evil genius!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 21, 2018, 03:32:46 PM
In preparation for tax season, went through our filing cabinets.
-Got rid of a ton of old paperwork. Made a huge stack for shredding
-Found all of our mortgage paperwork for a house that we sold this year. Not sure what exactly we will need for our taxes, but apparently we refi'd 5 times. (Rates dropping.) No wonder we have so much paperwork. I will be thrilled to toss this once we're done with taxes this year.
-Recycled a few papers in the boys room, plus found an item to donate.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SquashingDebt on January 21, 2018, 05:44:39 PM
I (finally) got started on my whole-apartment decluttering project today.  I moved in about 2.5 years ago and haven't reassessed my possessions or what goes where since I moved in and unpacked quickly.  Let's see if I can manage to go through the whole apartment before I get busy this summer.

Today I tackled my dining room/office (1 room used for both purposes):

- Organized the heap of papers on my desk.  Shredded and recycled a bunch, but still need to file the "to-file" stack I ended up with.
- Organized everything else on my desk and finally labeled the storage boxes.
- Gave up on ever reading some of the magazines I've accumulated.  Made a pile for recycling, a pile to give to my coworker to read, and a pile of the ones I still actually want to read.  (I save them for plane trips, so that way I'm not tempted to buy a magazine at the airport.)
- Cleared out a little stand-alone cupboard that had been holding random stuff ever since I moved in.  Turned it into overflow kitchen storage for my InstantPot, mixer, and some bowls that had been stored out-of-the way but that I want to use more often now.
- Went through all the drawers of my desk and shelves of my desk and organized them.  Got rid of a few random things, plus a decorative plate a friend gave me awhile back.  (I had been hanging on to it because it was a gift, but it's really not my design aesthetic.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 21, 2018, 05:49:01 PM
I donated my hotel toiletry collection to a homeless veteran shelter today. This is surprisingly difficult which really shows my hoarder tendencies

I also got rid of 8 napkin rings that my husband's mother gave us for two different anniversaries one for like pewter and one for copper I think. We have never once used a napkin ring in our home although we do use cloth napkins.


I also got rid of an old popcorn 10 that someone is using for a Valentine's Day project so that was nice.

All of this will buy nothing project which is just wonderful
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 21, 2018, 07:06:42 PM
Here's random decluttering win - I saw on the local fb giveaways page a travel memento being given away and lots of people were interested?!! I have something similar that I don't really want but didn't want to throw away, and now I can rehome it!

I started another bag for clothes donations today, it's amazing that they keep coming. I've bought 10 clothing items or less since my last purge last Xmas, so with this latest round my clothes are finally looking like they have breathing space, just like Marie Kondo wanted ;)

I can't decide whether to get rid of my backpack. I think my backpacking days are over, we tend to pack one large duffle bag with wheels between us now, and we own two. I can't see me hiking a multi-day trail anytime soon/ ever so I think I am hanging on to it for sentimental reasons. I don't think I've used it in 5 years, possibly more.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Debts_of_Despair on January 22, 2018, 07:05:45 AM
Culled one of the underutilized bikes from the herd.  Was really in the fence about getting rid of it but now I am relieved that it is disassembled with all the parts listed on eBay.

If I'm undecided about getting rid of something, I rarely find that I regret parting with it once it's gone.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 22, 2018, 07:40:04 AM
Culled one of the underutilized bikes from the herd.  Was really in the fence about getting rid of it but now I am relieved that it is disassembled with all the parts listed on eBay.

If I'm undecided about getting rid of something, I rarely find that I regret parting with it once it's gone.

I don't struggle with stuff too much, but even I have found that disassembling things and parting them out removes any inkling of emotional attachment.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 22, 2018, 07:52:06 AM
Got on a roll last night after some wins with the filing cabinet/tax area. Decluttered 20+ items from the boys closets & moved to the donation box.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: haypug16 on January 22, 2018, 12:44:03 PM
Dropped off a box of 31 items to savers yesterday. On track for my 365 items in 2018 resolution. It is getting easier and easier to throw stuff in a box and get rid of it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SEAK on January 22, 2018, 04:34:28 PM
I boxed up 17 college text books and shipped them off to an online text book buyer. Got $300 for a bunch of old books sitting in our closet. My wife worked on our daughters room and got rid of old books, toys, clothes, etc.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: eliza on January 22, 2018, 05:12:14 PM
PTF, primarily.

I might be moving soon, which is excellent inspiration to start getting rid of things.

I live in a shared house --- so pretty much everything I own is stored in my bedroom which has a small closet, a bookshelf, and a night stand with drawers.   And, yet, I am SHOCKED at how much I've accumulated in the three years I've lived here. 

Also, my room is a ridiculous mess.   Because I am lazy.  Which is totally a life fail.  I've been saying that I would take a weekend day and do a full-on Marie Kondo style purge of everything.

But, that hasn't happened.

So, instead I put a trash bag and box for donations by my door.  And I'm trying to do one thing every time I leave my room to make it neater/cleaner/less cluttered.  So something gets thrown out or put back in its proper place or in the donation bin every time I go to get a glass of water or go to the bathroom or whatever.  Only a few days in, but I'm pretty impressed at the progress so far - two trash bags and one full box of donations out the door.   Hopefully, I can keep up the habit long enough to get the whole room under control.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 22, 2018, 05:16:23 PM
Got rid of a couple piles of old bank statements (dating from mid-90s to 2006 or so) - not sure why I was keeping them. Also recycled a big pile of magazines. I will win the battle of the basement storage room this year. Little by little...

This thread is keeping me inspired. Thanks, everyone!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 22, 2018, 06:28:52 PM
Uncluttered the nightstand and got rid of a stack of magazines and several books. Also found the power cord I needed for one electronic gadget.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 22, 2018, 07:26:44 PM
Went through the kitchen dish towel drawer and got rid of about a dozen cloths, napkins, etc.

Every little bit feels good.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Trifle on January 23, 2018, 04:46:49 AM
Update on the three huge boxes of photos (a/k/a the albatross around my neck) -- DH has volunteered to scan them, and he has begun!  Wow!   Also I took three bags of clothes and miscellaneous stuff to Goodwill.  Now trying to convince my son to donate some of his unused sports equipment.   
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 23, 2018, 06:36:32 AM
I've got two months, tops, before we move house. Our house hasn't recovered from the arrival of our baby 9 months ago, so it was very needed anyway! First later is just removing the rubbish and recycling...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Car Jack on January 23, 2018, 07:17:07 AM
Went to some friends' house over the weekend to help them cleanup.  They plan to move to a smaller place and need to be rid of all the stuff.  They have a great start with furniture from her mother (passed a year ago) going for consignment or donation and lots of clothes being donated (many trash bags full).  I helped with the garage and realized that they need to put out an ultimatum to their kids who are out of college and living elsewhere.  In particular, the son who played hockey has deposited all his hockey equipment in the garage.  2 full sets of goalie pads, 4 humungous hockey bags, probably 3 dozen hockey sticks, a dozen broken goalie sticks.  Personally, I'd give notice that if they're not taken care of in a month, they're going on craigslist. 

The wife helped going through clothes which I hear was easy.  Some were......as the husband put it.....stuff we wore in Junior High.  Easy to throw in the donation bag as it would fit nobody.

After a few hours of cleaning, it didn't even look like anything was done.  Unfortunately, our house is even worse, in my opinion, and I'm the cleaner.....wife and one son are the "Oh, this is a cherished thing from when the kids were little" (clinging to a AA battery that's leaking all over the place).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 23, 2018, 11:41:31 AM
-Sold/mailed an item on eBay, so that's gone now.
-Sold/ditched an auction item I won last year that's been nothing but a pain in my butt figuring out how to use it. Gone now to someone who will enjoy.
-Returned two books that I got from the "freebie" table at work & then read, so others can also enjoy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 23, 2018, 01:12:14 PM
People collected my unwanted picture and mismatched glasses yesterday, I'm so pleased. I have got a couple of things for sale for $ that I can't shift tho.

Today: I'm listing my nice but never wear 'em dresses.
This long weekend: The 'study' is on my hit list. If I can get rid of some old vinyl, it means I can also get rid of some wonky shelves. I want to clean & listen to the records to see if they are saleable quality, then get rid of them plus the cheapie record player.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on January 24, 2018, 01:41:07 AM
I've got two months, tops, before we move house. Our house hasn't recovered from the arrival of our baby 9 months ago, so it was very needed anyway! First later is just removing the rubbish and recycling...

Good luck! You can do it!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on January 24, 2018, 06:25:41 AM
I've got two months, tops, before we move house. Our house hasn't recovered from the arrival of our baby 9 months ago, so it was very needed anyway! First later is just removing the rubbish and recycling...

Good luck! You can do it!
Thanks! Today I filled a box with baby clothes and some of my clothes, and took it straight to the donation bin (.... While dropping DH at the train station to go to work). I'm hoping the dresses I donated will be found by frugal teens for their highschool balls, since those will happen in a few months. I have another dress I couldn't quite donate... But I think it will go in the next lot, it just isn't quite my style and I don't attend enough fancy parties!

I also consolidated several boxes so we have about 5 empty ones now, ready to fill up.

I found our stash of reusable shopping bags. I'm putting them in the boot of the car, and any we haven't used by the end of February will be filled with donations and I'll just drop the entire bag in the donation bin!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Goldielocks on January 24, 2018, 02:10:55 PM
This thread has motivated me.  I am holding a community - wide "Freecycle" event in April at a local hall.   I just need to get volunteers organized to help me plan....
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 25, 2018, 08:59:14 PM
That sounds great, Goldilocks!

Filled the bin today with my backpack (the plastic coating inside had gone icky so I can't give it away), 3 manky old pillows, a gym bag and various fancy dress things, wigs and masks. I made a list of four things I'll declutter in winter.

Next I'm going to go through my shoes. And I need to give up on a couple of tops with sentimental value that I'm never going to wear but they are proving sticky

I haven't got to my vinyl yet...
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 25, 2018, 09:15:42 PM
I tried to repair a knit cardigan that I wear to work where a seam had completely failed (about 10 cm long) but realised that a) the repair was well beyond my very basic sewing skills and b) I no longer liked the cardigan. So I put it in the bag of clothes waiting for the next clothes swap. It's possible nobody will want it but I can try.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on January 25, 2018, 10:08:28 PM
Today's victories: getting rid of a stack of magazines my dad had brought over but refused to take away again (we didn't want them or ask for them...) and a baby swing my sister's SIL lent us and didn't want back. Both easily rehomed via Buy Nothing :-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: marielle on January 26, 2018, 07:28:33 AM
We got a mattress topper a few months ago to sleep in the car (out of town and all hotels were booked or crazy expensive). It didn't work on the bed. Can't really sell it or anything either...but a new friend is interested in taking it! Win!

Those hard to get rid of/sell items are pretty frustrating, so I'm happy.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 26, 2018, 07:51:34 AM
Had to wait until today to get the next set of eBay items up & running (I'll be traveling & don't want to sell anything while I'm away & can't mail). Excited, as I have 9 more items to list, plus a few for Craigslist as well. I'll also have the boys go through their rooms today & collect garbage, dirty laundry that's hiding under the bed, etc. 
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: SquashingDebt on January 26, 2018, 04:26:08 PM
After reading a rather terrible book that had been on my bookshelves for 5 years, I remembered my surprisingly accurate rule of thumb:  if a book doesn't get a least a 3.5 out of 5 rating on Goodreads, I'm not going to like it.  So, today after work, I went through all the unread books on my shelves and looked up their ratings.  I ended up finding about 10 books with a low rating that I can now donate.  Decluttered and saved myself from once again accidentally reading a not-very-good book!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 26, 2018, 06:18:46 PM
After reading a rather terrible book that had been on my bookshelves for 5 years, I remembered my surprisingly accurate rule of thumb:  if a book doesn't get a least a 3.5 out of 5 rating on Goodreads, I'm not going to like it.  So, today after work, I went through all the unread books on my shelves and looked up their ratings.  I ended up finding about 10 books with a low rating that I can now donate.  Decluttered and saved myself from once again accidentally reading a not-very-good book!

This is genius. Nothing worse than a bad book.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 26, 2018, 09:39:21 PM
Spent a bit of the day searching for medicine-ended up gathering 2 gallon ziplock bags of expired meds to figure out where to go. Made a list of medications to replace. I am realizing we use too many prescriptions!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: CU Tiger on January 27, 2018, 08:01:28 AM
After reading a rather terrible book that had been on my bookshelves for 5 years, I remembered my surprisingly accurate rule of thumb:  if a book doesn't get a least a 3.5 out of 5 rating on Goodreads, I'm not going to like it.  So, today after work, I went through all the unread books on my shelves and looked up their ratings.  I ended up finding about 10 books with a low rating that I can now donate.  Decluttered and saved myself from once again accidentally reading a not-very-good book!

This is genius. Nothing worse than a bad book.

I used to feel obligated to finish books I started, but then I decided I wasn't going to live long enough to read all the good books I wanted to. Now, I give it three-five chapters. If I don't enjoy it, on to the next book.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on January 27, 2018, 03:41:43 PM
Sold 4 brainteaser type kid games today. Made $22, got the 4 toys & 3 bases out of the house. Win!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: better late on January 27, 2018, 05:02:33 PM
Cleaned and reorganized the basement. Another three bags to goodwill. Box of things mailed to kid at school. lots of recycling and trash removal. Mount EBay is growing and I really need to get stuff listed!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 27, 2018, 05:10:56 PM
Got rid of my maternity leggings. Figured if I get pregnant again they probably won't be in style anymore anyway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 28, 2018, 01:51:58 PM
Gathered up some clothes and misc stuff for Goodwill. One bag full, another partial. I'm sure there's some more things I don't want so I can fill up the bag. Going to go clean, maybe I can find some of them.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Step37 on January 28, 2018, 04:23:48 PM
Sold our nice but very under utilized (for how much counter real estate it took) espresso machine. Will replace with an Aeropress for around $40 and keep $110. Win.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on January 28, 2018, 09:11:42 PM
Gave away two storage boxes at the weekend. Got less to store :)

I didn't get around to doing the vinyl... Next weekend.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 29, 2018, 08:56:31 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on January 29, 2018, 09:13:08 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

https://apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1 (https://apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1)
http://rxdrugdropbox.org/ (http://rxdrugdropbox.org/)
https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/EnsuringSafeUseofMedicine/SafeDisposalofMedicines/ucm186188.htm (https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/EnsuringSafeUseofMedicine/SafeDisposalofMedicines/ucm186188.htm)

Costco pharmacies also do at least once yearly collections I think.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 29, 2018, 09:19:09 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

Pretty sure you can sell it on Craigslist. :)

I would have recommended the Hospital for help, but the fire department seems like it would be better.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 29, 2018, 09:20:26 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

Our walmart has started issuing dispose kits with narcotics prescriptions and you can request them without a prescription.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 29, 2018, 09:21:47 AM
Got rid of the two baby gates that I was given on buy nothing (requested walk through gate, woman dropped off step over kind, which we were game to try but then 9 month old daughter immediately pulled off the door frame...)  Quick in and out!

Listed a 36" TV and table on buy nothing today.  I'm sad as I feel like this is a great set that should have value, but it's 10 years old. 10 year old electronics have no value.  Hopefully someone will take this 150 pound monster our of my basement.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 29, 2018, 09:31:50 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

My police station accepts it.  They have some kind of bin right in the front lobby.  Right below @jordanread 's picture on their wall.  ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jordanread on January 29, 2018, 09:33:22 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

My police station accepts it.  They have some kind of bin right in the front lobby.  Right below @jordanread 's picture on their wall.  ;-)

Just for the record, I didn't do my hair that day. It was an awful picture!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 29, 2018, 09:50:03 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

Pharmacies - any really, but easiest if it was the pharmacy the meds came from.  I did this when DD didn't use all her morphine from a surgery.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: LindseyC on January 29, 2018, 10:34:53 AM
Sold a chair for $25, just to get someone to pick it up quickly. I was too sore from painting to haul it out to my car to donate it. Still waiting for two side tables to sell. I'm being stubborn on the price. If they don't sell by the time I start painting some other stuff for my house, I am going to paint them too. I think a better colour will be more eye catching, plus I genuinely like the tables and even though I bought them to flip, I might end up keeping them. Oops :)

I have a bunch of left over paint that I am going to use to paint the inside of my closets so that's sorta a declutter! Working on that chore this week.

I am also packing up some new shampoo/conditioner bottles to donate. I found a brand I really want to stick with so my stockpile of 5 of 6 bottles is going to a new home.

Weeded through my crocheted dish cloth collection. Picked out some really nice ones (all new) to use to wrap Christmas presents as functional wrapping. I also went through the ones I currently use and put a few in the rag pile. That significantly tidied up one drawer.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: NinetyFour on January 29, 2018, 10:51:08 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

My police station accepts it.  They have some kind of bin right in the front lobby.  Right below @jordanread 's picture on their wall.  ;-)

Just for the record, I didn't do my hair that day. It was an awful picture!

Yeah--it wasn't one of your better days.  ;-)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 29, 2018, 10:54:34 AM
I now have 2 gallons of expired medication ready to dispose of - but since some of it is "controlled" I need to figure out how to get rid of it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I seem to remember reading I might be able to drop it off at a fire station.

Pretty sure you can sell it on Craigslist. :)

I would have recommended the Hospital for help, but the fire department seems like it would be better.

Pretty sure my kid could sell it at school too, but I'd like him to make it through college OUT of jail. 

Hence why it's all sat in my house for long periods of time. I confirmed I can take it to our local fire department, but only the pills. I'm still trying to figure out what to do with the liquids and epi pens.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on January 29, 2018, 12:03:39 PM
* Donated all the Beanie Babies and oversize stuffed animals that had been recently gifted to the children. They don't play with them and they're dust traps which is no bueno for my kids, who are prone to allergies.

* Donated a bunch of terra cotta pots that had been stored for a long time and weren't likely to be used soon.

* Cleared out under the sink and took all the items I couldn't immediately remember the use for (why do I have mineral oil? why do I have this Tuff Stuff) to the toxic materials disposal site.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: PMG on January 29, 2018, 12:19:40 PM

* Cleared out under the sink and took all the items I couldn't immediately remember the use for (why do I have mineral oil? why do I have this Tuff Stuff) to the toxic materials disposal site.

Machine mineral oil? Or food grade for maintaining wooden cutting boards?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: jengod on January 29, 2018, 12:23:18 PM

* Cleared out under the sink and took all the items I couldn't immediately remember the use for (why do I have mineral oil? why do I have this Tuff Stuff) to the toxic materials disposal site.

Machine mineral oil? Or food grade for maintaining wooden cutting boards?

I *think* it was for a fancy cutting board we had, but then my kids accidentally burned it* and now we're using cheap bamboo boards bought new at Goodwill. I like them better because they have a ring attached so I can hang them up out of the way instead of storing on our limited counterspace.

*it was resting on the stovetop, they turned on the wrong burner on high for a while while trying to do something else...extremely charred cutting board. :D
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on January 29, 2018, 02:08:06 PM
I have a bunch of left over paint that I am going to use to paint the inside of my closets so that's sorta a declutter! Working on that chore this week.

Assuming that they're all various shades of the same color and same types, mix them all together. One consistent color, don't have to worry about running out of one color part way through the closet. And yes, painting counts as declutter in my book. It'd better - I have 15 gallons of paint in my house right now, and all of them will be used by the time I'm done.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Aegishjalmur on January 29, 2018, 02:41:07 PM
BIL moved into a new apartment last weekend. We used the time to clean up quite a bit of clutter: mattress, bed frame, couch,  book shelf, dresser, entertainment center, 2 tables and 2 stools, tv, old computer, Several boxes of kitchen stuff. It's amazing how much stuff wanders into your house over the years.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: RetiredAt63 on January 29, 2018, 03:39:59 PM

Hence why it's all sat in my house for long periods of time. I confirmed I can take it to our local fire department, but only the pills. I'm still trying to figure out what to do with the liquids and epi pens.

Again, the pharmacy where it was bought should take it back, or really any pharmacy (drugstore).
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: abhe8 on January 29, 2018, 03:58:12 PM
Epipens might be nice to keep. Liquids u could put down the drain. Any veterans in your family? I know the VA pharmacies have envelopes to mail meds for disposal.

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on January 29, 2018, 04:11:47 PM
Don't pour medication down the drain. Water treatment isn't designed to deal with it.

You could mix it with kitty litter or mulch to trash it.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on January 30, 2018, 03:12:49 AM
Where I live, any pharmacy will take out of date medicines (tablets, liquids for injecting etc) and ensure they are disposed of responsibly. Is that an option where you live? (and yeah, I don't think pouring medicines down the sink is a good option)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on January 30, 2018, 06:11:45 AM
I'm going to check the pharmacy today after work.  I'll be picking up the new version of some prescriptions later today.  Of course last night I read an article about how expired prescriptions are actually good way past their expiration date - some tested 30-40 years later and still had 90% potency. Too late for those dry prescriptions.  Grr. It probably wasn't good for all that codeine and old ADD meds to be hanging out in the house anyway.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: chaskavitch on January 30, 2018, 06:49:49 AM
The problem with out of date medicines is you don't know HOW potent they are, or for how long.  Yes, some of them are probably fine - I'd take ibuprofen basically forever, since it is a dry pill - but with antibiotics and things that are strictly dosed, you don't know how much of the prescribed amount of active ingredient you're actually getting.  You can't double up, because it is dangerous, but what if you're not getting enough of your antibiotic to clear an infection, because you decided to use the leftovers from a previous course?  I have a prescription that I took two pills from before they changed me to a different antibiotic that was more effective for the type of infection, but I'd never take the leftovers now, because they've been in my cupboard way too long.

I work at a pharmaceutical company that makes topical products, and the vast majority of our expiration dates are set for consistency or color changes in the product rather than decreased potency or increased bacterial load.  They're there for customer satisfaction and FDA requirements. 

On the other side of the coin, I have a coworker who used some badly out of date sunscreen and got burned in a ridiculous blotchy pattern, because the active ingredients were degrading over time and weren't effective anymore.  It was pretty funny for everyone but her :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Aegishjalmur on January 30, 2018, 07:43:25 AM
Regarding the prescription drugs, I know some of the town halls will have drop off days, and a quick online search (I entered city name,state prescription drugs) brought up the info pretty easily.
 https://www.greenwoodvillage.com/2093/Pharmaceutical-Drug-Disposal (https://www.greenwoodvillage.com/2093/Pharmaceutical-Drug-Disposal)

and it looks like some businesses will do it year round(from the link above):
Business List
The following is a list of businesses that will take the medications year round.
King Soopers:
9551 S. University Blvd. in Highlands Ranch
100 Founders Pkwy. in Castle Rock
4271 S. Buckley Rd. in Aurora
2810 Quebec St. in Denver
3400 Youngfield St. in Wheat Ridge
1650 30th St. in Boulder
1173 Bergen Pkwy. in Evergreen

Denver Health:
Wellington E. Webb Center for Primary Care
301 W. 6th Ave.
Denver, CO


https://www.fcgov.com/recycling/centers.php?ID=128 (https://www.fcgov.com/recycling/centers.php?ID=128)
Pharmaceuticals

Residents may now safely dispose of unused, unneeded and expired over-the-counter and prescriptions medications any day of the week to Fort Collins Police Services, 2221 S. Timberline Road, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. This service is free & anonymous.
Items not accepted include: intravenous solutions, injectables, syringes, mercury (thermometers), oxygen containers, chemotherapy/radioactive substances, pressurized canisters and illicit drugs.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Mezzie on January 31, 2018, 07:49:22 PM
In my town, our sherriff's station has a secure, anonymous drop box for expired medicine. Our pharmacies don't accept them.

I have a lot to get rid of. I'll add that to my weekend to-do list.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on February 01, 2018, 12:49:23 AM
On the other side of the coin, I have a coworker who used some badly out of date sunscreen and got burned in a ridiculous blotchy pattern, because the active ingredients were degrading over time and weren't effective anymore.  It was pretty funny for everyone but her :)

That is good to know. I often have a load of half full sunscreen bottles, as we have so many different sun factors. Last year I actively started using up some of them. I hope the rest keeps doing their job long enough.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 01, 2018, 01:54:09 AM
On the other side of the coin, I have a coworker who used some badly out of date sunscreen and got burned in a ridiculous blotchy pattern, because the active ingredients were degrading over time and weren't effective anymore.  It was pretty funny for everyone but her :)

That is good to know. I often have a load of half full sunscreen bottles, as we have so many different sun factors. Last year I actively started using up some of them. I hope the rest keeps doing their job long enough.

Aussie here. Not an expert but I have to pay attention to UV because ours is harsh and I have pale-ish skin. I look at the active ingredients to work out if I'm comfortable using sunscreen past its use-by.

If the active ingredient is zinc oxide or titanium oxide, then I'm happy to use sunscreen past its use by date for a year or so (those oxides are not gonna break down in a hurry).

But if the active ingredient is something else, I'll probably chuck it in the bin when it gets past its use by date or only use it in autumn or spring when the maximum UV is less than 8 and its less than 6 months past the use by date (dunno if the UV scale is international, I've just calibrated my burn rate to the numbers on the Aussie Bureau of Meterology forecasts/observations).

(and if it's an aerosol can of sunscreen, I would a) assume that 50+ is more like 15+ and I would discard it as soon as it hits the use by date. There were a bunch of articles about aersol sunscreens here recently from a reputable source and unfortunately my google-fu is failing me to share the articles)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Linea_Norway on February 01, 2018, 03:52:37 AM
On the other side of the coin, I have a coworker who used some badly out of date sunscreen and got burned in a ridiculous blotchy pattern, because the active ingredients were degrading over time and weren't effective anymore.  It was pretty funny for everyone but her :)

That is good to know. I often have a load of half full sunscreen bottles, as we have so many different sun factors. Last year I actively started using up some of them. I hope the rest keeps doing their job long enough.

Aussie here. Not an expert but I have to pay attention to UV because ours is harsh and I have pale-ish skin. I look at the active ingredients to work out if I'm comfortable using sunscreen past its use-by.

If the active ingredient is zinc oxide or titanium oxide, then I'm happy to use sunscreen past its use by date for a year or so (those oxides are not gonna break down in a hurry).

But if the active ingredient is something else, I'll probably chuck it in the bin when it gets past its use by date or only use it in autumn or spring when the maximum UV is less than 8 and its less than 6 months past the use by date (dunno if the UV scale is international, I've just calibrated my burn rate to the numbers on the Aussie Bureau of Meterology forecasts/observations).

(and if it's an aerosol can of sunscreen, I would a) assume that 50+ is more like 15+ and I would discard it as soon as it hits the use by date. There were a bunch of articles about aersol sunscreens here recently from a reputable source and unfortunately my google-fu is failing me to share the articles)

Thanks so much for specifying this. I think most of my personal sunscreens with SPF 30 contains these filters, because they make my white when I use them. But DH has a bunch of low SPF ones that I might want to throw away if we still have old bottles.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 01, 2018, 04:36:50 AM
(and if it's an aerosol can of sunscreen, I would a) assume that 50+ is more like 15+ and I would discard it as soon as it hits the use by date. There were a bunch of articles about aersol sunscreens here recently from a reputable source and unfortunately my google-fu is failing me to share the articles)

The Cancer Council slammed aeresol sunscreens in November and announced they were pulling all aerosols from their own product line.

Apart from the fact that most people fail to apply it properly, people are drastically underestimating the amount needed for proper coverage.

Quote
About a quarter of an average bottle of aerosol sunscreen needs to be applied every two hours to ensure you are fully protected.

http://www.smh.com.au/business/consumer-affairs/useless-aerosols-cancer-council-says-best-place-for-spray-sunscreen-is-the-bin-20171130-gzvsk2.html

Also...

Thanks so much for specifying this. I think most of my personal sunscreens with SPF 30 contains these filters, because they make my white when I use them. But DH has a bunch of low SPF ones that I might want to throw away if we still have old bottles.

Smiling at SPF30 not being considered a low SPF in Norway. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: couponvan on February 01, 2018, 08:18:17 AM
Prescription pills successfully surrendered to the Fire Department this morning.  I had to go to two different doors, but then the nice fireman also said I could just put the liquid meds in the box as well since they started taking them in January. Yippee! It felt a bit weird when I was driving up because there was a police officer sitting on the street and here I am going up with this huge set of two bags of random pills and stuff.  I thought I might get pulled over or they'd pay more attention to my pharmacy record or something. The directions they gave were to dump all the pills into a large bag without the prescription labels - so essentially I was driving around town with a bunch of drugs that I didn't have an actual prescription in my name on anymore. It's done though!  That feels good.

I have a car full of Christmas returns - if the kids and husband haven't bothered to open/use their gifts within a month, I return them and give them cash back.  Turns out cash is king in our house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: formerlydivorcedmom on February 02, 2018, 12:52:44 PM
We're seriously considering moving, so I'm starting to consider what I'd need to do to stage our current house and sell it.

I was running through a mental list of things I'd pack and put in a storage unit for a few months ... and now I'm trying to justify why I would need to keep those things at all versus getting rid of them.  If I don't need it/won't use it for three months...do I really need it at all?



My husband is going to be really unhappy with me....he's admitted that I've only given away one thing he actually wanted (but had zero use for), but he is still highly suspicious of my attempts to declutter.

Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Clara Smith on February 03, 2018, 01:23:48 AM
If you want to get rid of your stuff that you don't use anymore. you can sell them. In this way, you can earn money as well. :)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 03, 2018, 06:13:35 AM
DH just took a boot load of stuff to the donation bin, all of which was stuff gifted to us that we never used. Ugh I'm so glad to have it out of our house.

New line for anyone offering us anything (we're I about to move from our rental house to one we purchased):
"Thanks for thinking of us. We already have everything we need!"

Simple, effective, hopefully won't result in any reasoning from the other party as to why we need their junk.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Sibley on February 03, 2018, 08:18:37 AM
We're seriously considering moving, so I'm starting to consider what I'd need to do to stage our current house and sell it.

I was running through a mental list of things I'd pack and put in a storage unit for a few months ... and now I'm trying to justify why I would need to keep those things at all versus getting rid of them.  If I don't need it/won't use it for three months...do I really need it at all?

My husband is going to be really unhappy with me....he's admitted that I've only given away one thing he actually wanted (but had zero use for), but he is still highly suspicious of my attempts to declutter.

I'll save you some effort: you don't need to keep most of that stuff. Seasonal stuff, sure. Next up is just your husband. It might help to decide to move into a smaller house.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on February 03, 2018, 08:59:25 AM

Aussie here. Not an expert but I have to pay attention to UV because ours is harsh and I have pale-ish skin. I look at the active ingredients to work out if I'm comfortable using sunscreen past its use-by.

If the active ingredient is zinc oxide or titanium oxide, then I'm happy to use sunscreen past its use by date for a year or so (those oxides are not gonna break down in a hurry until the Sun expands into a Red Giant and swallows the earth. Or a volcano erupts under the bottle. Something serious).


Added context ;)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 03, 2018, 10:34:04 AM
Took a giant tote to the crappy consignment shop. Since we won't itemize taxes this year, I'll let them have it and see if I can get a few pennies.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Prairie Gal on February 03, 2018, 02:13:50 PM
Donated 3 swim tops and a swimsuit that were in the "hopefully I will fit into these again someday" drawer.

Also gave away a bunch miscellaneous Christmas stuff that didn't get used this year.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Astatine on February 03, 2018, 05:26:40 PM
DH just took a boot load of stuff to the donation bin, all of which was stuff gifted to us that we never used. Ugh I'm so glad to have it out of our house.

New line for anyone offering us anything (we're I about to move from our rental house to one we purchased):
"Thanks for thinking of us. We already have everything we need!"

Simple, effective, hopefully won't result in any reasoning from the other party as to why we need their junk.

Love it! Maybe change it slightly to 'We already have everything we need and want'. To avoid the occasional person who thinks that everyone needs treats and fancy things on top of the essentials.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Anatidae V on February 03, 2018, 05:44:26 PM
DH just took a boot load of stuff to the donation bin, all of which was stuff gifted to us that we never used. Ugh I'm so glad to have it out of our house.

New line for anyone offering us anything (we're I about to move from our rental house to one we purchased):
"Thanks for thinking of us. We already have everything we need!"

Simple, effective, hopefully won't result in any reasoning from the other party as to why we need their junk.

Love it! Maybe change it slightly to 'We already have everything we need and want'. To avoid the occasional person who thinks that everyone needs treats and fancy things on top of the essentials.
That is a very good point, or even the people who think that if 1 coffee table is good, 2 must be better...

I had a dream that I'd missed some of the stuff I meant to donate last night. I was so relieved when I woke up and checked.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 03, 2018, 05:59:10 PM
Just gifted some hand-me-down kids books that we didn't like, and a weird coat hanger (designed so it looks like a cat who is also a nurse is wearing your clothes...) on Buy Nothing.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: halftimer on February 03, 2018, 09:53:08 PM
2 more boxes ready to get donated and sent to reuse centre, and found a new hope for a few things that were gifted to me and never used (full string of tropical leaf shaped lights). Also went through a bunch of old photos and garbaged a pile, and set aside one envelope of the best duplicates and near-duplicates to go in our safety-deposit box so if our few albums ever get ruined we will have those pics. 
Great reminder here to do the digital declutter! I started a while ago, and need to get back to that.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 03, 2018, 10:09:25 PM
@limeandpepper - This thread is quite long and slow to open. How do you feel about closing it and you or someone could open a new one?
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on February 03, 2018, 10:45:39 PM
@Fresh Bread it seems to load fine for me but I can open a new one and close this one, anyone else wants to chime in before I do it? Thanks for asking. :))
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: HappierAtHome on February 03, 2018, 11:03:59 PM
Loads fine for me too. But supposedly long threads do slow down the server* more than short threads.

*Not sure if I described that right.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Fresh Bread on February 04, 2018, 01:27:22 AM
It might only be on my phone. No worries if no-one is slowed.

There might be people that posted on page 2 that might be glad to see a new thread though. I will re-join because I. just. love. decluttering.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: mustachepungoeshere on February 04, 2018, 03:22:26 AM
Sold a dress on eBay for $140.

@Fresh Bread it seems to load fine for me but I can open a new one and close this one, anyone else wants to chime in before I do it? Thanks for asking. :))

Loads fine for me.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on February 04, 2018, 07:29:39 AM
@Fresh Bread it seems to load fine for me but I can open a new one and close this one, anyone else wants to chime in before I do it? Thanks for asking. :))


It may be that the difference is only noticeable for those with marginal Internet (like me). As a general rule, long threads are slower to load for me than shorter ones, and this is one of the threads where I notice and go do something else for a minute while it loads. It's not "go get more coffee" slow, but it's "start preloading a news article in another tab" slow. (Yes, I know that slows it down more, but it makes me feel better, so I don't care.)
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 04, 2018, 07:33:44 AM
@Fresh Bread it seems to load fine for me but I can open a new one and close this one, anyone else wants to chime in before I do it? Thanks for asking. :))


It may be that the difference is only noticeable for those with marginal Internet (like me). As a general rule, long threads are slower to load for me than shorter ones, and this is one of the threads where I notice and go do something else for a minute while it loads. It's not "go get more coffee" slow, but it's "start preloading a news article in another tab" slow. (Yes, I know that slows it down more, but it makes me feel better, so I don't care.)

Same. Since DH works from home, the router assigns him a huge % of the total bandwidth during the day. When this happens, I notice the loading speed of the longer threads. This and the "small thing to save money" in particular. The rest of the time it's fine though.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: Rural on February 04, 2018, 07:43:59 AM
@Fresh Bread it seems to load fine for me but I can open a new one and close this one, anyone else wants to chime in before I do it? Thanks for asking. :))


It may be that the difference is only noticeable for those with marginal Internet (like me). As a general rule, long threads are slower to load for me than shorter ones, and this is one of the threads where I notice and go do something else for a minute while it loads. It's not "go get more coffee" slow, but it's "start preloading a news article in another tab" slow. (Yes, I know that slows it down more, but it makes me feel better, so I don't care.)

Same. Since DH works from home, the router assigns him a huge % of the total bandwidth during the day. When this happens, I notice the loading speed of the longer threads. This and the "small thing to save money" in particular. The rest of the time it's fine though.


I've installed the "Images on/off" extension in Chrome, and it helps a lot. The forum in particular works well as text only, and if there's a picture I want to see, it's just a toggle button to turn things on.


--- and if pictures, the page header, and avatars can be considered "clutter," I'm even on topic!
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: MaybeBabyMustache on February 04, 2018, 08:16:44 AM
So jazzed. I have had a couple of thick jackets posted on our local Facebook swap for weeks now, with no takers. They are too thick to mail cheaply via eBay. Finally got an interested person today! Hopefully they will be gone by end of day.

I also sold 3 more items on eBay & will get those out of the house & mailed today as well.
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: limeandpepper on February 04, 2018, 08:28:41 AM
Okay peeps, I started a new thread! If you would like to continue to talk about your experiences getting rid of stuff and clearing out clutter, this is our new abode! :))

https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/throw-down-the-gauntlet/continued-getting-rid-of-stuff-clearing-out-clutter!-part-2/
Title: Re: Getting rid of stuff / Clearing out clutter!
Post by: TomTX on February 04, 2018, 02:42:41 PM
Okay peeps, I started a new thread! If you would like to continue to talk about your experiences getting rid of stuff and clearing out clutter, this is our new abode! :))

https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/throw-down-the-gauntlet/continued-getting-rid-of-stuff-clearing-out-clutter!-part-2/

You have decluttered the thread. Kudos!