Spring Purge

[-Ember]

So... I managed to get three days off next week, making a five day weekend. I've got to do some major purging of the junk I left at my Mom's when I moved out. Problem is both my parents were packrats, and I grew up with a lot of emotional issues wrapped up in junk, boardering on some hoarding issues, so I'm going to be at least a little traumatized. Still, "no mercy because I was stupid enough to pay good $ for it and it is usable!" is my battle cry.

On that note, anyone have suggestions for some ways I can dispose of this stuff that requires minimal effort and doesn't just fill a trash can? Or have any experienced wisdom to impart about pitfalls to avoid while purging a basement? Any tips or suggestions for making it as painless as possible?

[MysticWitch]

We will be building a closet in the up stairs bed room and cleaning out some old clothes no longer worn and given to the local thrift store. :weirdsmil

[Deranged Hermit]

What kind of stuff do you have? If you have a thrift store close by, they'll take clothes, books, household, just about anything usable. If you don't have one close (I know we don't here), options might be to ask local non-profits if they have need of the stuff. There are several in our town (Family Crisis Center, churches, etc.) that have huge rummage sales once or twice a year as fund-raisers with donated items. Another thing I do is go through my book collection about once a year (I know, I need to stop buying books) and donate a bunch to the library. What they don't want they can either sell off or throw away, without me ever knowing about it. :lol:
As far as the emotional part, I don't really know what to tell you. My mom saved everything. Her mom threw everything away. So I tend to vacillate between the two extremes, which makes me and everyone else a bit nutty. :shift:

[Sun Sprite]

Local Salvation Army or Goodwill stores.

Local rescues of any type will take items to sell on Ebay. (Let them do it, so you don't have to worry about it). Animal rescues are always in need of things that would surprise you- office supplies, blankets, towels, toys.

Best Wishes,
Sun Sprite

[2steps]

you could join your local freecyle group. I think the website is www.freecycle.org